Whale Sharks

Whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean, slow-moving filter-feeders that can grow to 18 metres. They're harmless to humans, often curious, and patient enough that snorkellers and divers can swim alongside them for several minutes.

They follow plankton blooms, so timing matters: Maldives South Ari Atoll year-round but stronger May–Nov, Cebu's Oslob has daily encounters year-round (controversial, as the sharks are provisioned), Oman's Daymaniyat Islands run Aug–Oct.

Encounters usually happen at the surface or on shallow reefs, in open water rather than on the reef, so good buoyancy and a reef hook are unnecessary. Keep your distance, never touch, and swim alongside rather than in front.