Best Ningaloo Reef Tours: Whale Sharks, Snorkelling & Reef Cruises

Ningaloo Reef is one of the only places in the world where the reef meets the shore — but some of the best experiences still require a tour.

Best Ningaloo Reef tours include:

Whale shark swims (Mar–Aug)
Snorkelling cruises
Glass-bottom boat tours

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🐋 Best Whale Shark Tour (TOP PICK)

swimmers in the ocean in emouth alongside a whale shark — Kings Ningaloo Reef Tours

Best for: Bucket-list travellers

Includes:

Spotter plane
In-water encounters
Full-day experience

👉 Compare Whale Shark Tours in Exmouth

🤿 Best Snorkelling Tour

Aerial view of ningaloo reef lagoon with snorkellers in yellow kayaks — Exmouth Adventure Co

Best for: Non-swimmers & families

👉 The Best Ningaloo Snorkelling Tours

🐋 Best Whale Experience Tour

mum and baby humpback whales aerial view

Best for: Bucket-list travellers & confident swimmers

Swim with Humpback Whales – Ningaloo Reef (3 Islands Tour)

This is one of the most unique marine experiences in Western Australia. Unlike whale sharks, humpback whales are highly interactive — encounters often involve curious whales approaching swimmers under strict regulations.

Why this tour stands out

Rare opportunity to swim with humpback whales
Operates during the short humpback migration season
Small group sizes for safety and quality encounters
Includes time around Ningaloo’s reef islands

Good to know

Suitable only for strong swimmers
Whale encounters are never guaranteed (wildlife experience)
Short seasonal window (usually August–October)

This is not a snorkelling tour — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience for confident, adventurous travellers.

👉 Check availability for the Swim with Humpback Whales Tour

Most travellers regret not booking a tour — not booking the wrong one.