This is considered the ultimate dive for most divers. The whale shark is a gentle and trusting diving partner. This shark is said to be the biggest fish in the world. Whale sharks breathe through gills and are cold blooded. This is in contrast to warm blooded mammals such as whales and dolphins who breathe through lungs.

These large fish don't like aggressive behavior and will not stay around if divers are too rambunctious. This means they don't like to be touched or chased. They are very friendly and will hang out with divers if not agitated. The whale shark is easy to recognize because it is so large. It has a two tone pattern with light spots and lines over dark brown skin. Some whale sharks have skin over ten centimeters thick.

There are many diving companies that will take divers to areas where whale sharks hang out. Snorkeling with the whale sharks is also offered on many of the diving websites.

Some of the best places in the world to go diving with the whale sharks are in the Philippines, South Africa, Belize, Honduras, Mexico and Western Australia. During the months of February and May, whale sharks can be seen in Phuket. The adult whale shark is a solitary fish and there is no information on how they find each other. The younger whale sharks tend to live in small groups and are not seen very often.

Ironically, the only predator the adult whale shark has to be afraid of is humans. It has no other natural enemies.