Diving with Whale Sharks in Belize

Whale Sharks are the largest fish in the ocean, they grow up to 14m (46ft), weighing up to 15 tons! They are migratory creatures and it has been estimated that they may live up to 100-150 years! They eat plankton and small fish and are harmless to people. Diving with whale sharks in Belize is one of the most rewarding experiences when you are diving in the Caribbean.

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef in Belize attracts one of the largest concentrations of whale sharks in the world. The presence of the whale sharks is dependent on the health of the spawning fish aggregations. ReefCI actively participate in working on the spawning fish in the area.

The Whale Shark season is officially March through to June. However, we often spot them throughout the year.

Read below for one of our personal accounts with the Whale Sharks.

During the full moon we try and locate the Whale Sharks. First, we look for the birds in the distance and as we get closer we see the water bubbling away with tuna jumping and birds flying down. But the Whale Shark does not always want to surface.

We follow the whale sharks a few times before our dive. After the dive we look again and this time the Whale Shark decides that it wants to play!!!! As we approach we can see the huge fin and outline of the Shark which ranges in size from 35-60 foot. Sometimes we see the nose out of the water as it is feeding. As we carefully get into the water, we cannot believe the sheer size of the creature - an incredibe, awe-inspiring experience that allows for breathtaking photos.

We often see curious lemon sharks or a feeding Caribbean reef shark in the water with the Whale Shark. After diving with the Whale Sharks, everyone is on a complete high!!!  This is nature at its best and probably the best diving experience that one can have.