Top Destinations for Diving with Whale Sharks

It’s not surprising that diving with whale sharks ranks highly on any diver’s bucket list. These gentle giants of the underwater world may look intimidating due to their enormous size, but in fact they are known to pose no threat to humans, and munch their way through algae, plankton and krill, filtered from seawater through their enormous mouths. The largest fish on the planet, whale sharks can be up to 40 feet long and live for 80 years!

These enigmatic and beautiful creatures are more often seen close to the surface, making that elusive encounter all the more possible for divers and snorkelers alike. Despite their dwindling numbers and endangered species status, we are delighted to report that whale shark awareness is on the increase and we have reported sightings from Regaldive divers holidaying in Egypt, Oman, Maldives, Philippines, Galapagos, Azores, Djibouti and other destinations around the world.

We’ve put together a couple of options for those looking to maximise their chances of an underwater encounter with these gentle giants. Just don’t forget your camera!

Maldives and Galapagos Special Offers

With a location in the southern part of Ari Atoll, Dhigurah Island Maldives is ideally placed within the famous whale shark region where these beautiful creatures can be seen all year round. Visitors to Boutique Beach Hotel Dhigurah Island can enjoy going out on dives and also whale shark safaris to encounter these amazing creatures. Seven nights’ at Boutique Beach Hotel, costs from £1,579 per person when travelling with Regaldive. The package includes return flights (Emirates), speedboat transfers, full board accommodation (three meals a day) and 12 boat dives. Book by 15 October 2015 for an incredible saving of up to £429 per person on seven night twin share stays at Boutique Beach. Savings apply for stays taken by 31 October 2015. 

For more experienced divers, the Galapagos Islands are recognised as one of the world’s best locations to encounter whale sharks in large numbers, specifically between May and November. Regaldive’s seven night Humboldt Explorer Liveaboard journeys around the Galapagos Islands and includes dives at Wolf Island and Darwin Island, where seasonal sightings of whale sharks are common. Savings of up to £909 per person pp can be made on the 21 December 2015 and 4 January 2016 departures, with these trips costing from £2,140 per person. The package includes seven nights’ Full Board boat accommodation on board the Humboldt Explorer, some drinks, three to four dives per day, air tanks and weights. Flights are not included, but may be booked with Regaldive. 

To make a booking, or for more information, please contact our friendly, specialist team on 01353 659999 or by email

With special thanks to Malcolm Nobbs for the great whale shark image.