Ningaloo Discovery
Ningaloo Discovery
5
Scuba & SnorkellingShark DivingBoat ToursEco ToursDolphin & Whale Watching
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
On Ningaloo Discovery's tours you can snorkel with whale sharks, interact with manta rays, encounter dugongs, turtles, humpback whales, dolphins, amazing colourful tropical fish and coral. Whale Shark Swim tours run from March - November in the Ningaloo Reef just off Exmouth on-board our beautiful sailing catamaran and our luxury powerboat. From August - October we offer the opportunity to swim with Humpback Whales in their natural environment. Both tours offer an extraordinary experience, one not to be taken for granted, and as such is conducted purely on the animals own terms. Whale sharks and humpback whales can be very inquisitive creatures and it is quite possible they will seek interaction with humans and swim close to us. With the help of our spotter plane, we have the ability to easily find whale sharks, humpback whales and more! Ningaloo Discovery tours are all inclusive of equipment, full catering and a professional photography package of the day!
Exmouth, Western Australia, Australia
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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5.0
2,556 reviews
Excellent
2,482
Very good
47
Average
8
Poor
7
Terrible
12
Chris M
South Fremantle, Australia94 contributions
June 2020 • Friends
We chose Ningaloo Discovery because of the fact they use a catamaran which we hoped would be more stable and comfortable than a single hulled boat. We got this and more.
The day started at a very social 7:50 am when we are picked up from our accomodation. Our first fear was eliminated as there was a wide range of ages on the bus so we immediately felt more comfortable that we could keep up.
The boat was excellent, lots of room and the staff was excellent. Sitting on the front of the boat watching the ocean is a great way to travel. The catamaran lived up to expectations and was very stable, relaxed and comfortable.
We were fortunate to get two swims with a whale shark. What an experience and one I will remember for a very long time.
Thanks to the whole crew - they were friendly and helpful. There was one person who had never snorkeled before and they took excellent care of them and made sure they were comfortable and enjoyed the day.
Excellent day out. I would recommend it to anyone.
The day started at a very social 7:50 am when we are picked up from our accomodation. Our first fear was eliminated as there was a wide range of ages on the bus so we immediately felt more comfortable that we could keep up.
The boat was excellent, lots of room and the staff was excellent. Sitting on the front of the boat watching the ocean is a great way to travel. The catamaran lived up to expectations and was very stable, relaxed and comfortable.
We were fortunate to get two swims with a whale shark. What an experience and one I will remember for a very long time.
Thanks to the whole crew - they were friendly and helpful. There was one person who had never snorkeled before and they took excellent care of them and made sure they were comfortable and enjoyed the day.
Excellent day out. I would recommend it to anyone.
Written 23 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello!
Thank you so much for the lovely review! The catamaran is definitely special, and it's awesome that you got to experience it!
Don't forget to download your free photos!
Warm Regards,
The Ningaloo Discovery Team
Written 25 June 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
D&M
Perth, Australia444 contributions
May 2021 • Couples
I knew this day was going to be a great one when I awoke to a stunning sunrise and a magnificent weather forecast. Holly and Gypsie were right on time at our pickup point at the resort and were very friendly and accomodating. Gypsie proceeded to knowledgeably inform us of the events of the day and the whale sharks during our 44 minute bus transfer to the boat ramp. What a boat we were greeted by. This ocean going cateraman looked fabulous and after a brief safety briefing and equipment fit out, we were sent out on a stunning reef snorkel before chasing the whale sharks. We weren’t disappointed when there were numerous sightings. In the water we jumped guided brilliantly by Lauren and Gypsie. Wow, how close we got and we continuously got to swim with numerous sharks in the area. After we were all shared out the girls served us a spectacular buffet lunch. Nothing was too much for all the staff, they took photos, served coffee and tea, and setup the cargo net on the back of the boat for some floating fun. We ended the day with another spectacular dive on the reef, had a celebratory glass of champagne and said our goodbyes. Well done to skipper and all the girls on Wind Cheetah at Ningaloo Discovery
Written 21 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi there!
Wow! It sounds like you had a great day out on tour with us and that our crew took good care of you! We're so glad we could take you on on this epic adventure!
Thank you for your lovely review!
Warm Regards,
The Ningaloo Discovery Team
Written 5 June 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nori777
Melbourne, Australia18 contributions
Sept 2022
What a brilliant day we had with Ningaloo Discovery!! We did the Whale Shark swim on their Catamaran and it was honestly one of the best days of our trip.
Firstly, they were so helpful when we had to change our initial booking due to a family emergency and they fit us on another cruise.
They were very informative in their emails leading up to the day and we knew exactly where to be and what to bring. They were punctual for pick up and we had a comfy ride to the jetty.
The Catamaran was really beautiful to sail on. Spacious enough for everyone to relax while we were sailing and really tidy and well organised with enough room to store our small bag.
The crew of Flo, Gloria, Lexi, Luke and Ash were such lovely and friendly people, very knowledgeable about what they were doing but mostly, just so enthusiastic about showing us the wonderful natural world that they work in. The briefings were succinct yet very informative and clear and we knew exactly what we were going to do at all parts of the day.
The gear we were issued was good quality and there was plenty of food given to us during the day.
We had a snorkel on the way out, which gave us a chance to test out our gear and flag any issues with our guides. And then it was off to find a whale shark. On the way we were treated to the most spectacular whale show courtesy of a mother and calf who were swimming along. Numerous breaches were seen and Ash our photographer captured some beautiful photos for us. That part of the trip was so magical, it would have been plenty for the day.
But then, we found a whale shark and had the chance to get in the water twice. It was a quick moving one that swam below us but it was so beautiful and such a special experience.
Then on for one more snorkel which was one of the best I have ever been on - truly beautiful life and coral.
Highly recommend this day to anyone who would like to get a sense of the wonderful Ningaloo reef and even more, recommend this company as a wonderful group to do the day with.
Firstly, they were so helpful when we had to change our initial booking due to a family emergency and they fit us on another cruise.
They were very informative in their emails leading up to the day and we knew exactly where to be and what to bring. They were punctual for pick up and we had a comfy ride to the jetty.
The Catamaran was really beautiful to sail on. Spacious enough for everyone to relax while we were sailing and really tidy and well organised with enough room to store our small bag.
The crew of Flo, Gloria, Lexi, Luke and Ash were such lovely and friendly people, very knowledgeable about what they were doing but mostly, just so enthusiastic about showing us the wonderful natural world that they work in. The briefings were succinct yet very informative and clear and we knew exactly what we were going to do at all parts of the day.
The gear we were issued was good quality and there was plenty of food given to us during the day.
We had a snorkel on the way out, which gave us a chance to test out our gear and flag any issues with our guides. And then it was off to find a whale shark. On the way we were treated to the most spectacular whale show courtesy of a mother and calf who were swimming along. Numerous breaches were seen and Ash our photographer captured some beautiful photos for us. That part of the trip was so magical, it would have been plenty for the day.
But then, we found a whale shark and had the chance to get in the water twice. It was a quick moving one that swam below us but it was so beautiful and such a special experience.
Then on for one more snorkel which was one of the best I have ever been on - truly beautiful life and coral.
Highly recommend this day to anyone who would like to get a sense of the wonderful Ningaloo reef and even more, recommend this company as a wonderful group to do the day with.
Written 9 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your lovely review!
We are so glad you had such a lovely day out with us and got to experience the beauty of the Ningaloo!
We can't wait to have you onboard with us again in the future.
Warm regards,
The Ningaloo Discovery Team
Written 17 March 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
D.J.
Saint Louis, MO11 contributions
Mar 2023
I took the Ningaloo Discover catamaran for the Whale Shark swim and reef snorkeling tour. I had a spectacular day! Everyone of the crew members was very helpful, kind and knowledgeable. The trip started with the captain providing safety instructions. Holly, Gloria and Michele explained how the swimming would take place with the whale sharks. Each step was explained thoroughly without being pedantic. Then we did a practice swim to make sure we were familiar with the equipment and the procedures. When the whale shark was spotted the swim happened quickly and efficiently. The two groups took turns swimming with the beautiful whale shark then returning to the boat to wait their turn to go again. Everything worked like clockwork. After the whale shark swim was over, we had fun being pulled on the cargo net. Lunch was excellent and healthy, with plenty of food for everyone. Next we snorkeled on a reef with beautiful fish and they kept a close eye to make sure nobody in the group strayed too far from the group. I am 66 and did not find the swim or the snorkeling too challenging. A special shoutout to Holly for taking extra time with me.
Written 24 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi there! Thank you for taking the time to make this review, we are thrilled you had such a good day with us and got to swim with the biggest fish in the sea!
We will pass on to the crew your lovely words, espeically the lovely Holly who helped you so much!
Warm regards,
The Ningaloo Discovery Team
Written 16 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
HDorward
9 contributions
Apr 2022 • Family
Don’t hesitate. Do this tour. It’s absolutely magical. The catamaran was a beautiful day out. Admittedly, we had the perfect conditions. They have all the snorkel gear, sting suits and flippers on board and plenty of sizes for adults and children. You can bring your own snorkel equipment or use theirs. The first snorkel is great for setting you up for a successful day. Use this time to check your masks don’t leak, snorkels and fins fit fine. They staff help adjust things if it isn’t ok. They have defogger for all of your masks which works well. You are well briefed and prepared for the whale shark swim. It’s so exciting when the time comes. A group of 10 go in then after a short while the second group follow and the first group swim back to the boat. I was worried about getting back on but you can style it out!!! You can get in and out multiple times if the whale shark sticks around.
The guides are great fun, knowledgeable and this is a well oiled machine. The team do this very, very well. You are in very good hands. The boat team are really friendly, they help you with any equipment (even your own), they are all really lovely, helpful and informative. We had Skipper Chris, deck hand Beau, Ash, Parmi (sorry!) and Chelsea. Do what they say and you will have a fab day! The food was fab, water and cups are available plus champagne after the last snorkel to celebrate a wonderful experience. Photos galore. I wish I could do it all again tomorrow! This is a bucket list item ticked off.
The guides are great fun, knowledgeable and this is a well oiled machine. The team do this very, very well. You are in very good hands. The boat team are really friendly, they help you with any equipment (even your own), they are all really lovely, helpful and informative. We had Skipper Chris, deck hand Beau, Ash, Parmi (sorry!) and Chelsea. Do what they say and you will have a fab day! The food was fab, water and cups are available plus champagne after the last snorkel to celebrate a wonderful experience. Photos galore. I wish I could do it all again tomorrow! This is a bucket list item ticked off.
Written 20 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hey!
Thank you so much for your review!
So exciting to hear that you had an amazing day with the whale sharks!
We look forward to seeing you again one day!
Warm Regards,
The Ningaloo Discovery Team
Written 22 May 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Danks Knows
Shoalhaven, Australia2,252 contributions
Apr 2021
Ningaloo Discovery run Swimming with Whale Shark tours out of Exmouth. Please bear in mind we were the first tour out of Exmouth after cyclone Odette, so the weather was not favourable for the tour company right from the start. It rained early, it was windy, there was a swell and water visibility could have been better.
The Ningaloo Discovery staff on board the Windcheater catamaran were simply outstanding. They staff showed they were not just doing a job they were passionate about the environment they worked in. The professionalism of the staff was exemplary, they went far beyond my expectations to not just find and allow us to swim with a whale shark but then be utterly enthusiastic about finding us a further four swims with whale sharks. I was simply blown away by the skill, knowledge and dedication of the staff we had that day.
The trimmings of the tour were good, equipment, lunch, coffee, etc but staff were excellent. I am always impressed when a tour company says ‘we will pick you up at 7.45am’ and they do.
One final word Ningaloo Discovery is GO GO GO!!! Excellent, thank you so much.
The Ningaloo Discovery staff on board the Windcheater catamaran were simply outstanding. They staff showed they were not just doing a job they were passionate about the environment they worked in. The professionalism of the staff was exemplary, they went far beyond my expectations to not just find and allow us to swim with a whale shark but then be utterly enthusiastic about finding us a further four swims with whale sharks. I was simply blown away by the skill, knowledge and dedication of the staff we had that day.
The trimmings of the tour were good, equipment, lunch, coffee, etc but staff were excellent. I am always impressed when a tour company says ‘we will pick you up at 7.45am’ and they do.
One final word Ningaloo Discovery is GO GO GO!!! Excellent, thank you so much.
Written 13 April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi there,
Thank you so much for your amazing review!
We're so glad you had a great day regardless of the weather - we all try our very best to make the day as enjoyable as it can be and we're so happy to hear this feedback so thank you!
Kind regards,
Ningaloo Discovery.
Written 18 April 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
rosa l
Waverton, Australia5 contributions
Apr 2022
Incredible whale shark encounter experience with Ningaloo Discovery. Chris was our captain for the beautiful sailing catamaran on the day 22/04/2022. It was very comfortable in the safe hands of the crew including Lizzie, Chelsea, Ash and Beau. They were extremely diligent and supportive for each of the guests enjoying unreal whale shark swim. Our guides Lizzie and Chelsea were so professional and persistent, making sure that even the most inexperienced and nervous guests felt safe and encounter with the whale sharks. The spot plane was amazing, that helped us encountered with whale sharks 4 times on the day ! Beau was full of energy and made sure we all had a great day on board. Ash was talented mermaid photographer. She managed to capture the most breathtaking moments for many of us. We had one preparation snorkel and final ride on the boom net that was early x'mas fun, we finished with a glass of champagne and group photos to take away lifetime memories to home. thank you in special to Lizzie who made my dream true !
Written 27 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michelle W
15 contributions
Aug 2023
We book a Humpback Whale swim on the Catamaran Wind Cheetah on 11th August. We had the most amazing experience. Our group of 7 plus the guide and the photographer got within metres of a pair of whales, one swimming behind us and the other passing within metres in front of us. It was phenomenal and breathtaking and an experience I'll never forget. All 20 guests on that day, got a some form of whale swim/interaction. Then we spotted a whale having the time of it's life and the catamaran took us all closer and we watched it breach, fin and tail slap, and just play up. The photos that Ash, one of the tour guides, took both underwater shots and above water shots are fantastic. Gloria, our in the water guide, Enzo the deckie and Chris the Captain were absolutely great. The team was friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about the marine life at Ningaloo. I can't recommend this experience enough. If you get a day out of the box like we did, you will be blown away. DO IT.
Written 25 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shane G
Greater Perth, Australia25 contributions
July 2020 • Couples
After reading all the reviews we decided to go with this mob. I had high expectations and they were well and truly exceeded. My wife is terrible with motion sickness (gets sea sick in the bath), however with some well timed kwells and the stability of the Windcheeta, she had her best day on the water ever. There was a bit of chop and swell but you barely even noticed it. We saw heaps of different marine life including a very rare Orca kill. As it is the end of whale shark season, the odds were not in our favour to swim with one. However the spotter planes did their job and we got to have two amazing swims. The staff were very professional and by following their instructions we were put in a perfect spot to get a great swim with the shark. The food on board was great, the staff relaxed and overall it was worth every cent. Will be back again. This gets six stars in my book.
Written 29 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi there,
Thank you so much for your lovely review! We really appreciate it! We're so glad that you and your wife and a great time out with us, and even got to see a super rare orca hunt! How awesome is that!?
Thank you again, and hopefully see you in the near future! Don't forget you free photos!
Warm Regards,
The Ningaloo Discovery Team
Written 30 July 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Christine
Fremantle, Australia1 contribution
May 2022 • Solo
What an amazing day. So very enjoyable. Finally got to tick this off my bucket list and thanks to the fantastic crew it was a truly wonderful experience. Ali my tour guide was so supportive of my initial nervousness and thanks to her I was in just the right position at the right time to watch one of these magnificent fish swim by. It eyeballed me 😂 I’m sure!
Our photographer Daisy was incredible being there and keeping up with that fish to take photos and let us know where it was.
Can’t recommend the entire crew or this experience more highly. Totally lived up to all expectations.
Our photographer Daisy was incredible being there and keeping up with that fish to take photos and let us know where it was.
Can’t recommend the entire crew or this experience more highly. Totally lived up to all expectations.
Written 4 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so glad you had such an amazing day out there and got to finally give the whaleshark swim a big tick off your bucket list! You'll have to come out to tick Humpbacks off your bucket list next time!
Written 22 May 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hello where do you launch from please? I will be staying in a camper inside Cape range .
Written 1 April 2024
Hi Carina,
Whale sharks are most common on Ningaloo Reef between March and August each year. However we do often see them right through to the end of October on our Eco Shoulder Season Tours!
Humpback whales migrate up and down the west coast in the winter months with the best time for interactions being August through till October.
If we can be of any help, please let us know!
Warm Regards,
Vania, Ningaloo Discovery Team
Written 21 February 2020
Hi there!
Thanks for your enquiry. We take out 20 swimming guests on our tours and have room for a couple of observers.
If we can be of any further assistance please do not hesitate to ask.
Thanks
Ningaloo Discovery
Written 27 January 2020
Which is best the catamaran or the powerboat . I am an older person and not a brilliant swimmer, which is easier to clamber back on?
Written 1 October 2019
Hello
Thank you for your question.
Our catamaran has a platform at either side which is at water level. Once on the platform there are three steps up and then two steps down back into the boat. To head to the front of the vessel there are the two steps again to make your way along the side to the front
Our powerboat marlin board at the rear is slightly above sea level, once on the marlin board, there are two steps up to the main deck area.
Both boats have ladders which can be put down when needed, the crew will assist by removing your fins for you before using the ladder
I hope this answers your questions
I am not able to add pictures to this response, if you would like to see photographs of the back areas of the vessels, please email us
Warm regards
Heather, Ningaloo Discovery Team
Written 2 October 2019
I am planning on booking a catamaran tour at the end of April. I was just wondering how far out you have to travel to swim with the whale sharks. (I believe it is in the outer reef area)
Written 15 April 2018
Hi Andrew H
Our boat heads to the outside of the reef to find the whale sharks but it is still very close to shore, no more than a few kilometres usually.
Kind regards
Bec
Written 17 April 2018
Hi there, I am SUPER excited to come swimming with the Whale Sharks, but I just wanted to know whether there is a bathroom on board the Cat and powerboat? Thanks
Written 9 April 2018
Hi, Yes there are bathroom facilities on both of our vessels. Look forward to having you onboard.
Cheers
Matt
Written 10 April 2018
Hi, we are planning to be in exmouth at the end of April. My partner and daughter are not confident swimmers, is it possible to see the whale sharks from the boat.
Written 20 March 2018
Hi
We would love to have you on board. Whale Sharks are best seen from in the water and our crew will help you through your experience. We have floatation aids on board also which are used quite regularly by people who are nervous or not strong swimmers.
The boat must stay a certain distance away from the sharks so we don't endanger them, for this reason we can sometimes see them from the boat but not always.
Please contact us if you have further questions
Kind regards
Bec
Written 4 April 2018
Hi Bec, how do we find our photos of our amazing day with you. We went out on the 18 th of September 2017. Thanks for your help. Cheers Regina
Written 6 October 2017
Hi Regina
If you type Ningaloo Discovery into the search bar of Flickr you will be able to find our albums and select your tour date. If you are still not having any luck, please email us and we will send you the link.
Kind regards
Bec
Written 9 October 2017
Hi, we're visiting WA 4th Jan through 17th Jan 2018, I have read that this is not the time to swim/see Whale Sharks, is this correct please? What can be seen during this time of year? Many thanks!
Written 10 April 2017
Hello. The Whale Shark season does not start until the middle of March so unfortunately January will be too early. If you visit in January it is very quiet but still lots to see. You can go snorkelling, diving, 4 wheel driving and fishing.
If we can be of any further help please contact us again. Happy safe travels
Regards
Bec
Written 11 April 2017
Hi, is it possible to see both whale sharks and manta rays in one day (snorkelling) I'll be in Exmouth in mid April 2017 - how far ahead should I book?
Thx
Liz
Written 28 May 2016
Hi Liz- thanks for your query. Yes it is often possible to
See them
Both in one day however usually we don't see many manta rays until later in May. The weather is usually great in April though and so are the Whalesharks.
Written 23 June 2016
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