Question 1

How long is the Semi-Private Whale Shark Encounter meet at the marina tour?

Accepted Answer

6 hours. Includes hotel pickup at the time corresponding to your zone in the Cancún / Riviera Maya / Tulum corridor.

Question 2

Is hotel pickup included?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Round-trip transportation from your hotel is included for the published zones (Cancún Hotel Zone, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Puerto Morelos and most Riviera Maya resorts).

Question 3

What is the minimum age?

Accepted Answer

Minimum age for this tour is 6+. It is a semi-private experience with a small group (max 8–12 guests).

Question 4

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Adult: USD $179. Child: USD $169. All taxes and fees included.

Question 5

What should I bring?

Accepted Answer

Swimsuit, towels, sandals, sunglasses, hat (optional), camera, and sunscreen (not allowed on board or during activities). UV-protective garments like a rash guard or long-sleeve shirt are recommended. Cash for gratuities and/or souvenirs (optional). The environmental and dock fee ($15 USD per person) is not included and must be paid at the marina prior to departure.

Question 6

Is the guide a local Mexican?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All Kay Tours Mexico guides are certified local Mexicans, born and raised in the Yucatán Peninsula. They speak English and Spanish (additional languages on request).

Question 7

When is the whale shark season in Cancún and Isla Mujeres?

Accepted Answer

The official season runs from mid-May through mid-September, with peak sightings in July and August when hundreds of whale sharks gather off Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy to feed on plankton.

Question 8

Are whale sharks dangerous to swim with?

Accepted Answer

No. Whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean but completely harmless filter feeders. They have no interest in humans and pose no threat — it is one of the safest big-animal encounters in the world.

Question 9

Do I need to know how to swim?

Accepted Answer

Yes, basic swimming ability is required. You will wear a mandatory life vest and snorkel gear, and an in-water guide stays with you, but you must be comfortable in open ocean with no bottom in sight.

Question 10

Can I scuba dive with whale sharks?

Accepted Answer

No. Mexican law strictly prohibits scuba diving with whale sharks in the protected area. Only snorkeling is permitted, with a maximum of 2 swimmers + 1 guide in the water at a time per shark.

Question 11

Will I definitely see whale sharks?

Accepted Answer

Sightings during peak season (June–August) are over 95%. Kay Tours Mexico offers a free re-tour or refund policy if no whale sharks are spotted, subject to the operator's conditions.

Question 12

What should I bring for the whale shark tour?

Accepted Answer

Swimsuit, towel, biodegradable reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreen is banned), hat, sunglasses, a waterproof camera or GoPro, motion-sickness medication if needed, and cash for tips.