Category: SDG14: Life Below Water

By: Ryan Hill, Canada

It was 6:00 a.m. when I was woken up by a beautiful bird song. I quickly jumped out of bed to look out my window to see if I could catch a glimpse of the bird with the enchanting call. To my eyes’ amazement I saw three birds with an array of colours. I learned that they were the awe-inspiring Rainbow Lorikeets. I knew today was going to be a magical day when I had the pleasure of witnessing one of Australia’s incredible animals. It was now time for me to get ready for a very special wildlife adventure.

In the Ningaloo Reef’s crystal clear waters swims a majestic creature. It has been on earth for over 65 million years. The Whale Shark (Rhincodon Typus), often referred to as “the sea puppies of the ocean”, have sadly become an endangered species. Overfishing, bycatch, vessel strikes, targeted fisheries and unsustainable tourism, have decreased their population significantly. The Whale part of its name demonstrates its enormous size and the Shark part of its name indicates that it is a fish. 

I had always dreamt about swimming with the Whale Sharks and I was fortunate enough to be able to swim with these gentle giants, with an ECO Certified, EcoStar accredited tour company. It was a beautiful blue sky with the sun shining a brilliant golden yellow on the palm trees. As the bus pulled up to take me to the boat, I couldn’t help but do a little happy dance in anticipation of what I knew would be an unforgettable day. I eagerly hopped on the small boat that was waiting for me at the dock, which took me to the main boat.

I was so pumped and excited when I finally stepped on to the tour boat. I quickly put on my wetsuit and snorkeling gear, as we drove to the middle of the oceans Ningaloo Reef. The boat slowed down and finally came to a stop, which meant a Whale Shark had been spotted. I jumped in to the water and instantly felt at home and in absolute peace. I put my face in the water and looked down, when I saw this gigantic, breathtaking, adorable, magical Whale Shark. Its gentle eyes looked at me as I swam beside it, as it calmly and slowly swam along its path. Its skin was smooth and shiny and its elegant design of polkadots were mesmerizing. I was so grateful that this beautiful wild animal let me swim with them and be a small part of their day. I knew that night that I would have amazing dreams about the magic that I witnessed and experienced and that it truly was one of the best days of my life.

I learned during my day on the boat that we can do something to help save the Whale Sharks. By respecting the ocean, reducing unsustainable seafood consumption, protecting Whale Shark habitats, discouraging Shark finning and supporting research and conservation groups, we can all help in keeping these amazing animals in our oceans for a very long time.