Is Swimming With Whale Sharks Safe?

Whale sharks are the largest shark species on the planet. They can measure up to 12 metres in length and weigh nearly 20,000kg. The mouth of a whale shark is large enough to fit a human inside with ease, and within you’ll find 300 teeth. Young whale sharks are known to eat over 20 kilos of food per day, gorging themselves around the clock. 

None of this sounds particularly swimmer-friendly. But…

Are Whale Sharks Dangerous?

Whale sharks are not dangerous. Yes, they are massive. Yes, they eat a lot of food. But no, you aren’t on the menu. Whale sharks are filter feeders, which means they feed on microscopic plankton and krill. They will sometimes eat larger prey, such as discarded fish, but humans are much too big for them. Those 300 teeth are not used for eating. 

Is it Safe to Swim with Whale Sharks?

Yes, it is safe to swim with whale sharks. You most certainly are not on the menu, yet for some that isn’t enough to allay fears. Those concerned about swimming with whale sharks often cite worries of being accidentally swallowed by that massive mouth, or being crashed about by this massive fish.

Whale sharks swim at around 3mph. That’s a little faster than your average human, but not very fast at all. They’re also spatially aware and cautious of causing their own bodies harm. When swimming with whale sharks, you’ll have plenty of chances to get out of the way if you need to. However, you won’t need to. Whale sharks won’t approach close enough to the point of accidents occurring. You are a big enough object for them to avoid. If they are heading towards you, do not panic. They won’t accidentally swallow you up.

Still Nervous About Swimming with Whale Sharks?

It’s an understandable fear. You want to experience this amazing encounter, but at the same time, you’re in the water with a massive creature that might get quite close to you. 

The best way to ensure safety while swimming with whale sharks is to not concern yourself with the animals themselves, but instead your confidence in the water. If you’re comfortable manoeuvring when you have to, and your overall skills to swim in open water are strong, you’ll be much happier.

You’ll also most likely be snorkelling rather than diving, so get used to using a snorkel, especially in choppy waters. 

If you haven’t done much swimming in the open ocean, we recommend you attempt to find a way to experience this prior to swimming with whale sharks. If you can’t get experience in the open ocean, at least spend more time in a swimming pool to build up your confidence in the water.

Going with trained guides who provide buoyancy equipment and swimming instructions is another way to secure a great trip!

Want to swim with these gentle giants? Find out when the best time to swim with whale sharks is!