Coral Bay’s whale watching scene stands among Australia’s finest, offering remarkably close encounters with marine giants. The clear waters of Ningaloo Reef create perfect conditions for spotting both whale sharks and humpbacks in their natural habitat.
I especially appreciate the ‘Whale Shark Safari’ for its expert guides and spacious vessels, while the ‘Humpback Whale Safari’ gets my vote for best photography opportunities. The intimate ‘Whale Shark Adventure Tour’ impresses with quality gear and thoughtful touches like included lunch.
For families and first-timers, the ‘Ningaloo Reef Swim and Snorkel With Whale Sharks’ tour provides an accessible introduction to these magnificent creatures.
Check out these top whale watching tours in Coral Bay:
Good To Know
- The Whale Shark Safari offers a day-long cruise to snorkel on the reef and swim with the gentle giants, accompanied by spotter planes.
- The Humpback Whale Safari provides the opportunity to witness the magnificent humpback whales in their natural habitat, with refreshments and a photography package.
- The Whale Shark Adventure Tour is a six-hour excursion with top-notch snorkeling gear, coffee, tea, snacks, and a delicious lunch.
- The Coral Bay: Ningaloo Reef Swim and Snorkel With Whale Sharks is an 8 to 9-hour boat tour to swim alongside whale sharks and explore the coral gardens.
- All the experiences require a moderate level of physical fitness and include various amenities such as refreshments, snorkeling equipment, and photography opportunities.
Whale Shark Safari
One of the most popular activities in Coral Bay is the Whale Shark Safari. This day-long cruise allows visitors to snorkel on the reef and swim with the gentle giants of the sea – the whale sharks. Coral Bay is one of the few places in the world where you can have this unique experience.
The tour includes snorkeling to see the vibrant marine life and coral, as well as the chance to get up close with the whale sharks. Spotter planes help locate the sharks from above, ensuring an optimal experience. Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy a glass of Champagne, coffee/tea, lunch, and afternoon tea.
While numbers are strictly limited to prioritize the well-being of the whale sharks, this tour comes highly recommended, with 94% of travelers saying they’d suggest it. There’s a moderate fitness level required, and an additional fee of $20 per adult and $10 per child is payable prior to departure. With its excellent reviews and badge of excellence, the Whale Shark Safari is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Coral Bay.
Read our full review: Whale Shark Safari Review
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Humpback Whale Safari
For those seeking a captivating marine experience in Coral Bay, the Humpback Whale Safari stands out as a premier choice. With 49 glowing reviews and a 100% traveler recommendation, this tour offers an exceptional opportunity to witness the magnificent humpback whales in their natural habitat.
The tour includes an array of amenities, from refreshing coffee and tea to a glass of champagne and a delicious lunch, ensuring a comfortable and indulgent journey. The photography package allows guests to capture unforgettable memories of their encounter with these gentle giants.
Departing at 7:30 am, the tour operates from the conveniently located Coral Bay EcoTours in the Peoples Park Shopping Village. While a moderate level of physical fitness is required, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but does accommodate strollers. With a maximum of 14 travelers, this intimate experience is priced at $391.04 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: Humpback Whale Safari Review
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Whale Shark Adventure Tour
The Whale Shark Adventure Tour in Coral Bay, Australia, provides an unparalleled opportunity to encounter the majestic whale sharks along the Ningaloo Reef. This six-hour excursion includes coffee, tea, snacks, and a delicious lunch. Guests will be equipped with top-notch snorkeling gear to fully enjoy the underwater world.
The tour departs at 7:20 am from the meeting point in Coral Bay, and you will be transported back to the same location at the end of the adventure. With a maximum of 20 travelers, this tour offers an intimate and personalized experience. While it’s not wheelchair accessible, the moderate physical fitness level required makes it suitable for most guests. Infants are welcome, and service animals are allowed on board.
Based on 6 reviews, this tour has earned a 5.0 rating, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a breathtaking encounter with the gentle giants of the sea during their visit to Coral Bay.
Read our full review: Whale Shark Adventure Tour Review
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Coral Bay: Ningaloo Reef Swim and Snorkel With Whale Sharks
This 8 to 9-hour boat tour from Coral Bay to the Ningaloo Reef offers a remarkable opportunity to swim alongside whale sharks, the largest fish in the sea. Guests will enjoy snorkeling in the coral gardens and searching for these gentle giants on the outer reef. The tour includes snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, morning and afternoon tea, a delicious buffet lunch, and even a celebratory glass of champagne with a fruit platter.
Throughout the day, participants can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including turtles and reef sharks. The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as tour photographs to capture the memories. With a minimum number of guests and weather conditions in mind, this experience promises an unforgettable adventure. Guests are advised to contact the local operator a day before the tour and to bring warm clothing, towels, sunscreen, and a water bottle.
Read our full review: Coral Bay: Ningaloo Reef Swim and Snorkel With Whale Sharks Review
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The Sum Up
Coral Bay offers a variety of whale-watching experiences that’ll leave you in awe. From swimming with majestic whale sharks to spotting humpbacks, there’s something for every budget and adventure level. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling safari or a more relaxed snorkel, these tours provide an unforgettable glimpse into the wonders of the Ningaloo Reef. Don’t miss the chance to create lasting memories in this stunning coastal destination.