Whale Shark Tours 2007

U$525 4 day/ 3 night

Includes domestic airfares

Located in the South of Luzon is one of the best kept secrets in the Philippines. The amazing, gentle giants of Donsol.

From November to June each year Whale Sharks gather to feed on the rich, plankton filled waters of Donsol, Sorsogon. It represents the best opportunity in the world to swim or snorkel with Whale Sharks. On average we have been see 15 sharks a day, with the most spotted being 26 in one day!!

We have put together some fully inclusive tours for groups of 6 people plus guide. Book now as places are limited. 

The Whale Shark is the BIGGEST and BEST fish in the Sea. Don't miss out of the fun - join us for the experience of a lifetime

Email Rick at fdivers@mozcom.com to book your trip today.
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All tours start in Manila and will be accompanied by either Rick or one of our instructors as a guide. The minimum group size is 5 people with six being preferred. For those flying into Manila we are happy to arrange accommodation and morning transfer to the airport.

We are happy to say that the whale shark interaction is well regulated - a good example of eco-tourism that works. Disturbance to these gentle giants is minimized and the local people benefit from tourism. They no longer fish for whale sharks and they are now a protected species in the Philippines. Diving and flash photography is not allowed.

When a whale shark is spotted the boat is placed ahead of the shark. Snorkelers may only enter the water when advised to do so by the Marine Park Ranger. The visibility is average due to the large quantities of plankton in the water. However, when a 40ft shark swims a few feet in front of you - you are not going to miss it!!

From February to June an average of 15 sharks are spotted per day. We start each day after breakfast and head out for a morning's excitement. Back to the resort for lunch and then out again  in the afternoon.

We can also offer an optional day of diving to the Manta Bowl at Ticao Island - on a group basis (all six people diving). Let us know if you'd like this option.

Whale Sharks are one of the BIG FIVE - the biggest marine animals that everyone wants to see. Manta, Great White, Hammerhead and Thresher. Book today and tick the BIGGEST and the BEST of that list!

Legaspi City with Mayon Volcano in background

Itinerary

  • Day OneTransfer to airport for 0700 flight to Legaspi
  • Lunch at Resort and Whale shark orientation
  • Afternoon whale shark tour
  • Day Two Full day whale shark tour, lunch at resort
  • Day Three  Full day whale shark tour or optional diving at the famous Ticao Island Manta bowl.
  • Day Four Transfer to Legaspi. Arrive Manila about 1000am.

Dates 2007

7-11 February , 21-25 February
7-11 March , 21-25 March
28 March- 01 April , 25-29 April
09-13 May

Inclusions

  • Round trip airfare Legaspi-Manila
  • Round trip private transfers Legaspi-Donsol
  • Three night twin share AC room Donsol resort
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner at resort
  • 2 1/2 days Whale shark interaction (snorkeling) includes park fee, boats, spotters and marine park ranger

Extras

  • Please tell us if you would like us to can arrange a night in a Manila hotel as well as transfer to the airport on the first morning (about $25 per person twin share).
  • PADI Whale Shark Awareness distinctive specialty - includes the opportunity to record the whale sharks for conservation purposes and includes certification and instruction - $50. This specialty can be counted towards the PADI Master Diver rating
  • Convert one day of whale shark watching to diving. Two dives with tanks weights boat and guide. Subject to weather this will be to the famous Manta Bowl on Ticao Island. Surcharge only applies for full group diving (six people) and does not include rental equipment +$45. Two dives for one or two people only, +$75
  • Airport terminal fees (about $5), drinks, single supplement (about $60), dive rental gear if required and other incidental charges.

 

Payment and deposits:

Please note that rate may vary without notice due to fuel surcharges, airfare change etc...

Individuals - 30% deposit with 10 days or reservation. Full balance is required 30 days before the trip. Cancellation must be in writing with limited refund within 30 days of trip (refund may be limited to Manila hotel and part of airfare - all other fees are usually non-refundable).

Groups - 30% deposit within 10 days or reservation. Full payment is required 45 days before the trip.

 

Payment can be made by bank to bank transfer. Please email Rick at fdivers@mozcom.com for details