Diving and Snorkeling with Whale Sharks in Belize!

In the months of March, April ,May, and June, around the full moon, whale sharks are observed at the Gladden Split Area by divers and snorkelers.

Whale Sharks

This species, despite its enormous size, does not pose any significant danger to humans. It is a frequently cited example when educating the public about the popular misconceptions of all sharks as “man-eaters”.

They are actually quite gentle and can be playful with divers. Divers and snorkelers can swim with this giant fish without any risk apart from unintentionally being hit by the shark’s large tail fin. ( To Learn more about whale shark and their behavior go here)

Whale Sharks in Belize

In Belize, during the spring time, Whale shark frequently visit a unique area on the reef called gladden Gladden Split. This Area, about 30 miles east of Placencia, is used by over 20 species of Caribbean fish to release their eggs. However, it is the eggs of the Black or Cubera snappers that the whale sharks show up on cue to feed on.

And, although you can find whale sharks all over the world, what makes Gladden Split so unique is that, this is the only place where you can dive with whale shark and encounter huge school of spawning fish at same time.

The Whale Shark expeditions in Belize was found by Brian Young Sr (Owner of Seahorse Dive Shop). In the early 1990′s Brian began to take people out to the Gladden Spit, know by local fishermen as a hot spot for sighting whale sharks.

Brian has many years studying the migration of these whale sharks, and although he does not dive anymore,he still Captains the boat looking for these truly majestic creatures.

Even if no whale shark are seen, the dives at Gladden Split can be quite exciting. Sometimes we can find ourselves diving in a school of horse eye or Carville jacks. We are frequently visited by Dolphins that feed on the fishes, as well as other sharks (Caribbean Reef Sharks, Bull Sharks, or Hammerhead Sharks) and one time we were even visited by a pod of pilot whales making their migration further south.

When to Come?

The Whale Shark Season in Belize normally begins about 2 days before the full moon up until 10 days after in the months of March, April, May and June. However, traditionally April and May has been the best months to come and see them. If you would like to find out the optimum date to come and see the whale shark go here.

Notice

if you are planning on coming during the Easter Holidays, it is highly recommend that you book your accommodation as early as possible because accommodations is normally hard to find during this time.

Belize WHALE SHARK SEASON 2013

MARCH 26th – April 6th
APRIL 24th – May 4th
MAY 23rd – June 2nd
JUNE 22nd – July 1st

Join us as we go in search for the biggest fish in the sea.

Whale Shark Tour

The whale shark Tours normally last full day, beginning in the morning and not returning until the late evening. Divers get 2 dives, and snorkelers get 2 snorkel sessions in the whale shark zone.

Most of the time on the trip is spent having lunch, and snorkeling the patched reefs inside the barrier reef as we wait for our next session to go in the park.

Because the Whale shark Tours are conducted in open ocean, where most of the time there are no visible button, this tour is recommended for more experienced divers and snorkelers.

Experience:

Recommended for divers with 20 plus dives. If you have not been diving within a year we recommend doing a refresher course. Snorkel must be of experience level as well. For Frequently as questions about whale shark diving and snorkeling in Belize go here.

Boat Ride:

1 hour 30 min

Time:

8:00 am – 4:30 pm
(Time may vary depending on our time slot)

Price:

Whale Shark Diving: $185US

Whale Shark Snorkeling: $100US

Includes 2 Dives or Snorkel Sessions in the Whale Shark Zone, Pick-up/drop-off from Hotel, all diving equipment, Light Breakfast, Lunch, Whale Shark Conservation Fees,12.5% Sales taxes, and lead by a Licensed Whale Shark Guide.

Diving & Snorkeling

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Whale Sharks

Diving and Snorkeling with Whale Sharks in Belize!

Whale Sharks

Whale Sharks in Belize

When to Come?

Belize WHALE SHARK SEASON 2013

Whale Shark Tour

Experience:

Boat Ride:

Time:

Price:

About Whale Sharks

When To Come?

Whale Shark FAQ

Whale Shark Regulations

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