Whale sharks are not actually sharks and are classified as the world’s largest fish. Averaging around 8 to 10 meters, they can reach up to 18m. Whale sharks are filter feeders, they eat by using their mouths to sieve plankton from the water, they are able to process over 6000 liters of water per hour. These majestic animals can live between 70 and 100 years.
Whale sharks give birth to alive young and when born they do not stay with the babies. Whale sharks are now endangered so learning about them and how to protect them is essential for future generations. Truly fascinating animals, where are some of the best places in the world to be able to dive with whale sharks?
Darwin Island, Ecuador
Darwin Island is only reachable by liveaboard, with the best time of year between June and November. During this time, the water gets colders and plankton begins to grow. Whale sharks feed off the plankton and flock to the area. There’s also the chance to dive with hammerheads, humpback whales, pilot whales and reef sharks.
Cenderawasih Bay, West Papua, Indonesia
Whale sharks are often spotted in this area. This bay is filled with gorgeous reefs and WWII shipwrecks. Divers are not so popular in this area, therefore
In this area, whale sharks demonstrate a rare feeding pattern where they suck on the bottom of fishing nets. August to October is the best time of year to spot whale sharks but it’s possible to spot them year-round.
Sun Island, South Ari Marine Park, The Maldives
Popular among scuba divers, the Maldives is a great place to spot whale sharks. They can be seen all year round but the best time of year is between May and October. The majority of whale sharks in the area are between 4 and 8m, it is a sort of playground for adolescents with consistent food.
Mahé, The Seychelles
The Seychelles is one of the diving hotspots of the world. With over 115 islands, in the middle of the Indian Ocean, is a prime destination to spot whale sharks. From June to December, whale sharks visit the inner islands of the Seychelles. Divers also have the chance to spot over 1000 species of fish, turtles and manta rays.
Tofo, Mozambique
In Africa, Tofo has the largest population of whale sharks. With dive sites such as Whale Shark Alley, Chamber of Secrets, Simon’s Town and Marble Arch, there’s plenty of opportunities to spot them. Simon’s Town is especially famous for divers spotting whale sharks during their safety stops. The best time to spot whale sharks is between November and February.
Tubbataha, Philippines
Located in the heart of the coral triangle, Tubbataha marine park is over 100,000 hectares of reef. To reach Tubbataha, divers have to travel over 10 hours from Palawan. This helps to keep the number of tourists low and the reef to remain protected. It can only be accessed by liveaboard from March to June. There’s the chance to spot whale sharks at the North Atoll and South Atoll, and a coral structure named the Jessie Beazley Reef.
