Diving with Whale Sharks in their natural environment is a breathtaking and rewarding experience. The worlds biggest fish gliding slowly but gracefully past, resplendent in its dappled skin, within touching distance and impassive to the presence of the onlooker. Many thousands of divers seek out this opportunity annually, and Whale Shark diving tours can be commercially beneficial to an area. Whale Shark ecotourism is worth an estimated $47.5 million dollars annually and many small communities benefit financially.

 

 

Whale Sharks are passive creatures and can be agitated by aggressive

Image © Rachel Graham

behaviour such as being touched, or chased. It is as much a diver’s responsibility as anyone’s to ensure the survival of Whale Sharks for future generations. This means causing minimal disturbance to the sharks when approaching by boat or when diving. Although Whale Sharks are harmless, their sheer size makes it necessary to exercise caution around them, especially at the tail end.

 

Image © Simon Rogerson

Divers need to be aware of any local regulations or protocols set by the dive organisation regarding behaviour around Whale Sharks before entering the water. Regardless of whether there are any regulations are in place, please follow these general guidelines developed and promoted by The Shark Trust, the Australian Department of Conservation and Land Management and PADI and the Project AWARE Foundation, both for your own safety and for the safety of the Sharks.