These gentle giants swimming right under our boats was an unforgettable experience. The whale sharks, locally known as tuki, not only approached boats but also swam very close to people.
There is no denying that there is a hint of fear while swimming with these whale sharks even if they don't attack or harm people. Despite the rule of not coming within 5 meters of the whale sharks, you can't help but get near them because they swim so close to people in the water. One whale shark swam right under me and hit me with its tail as I tried to swim away. They were used to having people around.
I can't help but reiterate how exhilarating it was to swim with these magnificent creatures. The hint of fear quickly subsided as the whale sharks emanated gentleness.
Just being underwater with these huge gentle creatures was an unforgettable experience. The small innocent eyes of the whale sharks contrasted beautifully with their large bodies. Who would've thought that these huge creatures could have such gentle eyes?
The way the whale sharks danced around and in-between boats and people were masterful. Despite many rule breakers touching the whale sharks, or when the whale sharks hit the boats, they were still in their most gentlest behavior. They somehow knew that with a flick of a tail or a sharp burst of speed they could wreak havoc. It was grace, forgiveness that only nature's silence can provide.
Flying solo wasn't too bad because I got to swim with whale sharks. I wouldn't mind swimming with these gentle giants again if I had another chance.
How to get to Tan-awan, Oslob?
There are many non-aircon and aircon buses (P149 and P155 respectively for a one-way ride) that go to Tan-awan, Oslob. Tell the conductor you will get down at Barangay Tan-awan in Oslob (where the whale sharks are) because you might end up in another place. There are several whale shark interaction services that line the highway so take your pick. I paid P500 including snorkeling gear and life vest for the whale shark interaction. I forgot the name of the business owner I contacted but here's his contact number: 09232841008 or 09327733438. His shop is next to Chateau de Tan-awan and right in front of a school. If you end up spending a night in Tan-awan, a room for one costs P450 at Chateau de Tan-awan.