One of the most breathtaking experiences on a Lombok to Komodo sailing adventure is the chance to swim alongside китовые акулы in the waters of Салех Бэй — a remote and scenic bay on the coast of Sumbawa Island. Known for its calm turquoise seas and rich marine life, Saleh Bay offers a uniquely natural encounter with some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures.
Who Are the Whale Sharks?
Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are the largest fish in the ocean, capable of growing up to 12 meters (40 feet) or more, yet they are gentle filter feeders that feed mainly on plankton, tiny fish, and krill. Despite their enormous size, they pose no danger to humans, making them one of the most peaceful and awe-inspiring wildlife encounters you can have in the water.
Почему Салех-Бей особенный?
Saleh Bay — also referred to as Teluk Saleh — has gained a reputation as one of Indonesia’s emerging whale shark hotspots. Its nutrient-rich waters attract these giant fish naturally, especially around areas where local fishermen’s floating fish platforms (bagans) draw schools of smaller fish and plankton. This abundance of food brings whale sharks into the bay, often close to the surface where snorkelers and swimmers can see them in their natural habitat.
Unlike other places where whale sharks are fed regularly to attract them, Saleh Bay offers a more natural, wild encounter, making it a meaningful experience for travelers who prefer ethical wildlife tourism.
When and How You’ll See Them
Whale sharks can be spotted in Saleh Bay throughout the year, but your best chances are typically during the dry season (April to November), when weather conditions are calmer and visibility is clearer. Safari-style sailing itineraries from Lombok usually include an early morning visit to the bay, when whale sharks are more active near the surface.
Once a sighting is made, guests are given a safety briefing before entering the water with guidance from experienced crew members who know how to approach these gentle giants with respect and care.
Responsible Watching Rules
To protect both guests and the whale sharks’ well-being, operators follow a strict code of conduct:
- 🐋 Maintain distance — stay at least a few meters away from the body and tail.
- ❌ Do not touch — human contact can stress the animal and disrupt its protective skin layer.
- 📸 No flash photography — bright flashes can disturb the sharks.
- 🏊 Limit time in the water — respect their habitat and behavior.
These guidelines help ensure the encounter is safe, respectful, and sustainable — preserving the whale sharks’ natural behavior while giving travelers an unforgettable experience.
What to Expect on the Day
A typical whale shark encounter day on a Lombok to Komodo boat trip looks like this:
- Early Morning Sailing — The boat glides into Saleh Bay at dawn.
- Spotting from the Deck — Crew watch for signs of whale shark movement near the surface.
- Water Entry — Once a sighting is confirmed, snorkelers enter the calm waters.
- Respectful Viewing — Float quietly and observe the whale shark glide by.
- Return to Boat — After the encounter, you return to the boat for the next leg of your journey.
Seeing these majestic animals swim effortlessly beneath you is often described as humbling, peaceful, and deeply memorable — a moment that many travelers consider a highlight of their Indonesian voyage.
Beyond Whale Sharks
Saleh Bay is not only about whale sharks — the wider Lombok to Комодо sailing route also includes unforgettable stops such as Остров Комодо (home of the Komodo dragon), Padar Island’s scenic lookout, and the rare Розовый пляж, among others. Each day at sea brings new landscapes and wildlife experiences.
Заключительная мысль
Swimming with whale sharks in Салех Бэй is a powerful reminder of the beauty and complexity of marine life. This ethical wildlife encounter — set against the backdrop of remote islands, open seas, and sunrise horizons — elevates a Komodo sailing adventure into something truly extraordinary.
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