Dive Holidays Worldwide - Resort and liveaboard scuba diving holidays Specialists in wreck diving, whale shark diving and drift diving from liveaboard boats & resorts

Whale Sharks of Donsol

11 days London to London

Swimming with a Whale Shark, locally known as Butanding (scientific name: Rhincodon typus) is the epitome of wildlife encounters - an experience of a lifetime, an experience not to be missed! The sheer size of the largest fish in the ocean will start your adrenalin pumping.

In Sorsogon Province near Donsol there is a rare opportunity to interact with anything up to 20 Whale Sharks at any one time. For this, Donsol is now being dubbed by many as the "Whale Shark Capital of the World".

These gentle giants of the sea - considered the largest fish in the world, measuring from 15ft. to as long as 40ft. in length, have been found to converge in the waters off Donsol starting sometime during the months of October and November, and peaking in the months of February to May. These harmless, gentle, friendly and playful filter feeders allow humans to swim, play and interact with them, as they ponderously glide along close to the surface of the ocean. Donsol, a small coastal town, is reached by a short 55 minute flight from Manila to Legaspi City and then a 45 to 60 minute road transfer.

Vitton Beach Resort
Stay at the Vitton Beach Resort located adjacent to the Butanding Interaction Visitor Center, ideal for those Whale Shark excursions. Brand new beachfront cottages are surrounded by spacious, coconut-lined gardens. All cottages are large and airy with private bathroom and airconditioning. Relax at the restaurant with a sea breeze and views of the sea, ideal for watching those wonderful sunsets.
Day 1. Depart the UK for Manila
Day 2. Overnight in Manila, 1-night [B]
Day 3. Connect with your onward flight to Legaspi, 7-nights [FB]
Day 10. Return to Manila and depart for the UK [B]
Day 11. Arrive home

Diving is not allowed with the Whale Sharks. However, a two-hour boat ride takes you to 'Manta Bowl' where diving is possible.
The above itineraries are a guide only. Dive Worldwide tailor-make holidays to suit your requirements.
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  • Cost per person: From £1,759
  • What is included: Flights, transfers & meals as indicated, 5 days snorkelling with Whale Sharks including picnic lunch, spotter & guide
  • Accommodation: Resort - 7 nights, hotel - 1 night
  • Departure details : Daily throughout the year
  • Diving package: Diving is not allowed with the Whale Sharks. However, a two-hour boat ride takes you to 'Manta Bowl' where diving is possible.
  • Trip code: DPDD
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