Things To Do in Utila

The World's Whale Shark Headquarters

The waters off Utila are one of the top places on planet Earth to spot the elusive whale shark during the months of February to April, when it is most prevalent, though it can be seen here year-round. The island has become known as the whale shark capital of the Caribbean, as it is home to two research programs: the Whale Shark and Oceanic Research Center (www.wsorc.com) and Utila Whale Shark Research (www.whaleshark.org). It is the largest fish in the Earth's oceans, weighing as much as 20 tons and reaching as much as 20m (66 ft.) in length, though it is known as being extraordinarily gentle and does not prey on humans.

The fish is highly endangered due to over-fishing, particularly in China and Southeast Asia, where a single whale shark fin, considered a delicacy, can be sold for as much as $10,000. Significant scientific research didn't even occur on the creatures until the 1990s; however, long-term photo and satellite tracking projects are ongoing right from Utila. They live in the open ocean, usually in tropical and temperate waters from 70° to 82°F (21°-28°C), eat mostly plankton, and are highly migratory. One tagged whale shark was tracked across more than 12,800km (7,954 miles) in less than a 3-year period. Utila's 4-hour whale shark encounter trips are one of the island's most incredible attractions. On these excursions, you'll search the waters of the eastern and northern coast for birds and giant boils of frenzied fish, and with a little luck, you'll find a whale shark feeding there. Your captain will circle around so you are right in the fish's trajectory, and you can jump right in the water with mask and snorkel and wait as the massive creature passes beneath you. Remember: They can come to you, but you cannot approach them. Contact either institute if you would like to volunteer to help with research, snorkel with a whale shark, or even adopt one of the creatures by sponsoring their satellite tagging.