Coral Bay's First All-Electric Luxury Tour
A New Way to Experience the
Southern Ningaloo Reef
There’s a new way to explore one of the world’s most extraordinary marine environments - and it’s changing the game for eco-tourism in Western Australia.
For over a decade, Ocean Eco Adventures has been at the forefront of sustainable marine tourism on Western Australia’s Coral Coast. Family-owned and based in Exmouth, their philosophy has always been simple: to enrich people’s lives through extraordinary marine encounters - combining professional excellence, safety, and genuine care for the environment.
Now, they’re charting a bold new course in eco-tourism with the launch of Coral Bay Exclusive - an entirely new experience aboard Wirraji, Australia’s first electric ocean-going charter vessel.
Launching in 2026, this is more than just another tour. It’s a defining moment for the world heritage listed, Ningaloo Coast, setting a new benchmark for how we explore, connect with, and protect one of the world’s most extraordinary marine environments.
Meet Wirraji: Quiet, Elegant, and Electric
Graceful, efficient, and completely electric - Wirraji is a symbol of what’s next for sustainable marine exploration. Powered by cutting-edge technology, she glides silently across the turquoise lagoons of the southern Ningaloo Reef, leaving nothing but gentle ripples behind.
Designed for just 12 guests, Wirraji offers a boutique, small-group experience where space, comfort, and connection take centre stage. With open decks, shaded lounges, and a serene atmosphere, you can fully immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the ocean - without the hum of engines or the bustle of crowds.
Every element of Wirraji’s design - from her renewable power systems to her onboard service - reflects a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and comfort, proving that comfort and conservation can truly go hand in hand.
A Typical Day with Coral Bay Exclusive
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Exmouth to Coral Bay, where Wirraji awaits. After a warm welcome and light breakfast, you’ll cruise into the southern reaches of Ningaloo - an area celebrated for its vibrant coral gardens and thriving marine life.
The first snorkel immerses you in a kaleidoscope of colour - swaying corals, curious reef fish, and the gentle rhythm of the underwater world. Back onboard, enjoy morning tea as the spotter plane soars above, guiding your crew to Coral Bay’s resident manta rays.
Once spotted, your crew will guide you into the water for a respectful, once-in-a-lifetime encounter with these majestic creatures. It’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression - serene, humbling, and unforgettable.
Later, unwind in calm turquoise lagoons while a gourmet lunch is prepared onboard. Another snorkel reveals even more of the reef’s magic before Wirraji cruises back through the lagoon, with the late afternoon sun painting the ocean gold.
As the day winds down, raise a glass to an unforgettable experience - complete with professional photos to capture every breathtaking moment.
The Resident Manta Rays of Coral Bay
Conservation, Research & Remarkable Behaviours
One of the most awe-inspiring moments on your Coral Bay Exclusive journey is the chance to swim alongside one of Ningaloo’s Big 5, the resident manta rays. These graceful giants are more than just a highlight - they’re a symbol of the reef’s thriving biodiversity and the importance of marine conservation.
Coral Bay is home to one of the world’s few known resident populations of reef manta rays (Mobula alfredi), making it a globally significant location for research and protection.
Thanks to ongoing research partnerships and aerial spotting techniques, Ocean Eco Adventures ensures encounters are respectful and non-intrusive. Scientists studying these rays have identified individuals by their unique belly markings, helping track their movements, health, and social behaviours over time.
Fun Facts About Manta Rays:
- Manta rays have the largest brain-to-body ratio of any fish, and they’re known for their curiosity and intelligence.
- They can reach wingspans of up to 4.5 metres yet glide effortlessly through the water.
- Mantas are filter feeders, consuming microscopic plankton by swimming with their mouths open.
- They often perform barrel rolls while feeding - a mesmerising sight for snorkellers.
By choosing Coral Bay Exclusive, you’re not just witnessing these majestic creatures - you’re supporting the conservation efforts that help protect them. Every encounter is a reminder of the delicate balance between tourism and stewardship, and the role we all play in preserving Ningaloo’s marine wonders.
Why Choose Coral Bay Exclusive
Coral Bay Exclusive isn’t just another day on the reef. It’s a carefully curated journey that combines luxury, sustainability, and authenticity:
- Electric-powered innovation: Travel aboard Wirraji, Australia’s first ocean-going electric charter vessel, designed to minimise environmental impact while maximising guest experience.
- Small-group intimacy: Limited to 12 guests, every encounter feels personal, unhurried, and deeply meaningful.
- Quiet cruising: Without engine noise, wildlife encounters feel more natural, and your connection to the ocean more profound.
- Sustainable leadership: Choosing Ocean Eco Adventures means supporting a business dedicated to protecting Ningaloo’s fragile ecosystems for future generations.
A New Chapter for Ningaloo Tourism
At Ocean Eco Adventures, the belief has always been that unforgettable experiences and environmental stewardship can - and should - coexist. Wirraji brings that belief to life, representing a turning point in how travellers engage with World Heritage-listed environments. The vessel allows Ocean Eco Adventures to continue to offer world-class wildlife interactions while ensuring that the pristine waters of Ningaloo remain just that - pristine.
Coral Bay Exclusive is more than an addition to the itinerary - it’s a vision for the future of sustainable tourism in Western Australia. A journey where luxury meets responsibility, where every ripple tells a story of respect, and where travellers leave with memories that inspire action and awe.
Join Ocean Eco Adventures aboard Wirraji and experience the Southern Ningaloo Reef - as peaceful as it is powerful, as sustainable as it is spectacular.
