OK kids, if you could go on vacation to anywhere or do anything, what would you most want to do?
Swim with sharks!
My first response: No.
Second: Definitely not
Third: Well...let me see what I can find out....
Then, I started researching safe ways to swim with sharks and came across places to swim with whale sharks in Baja. The only problem was that the whale sharks are only there from early winter to late spring--so we had missed the window to plan something for this year. But, did you know there are whale sharks on the other side of Mexico during the summer months?
In the Yucatan peninsula of Mexico, you can swim with whale sharks from mid-May to mid-September. It's an incredible experience. If you ever get the chance, you MUST do this! There's a full day program that includes swimming with whale sharks, snorkeling with turtles and stingrays, touring the mangroves, fishing and then making ceviche from your freshly caught fish.
Swimming with whale sharks is truly breathtaking. I'll admit. I honestly forgot to swim with them and just kind of floated next to them while they swam by me--absolutely stunned by their size and grace. I am so glad our smallest adventurer challenged us to do this!
HOW TO BOOK A WHALE SHARK TOUR
There are lots of companies that provide the same program. You can contact them directly or book through your hotel. If you have 5 or more, you can usually arrange a private boat rather than sharing with another group. The companies all charge about the same price and include the same perks. To compare, you want to ask how many times they let you jump into swim. It can depend on the size of your group and where you're traveling from (Cancun, Tulum, Holbox, etc.). This is where the private tour can be worth the extra cost.
PACKING LIST FOR YOUR WHALE SHARK TOUR DAY
Most boats will provide water and soda, some provide sandwiches and snacks so look to see what your tour includes. You will also want to take a few things with you, but try to keep it to a minimum as most boats are small and you don't want to keep up with too much.
Dramamine - be sure to take it before you leave in the morning to help with the small boat and sometimes rough seas.
Sunglasses
Reef-safe biodegradable sunscreen -don't forget to reapply throughout the day!
Granola bars, fruit or other snacks to keep the kiddos from getting hangry
Go Pro, iPhone (in waterproof case) or other water-safe camera to capture the magic
Hat - make sure it's not too loose or floppy or it will blow off the boat on your way out
Rashguard or t-shirt
Towels or these Turkish towels - a beach and travel must-have for any trip since they don't take up much space and can double as light blankets
Chapstick with SPF