Buzz
Discover Oslob, nestled at the southern tip of Cebu, Philippines, where you can freely swim with awe-inspiring sharks, reaching up to 15 meters.
Philippine Excursion: Exploring an Island for Shark Encounters
Since 2011, when the first whale shark migrated along the Tan-awan coast, tourists from all over have flocked to this small bay for a dip or a dive. It's the only place globally where tourists have a 100% chance to swim with whale sharks, as they are contained and nurtured. Clearly, they are no longer wild creatures.
Even before 6 in the morning, the small registration building was packed with enthusiastic tourists discussing the upcoming shark encounter.
Before departure, all tourists are briefed in the auditorium. An employee emphasized that touching, patting, or grabbing the creatures is strictly prohibited. Additionally, tourists should wash off sunscreen, refrain from using cameras with flash, and maintain a 5-meter distance from the whale sharks.
Subsequently, each group of 10 individuals swiftly moves to the small boats. About 10 – 20m offshore, tourists will encounter guides wearing green shirts and have 30 minutes to dive with the school of fish.
Upon entering the water, tourists easily recognize why this place is so famous. The whale sharks, very large and measuring up to 15m, gracefully move back and forth to catch the bait thrown by the staff.
Despite warnings that any violations will result in fines or imprisonment, many tourists still intentionally misbehave. Some ignore the rules, attempting to touch or even grasp the shark's body, while others accidentally bump into them.
Many locals also realize and express frustration with the situation. One shared opinion: “You can always touch them. When a guide sees it, just say it was an accident.”
The 5m distance rule seems to have little effect. Tour guides from Philippines intentionally throw bait close to tourists to attract the sharks. Clearly, they are trying to provide the best experience as tourists are only centimeters away from these gigantic creatures.
Tour guides from the Philippines even prop their feet up on the mouths of the whale sharks as they swim close to the boat, gently caressing them with their feet.
According to local estimates, approximately 14 whale sharks inhabit this area, all depending on daily meals provided by fishermen.
Oslob is not the only place in the world where tourists can observe or swim with whale sharks. In Donsol, another location in the Philippines, or off the coast of Western Australia, tourists can swim in the open ocean as the school of fish moves across the Ningaloo coral reef from May to July each year. This destination also attracts many tourists, with conservation regulations being more strictly enforced.
As per Vân Phạm/Vnexpress
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Reference: Travel guide Mytour
MytourJanuary 5, 2018
