Swim with Humpback Whales – Ningaloo Reef – 3 Islands Whale Shark Dive

A detailed look at the Swim with Humpback Whales – Ningaloo Reef – 3 Islands Whale Shark Dive tour

If you’re dreaming of a day spent in the water with some of Australia’s most majestic marine creatures, this tour might just be the highlight of your trip. The Swim with Humpback Whales experience out of Exmouth is designed for those who love wildlife encounters, spectacular scenery, and the comfort of a well-organized trip. With a solid reputation and rave reviews, it’s obvious that many travelers find this a memorable adventure—often booked well in advance.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of being in the water with expert guidance and thoughtful amenities. First, the spotter plane that helps locate whales and other marine life ensures you spend your time where the action is happening, rather than searching aimlessly. Second, the crew’s enthusiasm, knowledge, and genuine care shine through, making everyone feel safe and well looked after. The inclusion of meals, beverages, and professional photos adds a touch of luxury to the day.

That said, a few considerations are worth keeping in mind. The tour is quite popular and books up around 61 days in advance, so planning ahead is necessary if you want a spot. Also, children 12 and under aren’t permitted to swim with whales, which might be a disappointment for families with younger kids eager to get in the water. This experience suits those who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and want a full, well-rounded day of marine wildlife viewing.

If you’re someone who appreciates professional guides, likes to snorkel in pristine environments, and dreams of sharing space with marine giants like humpback whales, this tour could be a fantastic choice. It’s suited for adventurous travelers and wildlife lovers who don’t mind a long day on the water but want the reassurance of a carefully curated experience.

Key Points

• Spotter plane increases your chances of whale sightings by locating the animals before you’re in the water.
• Snorkel gear and wetsuits are provided, with crew assistance, making the experience accessible even for those new to snorkeling.
• All meals and beverages, including a buffet lunch, morning tea, afternoon platter, and a glass of champagne, are included—adding to the enjoyment.
• Professional photos and guides ensure you get memorable images and expert insights during your adventure.
• Courtesy pickup and drop-off from centrally located Exmouth hotels save you hassle and make logistics easier.
• Maximum group size of 14 means the experience remains intimate and personalized.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting the Day at Ningaloo Reef

Your adventure kicks off around 10:00 am, with convenient hotel pickup from Exmouth. Once aboard, you’ll head straight to the waters near Ningaloo Reef, one of Australia’s most scenic marine parks. The excitement builds as the crew explains the day’s plans, ensuring everyone feels prepared for the water.

The Role of the Spotter Plane

One of the tour’s standout features is the spotter plane that scans the horizon for whales and larger marine animals. This isn’t just for show—it’s instrumental in locating the humpbacks, which migrate along the Coral Coast between August and October. The plane’s help means your chances of seeing whales up close are significantly higher, and you’re not wasting precious snorkel time searching aimlessly.

Snorkeling with Marine Life

Once a whale or other exciting creature is spotted, the crew will coordinate to get you into the water. You’ll be provided with snorkel gear and wetsuits, and the crew is always on hand to lend a hand, ensuring safety and comfort. The water is generally calm, and the guides are knowledgeable about animal behavior, so they can point out turtles, dugongs, manta rays, dolphins, and colorful coral during your time in the reef.

The Experience of Swimming with Humpback Whales

While the tour’s main draw is swimming near humpback whales, it’s important to note that children 12 and under are not permitted to swim or enter the water with whales. They can, however, observe from the boat and enjoy the day’s other highlights. For adults, being in the water with these gentle giants is an experience that often leaves a lasting impression—many reviews describe it as “scary, moving, and unbelievable,” especially when a mother and calf swim just meters below.

Lunch and Refreshments

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy buffet lunch, morning tea, and an afternoon platter, all served on board. The food is well-reviewed, with many praising the salads, fruits, and snacks that keep everyone energized. A glass of champagne is also included, making the experience feel a bit more special and celebratory.

Professional Photos and Guides

The tour includes professional photography, so you can focus on the experience and not worry about capturing every moment. Many reviews mention how helpful and enthusiastic the guides are, providing insights that enrich the entire trip. They’re clearly passionate about marine life and eager to share their knowledge.

The Return Journey

After a full day on the water—likely with multiple whale encounters and snorkeling sessions—the boat heads back to Exmouth. The courtesy transport ensures a relaxed end to the day, with plenty of opportunities to chat about the experience or review your photos.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $430.35 per person, this tour isn’t inexpensive, but it offers a comprehensive package that combines wildlife encounters, excellent food, and professional services. The reviews consistently reinforce that it’s worth the cost, especially given the inclusions like meals, drinks, and photos. Plus, the small group size means you get personalized attention, which many travelers appreciate.

The Experience Beyond the Main Event

Beyond the whales, the reef itself is a spectacle. You’ll see turtles, manta rays, dolphins, and a vibrant array of coral and fish. Several reviews mention how helpful staff are at pointing out these smaller but equally fascinating creatures, making the snorkeling part of the day as rewarding as the whale encounters. The calm, clear waters of Ningaloo Marine Park provide a perfect setting for this kind of wildlife watching.

Would We Recommend This Tour?

If you’re a wildlife lover, someone who enjoys snorkeling, and you’re comfortable with a physically moderate activity level, this tour hits many marks. The expert guides, well-organized logistics, and high likelihood of seeing humpback whales make it a compelling choice. Be prepared for the early booking demand—you’ll want to plan well in advance—especially if you’re traveling during peak migration season.

This experience is particularly good for those who value quality over quantity—small groups, professional photos, and personalized attention. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and wildlife discovery.

The Downsides

No experience is perfect, and here are some things to consider. The price point may seem high for some, especially if you’re traveling on a tighter budget. The cancellation policy is strict—this tour is non-refundable and dependent on good weather, which could impact your plans if the weather is uncooperative.

Children 12 and under can’t swim with whales, so families with young kids might need to adjust expectations or look for alternative options. Also, since the trip involves being on a boat for several hours, travelers prone to seasickness might consider taking precautions beforehand.

Final thoughts: Who’s this tour best for?

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, snorkelers, and travelers who want a comprehensive day of marine life watching from Exmouth. It suits those who appreciate expert guidance, small group sizes, and a luxurious touch with included meals and photos. If you’re looking for a bucket-list adventure that combines the thrill of seeing whales up close with the beauty of Ningaloo Reef, this tour offers a lot of value.

It’s less suitable for those on a tight budget or families with very young children eager to swim with whales. But for most other travelers seeking a well-organized, memorable marine experience, it’s a top-notch choice.

FAQ

Can I see whales on this tour?
Yes, the spotter plane helps locate humpback whales, increasing your chances of seeing them close-up during your snorkeling sessions.

Are meals included?
Absolutely. You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch, morning tea, afternoon platter, and a glass of champagne, all served onboard.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear and wetsuits are included, with crew assistance available to help you feel comfortable in the water.

Can children participate?
Children 12 years and under are not permitted to swim with the whales but can observe from the boat. They must be accompanied by an adult.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Just bring your swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and any personal necessities. The tour provides wetsuits and snorkel gear.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Given its popularity, booking around 61 days ahead is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak whale migration season.

If you’re after a meaningful, well-organized day in the water with opportunities to see humpback whales, turtles, and other marine life, this tour hits the mark. It combines adventure, comfort, and a genuine chance to connect with nature—something you’ll remember long after you return home.