Swim With Whale Sharks Exmouth

Exmouth is located on the edge of the Ningaloo Reef, a World Heritage Site and one of the largest fringing reefs in the world. This pristine reef is home to an incredible diversity of marine life, including manta rays, turtles, and of course, whale sharks.

In addition, the whale shark tourism industry in Exmouth is heavily regulated, with strict guidelines in place to ensure the safety and well-being of the sharks.We are committed to sustainable practices and educating our guests about the importance of conservation.

Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef boast a vibrant tapestry of marine life, so you’re in for a treat beyond just whale sharks! Here’s a glimpse of some of the incredible wildlife you might encounter on your tour:

• Mantas: These graceful giants glide effortlessly through the water, their wingspans reaching up to 7 metres. They filter plankton through their filter plates, which is a sight to behold.
• Humpback whales: During their annual migration (July-November), these majestic creatures breach and sing, creating awe-inspiring moments. Keep an ear out for their haunting melodies underwater!
• Dolphins: Playful and acrobatic, dolphins are a delight to watch as they frolic in the waves. Several species call Ningaloo Reef home, including Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, and spinner dolphins.
• Reef sharks: These smaller, reef-dwelling sharks are essential for maintaining the ecosystem’s balance. You might encounter grey reef sharks, blacktip reef sharks, and whitetip reef sharks, all known for their curious nature and docile behaviour.
• Turtles: Green, loggerhead, and hawksbill turtles frequent Ningaloo Reef for feeding and nesting. Witnessing these ancient mariners glide gracefully through the coral is a humbling experience.
• Fish: The vibrant tapestry of fish species at Ningaloo Reef is staggering. From the colourful clownfish sheltering among anemones to the sleek batfish gliding through the water, every dive or snorkel unveils a new wonder.
• Rays: Stingrays, eagle rays, and even elusive manta rays can be spotted gliding across the sandy bottom or gracefully soaring through the water column. Observe them from a safe distance and appreciate their unique adaptations.
• Corals: While not technically “”wildlife,”” the stunning coral formations themselves are a living spectacle. Their diverse shapes, textures, and vibrant colours provide the foundation for this thriving ecosystem.

Your whale shark adventure is all-inclusive, from convenient pick-up to drop-off. Savour delicious meals, explore with top-notch snorkel gear, and capture memories with free photos. Our dedicated team utilises a spotter plane and a safety support boat for an unforgettable and worry-free experience.

There are specific rules and codes of conduct in place to ensure the safety of both humans and whale sharks during interactions at Exmouth. Here are some key points to remember:

• Maintain a minimum distance of 3 metres from the side and body and 4 metres from the tail of the whale shark. This allows them space to move freely and avoids disrupting their behaviour.
• Avoid swimming directly in front of the whale shark, as this can be perceived as threatening.
• Touching or harassing whale sharks is strictly prohibited. Their skin is sensitive, and touching can cause stress and damage.
• Avoid using flash photography or bright lights, as this can disorient the whale sharks.

Three Islands Whale Shark Dive is committed to the protection and conservation of the environment and ranks environmental considerations equally with commercial and operational factors in managing its operations. Read about our full Environmental Protection Policy.