Oceanwise Whale Shark Research Expedition
The Oceanwise 'Whale Shark Research Expedition' provides you with an unparalleled adventure to snorkel with the Ningaloo whale sharks! We are the ONLY whale shark research expedition on the entire Ningaloo where you can swim with whale sharks and also have access to experienced Marine Scientists specialised in Ningaloo World Heritage values.
The Ningaloo Reef is one of the world's largest fringing reefs, and along with the spectacular Cape Range forms part of the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area. It is also one of the few places in the world where you can swim with the magnificent whale shark and experience a myriad of other marine life including manta rays, turtles, dolphins, whales, dugongs and coral reef fish!
What to Bring?
Bring a towel, bathers, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, suitable clothes for sun protection, a warm top, waterproof camera. We provide snorkel gear but feel free to bring your own if you are comfortable with it.
Costs
Adult (16+): $390
Child (2-15): $250
Observer: $250
Seniors with card: $350
Family: $1200 (2 adult x 2 children)
Scientist for the Day: $490*
Oceanwise offer expeditions that are available for people with disabilities and we encourage carers to come onboard for free.
*4 places per tour, includes induction, training, participation in research.
No Sighting Guarantee:
In the unlikely event of not getting to swim with a whale shark during your tour, we will book you onto the next available expedition free-of-charge (valid for 2 seasons).
Terms and Conditions:
No liability is taken by Oceanwise, associated businesses, staff or partners in the event of damage, personal or loss, injury or sickness. Minimum numbers may apply for any tour to operate. We reserve the right to cancel, reschedule or redirect tours at any time due to weather or factors beyond our control. Please note that our tours are based on interactions with wildlife in the ocean, and as such no guarantees can be made that specified interactions will occur on any given day, nor that weather conditions will be ideal.
Child Policy:
Children from 2-15 are welcome on our trips. All children swimming in the open water environment must be accompanied by an adult at all times and be confident swimmers, we also advise that rash vests are used for sun protection. Flotation devices (wetsuits and noodles) are available on the boat and our crew can assist with any additional help needed.
Booking Conditions:
Non-refundable 25% deposit on booking. Full balance required in advance. No refund if cancelled within 48 hrs.
Swim with the Ningaloo Whale Sharks and participate in conservation!
- Pick up ~7 am from your accommodation.
- Snorkel on the pristine Ningaloo Reef.
- View marine life in the Ningaloo lagoon such as dugongs, turtles, reef sharks and colourful coral reef fish!
- Spotter plane goes up during the morning to seek whale sharks and other big marine life such as manta rays, whales and dolphins.
- Swim with the magnificent whale sharks!
- Interpretive briefings from experienced scientists and marine science students.
- Witness marine research in action.
- FREE photos of the day (see our website at www.oceanwise.com.au).
- FREE research lecture at a location in town (if available during your stay).
- Comfortable and spacious vessel, the 'Ningaloo Spirit'.
- Buffet lunch, morning and afternoon tea all provided.
- Snorkelling equipment and wetsuits.
- Drop-off at ~4-5 pm at your accommodation.
With our 'Scientist for the Day' position you have the opportunity to participate in ongoing whale shark and other marine conservation programs.
You will:
- Receive background information on all the research that Oceanwise is undertaking.
- Receive training from marine scientists in the methods used on the boat.
- Assist our researchers collect important information on whale sharks.
- Help us to add the data to our biodiversity database for the Ningaloo.
NB. We will contact you and arrange for the induction and training to take place at a convenient time the day before the trip, please allow at least 2 hours for this. Limited to 4 spots per trip.
Pickups from 7.10 am at your accommodation.
Drop-offs at around 4-5 pm to your accommodation.
Pickup details:
Novotel: 7.10 am
Exmouth Escape 7.15 am
Aspen: 7.15 am
Exmouth Visitors Centre: 7.15 am
Ningaloo Lodge: 7.20 am
Potshot: 7.25 am
Best Western Seabreeze: 7.35 am
Lighthouse: 7.45 am
Yardie Creek CP: 7.55 am
Tantabiddi: 8.00 am