Every year from April to July whale sharks, the world’s biggest fish, swim along the Ningaloo Reef – one of the world’s largest fringing reefs, stretching for over 150 miles off Western Australia’s mid north coast.

These graceful giants of the sea congregate in and around Ningaloo Marine Park giving visitors the chance to swim and snorkel with these massive  creatures. You’ll also get the opportunity to spot some of the Ningaloo’s other amazing marine life including humpback whales, manta rays, dugongs (known in the US as manatees) and spinner dolphins.

Whale sharks are found in tropical and warm oceans world-wide and can live to almost 70 years! Snorkeling alongside their huge 6-foot wide mouths is a once in a lifetime experience. Scientists know little about these creatures but you can identify them by looking at their unique spots. Ningaloo is one of the only places in the world whale sharks appear regularly in large numbers. Each year scientists photograph the whale sharks as they pass through the area. Some have been identified as having visited Ningaloo for 17 years and counting!

Sal Salis offers whale shark swims with select local partners and you can expect an up-close-and-personal view of these gentle giants off the Western coast of Australia on Ningaloo Reef.

Morning tea is usually served as you motor out into the Indian Ocean to begin the search for these gentle giants. You will also have the opportunity to snorkel the Ningaloo Reef at different coral sites to enjoy the abundant tropical fish life. Throughout the day your crew will keep an eye out for turtles, dolphins, dugongs, rays and sea birds. A delicious lunch featuring fresh Western Australian produce is provided along with snorkel gear and wetsuits.

Whale Shark Facts

1. They are the largest shark and largest fish in the ocean.
2. Whale shark birth and mating have never been witnessed.
3. It is  on the Red List of IUCN’s (World Conservation Union) Threatened Species List as a Vulnerable Species.
4. The size of a whale shark is just under the width of a professional basketball court which is about 42 feet across!

Happy travels!

Ian