Ningaloo Expeditions
Ningaloo's Canyons and Bluewater Ecosystem
Journey west beyond Ningaloo Reef where the sea floor falls away into a deep water canyon system, deeper than Arizona's Grand Canyon! Here the ocean floor drops well beyond 1000m in depth, creating a behemoth underwater shelf that provides nutrient rich upwellings and a navigational highway for some of our oceans great travelers. Deep sea ecosystems are vast blue deserts that hold tiny pockets of treasure hidden within. We go in search of some of the biggest and smallest animals that live on our planet in a day of ocean exploration. This is a true safari, we never know what might turn up and the day moves with the flow of the ocean with weather and currents determining each day's individual itinerary.
Bluewater Safari
Discover what lies further west, off the edge of the map and search for some of Ningaloo's most elusive creatures.
What to expect
Wildlife Safari
We will spend as much time as possible searching for wildlife. This includes birds, whales, dophins, turtles, marlin, flying fish, macro life amongst drifting sargasum and many other weird creatures that live out in the blue water. What this normally means is lots of time underway, driving in the boat. Our best chance of finding these creatures is covering as much ocean as possible so be prepared to spend lots of time looking.
What to BRING
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Bathers and a towel
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Lunch. If weather and timing allows, we will try to catch some fresh seafood for lunch, however it is best to bring your own lunch and snacks just incase
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Water bottle. We have drinking water available on board and some cups, but recommend bringing your own water bottle.
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Spray jacket and jumper (even in summer, it is a good idea)
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Seasickness tablets
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Binoculars
Bluewater swim
If your brave enough (and weather allows) we will jump in for the deepest swim of your life! The stunning electric blue water that can only be found offshore disappears beneath you to a bottom that lies up to 1000m away... We will also try take the opportunity to swim with wildlife where safe and possible. We do not swim with any cetaceans (whales or dolphins) or whale sharks on these tours. There is no pressure to get in the water at any time and you are welcome to continue wildlife watching from the boat.
Fresh fish for lunch
If timing and weather allow, we will try our luck at catching some fresh fish for lunch. You should bring your own lunch and snacks as well (in case we don't get the chance to catch any fish), but if it lines up we will have fresh sashimi and BBQ fish for lunch to top up on what ever you bought with yourself.
We will generally launch around 7am and return around 2pm. These are big days on the water so you will get your moneys worth, but long days aren't for all explorers. We want you to have the best experience possible so keep our timings flexible. The exact timings of our day will depend upon the weather and we confirm with you via SMS the exact departure times at least 24 hours before your trip.
A full day of adventure!
Weather and Cancellations
Bluewater Safaris are our most weather-dependent experience operating beyond the shelter of the reef. While our vessel and crew are highly capable in offshore conditions, every departure is carefully assessed to ensure it is a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Bluewater Safaris are designed for our most avid explorers—the ones drawn to the edge of the map and the thrill of encountering the ocean’s rarest wildlife. These expeditions are as rewarding as they are demanding, offering the opportunity to chase unforgettable moments beyond your normal horizon. While all are welcome, this experience is best suited to those with a spirit for adventure. Expect full days on the water, changing conditions, and the kind of journey where the effort is part of the reward. A sense of curiosity, resilience, and readiness for open-ocean travel will ensure you get the most from this truly unique safari.
Is a Bluewater safari
for me?
Calm seas never made a good sailor
Our Bluewater Safaris venture beyond the reef into true open ocean—where the experience is shaped by the elements and no two days are ever the same. While we always prioritise safety and comfort, the sea is ever changing and weather offshore dynamic. We recommend arriving prepared for offshore conditions, including taking seasickness tablets in advance. With the right mindset and a little preparation, you’ll be free to focus on enjoying the chance to venture offshore.
While we do often get to experience incredible encounters with some amazing animals, there are no guarantees we will find wildlife on your trip. Out here conditions, currents and wildlife movements shape every expedition. Our skipper and guide will use all of their scientific knowledge and local expertise to do everything they can to give you a fantastic day, but in the end, we are always partly still dependent on the wildlife. While many of our safaris are rewarded with extraordinary encounters, each journey unfolds on the ocean’s terms. Our skipper and guide will use their scientific knowledge and local expertise to read the conditions and position you where wildlife is most likely to be found, but the final outcome is always up dependent on what the ocean gives us on each day.
We are searching for rare treasures, in a big ocean.
In most cases, we are able to make a clear call around three days prior to your tour. If conditions are not suitable, we’ll be in touch with a range of options to ensure you’re looked after. You may choose to join an alternative tour operating that day (with any price difference refunded), reschedule your Bluewater Safari for another date, or receive a full refund.
When it is 3 days out, the weather forecast can be trusted