Give us a call
1800 138 501
Give us a call
1800 138 501
Give us a call
1800 138 501Early March - Late July
7:45am to 4:30pm
Swimming with the gentle giants of the sea, the iconic whale shark, is the experience of a lifetime – an awe-inspiring wildlife interaction that will live with you forever. Join the award-winning team at Three Islands Whale Shark Dive as we take you on a snorkelling experience like no other, in the pristine marine wonderland of the world heritage listed Ningaloo Reef.
These amazing creatures cruise through the Ningaloo during whale shark season, from early March to the end of July – and there’s no better experience than seeing these gentle filter feeders in their natural environment. Depending on when you come, you might also see turtles, manta rays, humpback whales, dugongs, and dolphins!
The dedicated Three Islands guiding staff are absolutely passionate about their work and love to share their intimate knowledge of whale sharks and the marine environment with guests. You’re safe in the hands of our experienced crew, who have many years of marine experience and operate the vessel with precision to ensure your safety.
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Your day starts at approximately 7.45am when the Three Islands’ air conditioned courtesy bus picks you up from your Exmouth accommodation for the 36 kilometre journey to the Tantabiddi Boat Ramp departure point. During the drive to Tantabiddi, an informative and factual commentary on local points of interest is given, including the Cape Range National Park. The day’s program is also outlined, helping to ensure you feel relaxed, informed and comfortable about the upcoming day’s events.
Time to get to the boat ramp and climb onboard the 17-metre “Draw Card”, or “Seafari” one of our modern and well-equipped vessels. Once onboard, wetsuits and snorkel equipment are fitted, the crew are introduced, and a vessel safety brief is given.
A short cruise through the lagoon and the marine adventure begins with an introductory snorkel on the beautiful inner Ningaloo Reef. Here we have the chance to see turtles, sting rays, reef sharks, octopus, and a myriad of colourful fish amongst the coral. There are over 500 species of fish and 250 species of coral here on the World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Marine Park!
If required, assistance and snorkel tuition can be provided by your tour guides. Floatation aids are also available. While you are in the water, we always have our safety tender close by too.
By the time your morning snorkel has finished, our dedicated spotter plane has gone up to locate our first whale shark for the day as we head to the outer reef.
Our aim is to get you as much in-water time with the whale sharks as we can! The goal is for you to have multiple swims throughout the day with these beautiful gentle giants.
There will be 1-2 groups on the day, with a maximum of 10 per group plus your photographer and in-water guide. Each group will take turns swimming with the whale sharks allowing everyone a good view and good rest in between swims!
Enjoy a scrumptious morning tea, delicious buffet lunch, and afternoon tea throughout the day, paired with delicious local beverages.
Time permitting, we’ll finish the day with another reef snorkel on Ningaloo before heading home with a celebratory beer or champagne to finish up a lovely day on the water.
You may also have the opportunity to swim with manta rays if spotted (more commonly from late May) and see humpback whales from the boat (from June).
All good things must come to an end. We’ll head back the way we came, where you can catch your final glimpses of the stunning Ningaloo and its surrounds from the boat, before you arrive back at your Exmouth accommodation between 4-5:00pm.
The BIG things. Some might do one or a handful, but we are the ONLY company that does it ALL. As a genuinely bespoke tour, we want to deliver the best value you can find. Please see here for full Terms and Conditions.
Courtesy transfer to and from the tour
Highly qualified skipper & crew
An onboard photographer & free photos of your day
Morning tea, delicious buffet lunch, afternoon tea and refreshments throughout the day. We can cater to dietary requirements.
Extra in-water support if required e.g. buoyancy aids, noodles, snorkel tuition, hand to hold
20 swimming passengers maximum. In-water groups of 10 at a time
No hidden costs. All DPAW fees & taxes included
Morning snorkel on the Ningaloo Reef and in the afternoon (time permitting)
Dedicated spotter plane to locate the star attraction
Safety tender always in attendance while you swim
Snorkel gear & wetsuits for adults & children. Prescription masks also available
Well-maintained 17-metre vessel, with large spacious decks, cushioned seating, marlin board & in-water ladders
A complimentary glass of champagne or beer for the cruise home
Carbon Neutral - we are partnered with Carbon Neutral and have planted over 5000 trees in WA since joining the program
On the rare occasion we do have a no sighting our policy gives snorkellers the 3 following options;
Free repeat tour on the next available day
$100 refund per person
Or a transferable, repeat voucher valid for 2 years
For most things, we’ve got you covered. But there are a few things you should make sure you bring along to ensure the best possible experience!
If you are prone to seasickness or unsure
If you prefer to use your own snorkelling gear
