Swim with humpback whales at Ningaloo Reef off Exmouth, one of the few places on Earth licensed for in water humpback encounters. Each year around 40,000 whales migrate along the Western Australian coast, and from August a handful of permitted operators run swims on the same reef made famous by whale sharks. Expect wild, deep water encounters with these giants, best from August to October.
Swim with humpback whales at Ningaloo Reef off Exmouth, one of the few places on Earth licensed for in water humpback encounters. Each year around 40,000 whales migrate along the Western Australian coast, and from August a handful of permitted operators run swims on the same reef made famous by whale sharks. Expect wild, deep water encounters with these giants, best from August to October.
Up to 90% sighting chance in Exmouth / Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia. Best months: September, August, October.
Yes. Ningaloo is one of only a few places worldwide licensed for in water humpback swims, run by a small number of permitted operators from Exmouth.
Humpbacks pass from June to October. In water swim tours run from August to October, peaking in August and September.
A full day humpback whale swim costs around 400 to 500 Australian dollars per person (2026 prices).
Yes. Encounters are in open, deep water, so you should be a confident swimmer comfortable snorkeling. The same reef also offers whale shark swims earlier in the year.
