Whale Shark Tours Exmouth: The Complete Guide
The Ningaloo is a bucket list destination for most travellers. I know it was for us! As we meandered up the coast from Perth, we were looking forward to our time in Exmouth, gateway to the Ningaloo. I’d heard endless hype about the Ningaloo for years before we got there, and I was both excited and a little worried it wouldn’t live up to it.
After spending weeks exploring the Ningaloo from the ground and the water, I can confidently say that it is better than the Great Barrier Reef in many ways. For one, you can’t swim with whale sharks on the other side of the continent!
If you’re considering travelling to the Ningaloo, book early. Book your accommodation or campsite early, and book your amazing experiences early. It books out really early, and for a good reason!
Here are our top picks for the best Whale Shark tours in Ningaloo, Western Australia
Our Fav Exmouth Resources
-Looking for a place to stay? Booking.com
-Need to book an unforgettable reef tour? Viator.com
-How about your beach gear? WildEarth.com.au
Too excited to read the info? Click this button to book the highest rated Whale Shark Tour here (and see why it’s rated so well!)
About Whale Shark Tours in Exmouth
Exmouth is the gateway to the world-famous Ningaloo Reef, and it’s one of the only places on Earth where you can reliably swim with whale sharks, also known as the gentle giants of the ocean.
These awesome creatures, growing up to 12 meters long, visit the Ningaloo between March and July (sometimes extending to September) to feed on plankton and coral spawn.
The whale shark tours here are world-class. You’ll be guided by experienced operators who use spotter planes to locate the whale sharks, ensuring you get the best chance of swimming with them.
All gear is provided, and you don’t need to be an experienced swimmer, as long as you stay within your limits and chat with the staff if you have any concerns.
👉🏻 These tours sell out months in advance! Don’t wait until you arrive in Exmouth. Book your whale shark tour now!
Best Whale Shark Tours in Exmouth
We did a heap of research before booking, and to make things easier for you, here are the top whale shark tours we recommend based on our experience and feedback from other travellers. These tours sell out fast, so book well in advance to get the time and tour you really want.
✅ Full-Day Whale Shark Swim Tour
- Approx 8 hours
- Pick up/drop off to Exmouth included
- Everything you need is included
- Photographer guide
- Max of 20 guests to ensure top level comfort.
Grab your spot now in the most sought-after tour in the Ningaloo Reef here!
This is the ultimate whale shark experience and the tour we personally chose, along with thousands of other travellers over the years. You’ll spend a full day on the water with an experienced crew who use a spotter plane to locate whale sharks ahead of your boat.
The day includes multiple snorkel sessions with whale sharks (conditions permitting), plus possible opportunities to see manta rays, turtles, dolphins, and other incredible marine life.
All snorkel gear, wetsuits, food, and drinks are provided, so you can just relax and enjoy. Yes, this includes a glass of bubbles to celebrate an amazing day on the water!
The crew is absolutely fantastic, they’re passionate about marine conservation and make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable in the water, even if you’re not a confident swimmer.
👉🏻 Don’t miss out! Book your full-day whale shark tour here
✅ 6 Hour Whale Shark Tour
- 6-8 hour tour
- Includes pick up/drop off to Exmouth
- Lunch is provided
- All the equipment you need is provided
This tour by Ningaloo Blue is another favourite amongst many travellers. You’ll get 2 chances to snorkel with the whale sharks, and by using the spotter plane to help locate the whales, the chances are high!
A full buffet lunch is provided, along with tea and coffee. The staff are very knowledgeable and accommodating to your needs. There is also a videographer on each tour to help capture the excitement for the day. The photos/videos can be purchased separately.
👉🏻 Book your Ningaloo Blue whale shark adventure now!
✅ Stay dry on a semi-submersible boat
- Approx 3 hours
- Stay above the water to view the life below the ocean, or jump in to snorkel, or both!
- Light snacks
- Snorkelling equipment
If you want to experience the reef, but are not a fan of getting into the water, here is another option. The semi-submersible boat has 18 large windows that view straight onto the coral. While this tour isn’t exactly a whale shark sighting tour, it still gets you out onto the water and get to experience the amazing coral and wildlife.
You’ll get chances to snorkle if you choose, otherwise stay on the boat and enjoy the view. The staff will give a commentery of the wildlife below the surface. Light snacks are included. This is a great tour for families and people who don’t like the swimming part.
👉🏻 Book your semi-submersible boat tour here
Our Tip: Bring your sunscreen, hat and a towel. If you have one, a waterproof camera would be handy!
When is the Best Time for Whale Shark Tours in Exmouth?
The whale shark season in Exmouth runs from March to July, with some tours extending into August and September, depending on whale shark activity. Remember you’re dealing with nature, and the whale sharks don’t always get the memo!
Peak season is typically April to June, when whale shark numbers are highest and water visibility is excellent. This is also when tours book out fastest, so plan accordingly.
March and July/August can be fantastic for fewer crowds and slightly lower prices, though whale shark sightings may be less frequent. The tours that have spotter planes have the best chance. The two that I mentioned first have the spotter planes.
The best time to visit Exmouth overall depends on what else you want to experience:
- March-July: Whale sharks
- August-October: Humpback whale swims
- Year-round: Turtles, snorkelling, diving
We visited in May and had perfect conditions—calm seas, incredible visibility, and multiple whale shark encounters.
👉🏻 Ready to book? Secure your spot on a whale shark tour now!
What to Expect on a Whale Shark Tour
Here’s what a typical whale shark tour day looks like (but please check the individual tours for their exact times):
6:00-7:00am: Meet at the tour operator’s office in Exmouth. You’ll check in, receive a safety briefing, and board the boat.
7:30am: Depart from Exmouth. The boat ride to the whale shark area takes about 1-2 hours, depending on where the spotter plane locates the sharks.
Morning/Midday: Once a whale shark is spotted, you’ll gear up and enter the water in small groups. You’ll swim alongside the whale shark, keeping a safe distance which the staff will tell you about. Tours typically offer 2-4 swims throughout the day.
Lunch: Enjoy a delicious onboard lunch with snacks and drinks (all included).
Afternoon: More whale shark swims, plus snorkelling at the reef to see turtles, manta rays, and tropical fish.
4:00-5:00pm: Return to Exmouth, call all your friends and family to let them know about the awesome day!
Important Notes:
- Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Moderate fitness level required—you’ll be swimming in open ocean, but chat with the staff if you have any concerns.
- Operators have a high success rate (90%+), but whale shark sightings aren’t guaranteed
Worth checking your travel insurance covers water activities like this before you go — we always look at AllClear Travel Insurance for the more adventurous stuff on our trip.
Don’t Wait—Whale Shark Tours Sell Out Fast! Book Now
Where to Stay in Exmouth
Check out the top spots to stay in Exmouth here:
FAQs About Whale Shark Tours in Exmouth
Here are the most common questions we get about swimming with whale sharks in Exmouth:
When is whale shark season in Exmouth?
Whale shark season runs from March to July, with some tours extending into August and September. Peak season is April-June when whale shark numbers are highest.
How much does a whale shark tour cost?
Full-day whale shark tours typically cost between $400-$500 AUD per person. Half-day tours are slightly cheaper. Prices include all gear, food, drinks, and expert guides.
Yes, it’s expensive, but if you’re going to save up for any experience in Australia, I would suggest this is the one to do!
Do I need to be a good swimmer?
You don’t need to be an expert swimmer, but a moderate level of fitness is required. You’ll be swimming in the open ocean with life jackets available if needed.
If you’re not comfortable in the water, let your tour operator know, they’ll provide extra support.
Are whale shark sightings guaranteed?
While operators have a 90%+ success rate, whale shark sightings aren’t guaranteed as these are wild animals in their natural habitat.
Can kids swim with whale sharks?
Check with your specific tour operator for their age requirements.
What should I bring on a whale shark tour?
Bring:
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Towel
- Underwater camera (GoPro or similar)
- Hat and sunglasses
- Any medication you need
- Positive vibes and a sense of adventure!
Everything else (snorkel gear, wetsuits, food, drinks) is provided.
Our Thoughts
Swimming with whale sharks in Exmouth is hands-down one of the most incredible experiences we’ve had in all our years of travelling around Australia. I would highly recommend this for a unique, once in a lifetime experience.
Our advice? Book early (these tours sell out 6+ months in advance during peak season), pack your sense of adventure, and prepare for a day that will change the way you see the ocean.
Planning the rest of your time in Exmouth? Check out our full guide to things to do in Exmouth.
