A Close Encounter with the Whale Sharks of the Raja Ampat & Spice Islands Region

On our Raja Ampat & Spice Islands voyages, explore some of the 1,500 rarely visited islands of this area, where the waters harbour over 75% of the world’s coral and fish species. At Cenderwasih Bay, we have the opportunity to swim with the gentle whale sharks that are attracted to this biodiversity hotspot. This is one of the few places in the world where it is possible to swim with this endangered species. Snorkelling amongst these majestic creatures is what guests describe as a ‘once in a lifetime experience’. Eyeballing these enormous fish, which are completely harmless and can grow to the length of a bus, is an unforgettable experience.

An excerpt from Raja Ampat & Spice Islands Voyage Log

1 January 2020– Cenderawasih Bay & Kwatisore

There was no guarantee that we would actually see any whale sharks, but we were in luck. Masks on, then into the water and an experience that will live with us forever. The whale shark swam slowly round us, below us, beside us, behind us. Based on its size it was probably a young one, but it was truly awesome. Not only was it long, but it was also wide. A magnificent creature. Huge and gentle. I don’t think any of us wanted to leave the water when it was time. It was one of those surreal moments when you realise just how magnificent the world is.

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Watch the experience play out in the video below captured on expedition.