Does Singapore’s hot weather make you want to cool off in the sea sometimes? Us too! What’s a better place to do that than the Ningaloo Reef, that is home to 250 species of coral and more than 500 species of fish, and was rightfully listed by the World Heritage as one of Australia’s most extraordinary marine eco-systems for snorkeling, diving and meeting giant marine life. With unique sea life not found anywhere else in Australia, the Ningaloo Reef is definitely one to catch! Let us explore some of the favourite Ningaloo natives!
Whale Sharks
Only 1 in 3 million people will swim with a whale shark in their life! Are you ready to be one of them? Ningaloo Reef is one of the rare few places where you can encounter the world’s largest fish between April and July each year. Being in the water with the world's biggest fish is exhilarating and serene all at the same time. It is simultaneously awesome and humbling! Although they may grow to around 10m long, they are totally harmless as they are filter feeders. It is definitely worthwhile to book a swim for a chance of sighting this magnificent fish. If the whales are a no-show (which is highly unlikely during season), you can try again the next day.
Swimming with a Whale Shark © Tourism Western Australia
Manta Rays
Contrary to the rare sighting of a whale shark, you can swim with manta rays all year round at Ningaloo Reef! With a population of around 50 manta rays, you can see them interacting with or doing loops around snorkellers and divers! Similar to the whale shark, manta rays are filter feeders so simply relax and be amazed by these graceful swimmers!
Manta Rays in Ningaloo Reef © Ningaloo Coral Bay
Giant Turtles
The loggerhead turtle is the most endangered species of sea turtle in the world and you can find some of their major breeding sites in the Coral Coast. Making an appearance all year round, seeing the sea turtles pop their heads up on the water while you are on a cruise is an incredible experience for all ages! Between December and February, you may even spot female turtles coming ashore when the tide is high, excavating nests in the sand with their flippers and laying eggs. If you wish to learn more about turtle biology and behaviour, you could also head to the Jurabi Turtle Centre to find out more!
Sea Turtles © Tourism Western Australia
Humpback Whales
Ningaloo Marine Park, off the coast of Exmouth and Coral Bay, is the only place in Western Australia where you can experience an in-water interaction with migrating humpback whales back to the Antarctic. Picture adult whales and calves performing tail slaps, spy hops, or even breeching. For a closer encounter, you can also sign up for a whale watching cruise where if you are adventurous, you can get the opportunity to swim with these massive creatures.
Humpback Whale © Tourism Western Australia
Coral reef, fishes & many more
Ningaloo Reef is Australia's largest fringing reef and it is one of the largest on Earth. Unlike most other reefs, it is easily accessible just by stepping off the beach. The reef provides habitat for more than 500 fish, 250 coral and 600 mollusc species, as well as dolphins and dugon making it a beautiful and colourful haven for snorkelers.
Coral Reef © Australia’s Coral Coast
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