Ningaloo Reef: Swim with Whale Sharks & Snorkel Tour Exmouth

Summary

Swim close to whale sharks on Ningaloo’s wild blue, guided from Exmouth

You’ll slip into Ningaloo’s clear water right beside gentle whale sharks, guided by locals who know every current. Expect two reef snorkels, fresh lunch onboard, hotel pickup from Exmouth—and those quiet moments floating near giants you’ll remember long after.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really believe I’d do it until we were actually out there—standing on the deck, wetsuit half-zipped, salt in the air and that nervous-excited feeling in my stomach. Our guide, Jess (she grew up in Exmouth and knows every bit of this coast), handed me a mask and grinned like she knew something I didn’t. The boat was bigger than I expected—two decks, plenty of shade below, and you could just lean over the rail and watch the turquoise water flicker past. Someone spilled coffee on their towel and laughed it off; it felt like everyone was just a little jittery.

The first time Jess called us over—“Whale shark ahead!”—I thought my heart might actually stop. We slid into the water (awkwardly, in my case) and suddenly there was this huge shape gliding by underneath. It’s hard to explain how quiet it gets underwater except for your own breathing. The whale shark moved so gently for something so massive. I remember thinking the spots on its back looked almost painted on. A couple of us tried to keep up (no chance), but mostly we just floated alongside for a minute or two, watching its tail sweep by. My mask fogged up at one point—I missed part of it fiddling around—but honestly? Even that felt real.

Between swims, we’d hang out on deck eating fruit and swapping stories about what we’d seen—someone claimed they spotted a turtle waving (not sure about that). Lunch was simple but fresh: cold meats, salad, bread rolls. There was a videographer onboard catching all our awkward flipper moments if you wanted proof later (I’m still debating whether I want to see myself flailing). The sun felt stronger as the day went on; I borrowed extra sunscreen from a family next to me who’d done this before—they said every trip feels different because you never know which way the whale sharks will go.

On the ride back toward Exmouth, people got quieter—maybe tired or just letting it all sink in. I kept replaying that moment underwater when everything else faded except for me and this ancient giant moving through blue silence. If you’re thinking about swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef… well, I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel and swim with marine giants

• Pickup from accommodation by courtesy bus
• Board 65-foot two-storey vessel
• Enjoy morning tea with coffee and treats
• Snorkel twice on Ningaloo Reef
• Swim with Whale Sharks or Humpback Whales
• Relax on upper deck for sunbathing and views
• Enjoy gourmet buffet lunch with refreshments
• Use snorkeling gear and wetsuits provided
• Spotter planes assist with marine sightings
• Safety Zodiac in water at all times
• Return to shore and drop off at accommodation

Top questions

When is whale shark season at Ningaloo Reef?

Whale shark swims run from April to August each year at Ningaloo Reef near Exmouth.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, courtesy bus pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Exmouth is included.

What should I bring for swimming with whale sharks?

You should bring a hat, sunscreen, towel, change of clothes, and any personal items you need.

Are wetsuits and snorkel gear provided?

Yes, wetsuits and full snorkelling gear are provided; prescription masks are available if needed.

Is lunch included during the day trip?

A buffet lunch with cold meats, salad platters, bread rolls, fruits and refreshments is included onboard.

Can children join the whale shark tour?

Children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; age is no barrier for participation.

If we don’t see a whale shark do we get another chance?

If you don’t see a whale shark during your tour you can go again for free under their no-show policy.

How long does the full-day tour last?

The tour lasts most of the day with morning tea provided as well as lunch before returning to Exmouth in the afternoon.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from anywhere in Exmouth, all snorkelling equipment (mask, fins—even prescription masks if you need), wetsuits and flotation devices for comfort in the water, plus morning tea treats and a buffet lunch served right onboard between swims. There’s always a safety zodiac nearby while you’re snorkeling with whale sharks or exploring Ningaloo Reef’s coral gardens—and if luck isn’t with you that day? You get another trip free to try again.