Whale Sharks and Wildlife in Western Australia

Swim with Whale Sharks and Explore the Coral Coast’s Highlights

Ready to dive in and swim in open water alongside the ocean’s most gentle giant? Join us on the Ningaloo Reef, the best place in the world to swim with whale sharks. Encounters range from out in the blue with endless water below to over the beautiful reef and white sand.

This 7-day, 6-night small-group expedition explores not only the world-famous Ningaloo Reef out of Exmouth but also ventures down the coral coast for a day to explore the lesser-known wonders of Coral Bay. Known for colorful lively reefs teeming with life perfect for snorkeling with megafauna mixed in! Coral Bay is also home to a residential manta ray population, turtles, dolphins and more. From the moment you arrive, every logistic is handled so you can focus entirely on the water, the wildlife, and the people you're sharing it with.

"I can't believe I had this amazing interaction! This memory will stay with me forever!" —Amy A.

The Experience

Each day starts with a scenic private transfer to Tantabiddi Boat Ramp across the peninsula. This is where we will board our vessel, built for 20+ guests, but our group will be only 10, ensuring a personalized experience and more time in the water with wildlife. A truly deluxe way to explore the Ningaloo Reef.

Our private spotter aircraft scans the reef from above, radioing down the moment a whale shark, manta, or humpback appears. Encounters happen on the animal's terms, following Australia's strict ethical interaction guidelines, with our guides making sure every entry into the water is calm, considered, and safe for the wildlife.

One day, we'll head south to Coral Bay — a vibrant, less-visited stretch of the Coral Coast — for a chance to swim with the resident manta ray population, drift over kaleidoscopic coral gardens, and encounter sea turtles, dolphins, and reef fish in some of the clearest shallow water in the world.

Evenings unfold at a slower pace. You'll return to your private marina-front villa to dive into the pool, swap stories from the day, and gather around a chef-prepared meal made with fresh local ingredients.

why Ningaloo

Ningaloo Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for pristine reefs and an abundance of megafauna including the famous whale shark, humpback whales, manta rays and more! The region's deep drop-off brings in larger animals, and the shallow lagoon area is full of beautiful corals and fish. Each day is its own unique adventure on the water with beautiful sights to see and first-class service on our private vessel!

Highlights

• Private spotter aircraft, so we are the first to know about wildlife

• Explore stunning reefs and swim with gentle giants all in one trip

• Group capped at 10 on a 20-person vessel for a deluxe, uncrowded experience on the Ningaloo

• Participate in ethical ecotourism with regulations allowing interactions on the animals’ terms.

• 4 days on the Ningaloo reef from Exmouth and 1 day heading South to explore Coral Bay snorkeling in open water

• Private marina-front villa with pool, AC, Wi-Fi, and chef-prepared meals

The Manō Collective Difference

Traveling with Manō Collective means more than just adventure — it’s about connection, conservation, and craft. Our expeditions are led by marine experts, photographers, and storytellers who help you experience the ocean in a deep and responsible way. Co-founders Olivia Miller and Andrew Aggergaard hand-pick every operator we work with, vetting them for safety, ethics, and respect for wildlife. Our trips are timed at specific times of the year to avoid crowds and explore secluded dive sites that most boats don’t venture to, creating a truly unique experience.

Embark on an elevated ocean experience

The Pristine reefs you’ve always heard about are now within reach. A life-changing expedition awaits to this secluded region where incredible wildlife is around every corner. This is the premier way to explore the region with groups half the size of public tours, allowing for intimate encounters with wildlife.

Reserve your spot today to make memories that will last a lifetime.