Whale Sharks, Cape Range and Ningaloo Adventure

Our journey begins with a group flight from Perth to Exmouth – a scenic resort town on the wild northwest coast of Western Australia and gateway to the Ningaloo Marine Park. Exmouth is where the rugged red landscapes of the outback meet the crystal-clear waters of Ningaloo Reef, and it’s an adventure-lover’s paradise!

After touching down, we’ll transfer to our base at the Potshot Hotel Resort. Here, is a chance to settle in, breathe in that salty air, soak up the coastal vibes, and get to know your fellow adventurers over a relaxed dinner.

Meals Included: 2 Course Dinner
Walking Distance: –

Today is your chance for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, one that will truly be etched in the memory books.

Prepare yourself for something magical as we join a local marine team to swim alongside the largest fish in the ocean – the majestic whale shark! These gentle giants glide through the waters of Ningaloo Reef each year, following the coral spawn and plankton blooms. Growing up to an amazing 18 metres long, it is a privilege to share the ocean today with these giants. Their gentle nature will leave you in awe as you swim alongside them in the pristine waters of the reef.

Snorkel guides will accompany us throughout the experience, ensuring both safety and respectful interactions with these incredible animals. Up to 500 whale sharks gather here annually, so you have a very high chance of meeting them today. However, this is nature, so no guarantees. Between swims, enjoy a relaxed day on the water with morning tea, a buffet lunch, and afternoon treats.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Buffet Lunch, 2 Course Dinner (plus morning & afternoon tea)
Walking Distance: –

We’re back on the water today, exploring the reef in the most peaceful way possible – by kayak. Led by the local legends at Exmouth Adventure Co., we paddle the stunning beaches and lagoons of the Ningaloo Reef. Gliding over vibrant coral gardens, pausing to snorkel in the turquoise waters, and keeping our eyes peeled for turtles, rays, schools of fish, colourful coral and maybe even a dugong or dolphin. This will be a half-day adventure at a relaxed pace. We paddle in short bursts (no more than an hour at a time), with opportunities to jump out, swim, and snorkel.

Not keen on kayaking? No worries! Alternative snorkel-based activities can be arranged. Please let us know at the time of booking.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, 2 Course Dinner
Walking Distance: –

After yesterday’s aquatic adventure, today we will lace up our walking shoes and head inland to explore the striking landscapes of Cape Range National Park. The Badjirrajirra Trail winds across a rugged plateau, revealing dramatic gorges, ancient geology, and sweeping views across Exmouth Gulf. Starting from Thomas Carter Lookout we walk to Shothole Canyon, taking time to enjoy the rugged beauty before making our way around the other side. This trail is the perfect way to experience the raw beauty of this powerful landscape.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, 2 Course Dinner (plus trail snacks)
Walking Distance: 8km

Today is all yours to spend as you please. You might like to stroll through town, visit the Ningaloo Aquarium and Discovery Centre, or return to the sea for another snorkel or a glass-bottom boat cruise. For those favouring more of a bird’s eye view, experience the wonders of Ningaloo Marine Park from the air with a scenic flight or perhaps you like the idea of birdwatching with a local expert?  Ask us for more info.

Prefer a slow day? Grab a book and immerse yourself in the relaxing coastal holiday vibe. We’ll be on hand with suggestions if you need inspiration.

Meals Included: Breakfast, 2 Course Dinner
Walking Distance: Optional

Your day starts with a scenic drive from Exmouth to Coral Bay, where you’ll board the Wirraji, a new vessel which is whisper quiet and sustainably powered. As you settle in with a continental breakfast and refreshment, the crew fits you with premium snorkelling gear. Then we enter the clear water on a guided snorkel through coral gardens teeming with marine life.

Spotter planes are used to help search for Coral Bay’s graceful Manta Rays, and once located, we carefully enter the water for an intimate and unforgettable interaction.

A freshly prepared lunch today is provided onboard in sheltered waters. Then, the afternoon provides an opportunity for more snorkeling at another stunning reef site and a cruise through the lagoon with stories about Ningaloo’s unique ecology.

We close out the day, with a celebratory drink and some gourmet treats before transfering back to Exmouth.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, 2 Course Dinner
Walking Distance: –

Our final morning in Exmouth offers one last chance to soak up the sun and salt.

Keep your sense of adventure alight with a beginner surf or stand-up paddleboarding lesson (subject to availability). Or simply enjoy a slow start and a final wander through town before we transfer to the airport and fly to Perth, full of stories and ocean-soaked memories.

It’s possible to have your onward flights connected with your included group flight – ask us at time of booking.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Walking Distance: –

We grade the overall walking on this itinerary as MODERATE
(see our grading system)

This grading is provided as general advice only, and is based on our assessment and also feedback from past participants. Please consider your level of fitness and experience in regard to this rating, and if you’re unsure please contact us for more information

Badjirrajirra Trail

Distance: 8km
Elevation Gain: 200m
Elevation Loss: 200m

10 REASONS TO GO WITH US

Realistic Itineraries
we want you to love and be inspired by the Ningaloo Coast. This tour itinerary is well-designed and realistic, allowing you to complete the full itinerary ….. we don’t over sell and under deliver

Be Fulfilled
this itinerary is designed to maximise your awe and leave you fulfilled. You swim with whale sharks, kayak and snorkel Ningaloo Reef, and hike the Badjirrajirra Trail for spectacular views. We’ve planned this itinerary so you get the full experience and time to relax and explore Exmouth ….. you won’t leave feeling unfulfilled

Nature Connection
we want you to feel de-stressed and re-energised. So, our guides are also nature facilitators with skills to immerse you with your surrounds. Not only do we guide and share our knowledge, we also provide invitations for you to slow down and connect deeper with nature (included activities such as an introduction to Ocean Ecotherapy ) <learn more about Ocean Ecotherapy here> ….. we’re pioneers of active adventure with deep nature immersion

Group Fitness
we want you to succeed and maximise your enjoyment, so group chats online are provided leading up to your adventure (included as part of the tour price). These will assist you to meet your guides and other group members, ask questions on what to expect, receive advice on the activities, destination, and gauge your level of fitness ….. we invest in your preparation

Meaningful Moments
we will bring your Ningaloo experience alive ….. a guide book and phone App can’t do this as well as our local guides

Flexibility (2 guides)
our departures have 2 experienced guides (1 guide is with you for the entire tour, plus local guides for the active activities). Having 2 guides means we can better cater for group dynamics and individual needs. Factors such as sickness, injuries and incidents can mean changes to the itinerary become necessary, and if there was only 1 guide then these changes will impact on your expectations and your level of enjoyment ….. avoiding this is why we always have 2 guides

Safety
our wilderness trained guides carry comprehensive group first-aid kits, satellite communication devices, and safety equipment. Our Adelaide based guide supports local guides on this tour. In addition, safety procedures are in place, and constant communication is undertaken with local emergency services. There isn’t mobile phone coverage along sections of this trip ….. so for your safety, we always have multiple communication devices

Timing
we go at the best time of the year for comfortable conditions. We can’t guarantee perfect weather everyday, but you can book with confidence 

Small Groups
a maximum of 12 only on each departure. Meaning, it’s better for the environment, and you won’t feel like you’re just a number in the crowd

Travel Assistance
our in-house travel specialists can assist you with travel insurance. If you’re arriving from interstate or from international destinations we can also package any accommodation, flights, and add-ons in addition to this tour. Package your Whale Shark Adventure with us and save stress, time and money

This multi-activity adventure includes hiking, swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and boat tours. There are uneven surfaces, steep inclines, and walking sandy or rocky trails on this trip, plus moving luggage to and from accommodation.  Please talk to us about your accessibility needs before booking.