WHALE SHARK INTERACTION

Traditional motorized outrigger canoes are used with a maximum of seven guest passengers on each vessel. Each boat has a BIO and a spotter, trained by WWF and the Department of Tourism specifically for whale shark interaction tour handling. The aim is for the boat to position itself a few meters ahead of the shark in preparation for all the snorkellers to ease themselves quietly into the water. Everyone has to be ready and waiting, because it rarely takes more than 30-60 seconds between spotting a shark and getting in the water. If you take any longer, you are likely to miss the opportunity for a close encounter. The entire process is governed by regulations. Visitors are encouraged to observe these so as to ensure safety of the swimmers and to minimize the disturbance to the sharks.

The entire process is governed by regulations:

1. Do not touch or ride the whale shark
2. Do not restrict the movement of the shark or impede its natural path
3. The recommended distance from the whale shark is 3 meters from the head and body and 4 meters from the tail
4. Do not undertake flash photography
5. Do not use scuba, scooters, jet-ski or any motorized underwater propulsion
6. A maximum of six (6) swimmers per shark is allowed
7. There must be only one boat per whale shark