21.06.2026

This is the fish we focused on today: the whale shark, the largest fish in the world, and part of the shark family. (The photos are 'borrowed'.)

Our last day on the Australian west coast: a day at sea and a sea day - watching or swimming with whale sharks was booked. We were optimistic because they are around here from March to July outside the reef. This meant getting up early again, first a 45-minute bus ride to the boat dock and then a shuttle to the ship. Then it was time to get dressed, as the black wetsuits were supposed to prevent even bigger 'jellyfish injuries' today. Next was trying on fins along with masks and snorkels and the briefings/instructions.

How does such an observation tour go? Two fixed groups of 8 and 9 people were formed, with one crew member for instructions for each group. The captain signaled when a whale shark was nearby. Then everyone had to put on their gear and line up in several rows, group 1 followed by group 2. When we were close enough, the photographer jumped into the water first. The photographer signaled from the water, then the skipper shouted: 'Go, go, go!' and the groups had to rush quickly from the back of the ship into the water, led by the 'leader'. There, everyone formed a line and off we went. In a line, so everyone could see the swimming fish well. After that, the group split up and accompanied it a little further. Rules: do not swim in front of, above, or below it, and maintain about 4 meters distance. The 'practice snorkeling' back in the reef revealed many colorful fish, just like in a big aquarium! Then we went over the reef into the ocean. Surprise! A humpback whale showed itself multiple times, blowing, with its mouth open and diving repeatedly. Completely new for us was the sound when it 'blew', as the exhaled air is released explosively at high pressure. This release produces a loud, hissing, whistling or bubbling noise, somewhat like the launch of some New Year's rockets. Actually, these creatures don't come until July. It was a spectacle! Then dolphins accompanied us, seemingly racing with the boat. Finally: whale sharks nearby, feeding on plankton and small fish. During several snorkeling trips, we got to admire some of these giants. The photographer said the largest one was 9 meters long. The animals were not disturbed by the snorkelers either. Everything had to be done quickly, because the shark does not wait. On the last run, there was a 'mass attack' of jellyfish, and the little creatures always find uncovered spots. After that, the boat strongly smelled of vinegar, as this alleviates itching. This is also part of the underwater world! We are really looking forward to all the pictures that will be sent later. It wasn't just the snorkeling that brought joy and satisfaction; the supply of cakes, vegetables, fruits, and tasty wrap or burger ingredients did too. Drinks shortened the long return trip! We really saw a lot and were taken care of by a great team! It wasn't as hot today, and there were even a few raindrops, which are actually insignificant on a day at sea, but for us, they were the first drops here on the west side!