Whale Sharks 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.

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)

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 sharks and encounter huge schools of spawning fish at the 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 Guest 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 sharks 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.

Notice

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

BELIZE WHALE SHARK SEASON 2016

March 22nd – April 2nd (Full Moon – March 23)

April 21st – May 2nd ( Full Moon – April 22)

May 20th – May 31st (Full Moon – May 21)

June 19th – June 30th (Full Moon – June 20)

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

Whale Shark Tour

The whale shark Tours normally last a 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 is 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.

Time:

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

Price:

Whale Shark Diving: $255 US

Whale Shark Snorkeling: $185 US

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