“The most incredible thing I’ve ever done.”
Jump off the back of the boat and straight into a bucket-list must-do. Gliding next to the world’s largest fish, the whale shark, feeling its majesty and surprising gentleness.
You’re fearless — intoxicated by life, and something so overwhelmingly beautiful.
Breaking the surface, you can’t wait to share your experiences with fellow swimmers. You know you’ve just witnessed something indelibly rare.
Each year, between March – October*, these slow-moving, filter-feeding whale sharks migrate past Ningaloo Reef. Up to 12 metres long, these giants have a hugely healthy appetite… for plankton and krill.
Taking swimming pool gulps, filtering their microscopic main course, whale sharks love warm tropical oceans, living up to 70 years, and Ningaloo Reef is one of the only places in the world where Whale sharks appear regularly in large numbers, with over 235 individuals recorded.
Scientific photography shows that some whale sharks have visited Ningaloo Reef for at least 29 years and counting. It seems Sal Salis is a place both humans and whale sharks share a love for.
Please note, whale shark swims are an optional paid experience and are not included in the all-inclusive Sal Salis rate. Due to high demand, we recommend booking early, as spaces often sell out months in advance.
Secure your place by adding the experience at checkout or contacting Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef on 08 9949 1776.
EARLY MORNING
Breakfast & depart Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef
Your day begins with breakfast at the Lodge, front row to a breathtaking sunrise over Ningaloo Reef, followed by a scenic 25-minute transfer from Sal Salis to Tantabiddi Boat Ramp, where you’ll meet your experienced skipper and crew.
OUT ON THE WATER
Whale shark debrief and snorkel
As we cruise into the Indian Ocean, enjoy morning tea onboard while the search for whale sharks begins, supported by a spotter plane.
You’ll be fitted with wetsuits and snorkel gear, followed by a comprehensive safety and in-water briefing. Then enjoy a morning snorkel on the beautiful Ningaloo Reef to ensure you feel confident and comfortable before heading out to swim with whale sharks. You can expect to see coral gardens, fish and perhaps even turtles, stingrays and more (if you’re lucky)! Observers may also enjoy the snorkel, then remain on the vessel to observe the whale sharks from above.
As the search continues, your crew will also keep watch for turtles, dolphins, humpback whales, dugongs, rays, and seabirds.
WHALE SHARK SWIM
Time to swim alongside the gentle giants of the reef
Once a whale shark is sighted, it’s your time to shine! Feel the adrenaline rush as you enter the water, soon finding yourself gliding alongside these majestic creatures in a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime encounter. Each small-group of 10 spends approximately five minutes in the water per swim, with opportunities to repeat the experience multiple times throughout the day*. You are welcome to opt out of any swim at any time and relax onboard instead.
Be sure to look out for our photographer, who will be out there capturing the day.
BACK ON BOARD
Lunch, snacks and refreshments available
A fresh lunch featuring Western Australian produce, along with snacks and refreshments, is served onboard as the day continues on the water. Please advise us of any dietary requirements or food allergies at the time of booking.
ONE FINAL SNORKEL
Explore Ningaloo Reef’s magic
After your incredible encounter with the gentle giants of the reef, you’ll have the option to jump back into the water for a second snorkel of the day, if time and conditions permits.
RETURN TO SHORE
Travel back to Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef
On the return journey to shore, toast an unforgettable adventure with a glass of sparkling wine, light beer, or soft drink.
Your transfer will return you to Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef in the late afternoon, with time to unwind back at camp before sundowners on the deck. This is followed by a three-course dinner under the stars, inspired by the surrounding reef and ranges.
Photography & videography: Whether or not you want to bring your camera, cherish the day with a complimentary collection of video and pictures taken by our professional videographer and provided on a whale shark USB (one per booking).
The best time to go whale shark swimming at Ningaloo Reef is from March – October* when the whale sharks migrate to the area.
A typical whale shark swimming tour lasts around 6-8 hours, with approximately 3-4 hours spent in the water with the whale sharks.
The likelihood of seeing a whale shark during a tour at Ningaloo Reef is high, with a success rate of over 90% during the peak season.
Yes, swimming experience is essential to participate in a whale shark swimming tour. Participants must be comfortable swimming in open water and able to snorkel confidently.
If the weather is bad on the day of your whale shark swimming tour, the tour may be rescheduled for another day.
Whale shark swimming tours can be booked online or over the phone with your accommodation. It is recommended to book in advance during the peak season to ensure availability.
The standard length of a whale swim tour means that you’re away from the camp for the whole day. If you would like to maximise your time at Sal Salis, we would recommend that you book your swim for before or after your stay.
If you’re staying at Sal Salis for 4+ nights, we would recommend that you do your swim during your stay.
We recommend wearing polarised sunglasses to reduce glare and assist in seeing the animals, especially important as an observer.
If you haven’t spent a lot of time on boats, it can be a good idea to take a sea sickness tablet on the morning of your tour.
*As Whale Sharks are wild creatures, sightings during a swim cannot be guaranteed. Please note that no-sighting policies vary among different suppliers