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You are in open water. Below you, something the size of a bus moves through the blue with quiet, unhurried power. Swimming with whale sharks is one of those experiences that is genuinely hard to put into words and one of the few things in life that lives up to the description 'once in a lifetime'. Australia is one of the best places in the world to do it. Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia hosts one of the most reliable whale shark aggregations on the planet, making Exmouth and Coral Bay the go-to destinations for this experience.
What to expect on a whale shark experience
Most tours depart from Exmouth or Coral Bay and include a spotter plane to locate the whale sharks before the boat reaches them. When the call comes, you enter the water quickly and swim alongside the shark at a respectful distance. Guides brief you on how to move around them safely.
Experiences typically run for a full day and include multiple swims, conditions permitting, as well as time to snorkel the reef and a included lunch. Whale sharks are filter feeders and completely harmless to humans; the size of them is part of what makes the experience so striking.
When is whale shark season?
Whale shark season at Ningaloo Reef runs from mid-March through to late July, with peak activity around April and May. This is when the coral spawning brings in massive plankton blooms that attract the sharks. Tours operate during this window only, so planning ahead is essential.
If you are visiting WA outside whale shark season, whale watching is available from approximately, June through October as humpbacks migrate through Australian waters. Scuba diving and snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef offers year-round marine encounters of a different kind.
Is it suitable for non-swimmers?
You do need to be a competent swimmer and comfortable in open water. Snorkelling gear is provided, and most operators provide wetsuits and floatation options. Prior scuba experience is not required. This is a snorkel experience, not a dive.
Whale shark experiences as a gift
This is for the person who already has everything. A whale shark swim is not something most people would book for themselves, which is exactly what makes it such a meaningful gift. Gift vouchers are available with flexible dates to coincide with whale shark season.
How close do you get to the whale sharks?
Guides maintain a minimum distance to protect the animals, but you are often within a few metres. The experience of swimming beside something 8–12 metres long at close range is genuinely extraordinary, even at the required distance.
Are children allowed?
Most operators have a minimum age of 10–12 and a minimum swimming ability requirement. Check the individual experience for specific terms before booking.
How many whale shark swims are included?
Most tours aim for multiple encounters across the day, but the exact number depends on what the spotter plane finds and weather conditions. Reputable operators at Ningaloo have very high encounter rates during peak season.