Whale sharks arrive in Western Australia

Tourism Western Australia has announced that whale sharks have made an early appearance at Ningaloo Reef this year.

The largest fish in the ocean, which usually visits the region between April and July each year, appeared along Australia's west coast last week.

Ningaloo Reef is easily accessible from the shore and is one of the few locations in the world where whale sharks are known to congregate regularly.

It stretches for some 260km along the coast, making it the largest fringing reef in the world.

Visitors who would like to take the opportunity to swim with the whale sharks can join one of the specialist tours that set off from the small coastal towns of Exmouth and Coral Bay.

There are several other marine species to see along the coast of Western Australia, including manta rays, dolphins, turtles and over 500 types of tropical fish.

One of the easiest ways for international travellers to reach the region is by catching flights to Perth, which are available with Qantas, Emirates, Malaysia Airlines and other carriers.

Posted by Clare, 16 March 2010 16:56

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