LL D.
Yelp
Went for whale shark adventure, mid November. It was great. They picked us up at hotel, then go to their main site where you get put into groups (they offer different experiences).
It says breakfast is included, heads up about that-you start early like at 7am then to main site, it takes maybe 1/2 hour. Use restrooms. They have a coffee stand (My friend got me a coke, i know they have sodas an café, maybe snacks)
I went up to my guide and asked him about this breakfast. I found out it was a sack lunch vibe-turkey sandwich, apple and a juice. I said I'm a vegetarian and he was like, 'sorry we only have that, do u want fruit?' I said 'no that's not enough to last me hours please can u make me cheese sandwich?' he took off running to get it made before we left. That was very cool if him, but they need to let you know it's a sack lunch, not breakfast. I highly recommend eat full break if u get up early, or bring your own extra stuff, esp if you have low blood sugar. I knew there was a 2 hr bus ride ahead and the boat/sharks.
Bus-Very nice and clean with cold water bottles in coolers. Drive was cool to see sights. Our guide talked to us about sharks and rules and what to expect and the eco-precautions they are taking to protect the whale sharks. I was very happy they had these rules in place.
We arrive at whale museum, bathrooms, changing, gear station and lockers (no locks) but they lock the bldg. They provide everything BUT, TRUST ME ON THIS TIP bring your own semi-dry/dry snorkel, mask and fins. Even if it's a snorkel 'kit' or rent gear if you are by a dive shop. Make sure mask fits your face. Most people have that old skool snorkel trauma of inhaling tons of water as a kid. These are those snorkels, the J tube. I'm a diver and have my own gear and prescription mask. I brought a full dry snorkel for my friend who hasn't snorkeled in a min. It was a life saver for her, she could enjoy the sharks without the water worry. But as soon as she jumped in her fin came off, non adjustable. Others it happened to as well. They do float. You do need fins, if the shark isn't feeding in one place, you will have to put effort into kicking. Don't rush make sure your stuff fits well.
-They provided special sunscreen that won't hurt sharks use that there's a gallon pump of it. And shorty wetsuits are there as well.
You can only take minimum stuff with you on board that was that wasn't clear. I left extra GoPro batteries and other things I always take on boat. If u need waterproof bag for your stuff u don't want to leave in locker, buy one on amazon or dive shop b4 your trip. Your stuff under you on boat will get wet.
Went to our boats and waited for our turn. Tha Captn has water on the boat and candy if you need something, you may get hungry. (Again special diets/diabetic bring own snack)
It was amazing an magical! Worth every penny. Your guide has a GoPro camera filming your adventure. Stay by him so he can get good shots of the experience. The viz isn't great maybe 8' or so because of all the plankton and they can get good shots. Cost is extra for USB of pix, take advantage of this! Have your guide get some great shots for u.
*remember to tip the guys as u see fit and don't forget the captain.