shark bay western australia tour

• Land & Seascapes
• Hamelin Pool & Stromatolites
• South Peron

Francois Peron National Park

• Dirk Hartog Island National Park
• Edel Land including Steep Point
• Tamala Station
• Wooramel Coast
• Shark Bay Marine Reserve
• Bernier & Dorre Islands Nature Reserve
• Travel & Safety
• Things To Do On Land
• Things To Do On Water
• Parks & Wildlife Fees & Bookings
• Stromatolites
• Dirk Hartog Island
• Project Eden
• Shark Bay Island Protection
• Aboriginal Heritage
• Maritime History
• Settlement History
• Shark Bay World Heritage Values
• Managing the World Heritage Area
• What is World Heritage?
• Brochures & Maps
• Fact Sheets & Guides
• Useful Links
• Search Site

DISCOVER SHARK BAY

EXPLORE OUR BEST SPOTS

Explore the World Heritage Drive by 2WD. Explore the rest by 4WD or a tour.

World Heritage Drive

Dirk Hartog & Steep Point

EXPLORE SHARK BAY

TAKE A LOOK AT THE PLACES TO VISIT IN SHARK BAY

While there are places you will need a four-wheel-drive vehicle, a two-wheel-drive can also take you many places to experience this World Heritage area – just follow the World Heritage Drive. Tours on land and water provide opportunities to discover even more.

WHY IT’S WORLD HERITAGE

SHARK BAY IS WORLD HERITAGE LISTED FOR ITS NATURAL VALUES

Visit Shark Bay to see why it is held in such high esteem. World Heritage places really are the best places on Earth and Shark Bay is listed because of its beauty and abundance, it has evolving habitats and species, it’s a window in time, and is a wildlife refuge.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION PROJECTS ARE REVERSING DAMAGE CAUSED BY INTRODUCED ANIMALS

Current News

Shark Bay History

Eco Renewal

Publications

Shark Bay Eco Tours

• 1 Ocean Park Road, Shark Bay, WA
• [email protected]
• (08)9948 1765

Shark bay, western australia

Shark bay eco tours, welcome to shark bay eco tours.

Previously known as Shark Bay Dive and Marine Safaris, and Shark Bay 4×4, Shark Bay Eco Tours is a new modern rebrand for both businesses. We made the decision to merge both businesses under the one name to make it easier for you to find us and explore everything we and Shark Bay have to offer.

We strive to provide the best service possible. Through education of the wildlife you come across and the history of the land we’ll not only give you a fantastic adventure, but also provide meaning to your trip, so you understand how significant the Shark Bay World Heritage Area actually is.

We are also affiliated with Ocean Park Aquarium. If you are looking for something else to do in Denham make sure to check out the aquarium and join a guided tour so you can learn all about the ocean wildlife that calls Shark Bay home.

pick your adventure

We have plenty of trips to choose from! From visiting mainland Australia’s most western point – Steep Point, following in the footsteps of European sailors on Dirk Hartog Island, rugged 4×4 excursions into Francois Peron National Park, to swimming with the oldest living organisms on the planet, the Stromatolites!

meet the animals of shark bay

Shark Bay is absolutely packed with life. As the name suggests, Shark Bay is home to sharks, at least 28 species of sharks to be exact. But it’s also home to a wide variety of life. In the below photos here’s some of our other native animals you may catch a glimpse of on your adventure.

why we do what we do

Education. No matter what tour you go on with us, whether its to mainland Australia’s Western Most Point, into the Francois Peron National Park or a guided tour around Ocean Park Aquarium, our main objective is to teach you about our incredible World Heritage Area.

With our team of marine biologists, PADI dive professionals and ocean & nature enthusiasts, we can almost guarantee you’ll walk away from us knowing something you didn’t that morning. And with over 22,000sq Km of World Heritage Area to discuss, there’s plenty for us to tell you!

Previously known as Shark Bay Dive and Marine Safaris, and Shark Bay 4×4, Shark Bay Eco Tours is a new modern look for both businesses under the one name. Ran by marine biologists, PADI professionals and ocean/Shark Bay enthusiasts. We aim to provide a relaxed but professional approach on all our tours, to make you feel comfortable so you can sit back and enjoy your adventure. With a combined 20+ years of operating in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, let our experienced guides take you on your next adventure!

Ocean Park Aquarium

Located 10km out of Denham on the main road into Shark Bay, is the Ocean Park Aquarium. If you are looking for an aquarium experience like no other add this stop to your Shark Bay travel itinerary. Meet the locals of Shark Bay up close, from sea snakes, to the most venomous fish in the world, and watch as our guides feed our Sharks, the stars of Ocean Park!

Not keen on the aquarium? Stop by and grab yourself a coffee, beer, cake, breakfast or lunch at the Oceans Restaurant, and enjoy panoramic views of Shark Bay!

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From research projects partnered with universities, to clean up dives we run many projects that could use your support! Use the buttons to donate to our fight or learn more about our current projects!

Take advantage of the search to browse through the World Heritage Centre information.

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Unesco social media, shark bay, western australia.

• Description

At the most westerly point of the Australian continent, Shark Bay, with its islands and the land surrounding it, has three exceptional natural features: its vast sea-grass beds, which are the largest (4,800 km2) and richest in the world; its dugong (‘sea cow’) population; and its stromatolites (colonies of algae which form hard, dome-shaped deposits and are among the oldest forms of life on earth). Shark Bay is also home to five species of endangered mammals.

Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

Baie Shark, Australie occidentale

Située à l’extrémité ouest du continent australien, la baie Shark, avec ses îles et les terres qui l’entourent, possède trois caractéristiques naturelles exceptionnelles : ses vastes herbiers marins, les plus étendus (4 800 km²) et les plus riches du monde, sa population de dugongs, ou « vaches marines », et ses stromatolites, colonies d’algues qui édifient des monticules et sont parmi les plus anciennes formes de vie sur terre. La baie Shark abrite en outre cinq espèces de mammifères menacées.

شارك باي، أستراليا الغربية

يقع الخليج على الطرف الغربي للقارة الأسترالية بجزره والأراضي التي تحيط به وله ثلاث سمات طبيعية واستثنائية: مساحات الأعشاب البحرية الواسعة وهي الأوسع (4800 كلم مربع) والأغنى في العالم، ومجموعة الدودنغ (البقرة البحرية)، والستروماتوليت أو مستوطنات الطحالب المائية التي تشكّل تلالاً وهي من أقدم أنواع الحياة على سطح الأرض. يضمّ شارك باي خمسة أجناس من الثدييات المهددة بالإنقراض.

source: UNESCO/CPE Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

此鲨鱼湾位于澳洲大陆最西端，由许多岛屿及周边陆地组成，有三个独具一格的自然特点：拥有世界上最大的海床（4800平方公里）和最丰富的海草资源；拥有世界上数量最多的儒艮（海牛）；拥有大量叠层石（叠层石是由大量海藻形成的硬质圆形沉积物，是地球上最古老的生命形式之一）。鲨鱼湾还是五种濒危哺乳动物的栖息地。

Bahía Shark (Australia Occidental)

Situada en el extremo occidental de Australia, la Bahía Shark y sus islas y tierras circundantes poseen tres características naturales excepcionales: los más vastos (4.800 km²) y ricos herbarios marinos del planeta; una importante población de dugongos; y una gran abundancia de estromatolitos formados por colonias de algas, que son una de las formas de vida más antiguas del planeta. La bahía alberga también cinco especies de mamíferos en peligro de extinción.

西オーストラリアのシャーク湾

source: NFUAJ

Shark Bay in West-Australië

Op het meest westelijke punt van het Australische continent ligt Shark Bay. Dit gebied met zijn eilanden en het land eromheen heeft drie uitzonderlijke natuurlijke kenmerken: enorme zeegrasbedden - met 4.800 km2 de grootste en rijkste ter wereld, een Dugong ('zeekoe')-bevolking van 11.000 en stromatolieten - algenkolonies behorende tot de oudste levensvormen op aarde. Shark Bay is ook de thuisbasis van vijf bedreigde zoogdieren. Verder zijn er in de baai bultruggen, zuidkapers, tuimelaars en groene en onechte karetschildpadden te vinden. En natuurlijk grote aantallen haaien; walvis-, tijger- en hamerhaaien worden hier vaak gespot.

Source: unesco.nl

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief synthesis

On the Indian Ocean coast at the most westerly point of Australia, Shark Bay’s waters, islands and peninsulas covering a large area of some 2.2 million hectares (of which about 70% are marine waters) have a number of exceptional natural features, including one of the largest and most diverse seagrass beds in the world. However it is for its stromatolites (colonies of microbial mats that form hard, dome-shaped deposits which are said to be the oldest life forms on earth), that the property is most renowned. The property is also famous for its rich marine life including a large population of dugongs, and provides a refuge for a number of other globally threatened species.

Criterion (vii): One of the superlative natural phenomena present in this property is its stromatolites, which represent the oldest form of life on Earth and are comparable to living fossils. Shark Bay isalso one of the few marine areas in the world dominated by carbonates not associated with reef-building corals. This has led to the development of the Wooramel Seagrass Bank within Shark Bay, one of the largest seagrass meadows in the world with the most seagrass species recorded from one area. These values are supplemented by marine fauna such as dugong, dolphins, sharks, rays, turtles and fish, which occur in great numbers.

The hydrologic structure of Shark Bay, altered by the formation of the Faure Sill and a high evaporation, has produced a basin where marine waters are hypersaline (almost twice that of seawater) and contributed to extensive beaches consisting entirely of shells.  The profusion of peninsulas, islands and bays create a diversity of landscapes and exceptional coastal scenery.

Criterion (viii) : Shark Bay contains, in the hypersaline Hamelin Pool, the most diverse and abundant examples of stromatolites (hard, dome-shaped structures formed by microbial mats) in the world. Analogous structures dominated marine ecosystems on Earth for more than 3,000 million years.

The stromatolites of Hamelin Pool were the first modern, living examples to be recognised that have a morphological diversity and abundance comparable to those that inhabited Proterozoic seas. As such, they are one of the world’s best examples of a living analogue for the study of the nature and evolution of the earth’s biosphere up until the early Cambrian.

The Wooramel Seagrass Bank is also of great geological interest due to the extensive deposit of limestone sands associated with the bank, formed by the precipitation of calcium carbonate from hypersaline waters.

Criterion (ix): Shark Bay provides outstanding examples of processes of biological and geomorphic evolution taking place in a largely unmodified environment. These include the evolution of the Bay’s hydrological system, the hypersaline environment of Hamelin Pool and the biological processes of ongoing speciation, succession and the creation of refugia.

One of the exceptional features of Shark Bay is the steep gradient in salinities, creating three biotic zones that have a marked effect on the distribution and abundance of marine organisms. Hypersaline conditions in Hamelin Pool have led to the development of a number of significant geological and biological features including the ‘living fossil’ stromatolites.

The unusual features of Shark Bay have also created the Wooramel Seagrass Bank. Covering 103,000 ha, it is the largest structure of its type in the world. Seagrasses are aquatic flowering plants that form meadows in near-shore brackish or marine waters in temperate and tropical regions, producing one of the world’s most productive aquatic ecosystems. Australia has one of the highest diversity of seagrasses globally, with 12 species occurring in the Bay.

Criterion (x): Shark Bay is a refuge for many globally threatened species of plants and animals. The property is located at the transition zone between two of Western Australia’s main botanical provinces, the arid Eremaean, dominated by Acacia species and the temperate South West, dominated by Eucalyptus species, and thus contains a mixture of two biotas, many at the limit of their southern or northern range. The property contains either the only or major populations of five globally threatened mammals, including the Burrowing Bettong (now classified as Near Threatened), Rufous Hare Wallaby, Banded Hare Wallaby, the Shark Bay Mouse and the Western Barred Bandicoot. A number of globally threatened plant and reptile species also occur in the terrestrial part of the property.

Shark Bay’s sheltered coves and lush seagrass beds are a haven for marine species, including Green Turtle and Loggerhead Turtle (both Endangered, and the property provides one of Australia’s most important nesting areas for this second species). Shark Bay is one of the world’s most significant and secure strongholds for the protection of Dugong, with a population of around 11,000. Increasing numbers of Humpback Whales and Southern Right Whales use Shark Bay as a migratory staging post, and a famous population of Bottlenose Dolphin lives in the Bay. Large numbers of sharks and rays are readily observed, including the Manta Ray which is now considered globally threatened.

At time of inscription in 1991 it was noted that human impacts, while not as pronounced as in other World Heritage properties due to the property’s relative remoteness, have had some effects including impacts from pastoralism and feral animals. The small, local centre of Denham, along with industrial activities such as salt and gypsum mining in the region, could comprise threats if not properly managed. Tourism and recreational boating also needs to be carefully managed. The marine environment has undergone some modification through historically intensive pearl shell, fishing, trawling and whaling activities. However, the ecosystems in Shark Bay appear relatively unaltered by human impact, although this could change if terrestrial mining of mineral sands were to take place. Other potential threats could be from improved technology in producing drinking water which would lead to increased tourism and residential density, the upgrading of road access, agricultural developments to the east (dependent on water supply), expansion of gypsum mining, and the introduction of intensive aquacultural or fishing technologies. Climate change could also impact on the complex marine ecosystem. While the property meets the required conditions of integrity and contains the components required to demonstrate all aspects of the natural processes, it is important that the property’s management arrangements provide the framework in which these integrity issues can be monitored and addressed.

P rotection and m anagement requirements

The Shark Bay World Heritage property encompasses a number of different land tenures and thus a variety of statutory and management arrangements protect its values. At the time of nomination of the property, existing conservation reserves totalled approximately 200,000 hectares and mainly consisted of small island nature reserves, Bernier and Dorre Islands and the Hamelin Pool Nature Reserve. Specific suggestions to increase the conservation tenure boundaries included expanding the northern boundary of the Hamelin Pool Class A Marine Nature Reserve; extending the southern boundary of the terrestrial park on the northern end of the Peron Peninsula; the inclusion of the Gladstone Embayment in the Hamelin Pool Marine Nature Reserve; the extension of the northern boundary line of the Marine Park in the Denham Sound area; securing reserve status for Dirk Hartog Island and the incorporation of the southern part of Nanga pastoral station into the reserve system. 

Since inscription, Francois Peron National Park (52,586 hectares), Shell Beach Conservation Park (517 hectares), Monkey Mia Reserve (446 hectares), Monkey Mia Conservation Park (5 hectares), Zuytdorp Nature Reserve (additional 58,850 hectares), Nanga pastoral lease (176,407 hectares), part Tamala pastoral lease (56,343 hectares), South Peron (53,408 hectares), part Carrarang pastoral lease (18,772 hectares), Bernier, Dorre and Koks Islands Nature Reserves (9,722 hectares) and Dirk Hartog Island National Park (61,243 hectares) have been added to the conservation estate. With the designation of the Shark Bay Marine Park (748,725 hectares) in 1990, incorporating the Hamelin Pool Marine Nature Reserve, the total formal conservation area of the World Heritage property is approximately 1.24 million hectares. In addition, the coastal portion of the Yaringa pastoral lease (19,396 hectares), part of Nerren Nerren pastoral lease (104,351 hectares) and part of Murchison House pastoral lease (37,578 hectares) have been added as a buffer. The Yaringa portion adjoins the Hamelin Pool Nature Reserve and in addition to having very high conservation value, is of strategic significance in bordering the World Heritage property.

A management agreement between the Australian Government and the State of Western Australia provides for management of the property to be carried out by the Western Australian Government in accordance with Australia’s obligations under the World Heritage Convention. In addition, a comprehensive programme of management and administrative structures and planning processes has been implemented. Under the terms of the Agreement, a ministerial council and two advisory committees (scientific advisory and community consultative) were formed. The Shark Bay World Heritage Advisory Committee replaced the two previous Scientific Advisory and Community Consultative committees with a new committee consisting of community, scientific and Indigenous representatives. Owing to the diversity of land tenures and managing agencies and individual interests within the property, the Shark Bay World Heritage Property Strategic Plan 2008-2020 was prepared to develop a partnership between governments and the community.

From July 2000, any proposed activity which may have a significant impact on the property became subject to the provisions of the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), which regulates actions that will, or are likely to, have a significant impact on World Heritage values. In 2007, Shark Bay was added to the National Heritage List, in recognition of its national heritage significance under the Act.

Management issues raised at the time of inscription included the control of human use through both zoning and designation of conservation areas, restrictions on public access to certain areas, the management of the trawl fishery to protect values, the purchase of land for conservation use, and increased staffing. Since then, climate change has emerged as an additional potential threat to the World Heritage values. Fire also represents a threat to species that are highly restricted in their distribution, particularly populations which only survive on islands which could be severely affected by a single large fire. Australia has introduced a range of measures at both the national, and property-specific, level to address these potential threats.

• Shark Bay (Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water) (in English only)
• The Official Site for Australian Travel and Tourism Australia
• Shark Bay World Heritage Site (Western Australian Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Parks and Wildlife Service) (in English only)
• Protectedplanet.net

State of Conservation (SOC)

Tour Shark Bay Dive and Marine Safaris

Tourism Western Australia acknowledges Aboriginal peoples as the traditional custodians of Western Australia and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We celebrate the diversity of Aboriginal West Australians and honour their continuing connection to Country, culture and community. We recognise and appreciate the invaluable contributions made by First Nations peoples across many generations in shaping Western Australia as a premier destination.

Island Life Adventures

Tours Shark Bay

Description

Escape the mainland and discover the islands European history, natural beauty , spectacular landscapes and the Dept of Parks & Wildlife's 'Return to 1616" project turning Dirk Hartog Island into an ark for endangered animals.

Welcome to Island Life Adventures, where we invite you to dare to discover the hidden gem of Western Australia - Dirk Hartog Island. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of this remote oasis as we offer you an unforgettable journey that combines thrilling marine transfers, remarkable wildlife encounters, rustic luxury in nature, and an immersive historical experience.

Island Life Adventures specialises in curating unique eco-tours that allow you to connect with the untouched beauty and rich history of Dirk Hartog Island. We're passionate about providing you with a once-in-a-lifetime experience that showcases the island's exceptional landscapes, marine life, and cultural heritage.

At Island Life Adventures, our goal is to not only provide you with an extraordinary adventure but also to foster a deep appreciation for the environment and culture that make Dirk Hartog Island a true wonder. Join us in exploring, conserving, and experiencing the magic of this World Heritage Island.

Map & Directions

Dirk Hartog Island, Shark Bay, Western Australia, 6537, Australia

Dirk Hartog Island offers a fly, drive (4WD only) or one-day boat tour option

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Shark Bay Tours & Things To Do Western Australia

Shark Bay has plenty of places to see and there are many proud locals who want to show you the sights. A tour guide will ensure you see all the secret spots and have the best trip possible. Tours are a great social activity and a chance to meet fellow travellers. It's also worth knowing what to see on your own and where to eat.

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For assistance with your booking call 1300 885 775 ( +61 8 9460 4900 )

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Mac Attack Fishing Charters Shar...

Wildsights 4WD Tours

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Ocean Park Aquarium

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A Perfect Nature Cruise on Arist...

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Leeuwin Ocean Adventure

Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery and Visitor Centre

53 Knight Terrace, Denham WA 6537, Australia

We are located on 53 Knight Terrace in Denham, feel free to drop in for some itinerary planning tips, local knowledge, free booking services and maps.

Bluejuice Charters - Monkey Mia/ Shark Bay Charter

19 Koorana Road, Mullaloo, WA 6025

Monkey Mia Road, Denham WA 6537, Australia

The Airport is situated the Monkey Mia road seven kilometres from town of Denham. Shark Bay Aviation proudly operates from the Shark Bay Airport.

55 Knight Terrace, Denham WA 6537, Australia

Denham, WA, 6537, Australia

3 Leeds Court, Shark Bay WA 6537, Australia

Mac Attack Fishing Charters Shark Bay

55 Knight Terrace, Denham WA 6537 Australia

Conveniently located in the heart of town and operating from the main jetty in Denham.

2 Denham Road, Denham WA 6537

4WD Tours, guests will be collected from their place of accommodation in Denham, or met at the Wildsights booking office in Monkey Mia.

64 / 269 Hay Street, East Perth WA 6004 Australia

Near the Perth Gold Mint. Unit 64/269 Hay Street, East Perth WA 6004 Aussie Perth Tours

1 Ocean Park Road, Shark Bay, WA, 6537, Australia.

From Geraldton follow the highway North until you reach the Overlander Roadhouse. Turn left at the Overlander. Continue on this road for 120km. Ocean park is sign posted clearly on the ocean side of the road.

26 Hartog Crescent Denham WA 6537, Australia

Shark Bay Dive and Marine Safaris

Shark Bay Dive & Marine Safaris is based at Ocean Park Aquarium approximately 8km south of Denham and approximately 30km from Monkey Mia on Shark Bay Road. Located on Western Australia’s rugged and spectacular west coast, Shark Bay Dive & Marine Safaris is the most western PADI Dive Centre in Australia.

Dirk Hartog Island, Shark Bay, Western Australia, 6537, Australia

Dirk Hartog Island offers a fly, drive (4WD only) or one-day boat tour option

Shark Bay 4WD Tours is based at Ocean Park Aquarium approximately 8km south of Denham and approximately 30km from Monkey Mia on Shark Bay Road. Located on Western Australia’s rugged and spectacular west coast, Shark Bay 4WD has over a decade of experience running 4WD Eco-Tours in the Shark Bay World Heritage area.

A Perfect Nature Cruise on Aristocat 2

1 Monkey Mia Road, Monkey Mia, WA, 6537, Australia

Nicholson Point, Shark Bay, WA, 6537, Australia

Wula Gura Nyinda Eco Cultural Adventures

53 Knight Terrace, Denham, WA 6537 Australia

Batavia Coast Marina, Geraldton WA 6530 Australia

Your departure point is at the Batavia Coast Marina on the central foreshore in Geraldton.

FREMANTLE B Berth, Peter Hughes Drive

The Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation is located in B Shed, Victoria Quay and is easily accessible by foot or the free CAT buses.

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Shark Bay Dive and Marine Safaris

SUNSET WILDLIFE CRUISE

SHARK BAY WORLD HERITAGE AREA

About the tour

Join us for an afternoon cruise to see the “Big Five” of Shark Bay – Dugongs, Turtles, Rays, Dolphins and of course Sharks. These tours depart from Denham every day 2.5 hours before sunset. BYO food and drinks. A great and inexpensive way for visitors of Denham to spend an afternoon wildlife spotting then watching the sunset over the ocean.

Tours last about 2.5 hours

• Meet at Denham Commercial Jetty 15 minutes prior to departure
• Departs times vary throughout the year, contact us to get specific times.

Our Vessels

Why choose us.

With over a decade running eco tours in Shark Bay, we pride ourselves on our level of service. We take small groups of people to some of the most pristine areas in Western Australia.

All tours are subject to weather conditions and minimum numbers. Please Note: We cannot guarantee the sightings marine wildlife. Nature is unpredictable. We will however guarantee that we will do everything in our power to find marine wildlife and give you a great day out. There will be no refund for the absence of marine wildlife

Children $55 (AGES 1-16 YEARS OLD) CHILDREN UNDER 4 PLEASE CONTACT BEFORE BOOKING

Other Marine Adventures

Full Day Marine Safari

Join us on an action-packed full day tour exploring the remarkable Shark Bay Marine Park from both above and below the water! The Marine Safari aims to provide our guests with the ultimate Shark Bay experience.

Pearl Farm Tour

Leaving from Monkey Mia, hope on the Sea Strider and jet over to one of the only working Pearl Farms in Shark Bay. See how they are harvested through a process that takes years. Then enjoy your cruise back to Monkey Mia while searching for local wildlife!

Ocean Park Aquarium

Experience the wide variety of biodiversity from the comfort of land! Embark of a guided tour of the Ocean Park Aquarium and witness creatures you never could imagine, including the Shark Feeding!

Kayaking Tour

Kayaking tour & wildlife adventure, little lagoon | big lagoon | francois peron national park.

Prices & Booking Details

Kayaking Tour Overview

What's included.

Enjoy a fun filled day with lots of wildlife on this amazing kayaking adventure exploring the magnificent Shark Bay World Heritage Area. This tour is very educational and explores why Shark Bay is listed as a World Heritage Area and why local Aboriginal people refer to the area as a 'strong spiritual place'.

After we pick you up, we enjoy a comfortable 4wd adventure to our kayaking destination. Along the way we stop to look for bush foods and learn about medicinal plants and uses, animal tracking and much more.

Once we arrive at our kayaking destination, we unload the kayaks, put on our safety vests and conduct a safety induction then paddle out across beautiful crystal clear waters. Spot turtles, rays, sharks, fish, birds and the elusive dugong when in season and other amazing marine life. Enjoy a relaxing swim or a casual snorkel in one of the many beautiful shallow bays or walk through spectacular landscapes.

This tour is conducted with a hands-on approach and is suitable for all ages. It finishes with a relaxing soak in the hot tub at Peron Homestead, before we drop you off at your accommodation fully satisfied.

Other Tours

Shark bay world heritage walks, steep point camping tour, kayaking & wildlife tours, stand-up paddleboard tour.

Western Australia's Shark Bay seabeds are a ticking carbon time bomb, says scientist

Australia's zero greenhouse gas ambitions could be set back if a vast reserve of carbon stored in a seabed off Western Australia is released into the atmosphere, according to a leading marine ecologist.

World Heritage-listed Shark Bay has the planet's largest reserve of seagrass meadows, but more than a quarter were lost in a marine heatwave in 2011.

Only 10 per cent has recovered and research shows the massive carbon deposits under the exposed areas are at risk of release during heavy storms.

Marine ecologist Gary Kendrick, professor of marine biology and plant ecology at the University of WA's Oceans Institute and School of Biological Sciences, has been studying Shark Bay since 1982.

He said the organic carbon captured under seagrass was 10 times greater than that stored under a rainforest of equivalent size and restoration of the lost seagrass meadows at Shark Bay was urgently needed.

"We lost over 1,300 square kilometres of seagrasses in the system that were capping all that organic carbon in the sediment, so now when storms come they disturb the sediment [and] release all of that buried carbon," Professor Kendrick said.

"So you have a CO2 pulse going into the atmosphere.

"That's not industrial, not human-derived and that's not calculated in the Australian government's calculation of our annual production of carbon dioxide. It's extra."

Professor Kendrick recently completed a 1-hectare trial restoring seagrass using sand-filled hessian tubes to stimulate growth.

He is frustrated a fully-funded plan to expand this work to 100 hectares has been unable to get WA government approval.

Disappearing dugongs

BHP is supporting the proposed $2 million project, which would be undertaken by divers from Shark Bay-based Indigenous sea cucumber company Tidal Moon.

Professor Kendrick said BHP recognised the potential for offsetting greenhouse gas emissions with marine-based "blue" carbon.

He said there was also huge potential for ongoing corporate and government funding for ecosystems services because the restoration would have a positive impact on Shark Bay's globally important biodiversity and commercial fisheries.

The project funding was locked in more than a year ago and an application lodged with the state government nine months ago. It had been revised three times without consent granted.

"This is so urgent it should have been done two years ago," he said.

A marine charter operator at Monkey Mia is also frustrated with the WA government's slow response to seagrass restoration.

Greg Ridgley's charter company, Perfect Nature Tours, helped the initial University of WA restoration trial.

He is keen to expand the work to a commercial scale with the help of corporate and private sponsorship.

"We're not interested in making money at all — all we want is to get the grass growing out here," Mr Ridgley said.

He said his company was only permitted to do research-scale restoration, but the lost seagrass meadows were already affecting populations of marine creatures, including dolphins, sharks and stingrays, which attract tourists.

"The particular bank we want to work on is probably the best dugong feeding bank on the planet," he said.

"Well it was, and we used to go out there and look at ... 40 or 50 dugongs around the boat. Now you're lucky to have three or four or five."

Flow on benefits for jobs, sea cucumbers

A WA government spokesperson said several restoration and recovery trials were being assessed.

"Any approval for ongoing restoration will be based on monitoring results of the trial and the proponent's effective demonstration of capacity to deliver on their project's objectives in an environmentally and socially acceptable way," the spokesperson said.

The chief executive officer of Tidal Moon, Michael Wear, said the potential for ongoing funding could provide much-needed training and employment for the Malgana people of Shark Bay.

He said research in Tanzania showed a symbiotic relationship between seagrass and sea cucumbers.

If University of WA studies proved the same closed-loop relationship in Shark Bay, it could open the potential to expand his company's sea cucumber wild harvest to a sustainable sea ranching operation, he said.

Mr Wear also believes fewer young people would have to leave their traditional country for employment opportunities.

"The whole purpose of what we're trying to do is create that middle class and you can only do it with jobs — jobs and employment training opportunities," he said.

A prominent Perth businessman said it was time for the WA government to support private philanthropy to fill scientific gaps at Shark Bay.

Jock Clough headed the construction giant Clough Engineering until his family sold the business in 2005.

He then studied marine biology and is now chair of the University of WA's Oceans Institute and owns property in Shark Bay, which was used as a base for marine scientists.

He said Shark Bay was unique because it was where temperate and tropical systems merged.

He said a lack of development and the bay's near-pristine condition made it perfect for studying the impacts of climate change.

"This is going to be my biggest private investment and I want to lean on my mates to get involved as well," Mr Clough said.

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