Oslob, located in the southern part of Cebu, is a small coastal town famous for its whale shark watching activity. Whale sharks, also known as butanding in the Philippines, are gentle giants that can grow up to 40 feet in length. Whale shark watching is a popular tourist activity in Oslob, attracting visitors from all over the world. If you are a first-time traveler to Oslob and planning to try this activity, here's a beginner's quick guide to Oslob whale watching.
When to Go
The whale shark watching activity in Oslob is open all year round, but the best time to go is from November to May. During these months, the sea is calm, and the visibility is excellent, making it easier to spot the whale sharks. June to October is the rainy season in the Philippines, and the waters can be choppy, which can affect the whale shark sighting.
Where to Go
The whale shark watching site in Oslob is located at Tan-awan, a small barangay (village) about 10 kilometers from the town proper. To get there, you can hire a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) or rent a scooter or car. Alternatively, you can also join a tour that includes transportation to and from the whale shark watching site.
What to Bring
When going for the whale shark watching activity, it's important to bring a few essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel. It's also recommended to bring a waterproof camera or a GoPro to capture your experience. Wetsuits and snorkeling gear are available for rent at the site, but you can also bring your own if you prefer.
What to Expect
Upon arriving at the whale shark watching site, you will need to register and attend a short orientation about the activity. Afterward, you will be escorted to a small boat that will take you to the whale shark watching area, which is about 30 minutes away from the shore. The boatmen will provide you with life jackets and snorkeling gear, and a guide will accompany you during the activity.
Once you reach the whale shark watching area, you will have about 30 minutes to observe the whale sharks from the boat or swim with them. It's important to follow the guidelines provided by the boatmen and the guide, such as keeping a safe distance from the whale sharks and not touching or feeding them. Whale sharks are gentle creatures, but it's important to respect their natural habitat and behavior.
After the whale shark watching activity, you can take a shower and change clothes at the site's facilities. There are also souvenir shops and restaurants nearby where you can buy souvenirs and have a meal.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
If you are a first-time visitor to Oslob, here are some tips that can help you make the most of your whale shark watching experience:
- Be prepared for an early start: Whale shark watching in Oslob typically starts at 6 am and ends by 12 pm. It's best to arrive early to avoid the crowds and get a good spot for viewing.
-
- Wear appropriate clothing: It's recommended to wear light and comfortable clothing, such as swimsuits or rash guards. Also, bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
-
- Listen to the orientation: Before you can get in the water and watch the whale sharks, you must attend a mandatory orientation session. Listen carefully to the briefing as it covers safety guidelines, dos and don'ts, and how to interact with the whale sharks.
-
- Follow the rules: While watching the whale sharks, it's essential to follow the rules set by the local authorities. You must maintain a minimum distance of 4 meters from the whale sharks and avoid touching or feeding them.
-
- Respect the environment: As a responsible traveler, you must respect the environment and not litter or damage the coral reefs and marine life.
-
- Hire a guide: If you're unsure about the dos and don'ts, it's best to hire a guide who can help you navigate the experience and ensure your safety.
-
- Bring a waterproof camera: To capture the magical moments of whale shark watching, bring a waterproof camera or rent one from the locals.
-
- Be patient: Seeing the whale sharks in their natural habitat is an awe-inspiring experience. However, sightings are not guaranteed, and it's essential to be patient and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Oslob.
Following these tips will help make your first-time whale shark watching experience in Oslob enjoyable, safe, and unforgettable.
Photo Credits:
https://www.instagram.com/shriram_dr3am5/