Trade log in

Discover The Whale Sharks of Qatar - Daily Explorer

The Whale Sharks of Qatar Season 2025 is now live! Early booking is now available for cruise trips between 20 June and 19 September 2025.

Time: 06:00 – 14:00
Frequency: Thursday, Friday & Saturday | Duration: 8 hours
Child pricing: Children under the age of 12 receive a 50% discount

Terms & conditions apply


Deep within the Arabian Gulf, far removed from the everyday, lies a rare opportunity for an extraordinary encounter. Discover the Whale Sharks of Qatar, a truly magnificent spectacle of the natural world.

Journey out to a thriving marine environment where Qatar hosts one of the largest gatherings of whale sharks on the planet, and prepare to witness an incredible sight - up to 300 of these gentle giants rising to the surface to feed, all at once!

What to Expect

The tour’s departure point is Al Ruwais Port, located in Northern Qatar. Once you have embarked the catamaran, the captain will formally welcome you and introduce you to the on-board facilities.

The journey to reach the whale shark viewing area will take approximately two and a half hours. During that time, you will have the opportunity to learn more about these majestic creatures as the expert guide on board will give a presentation about their habits and feeding patterns, as well as an overview of the whale shark research being carried out in Qatar.

Once you reach the whale shark viewing area, you will be at the heart of one of the largest congregations of whale sharks in the world. You will have two and a half hours to take in the incredible experience as hundreds of whale sharks will continuously breach the water surface to feed, creating a breath-taking scene.

After a morning well spent with these gentle giants, you will return to the disembarking point, located in Northern Qatar - Al Ruwais Port.

Please note:

  • With the sole purpose of protecting the whale sharks and their habitat, any interaction with the whale sharks will be prohibited, that includes - no swimming, touching, or feeding.
  • There is a selection of light snacks and beverages for purchase during the tour. Please note we can only accept cash for purchases on the boat. You are welcome to bring your own provisions for breakfast and lunch should you wish.
  • While we make every effort to track the movement of whale sharks, viewing can't be guaranteed. A refund won't be granted if whale sharks aren't sighted during your trip. However, we are happy to offer one complimentary rebooking for you during the 2025 season, subject to availability.

06:00 - Meeting at Al Ruwais Port to prepare for boarding
08:15 - Expert presentation followed by whale shark viewing
11:30 - Return to the disembarkation point
14:30 - Guest disembarkation at Al Ruwais Port
Times are approximate and subject to change

About the Catamaran

57 ft in length and 23 ft in width, the catamaran is capable of hosting and accommodating up to 40 passengers in absolute comfort. All seating for the boat is indoors in a comfortable air-conditioned area. There is a bathroom on board as well as all basic amenities that you may require. There are two viewing areas at the front of the boat and a sizeable deck at the back. The interior windows are large, offering fantastic panoramic visibility of the whale sharks.

Cancellation or Refund Guarantee

If Discover Qatar cancels your trip for any reason e.g. adverse weather conditions, we will offer you a choice of the following:

  • Re-book on another date of your choosing for no administration fee
  • A full refund of your whale sharks tour