Last Updated on 4 May 2025 by Ariana Svenson
So you want to swim with the Whale Sharks in Ningaloo? If you are planning a trip to Western Australia, you have undoubtedly seen photos of these spotted gentle giants swimming gracefully in the Turquoise waters around the Ningaloo Reef.
For many, a Whale Shark encounter in Australia is a bucket list item and a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. For such an important investment, you want to make sure you do your research well to ensure you have a perfect day! That’s where we come in. We have compiled the most comprehensive guide to swimming with whale sharks in Exmouth!
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Why are Whale Sharks Special?
Whale Sharks are spectacular creatures and are the world’s largest fish! Even though it may sound scary to swim with the Ningalooo Reef Whale Sharks because of their size, they are really known as gentle giants.
These ocean giants can grow up to 12 meters or a whopping 40 feet long! The Whale Sharks in Ningaloo are no exception; swimming with them is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Even though they are called “Whale Sharks,” they are, in fact, not whales at all, but rather a filter-feeding shark. Perhaps they are called Whale Sharks because of their size and the idea that whales are generally very large, ocean-dwelling creatures.So what makes the Whale Sharks so special? Well, Exmouth is one of the only places in Australia where you can swim with Whale Sharks. The Whale Sharks and Ningaloo Reef (the world’s largest fringing reef) are in abundance and put Exmouth on the map.
Whale Sharks Ningaloo Reef Season
Each year, Whale Sharks migrate to Ningaloo Reef to feed on plankton at the start of the annual coral spawning. The coral spawning in Ningaloo Reef Exmouth happens every year 7 to 10 days after the full moon in March or April. With that said, the best time to swim with the whale sharks in WA is from April to July.
Peak Whale Shark season in Exmouth is generally from April to July. However, many Whale Shark tours in Ningaloo continue to operate in the shoulder season, August and September. You may see Whale Sharks in Ningaloo Reef in those months, but sightings are not guaranteed.
What are the Best Whale Shark Swimming/Diving Tours Exmouth?
As the Whale Shark tours in Exmouth are so popular. It’s a fantastic day out to swim alongside Whale Sharks! There are several different companies offering tours.
Below are some considerations to take into account before booking:
Quality of Boat and Size of Boat
Most Whale Shark tours operate in a fairly standard fashion. The quality and size of the boats may vary between local operators but are generally pretty much the same.
Australia has tough regulations that whale shark tour operators must follow, which often dictate the size of the boat, etc.
However, make sure you do your research. Look at the company’s website and read reviews from past guests. This will give you a good idea about what to expect and ensure an unforgettable day.
Be sure to check out the number of bathrooms on the boat. How many dive ladders do they have? Do they have showers or changing rooms, and how many? This is also a great way to determine which Whale Shark tour suits your needs.
Size of the Group on the Boat
This really depends on many factors. Generally speaking, Whale Shark tours in Exmouth take a maximum of 20 people out at a time, with only 10 people allowed in the water at a time.
Of course, the size of the tour group depends on how many people booked the tour for that day and which tour company you booked with. Generally, smaller group tours are more expensive than tours that take a maximum of 20 people out.If your budget dictates, you can also book a private charter Whale Shark experience. However, these are pricey! If you are interested in learning more, read more here.
Why is Having a Spotter Plane Important?
Considering everyone who books a tour wants to experience swimming with the Whale Sharks, having a spotter plane or helicopter is important. They are in the eyes in the sky above, tracking radio sightings and locations of the sharks down to the boat captain, who then positions the boat in the right location.
On Board Photographer (So That You Get the Best Photos)
Nearly all Exmouth Whale Shark tour operators have onboard underwater photographers/videographers. This makes it a relaxing and enjoyable time with these amazing creatures. Incredibly easy.
Of course, you want to capture the experience, and with someone else doing that for you, you have more time to be present and enjoy your Whale Shark swim.
Ecological Considerations – Are All Companies Eco-Conscious?
Australia has very strict policies for Whale Shark tours. These policies ensure that humans do not disrupt the whale sharks’ natural feeding and breeding patterns. The goal is to have as minimal an impact as possible.
Whale Shark tours in Exmouth are conducted extremely ethically. The procedures and guidelines for the tours are managed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation & Attractions. Tour operators must follow many regulations, including how close the boat and swimmers can get to the Whale Sharks and how many people can be in the water at a time.
However, we always recommend reading up on the company you intend to book with. Ask questions about their policies and what makes their company eco-conscious.
What’s Included?
Although this varies slightly from tour to tour, almost everything you need to have a wonderful swim with the Whale Sharks in Exmouth is included in each tour. This would include things like a wetsuit, snorkel and fins, noodles, life vests, a knowledgeable guide, and paid government fees.
Many of the best tours include complimentary food and drinks (some even include morning and afternoon tea), free photos, and transportation to and from your Exmouth or Coral Coast accommodation – all you need for an amazing day! Make sure you check with your tour guide to see exactly what is included.
Check out some of our recommended Whale Sharks Exmouth tours below.
More Questions about the Whale Shark Swim
Is it Safe to Swim with Whale Sharks? Is it Scary?
Having a swim with Whale Sharks in WA is incredibly safe. Besides the strict regulations everyone must follow, Whale Sharks are not aggressive towards humans.
There has never been a report of any Whale Shark attack on a human being, ever. So, while it may be a bit scary because they are such large creatures, remember that they are gentle giants and you’ll have a great experience!. We, as humans, are definitely more of a threat to the Whale Shark than they are to us.
I am Not a Good Swimmer – Should I do a whale shark tour?
If you are questioning your swimming ability, make sure you research the tour you want to book. All tours offer flotation devices such as noodles, life vests, and even underwater scooters.
If swimming and snorkelling are not your things but you still want to experience Ningaloo Reef, perhaps a glass-bottom boat tour would be fun. We did this with our family and absolutely loved it. These are options that would suit families, depending on swimming ability:
Do You Get Wetsuits for Swimming with the Whale Sharks?
A wetsuit is included in most (if not all) Whale Shark swim Exmouth tours. However, make sure to confirm with your tour operator before arrival.
Is it Cold when Swimming with the Whale Sharks?
Because Ningaloo Reef has a record of around 320 days of sunshine a year, the water temperature is generally 20-28 degrees year-round. However, wetsuits are also available from most tour operators.
Make sure you take a towel and a sweater with you on your tour. It can get a little chilly once you are out of the water and back in the boat later in the day.
What if We Don’t See a Whale Shark?
Because these are wild animals who are not coerced in any way, this may be possible, but it is rare. In the unlikely event you do not see a Whale Shark, tour operators have a “no sighting” policy. This varies by tour operator but usually states that if you do not see a Whale Shark or have the opportunity to swim with one, a spot on the next available tour will be open to you, or you can choose to take a voucher for an additional tour often good for up to two Whale Shark tour seasons. Its your responsibility to ask your tour operator about this detail, before you book.
What Happens if the Ningaloo Reef Weather is Stormy?
There are not many times that the Whale Shark tours do not operate. Most of the Whale Sharks Exmouth tours go out every day. However, inclement weather can happen, and tours can be cancelled. Check with your individual Whale Sharks Exmouth tour operator to see what their policy is.
Is it as Expensive as it Sounds?
Whale Shark tours can be expensive. Of course, this is subjective, depending on your budget. However, the average price of a tour is around $500 per person, so the cost can add up quickly for a family.
If swimming with the Whale Sharks in WA is a must-do for your family, inquire with the tour operators about family discounts. Many operators offer a family bundle rate that includes two adults and two children.
Are There Discounts on My Whale Shark Exmouth Tour?
This will depend on the company. Many of the best Whale Shark tour operators offer military and senior discounts.
Whale Shark Swim Tours with Kids
The tours say that if you can swim, you can snorkel, and there is technically no age limit for the Ningaloo Reef Whale tours. Of course, you know your kiddo best. Whether you take your kids swimming with Whale Sharks is entirely up to you.
Keep in mind that children under 12 will require direct parental supervision at all times. You cannot leave your child on the boat while you go out in the ocean.
If you have another parent with whom you can switch off supervision duties, that works. Or, if you think your child is up for it, they can go swimming with the Whale Sharks as well.
A good rule of thumb is to think about how confident your child is with snorkelling in general. A Whale Shark swim Exmouth is not the time or place to be teaching a kiddo how to swim or snorkel.
Also, consider the weather. No one wants a seasick baby or toddler on board, and this would most certainly hinder your experience with the iconic Whale Sharks. There are other options to consider, like hiring a private babysitter in Exmouth, booking them into a daycare facility, or leaving them with a friend or family member on shore. For more information check here.
If you are visiting Exmouth and the stunning Ningaloo Reef, you will undoubtedly spend plenty of time at the beach. Toddler Beach Essentials and Beach Great for Babies are great resources. The Ultimate Beach Packing List is a must-read, too.
What are Other Swims Can I Do in the Exmouth Area?
Besides having the best Whale Shark tours, Exmouth also has other swimming and snorkelling tours to enjoy.
Ningaloo Reef and the Coral Coast are renowned snorkelling destinations. You can discover Ningaloo Reef’s big three: Humpback Whales, Manta Rays, dolphins, and Whale Sharks, all along the Ningaloo Coast and lots of other marine life. There are many Ningaloo Reef Exmouth snorkelling and diving tours and Humpback whale and turtle swim tours.
Humpback Whale Tours
Here are our top recommended Humpback Whale tours:
Discover Exmouth
Swimming with Sharks in Exmouth, WA, is certainly a memorable experience, but there is much more to do in and around the area.
Ningaloo Reef Exmouth is the largest coral fringing reef in the world. Learn more about Ningaloo Reef in our Facts About Ningaloo Reef post.
If you are looking for a Whale Shark tour in Exmouth, you will likely be in or near Exmouth City. Our guide to the best things to do in Exmouth will give you an idea of other things to do, the top Exmouth accommodations, and amazing Exmouth restaurants to try.
Our guides to visiting Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park are must-reads if you’re visiting the area, packed with tons of practical information about what to do and how to get around. If you are looking for an incredible Cape Range National Parking trekking experience, look here. If you are travelling to Exmouth and looking for a unique stay, read about our Bullara Station Stay Experience.
The Verdict – So Should I Swim with the Whale Sharks in Exmouth?
Absolutely. We highly recommend an Exmouth swim with Whale Sharks experience. It is an absolute bucket list experience and an amazing way to experience all that Ningaloo Reef and the Coral Coast have to offer. We hope with our guide, you will be able to find the best Whale Shark tour in Exmouth that fits your needs.
Is swimming with the majestic Whale Sharks in Exmouth on your bucket list? Perhaps you have already done it and want to share your experience. Let us know in the comments below.
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