The Whaleshark Times*

*SOUTHERN LEYTE (DIVERS) AND THE WHALE SHARKS

There are a lot of informations, articles and rumors (!) about whale shark sightings in Southern Leyte; actually they are neither wrong nor right. Let us help you to understand how we see and experience it! Here are some crucial factors to consider whether you might be lucky to see the “Big Boys” or not.

First of all: When it comes to whale shark encounters, we all know, it’s a deal with "pure nature", there are no exact schedules, when and where you will see them for sure. And no “entrance fee”, no matter how inexpensive or pricey, is a guarantee.

Which months: The first sightings last year we already had in October, peak season was around February to June, some weeks with an almost 90% chance. Even in the off-season we were lucky and had some examples, even right in front of our resort. On the other hand, a year earlier, the first sightings were in January and the appearances were less throughout the season. Also it seems, they do not stay exactly in the same areas year by year. This means, our boat trips could be longer, or - if we are lucky - even shorter.

Weather conditions: Basically, if the weather is perfect, the chances are high. If it's raining, very windy or clouds cover the sun, the chances normally decrease.

Water conditions: Actually this is very simple, if the sea is too rough to bring out even our biggest boat to approach the whale shark area, we have to stay put and wait for better conditions.

Plankton: This is the favorite meal of the whale sharks. Currents and winds could change the direction of plankton flow within hours, so that the whale sharks will not surface, or the plankton is beyond divers depth limit.

Time of stay: You should plan at least a 5 to 7 days stay. This of course increases the chances to see the gentle giants. On the other hand, we had customers who had encounters the very first day, but also customers who stayed some days and had no success.

Luck: No matter, if you plan a safari trip to Africa to see Lions or other rare animals, or you plan to dive or snorkel with the whale sharks in Southern Leyte: You have to bring a little luck with you. From our point, we will do our very the best to make you happy. And if you are still not lucky then, you just might try it the next time then. Nevertheless, our famous and beautiful coral reefs, which are wide spread allover the area, are waiting for the enthusiastic diver all year round - and this we guarantee!

Because of all the above mentioned factors, we can not accept bookings on our Whale Shark Trips in advance. We just have to wait and see when the time has come, and then we will take action.

Most cordial
The Southern Leyte Divers Team
“We discovered it for you!”