A Magical Encounter with Whale Shark, in Roatan Waters

One of our rangers was lucky enough to cross paths with this majestic whale shark yesterday morning, and we’re still in awe! Encounters like these remind us just how incredible and alive our marine park really is. 

Whale sharks are gentle giants, and seeing one up close is a moment to remember forever. But it’s also a moment that comes with great responsibility.

Here’s how you can help protect them:

• Respect their space. Stay at least 3 meters away from the body, 4 meters away from the tail. Never attempt to touch or ride them. 

• Boats should stay at least 10 meters away from the whale shark or the “boil” (tuna shoals) and have engines on neutral. There shouldn’t be more than 1 boat per whale shark/boil.

• Don’t block their path or interfere with their feeding. Always approach from the side, never from the front or behind.

• Don’t chase a whale shark. If they swim away or down, let them go. They could be trying to get away from you.

• Avoid screaming, loud noises, or splashing when in or getting in the water.

• Do not use flash photography. Whale sharks have very sensitive eyes, and camera flashes may disturb or disorient them.

• There should not be more than 8 people in the water at the same time with a single whale shark.

• We do not recommend freediving down to, next to, or under a whale shark, for both your and the shark’s safety.

Special thanks to the Whale Shark and Oceanic Research Center (WSORC) in Utila for sharing these important tips to help us all protect these amazing animals.

Let’s admire these amazing creatures with the respect they deserve.

Roatan’s beauty is worth protecting, for them and for us all.