Where to Dive with Whale Sharks

The whale shark (Rhincodon typus) is the largest of the fish species. They can be found in all tropical and warm seas, migrating in spring time to the coast of Australia.

The whale shark is considered a vulnerable species and many countries have banned fishing, importing, exporting and selling of the whale shark for commercial purposes

Photo by Tobias Friedrich

Fortunately, divers are not in any danger when it comes to the whale shark as they feed primarily on plankton and occasionally small fish. Despite their size, they are gentle, friendly creatures, sometimes, even allowing divers and snorkellers the opportunity to play, and make physical contact with them. This is not recommended though, as the skin's mucus layer could become damaged and lead to infection. There is however the chance of being connected by a random swipe from the huge tail fin, so one is advised to always remain cautious.

Diving with whale sharks is an amazing experience where one is able to truly appreciate oceanic life on a new level. Divers need to ensure that minimal disturbance is caused to the sharks. Try to keep a reasonable distance away ensuring that their natural movements are not inhibited in any way.

North of Puerto Aventuras, Mexico is one of the amazing destinations around the world where one can experience the whale sharks first hand. The recommended months are mid June to beginning of September. Here the whale sharks feed at the surface so one can view them quite successfully from the boat or by merely snorkelling alongside the boat.

At Ningaloo Reef, Australia, whale shark diving is also very popular. Here passionate teams work together to provide an unforgettable whale shark tour There is no age restriction and the only requirement is the ability to swim. Spotter planes are used to locate the whale sharks, ensuring that divers have the best opportunity to observe these majestic creatures, in their natural environment. Eco friendly boats, with qualified Marine Biologists and whale shark guides all help to make your whale shark diving excursion at Ningaloo a most memorable experience.

Photo by Tobias Friedrich

In Thailand, whale shark sightings are common at Richelieu Rock and Hin Daeng, as well as Chumphon Pinnacle which is in the Gulf of Thailand. Since 1998, whale shark encounters in Thailand decreased drastically, but it is encouraging to see that over the past few seasons, there has been an increase in sightings, even at some local dive sits, including Shark Point and Koh Doc Mai.

The best times to dive with whale sharks in Thailand would be between February and May, with the most frequent sightings occurring during April.

The beautiful coastline of Mozambique is a well known destination for divers wishing to explore the wonders of the whale sharks. The quaint town of Praia do Tofo, is home to the largest concentration of Whale sharks in Africa. Mozambique boasts two spectacular shark reefs

Whale sharks display about 300 rows of small teeth in their large mouths, which can measure up to 1.5 metres wide. Their heads are flat and wide with two small eyes set near the front. The body of the whale shark is mainly grey and the belly white. The skin is extremely thick and has distinctive yellow stripes and spots.