Humpback Whale Safari
Trip Overview
Dive Into the Humpback Whale Adventure in Coral Bay! The magic happens from July to mid-October when humpback whales embark on their epic annual migration. Around 30,000 of these majestic creatures pass through Ningaloo Reef, and many decide to make a pitstop in the calm, crystal-clear waters of Coral Bay to rest, shelter, and even play!
Join for an unforgettable adventure to observe these gentle giants in their natural playground. And if the conditions are just right, you might even get the chance to slip into the water and experience an up-close interaction with these awe-inspiring animals. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity you don’t want to miss.
Itinerary
7:30 AM – Check-in & Departure
Arrive at the jetty, meet the crew, and receive a safety briefing for the day’s adventure.
Morning Reef Snorkel
- Begin the day with a guided snorkel on the reef, where you may encounter turtles, reef sharks, stingrays, and a variety of fish species.
Whale Interactions
- Travel beyond the reef into the open ocean to observe humpback whales in their natural playground.
- If conditions allow, guests will be grouped into teams of 7 for the whale swimming experience. Each group will take turns entering the water with 2 crew members, positioned at a safe distance in the whale’s path. All interactions will be on the whale’s terms, and a spotter plane or drone will assist in locating and assessing whale pods.
Lunch & Second Reef Snorkel
- After our time with the whales, we will return to the calm waters inside the reef for a relaxing lunch break, followed by a final snorkel session.
Tour Finale
- Celebrate the day with a glass of champagne and a fresh fruit platter.
What’s Included
- Full buffet lunch, morning and afternoon tea
- All snorkel equipment, including long wetsuits
- Fresh drinking water, tea, and coffee
- Onboard toilet facility
- Underwater photo package
What to Bring
- Towel
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Swimsuit
- Water bottle
- Warm clothing
Important Note: While every effort is made to provide wildlife encounters, sightings cannot be guaranteed. No refunds or repeat tours are offered for non-sightings.
Pricing Table
| Humpback Whale Safari (July – October) | |
|---|---|
| Option | Cost |
| Adult Interaction Swimmer | $550 |
| Child Interaction Swimmer | $440 |
| Family Interaction Swimmer (2 Adults + 2 Children) | $1,790 |
| Adult Observer | $220 |
| Child Observer | $190 |
| Family Observers (2 Adults + 2 Children) | $775 |
| Adult Wildlife Swimmer | $380 |
| Child Wildlife Swimmer | $325 |
| Family Wildlife Swimmers (2 Adults + 2 Children) | $1,290 |
| Prices valid for 2025 | |
Humpback Interaction Swimmer: guest will participate in the swimming with humpback whales.
Humpback observers: will partake in everything except getting in the water.
Wildlife Swimmer: will partake in everything except swimming with humpback. however, if there is not already 14 interaction swimmers you may upgrade on the boat.
Humpback Whale Safari Terms & Conditions
- In-water Interactions: If an in-water interaction is not possible on the day of the tour, interaction swimmers will be refunded the difference from the interaction price to the ‘Wildlife Swimmer’ price. Please note that Coral Bay Ecotours does not offer repeat vouchers for non-sightings on this tour.
- No Camera Policy: For safety reasons, passengers are not permitted to take cameras or filming equipment into the water during in-water interactions with the Humpback Whales. This ensures all passengers can fully focus on the interaction and follow crew instructions without distractions. Cameras are allowed during other parts of the tour.
- No Refund for No Sighting in Water: Please be aware that no refund will be offered if no sighting occurs during in-water interactions. The Swim with Whale Shark experience is also considered an in-water interaction, and no refund will be issued in the event of no sighting.
A basic swimming ability is required to join this tour as an interaction swimmer, and it is recommended for experienced swimmers. For child and infant policies, please refer to the Terms & Conditions below.
Children are defined as those aged 6 to 16 years old, while passengers aged 17 and above are considered adults. Family prices apply to two adults and two children between the ages of 6 and 16. Children aged 5 and under are free of charge, except when swimming with whale sharks, manta rays, or humpback whales, in which case child rates apply.
All minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times, who is fully responsible for their care. Children must not be left unattended on the boat or in the water at any time.
