Ningaloo Reef, which is located along the Western Australian coast, is considered one of the rare places in the world where people can actually swim with majestic whale sharks. Every year, these gentle giants of the ocean come to the region, making it a destination full of adventure for tourists. If you would like to go on a whale shark tour around Ningaloo, this is what you can anticipate from such a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.
The Experience of Swimming with Whale Sharks
Whale sharks are the biggest fish in the ocean and can grow up to 12m in length. They are the biggest fish species on the planet. Despite their size, they are filter feeders that eat plankton. They are harmless to humans, and their slow pace makes for a very peaceful experience for swimmers. When you join a whale shark swim, you will be fitted with snorkel gear and guided into the turquoise waters of Ningaloo Reef by marine biologists and experts who will ensure a safe and unforgettable experience.
You will be in small groups so it will feel more personal and intimate. The water is warm and the visibility is great so you can see these giants up close as they cruise through the deeper water of the outer reef. While you will be swimming with these amazing animals strict rules are in place to minimalise the impact on their natural behaviour. You will be at a safe distance, guided by professionals, while still having this absolute bucket list experience.
When to Go: Whale Shark Season
Whale sharks visit Ningaloo Reef between March and August, with a peak season from April to July. During this time, the waters are full of plankton, and whale sharks feed in the Ningaloo Marine Park. As whale sharks are migratory, they can be unpredictable, but with spotter planes used by most operators, the interaction rate is high, and you have a great chance to see these incredible animals in their natural environment.
Ningaloo reef tours depart from both Coral Bay and Exmouth, Coral Bay is known for its beautiful reef and proximity to other marine life like manta rays and humpback whales. The reef itself is a marine wonderland with a wide variety of fish, coral and coral gardens that make the snorkel spots along the reef just as amazing.
What to Expect from a Typical Tour
A typical whale shark tour is structured to give you the best chance of an unforgettable experience. Here’s what your day will look like:
Morning
Most tours depart early in the morning, often from the local boat ramp after a safety briefing. This way, you have the whole day to spot and swim with the whale sharks and other marine life. The briefing covers everything from how to use your snorkel gear to how to respect the whale sharks’ space.
Snorkel Practice
Many tours offer a snorkel practice before heading out to the deeper water of the outer reef so you can get comfortable with your gear. This practice session is usually over the coral gardens or near a prime snorkel spot where you can see lots of reef fish, reef sharks and species of fish like parrotfish and angelfish.
Spotting the Whale Sharks
Once everyone is settled in, we head to the areas where the whale sharks are most likely to be. Spotter planes help us locate individual whale sharks and once we find one, the fun begins. We’ll call you in to the water in small groups and you’ll swim alongside these magnificent creatures for around 10 minutes per encounter.
Marine Life Encounters
While the main event is the whale shark, Ningaloo Reef is also home to many other marine marvels. Depending on the time of year, you may see humpback whales, manta rays, reef sharks and sea turtles; it’s a real marine safari. The reef itself is alive with life from colourful fish to species of coral, it’s an underwater show.
Time in the Water
During the day, you’ll have multiple opportunities to swim with whale sharks, depending on their behaviour and the number of sharks we find. Each whale shark swim is around 10 minutes, and we’ll have up to 6 people in the water at one time. You’ll also have time to swim at other snorkel spots and take in the amazing marine life of Ningaloo Marine Park.
What to Bring
- Sunscreen and Hat: The Australian sun is strong so make sure to bring reef-safe sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Swimwear and Towel: Wear your swimwear under your clothes for convenience and bring a towel to dry off between swims.
- Waterproof Camera: An underwater camera or GoPro is perfect for capturing this once in a lifetime experience but remember to keep a respectful distance from the whale sharks.
- Motion Sickness Medication: The boat ride to and from the snorkel spots can get choppy, so if you’re prone to seasickness, bring some tablets.
- Extra Cost Items: Some tours offer optional extras, such as underwater scooters to help you move through the water more easily.
Eco-Friendly and Responsible Tourism
Ningaloo’s whale shark tours are regulated to protect the whale sharks and the environment. The rules ensure a minimal impact on the animals and allow us to have an amazing time in this marine paradise. Choose an eco-tour operator who follows these rules and practices sustainability to preserve Ningaloo Reef for the future.
Conclusion
Swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef is more than a tour – it’s a life experience that connects you with one of the ocean’s most incredible creatures. Whether you want to swim with the biggest fish in the sea or explore the outer reef’s marine life, this will be a memory that lasts. From the turquoise waters to the coral gardens, Ningaloo is the ultimate backdrop for your whale shark experience – a must-do. With eco-friendly operators looking after these gentle giants and their habitat, you can enjoy this experience knowing you’re supporting sustainable tourism. So, pack your snorkel gear, camera, and sense of wonder, and get ready for a fantastic time at one of the world’s extraordinary marine parks.
FAQ Section
How far in advance is it advisable to schedule a whale shark tour in Ningaloo?
Ningaloo whale shark tour bookings could be preferably made from the month of March to August, with the peak period of the tours being from April through July.
How long does a swimmer get to play in the water with whale sharks?
Each swim is around 10 minutes long, and one may perform this activity several times during a surf for the whale sharks, depending on their behaviour.
Is swimming safely with whale sharks possible?
Yes, swimming alongside whale sharks is perfectly fine. Whale sharks are plankton-eating animals and do not endanger anything or anyone.
Is snorkelling required, or can I confidently show up without any prior snorkelling experience?
Possession of snorkelling skills before participation in a snorkel tour may be helpful; however, in most cases, there is a session in practice, and guides are present to assist one the first time.
What else will I most likely encounter apart from whale sharks on the tour?
On a whale shark tour, one will see not only whale sharks but also mantle rays, dolphins, turtles and famous Ningaloo corals.
