There are many reasons Shark Bay is a popular destination for all things ocean-related – stunning scenery, amazing fishing, and a huge variety of rare and diverse wildlife that can be seen while snorkelling or diving, or even from a boat. Bring your own, hire a boat or take a wildlife cruise, snorkel or dive tour, or fishing charter to experience everything Shark Bay's waters have to offer.
Boat Ramps
Boat ramps suitable for launching large boats are located in Denham, Monkey Mia and Nanga Bay Resort. Small boats can be launched off the beach at Bottle Bay, South Gregories and Herald Bight in Francois Peron National Park, Shelter Bay in the Edel Land National Park (near Steep Point) and at Gladstone and Bush Bay on the Wooramel Coast.
Safety & Conservation
A comprehensive guide to Boating Safety can be found at the Department of Transport website and the Carnarvon Denham Marine Safety Guide can be downloaded here
Marine Rescue Radio Channels
- 27mHz Channel 88
- VHF Channel 16
- Emergency Use Only VMR 675 or SB001
Some important things to consider while engaging in boating activities in the Shark Bay Area:
- Shark Bay often experiences strong southerly winds in the summer months. Always check conditions before heading out.
- Shark Bay’s waters are generally shallow, so keeled boats can have difficulty navigating in many areas.
- Boat access is restricted in certain areas to protect sensitive habitats
- Anchors cause severe damage to coral and seagrass and should only be used in bare sand
- Please help to protect our native wildlife by reducing speed around dugongs, turtles and whales.
- Always keep at least 50m from dugongs and turtles, 100m from whales and do not go within 30 degrees either side of their direction of travel.
Boat Hire
If you'd prefer to explore Shark Bay's magnificent ocean under your own steam but don't have a boat, Shark Bay boat hire offers a ready to run, 6.1, aluminium boat licensed for 6 people.
Image credit: Toursim Western Australia, Gypsy Lovin Light, Bobby Bense