Dive boats scout for whale sharks between dives and then hustle you into the water with a snorkel and a mask. The calmest conditions here take place from April to November. Tourists can go to a lot of dive shops to “schedule” an encounter. The guides, often local fishermen, use traditional outrigger bangkas (boats) to head over to the diving site.

Currently, Leyte isn't as popular a whale shark diving spot versus the others mentioned in this list. While this may sound bad for the local government, this is actually good news for both the tourists and the animals. For one, you can look forward to “uncrowded” waters and boats. Per Way To Go, the Whale Sharks migrate here from November to May. One of the most recommended areas here include the Sagod Bay.

Tubbataha is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. It sits in a remote area of the Sulu Sea, southeast of Puerto Princesa. Tubbataha is only accessible via live-aboard, a boat designed for people to “live aboard” it. Trips are also available for three months a year only, starting from March to mid-June. Note: While whale sharks are slow-moving and safe animals, avoid touching them at all costs.

Here, strict guidelines with regards to interacting with the whale sharks are enforced. For example, each boat must have a trained guide or spotter aboard. Only snorkeling is allowed in Donsol, too. The peak seasons generally run from December to May, but you can maximize your chances of seeing the gentle creatures between February and April.

If you are looking for a place abroad to dive with whale sharks, then Honduras is the best choice. For one, Utila welcomes these gentle giants all-year round. The deeper waters off the north side of the island are where the animals are most often seen. Time to swim with the whale sharks! Discover cheap hotel deals and cheap flights from carriers like Philippine Airlines, AirAsia, and more with Traveloka!Back to top ]]>