Ningaloo Adventure & W.A . Coral Coast
Days:
12 Days
Activity:
3. Active Moderate
Transport:
Fly/Drive
$8,495.00
Tour description
Tour Dates: May 17th – May 28th, 2027.
Discover the spectacular landscapes, rich history and unique wildlife of Western Australia on this unforgettable 12 day journey from Perth to Exmouth and return. Beginning in Perth, enjoy a guided city sights tour featuring Kings Park, the Perth Cultural Centre and the city’s elegant riverside suburbs before exploring the maritime heritage of Fremantle and its fascinating museums.
Travel north through the stunning Yanchep National Park and the dramatic Pinnacles Desert before continuing to Geraldton, where local history, heritage architecture and coastal scenery provide a wonderful introduction to the Coral Coast. Experience the natural wonders of Kalbarri National Park including the famous Kalbarri Skywalk, Murchison River Gorge and breathtaking coastal cliffs.
Continue to Shark Bay and Monkey Mia, where pristine beaches, abundant marine life and the chance to encounter the famous dolphins create unforgettable memories. Enjoy a relaxing wildlife cruise and time to explore this World Heritage listed region.
Journey through Carnarvon and Coral Bay, visiting attractions that showcase the region’s unique natural and cultural heritage. A highlight awaits in Exmouth with a full day marine adventure on Ningaloo Reef, one of the world’s most pristine coral reef systems. Additional experiences include Cape Range National Park, Yardie Creek and opportunities to spot native wildlife.
The tour concludes with a scenic flight from Exmouth back to Perth and a final day exploring the historic Perth Mint before returning home with wonderful memories of Western Australia’s spectacular coastlines, wildlife and outback landscapes.
Accommodation
Crowne Plaza Perth, Geraldton Hospitality Motel, Kalbarri Edge Resort, RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, Carnarvon Motel, Ningaloo Caravan and Holiday Resort and DoubleTree by Hilton Perth.
Swim with the Whale Sharks on Ningaloo Reef; A Once in a Lifetime Experience
For many travellers, swimming with a Whale Shark is a dream that sits high on their bucket list, yet planning such an adventure independently can feel overwhelming. The vast distances of Western Australia’s Coral Coast, the logistics of accommodation, transport, tours and flights, and the uncertainty of travelling in remote regions can often make this extraordinary experience seem out of reach. Our carefully designed Coral Coast and Ningaloo tour removes all of those challenges, allowing guests to simply relax and enjoy the journey.
Every detail has been thoughtfully arranged, from comfortable accommodation and guided sightseeing to scenic coastal drives, wildlife encounters and the unforgettable Whale Shark experience itself. Travelling with an experienced Tour Host and like minded companions provides reassurance, support and a sense of camaraderie throughout the journey.What makes this tour truly special is that the Whale Shark encounter is not simply a stand alone excursion. It is the culmination of an immersive journey through some of Australia’s most remarkable landscapes.
Guests experience the ancient Pinnacles Desert, the dramatic gorges of Kalbarri, the dolphins of Monkey Mia, the natural wonders of Shark Bay and the pristine beaches of Ningaloo before stepping into the water alongside the world’s largest fish. Each destination builds anticipation and appreciation for the incredible marine environment that makes Ningaloo Reef so unique. For many of our travellers, particularly seniors, the opportunity to experience such an iconic wildlife encounter in a safe, supportive and fully organised environment is invaluable.
With professional operators, experienced guides and comprehensive planning throughout the tour, guests can feel confident knowing they are in caring hands every step of the way. Swimming with a Whale Shark is often described as a life changing moment. Seeing these gentle giants glide effortlessly through crystal clear waters creates a sense of awe and connection that stays with you forever. Through our expertly crafted itinerary, this once in a lifetime experience becomes not only possible, but comfortable, achievable and genuinely enjoyable, creating memories that will be treasured for years to come.
Itinerary
Welcome to Western Australia
Upon arrival in Perth at approximately midday, you will be met and transferred into the city to begin your exploration of Australia’s sunniest capital city.
Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Perth featuring many of the city’s highlights including:
- St George’s Cathedral
- Perth Town Hall
- Historic government precincts
- WACA Ground
- Swan River foreshore
- Modern city landmarks
Lunch at the Art Gallery of Western Australia
Enjoy lunch at the Art Gallery of WA Café located within the Perth Cultural Centre in Northbridge.
Perth Cultural Centre
After lunch, enjoy free time to explore the cultural heart of Perth, including:
- Western Australian Museum Boola Bardip
- State Library of Western Australia
- Art Gallery of Western Australia
- State Theatre Centre
Kings Park
This afternoon visit Kings Park and Botanic Garden, one of the largest inner city parks in the world. Enjoy magnificent panoramic views over Perth’s skyline, the Swan River and distant Darling Ranges.
Take time to stroll through beautifully landscaped native gardens showcasing Western Australia’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Scenic Drive to Accommodation
Travel through some of Perth’s most prestigious riverside suburbs including:
- Dalkeith
- Claremont
- Peppermint Grove
- Mosman Park
before arriving at your accommodation.
Accommodation
Crowne Plaza Perth
Dinner
Group dinner at a local restaurant.
Fremantle Heritage Precinct
After breakfast, travel to Fremantle, Western Australia’s historic maritime gateway.
WA Maritime Museum
Explore the fascinating maritime history of Western Australia, including exhibitions featuring:
- The famous yacht Australia II
- Early exploration voyages
- Naval history
- Shipwreck archaeology
WA Shipwrecks Museum
Discover one of the world’s most important collections of maritime archaeology and learn about the Dutch East India Company shipwrecks that helped shape Australia’s history.
Fremantle Markets & Cappuccino Strip
Enjoy free time to wander Fremantle’s charming heritage streets and vibrant café precinct.
Fremantle Heritage Tour
A guided coach tour showcases:
- Fremantle Prison
- Round House
- Historic Town Hall
- Fremantle Boys School
- Victorian era architecture
Cottesloe Beach
Travel along Perth’s famous coastline through:
- Swanbourne
- City Beach
- Scarborough Beach
Enjoy lunch overlooking the Indian Ocean at iconic Cottesloe Beach.
Swan Valley
This afternoon visit Western Australia’s oldest wine region, the Swan Valley. Enjoy a winery experience in the picturesque surrounds of Caversham before returning to Perth.
Accommodation
Crowne Plaza Perth
Dinner
Group dinner.
Yanchep National Park
Depart Perth and travel north to Yanchep National Park. Enjoy a short walk amongst native bushland where kangaroos and abundant birdlife are often seen.
Nambung National Park
Arrive at one of Western Australia’s most iconic natural attractions, The Pinnacles Desert.
Thousands of limestone pillars rise dramatically from golden desert sands creating an otherworldly landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Enjoy time to explore the visitor centre and walk amongst these remarkable formations.
Jurien Bay
Lunch by the coast at the picturesque fishing town of Jurien Bay.
Coral Coast Journey
Continue north through:
- Dongara
- Greenough
- Coastal farming districts
Geraldton
Upon arrival enjoy a sightseeing tour featuring:
- Western Australian Museum
- St Francis Xavier Cathedral
- Point Moore Lighthouse
- HMAS Sydney II Memorial
Watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Accommodation
Hospitality Motel Geraldton
Dinner
Group dinner.
Ross Graham Lookout
Travel into Kalbarri National Park and enjoy spectacular views over the winding Murchison River Gorge.
Kalbarri Skywalk
Experience one of Australia’s most impressive viewing platforms.
Suspended high above the gorge, the Skywalk offers breathtaking views across ancient landscapes carved over millions of years.
Meanarra Hill Lookout
Enjoy sweeping views over Kalbarri township, the Indian Ocean and surrounding national park.
Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs
This afternoon explore the dramatic coastal scenery including:
- Chinaman’s Beach
- Island Rock
- Natural Bridge
- Eagle Gorge
Witness towering sea cliffs and powerful ocean vistas.
Accommodation
Kalbarri Edge Resort
Dinner
Group dinner.
Shell Beach
Travel through the Shark Bay World Heritage Area to Shell Beach.
Unlike any other beach in Australia, Shell Beach is formed entirely from billions of tiny white shells stretching for kilometres along the shoreline.
Shark Bay
Learn about the unique ecological significance of this World Heritage listed region.
Ocean Park Aquarium
Enjoy lunch and a self guided visit to Ocean Park Aquarium, home to a fascinating collection of local marine life.
Monkey Mia
Continue to Monkey Mia, famous for its wild bottlenose dolphins and stunning turquoise waters.
Accommodation
RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort
Evening
Relax by the waterfront and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Shark Bay.
Dinner
Group dinner.
Dolphin Encounter
Begin the morning with the famous Monkey Mia dolphin experience.
For decades, wild dolphins have voluntarily visited the shoreline, creating one of Australia’s most remarkable wildlife interactions.
Monkey Mia Wildlife Cruise
Board a wildlife cruise exploring the pristine waters of Shark Bay.
Possible sightings include:
- Dolphins
- Dugongs
- Sea turtles
- Rays
- Sharks
- Migratory seabirds
Afternoon at Leisure
Enjoy free time to:
- Relax at the resort
- Swim in calm waters
- Explore walking trails
- Visit interpretation displays
- Watch the sunset over Shark Bay
Accommodation
RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort
Dinner
Group dinner.
Hamelin Pool
Visit one of the world’s most important geological sites.
Hamelin Pool is home to living stromatolites, among the oldest life forms on Earth, representing life much as it existed billions of years ago.
Carnarvon
Enjoy lunch in Carnarvon before visiting the fascinating Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum.
Learn about:
- NASA tracking stations
- Space exploration history
- Apollo missions
- Australia’s role in space communications
Heritage Tour
Enjoy a guided heritage tour highlighting Carnarvon’s rich history and famous mural trail.
Accommodation
Carnarvon Motel
Dinner
Group dinner.
Coral Bay
Travel to beautiful Coral Bay where Ningaloo Reef comes right to the shoreline.
Enjoy a leisurely coastal walk and free time to admire the crystal clear waters.
Coral Viewing Cruise
Board a glass bottom or coral viewing cruise to witness the extraordinary marine life of Ningaloo Reef.
Look for:
- Colourful coral gardens
- Tropical fish
- Sea turtles
- Rays
Exmouth
Continue to Exmouth, gateway to Cape Range National Park and Ningaloo Reef.
Accommodation
Ningaloo Caravan & Holiday Resort
Dinner
Group dinner.
A Once in a Lifetime Adventure
Today is the highlight of the tour.
Board your exclusive Ningaloo Reef charter for an unforgettable full day Whale Shark experience.
After a marine briefing and spotter plane search, guests will have the opportunity to enter the water and swim alongside the world’s largest fish.
These magnificent creatures can grow up to 12 metres long yet feed primarily on tiny plankton.
Professional guides ensure a safe and respectful interaction while providing fascinating insights into Whale Shark behaviour and conservation.
Lunch is served on board and there may also be opportunities to encounter:
- Manta rays
- Sea turtles
- Humpback whales in season
- Dolphins
- Reef sharks
Return to Exmouth late afternoon.
Accommodation
Ningaloo Caravan & Holiday Resort
Dinner
Group dinner.
Yardie Creek
Travel into Cape Range National Park to experience one of Western Australia’s most spectacular wilderness areas.
Board a wildlife cruise through Yardie Creek Gorge where towering limestone cliffs rise above tranquil waters.
Look for:
- Black footed rock wallabies
- Ospreys
- Sea eagles
- Rare native wildlife
Turquoise Bay
Visit one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches.
Enjoy time to:
- Swim
- Snorkel
- Walk along pristine sands
- Experience the famous drift snorkel
Exmouth
Return to town and enjoy free time before visiting Vlamingh Head Lighthouse and Navy Pier precinct.
Accommodation
Ningaloo Caravan & Holiday Resort
Dinner
Group dinner.
Leisure Morning
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Exmouth.
Optional activities include:
- Resort relaxation
- Shopping
- Birdwatching
- Scenic flight over Ningaloo Reef
Flight to Perth
Transfer to Exmouth Airport for your flight to Perth.
Upon arrival, transfer to your accommodation.
Accommodation
Crowne Plaza Perth
Dinner
Group dinner.
Perth Mint
Visit the world renowned Perth Mint.
Enjoy a guided tour featuring:
- Gold pouring demonstration
- Historic exhibits
- Precious metals displays
- Stories from the Western Australian gold rush era
Farewell
Following the tour, transfer to Perth Airport for your flight to Sydney.
Arrive home with wonderful memories of Western Australia’s spectacular Coral Coast and Ningaloo Reef.
Activity Levels
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1. Easy
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2. Moderate
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3. Active Moderate
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4. Adventurous
Testimonials
Hi John and Kerry, Just wanted you to know what an enjoyable time we had on the Temora trip. Fantastic food, friendly staff and very comfortable rooms. Itinerary was very good and enjoyed all of the various visits we made. Who will ever forget the characters we met. Looking forward to seeing you at the Bright trip.
Barbara and Brian
Dear John and Kerry, Debbie and Steve, thank you all so much at On Course Tours for the hugely successful and absolutely wonderful trip to South Australia. Tricia and I loved every moment and were amazed and delighted by how much South Australia has to offer in so very many ways, food especially and of course very many superb wines and wineries – topped off, as John rightly said, by Max’s selection of a delightful crowd of good club friends! John, you and On Course Tours are certainly a class act. You always try very hard, and you succeed, in going that ‘extra mile’. We could not have had better service, right from being picked up at the gate by Kerry, then enjoying your nearly 4,000km of safe, always careful but wonderfully exploratory driving, your delicious picnic provisioning, your excellent selection of accommodation and eateries and your very broad knowledge of all we saw, right thorough to being delivered safely home last night. With our best wishes and so many thanks to you all at On Course Tours for another truly wonderful holiday. We look forward with keen anticipation to the next!
