Swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef is a once in a lifetime opportunity to interact with the biggest fish in the ocean. These gentle giants visit tropical waters of Western Australia every year and tourists from around the world come to experience the magic of diving with whale sharks.
But if you’re booking a whale shark interaction tour, you might be asking: Are there age restrictions for swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo?
What’s the Age Limit for Swimming with Whale Sharks?
Most whale shark tours and Ningaloo Reef tour have a minimum age limit of 6 to 10 years old for the whale shark swim component. Age limit varies between tour operators.
For children under 16 years old, they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the water interaction. Younger children may be allowed to join the Ningaloo Reef tours as spectators on board but won’t be able to get in the water.
Why Are Age Restrictions in Place?
There are several reasons why age restrictions are in place for whale shark swimming Ningaloo Reef tours from Perth:
- Safety & Swimming Ability – The whale shark interaction tour takes place in open tropical waters and you need to have a basic swimming ability and comfort with snorkel gear. Flotation devices like life vests or life jackets are available but kids should be comfortable in the water.
- Physical Fitness – You need to be able to swim from a marlin board or use a dinghy with swimmers to get in the water safely.
- Regulations & Environmental Considerations – The Western Australia government has strict regulations in place to protect the majestic creatures and ensure sustainable interactions with these amazing animals.
- Tour Quality & Experience – Presence of younger children may impact the experience on board for other guests. Passionate whale shark guides and dedicated crew want to provide the best experience for all participants.
Can Younger Kids Still Join the Tour?
If your child is too young to swim with the friendly giants, they can still enjoy:
- Boat Spectator Experience – Watch the whale shark swim from the comfort of a luxury vessel with comfortable seating.
- Marine Life Spotting – View Humpback Whale sightings, humpback whale interactions, marlin, and other marine creatures.
- Snorkeling in Calm Waters – Enjoy an afternoon snorkel session in a shallow reef area with wonderful corals.
- Professional Photos & Interpretive Material – Onboard professional photographers capture moments of the experience of swimming, and guides provide interpretive material on marine life.
Other Considerations Before Booking a Whale Shark Experience
1. Timing & Advanced Bookings
- Peak of Whale Shark Season: The best time to book a whale shark experience is during the April – July period, when aggregations of whale sharks are highest.
- Advance Bookings Required: Ningaloo Whale shark tours sell out weeks in advance, especially during school holiday periods. Agent bookings are available for those looking to secure their spot.
2. Tour Inclusions & Facilities
- Professional Dive Equipment – Dive professionals ensure you have access to high-quality snorkel equipment, flotation devices, and even underwater scooters.
- Luxury Dive Vessel & Comfort Amenities – Many tours feature a major refit with fresh water showers, board at water level, dive ladders, and a boat captain with years of experience.
- Meals & Special Diets – Enjoy a gourmet buffet lunch, morning coffee, and meals for morning tea, with options for special diets.
3. Weather Conditions & Cancellation Policies
- Weather Considerations – Tours may be canceled due to inclement weather, poor weather, or bad weather conditions.
- Refund Policies – Many tours offer a partial refund per person or refund per person if the sighting policy is not met.
4. Pickup Locations & Boarding Points
- Tours depart from the Tantabiddi Boat Ramp or the boat ramp in Coral Bay.
- Transfers may be available from Exmouth Wild Prawns and other pickup locations along the Coral Coast.
Nearby Destinations for More Adventure
If you’re in Western Australia, add these nearby destinations to your list:
- Coral Bay – A beautiful coastal town near Ningaloo, perfect for snorkeling, fishing and humpback whale interactions.
- Karijini National Park – A stunning inland escape with dramatic gorges, waterfalls and ancient rock formations.
- Monkey Mia – Famous for wild dolphin encounters and crystal-clear waters, another great marine life experience.
Final Thoughts
When swimming with amazing whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef, make sure to check the age limit and prepare accordingly to ensure a smooth experience. Whether you’re swimming with whale sharks or just on the tour, swimming with these elusive creatures is unforgettable.
Looking for an ECO-certified all-inclusive underwater experience? Wildlife Tours offers unforgettable whale shark interaction tours with expert guides, luxury vessels and plenty of opportunities to see these incredible creatures up close.
FAQ
Is there a minimum swimming ability required?
Yes, participants should have a basic level of swimming ability and be comfortable using snorkel gear in open water. Flotation devices like life vests and life jackets are available for support.
What happens if no whale sharks are sighted during the tour?
Most tour operators have a sighting policy, offering a partial refund per person or a repeat tour if no whale sharks are spotted. Always check the terms before booking.
Can I book a private whale shark swimming tour?
Yes, many companies offer private charters, so families or groups can have a whale shark experience with dedicated crew and passionate whale shark guides.
What should I bring for the whale shark swim?
Pack dry clothes, a warm jacket, your own snorkel gear (if you have it), ECO-friendly sunscreen and a waterproof camera to capture your once in a lifetime experience.
When to book?
Prime time is April – July but book early as tours sell out months in advance, especially during school holidays.