If you haven’t had any luck finding Nemo, here’s a bigger target to look out for – the world’s largest fish, the gentle whale shark. These spotted giants migrate to the shores of Ningaloo Reef (the world’s largest fringed reef) every year between February and July to feed on plankton and krill. Swimming with these super-sized spotted sharks – that can grow up to 18 metres in length – is a bucket list adventure and the heritage-listed Ningaloo Marine Park is one of the only places on Earth where you can have a face-to-fin encounter.
Only 11 operators are licensed to run whale shark tours in the Ningaloo Reef for a maximum of ten swimmers at a time. Departing from Exmouth, Ningaloo Discovery offers all-inclusive, eco-certified experiences aboard either their comfortable 60-foot sailing catamaran or their spacious 56-foot powerboat. During your once-in-a-lifetime swim alongside the majestic whale sharks, keep an eye out for Exmouth’s other marine visitors, like humpback whales (July to November), giant manta rays, dugongs and spinner dolphins who drop by all year round.