Ocean Safaris  take you to the biggest fish in the sea – the whaleshark!  The aim of our 2 hour snorkeling adventures is to take people up close and personal with magnificent whalesharks that frequent our waters. For many it is a lifelong dream to swim with a whaleshark and Tofo is perhaps the most reliable place in the world to be able to offer this truly unforgettable experience!

The Ocean Safari begins at the dive centre where you will be fitted for masks, fins and rash shirts or wetsuits. Your guide will then brief you on the procedures for boat launching and how to snorkel effectively with the whaleshark before showing you a short, informative DVD about the Whalesharks in our area. We do emphasise at all time that the whaleshark is not to be touched. After the briefing we walk to the beach to launch the boat. Once we are on the water we head south to where we are most likely to see the whalesharks. Our snorkeling boats are fitted with a high viewing seat to enable a spotter to see the dark shadow of the whalesharks more easily. Once a Whaleshark has been spotted the boat will be positioned in front of the Whaleshark’s course. Snorkellers will then lower themselves into the water, making minimum splash, to await the arrival of this gentle giant. Although predominantly a solitary creature we sometimes come across groups of up to 20 individuals feeding in one area!

We ask snorkelers to follow a code of conduct which will keep the Whaleshark feeding happily on the surface to allow maximum viewing time for everyone.

Although the focus of the Ocean Safari is on the whaleshark, you may also sight Manta Rays, Devil Rays, dolphins and Humpback Whales (June-November)

This amazing experience is open to swimmers of all ages and departs daily with a minimum of four people.