The Whale Shark in Thailand

In Thailand you can find a huge variety of marine life and underwater scenery. The reefs of the Similan Islands are well known worldwide, while the islands of Phuket, Phi Phi and Koh Tao attract divers and sun seekers alike. But top of most peoples diving wish list is to dive with a whale shark. In Thailand, there are several diving locations where the whale shark is seen fairly regularly. The most famous is Richelieu Rock close to the Surin Islands, but keep an eye open wherever you are diving. Hin Daeng has recently been another great spot for large pelagics. Whale sharks are not common, so don't come and expect to see one, but be very happy if you get lucky!

The Whale Shark

The Whale shark (Rhincodon Typus) is the largest fish in the world, growing up to 12m (40 feet) in length. Despite their size, they are harmless, feeding on plankton and small fish which are filtered from the water as they cruise the world's oceans. Whale sharks are found in warm waters worldwide including Australia, Mexico, Honduras, Hawaii and Thailand. In these countries, these giant sharks are regarded with the respect they deserve and many a diver has been awed by their silent presence.

Unfortunately, in other countries such as India and the Philippines, the whale shark is often hunted for meat which is sold to feed the rich mouths of Taiwan, where whale shark meat is an expensive delicacy. Numbers have certainly been reduced, but with the migratory habits of the sharks, it is very difficult to track and count them. This year, there was finally some progress when the CITES conference of 2002 placed the whale shark and the basking shark on a list of species to be considered under threat. This does not yet mean a ban on fishing but is an important first step.

Links to Whale shark related Sites

Whale shark research group

The Whale Shark Photo ID Project

World Wildlife Fund

Photos - Whale Sharks in Thailand by Mark Strickland

Where to see Whale Sharks in Thailand

Whale shark sightings can occur just about anywhere, but these gentle giants are rare animals. The best spots for encounters are Richelieu Rock and Hin Daeng, as well as Chumphon Pinnacle in the Gulf of Thailand. Sightings have been decreasing from 1998, but the last few seasons have been pretty good, with sightings even at local dive sites such as Shark Point and Koh Doc Mai. The best time of year to see a whale shark in Thailand is between February and May.

There are normally many whale shark sightings in April and May and during February/March if you're lucky. Most of these are at Richelieu Rock, on the schedule of most Thailand Liveaboards. Apart from whale sharks, the last few seasons have been very good for Manta Rays and other sharks. The 2004 season saw fewer sightings, mostly in April and May, though mantas were once again being seen on almost every trip. In 2005 and 2006 there were once again good numbers seen, but it's never guaranteed!

If you are lucky enough to encounter one of these gentle giants, it is an experience you will never forget, and a little excitement is understandable, but please resist the temptation to touch or ride a whale shark. Passive interaction with all marine life is healthier for the animals and will not alarm them. Just keep watching, and often the curious whale shark will come close to you.