Did you know Qatar sees one of the world's largest Whale Shark congregations? You can get up close and personal with these majestic creatures by taking a tour with Discover Qatar.
The ILoveQatar.net (ILQ) team went on this magical tour and is here to give you all the details so you, too, can have the experience of a lifetime looking at the gentle giants of the sea. Let's go!
Every year, hundreds of Whale Sharks congregate in the waters off the northeast coast of Qatar from April to September. These majestic creatures are the biggest fish in the ocean.
During these months, the water temperature is perfect for them to breed and feed on the abundance of fish eggs available.
The Whale Sharks of Qatar Daily Explorer is an educational 8-hour tour conducted by Discover Qatar on board a high-speed catamaran. The tour starts from Al Ruwais Port in the northeast of the country. The port is about 1 hour and 12 minutes away from central Doha.
You will sail about 2 hours and 30 minutes into the sea, where you will see the Whale Sharks up close, right from the catamaran.
The catamaran takes off from Al Ruwais Port. A maximum of 40 guests are allowed per tour. Once it's time, you will be called by name to board the catamaran, one by one.
After boarding, the tour guide will give you a brief. They will also let you know about the onboard facilities. The sailing is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes into the sea to reach the Whale Sharks' location. A presentation is played on the way to the viewing, and the tour guide will explain about Whale Sharks, their habitat, the research and more to get you familiarised.
The presentation is followed by breakfast. After enjoying your breakfast, you can relax for a bit before you reach the viewing destination.
Please note that you will have to submit your phones and any recording devices to the crew on board, as the Whale Sharks may congregate in areas restricted for photography/videography.
You will also have to sign a waiver for the same while aboard the catamaran.
A photographer is always present aboard who will be taking photos of you, your family and friends having a great time.
The photos will be shared after the tour via a private link to your email.
Once you reach the destination, you will need to exercise patience to spot the Whale Sharks. There are chances of spotting them in the hundreds, too, if you are lucky!
The crew allows you to enjoy your time with the Whale Sharks for 2 hours and 30 minutes before returning back.
The tour is inclusive of lunch. Soft beverages are provided throughout the trip. After lunch, you can enjoy a small documentary about the Whale Sharks of Qatar before returning to the port for disembarkation.
Once you exit the restricted areas, your phones and devices will be handed over. After which you are free to use them.
After reaching the port, you will disembark and can return to your destination.
If you wish to go on the Whale Sharks of Qatar Daily Explorer tour, you must book via the Discover Qatar website. Currently, tours are available to book until 31 August 2023.
You can also take the tour on a private charter yacht on a request-only basis. You can book this tour by completing a form on the Discover Qatar website, where an agent will contact you with the details.
The cost of the tour, for a maximum of 15 guests, is QR 118,300 per charter.
Have you seen the Whale Sharks in Qatar yet? Do you want to go on this tour? Do let us know in the comments below. Do share this article - it keeps us going!
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