Exploring Saleh Bay: Swim with the Gentle Giants of Sumbawa

In the heart of Sumbawa Island lies one of Indonesia’s most awe-inspiring natural attractions Saleh Bay. Known as the home of the gentle giants, this vast bay is a sanctuary where travelers can swim side by side with whale sharks, the world’s largest fish.

Beyond its marine wonder, Saleh Bay is surrounded by local life, vibrant fish farms, and peaceful coastal landscapes that make it one of the most unique destinations in Eastern Indonesia. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, a journey to Saleh Bay promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

How Big Is Saleh Bay and Where Is It Located?

Saleh Bay (Teluk Saleh) is an enormous natural bay located in central Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara. Stretching over 1,500 square kilometers, it is one of the largest bays in Indonesia. The bay is protected by a series of small islands and peninsulas, creating calm waters that attract both marine life and local fishermen.

This bay sits roughly halfway between Lombok and Flores, making it an easy addition to your itinerary if you are exploring the Lombok–Komodo route.

The Habitat of Whale Sharks

Saleh Bay has become internationally known for its population of whale sharks (Rhincodon typus). These gentle giants are commonly found near floating fish platforms known as bagang.

The whale sharks are drawn to the area because of the abundance of plankton and small fish released accidentally by fishermen at the bagang. Unlike many other places where whale shark sightings are seasonal, in Saleh Bay they can often be seen all year round, making it one of the most reliable places in Indonesia to meet them.

The Bagang: Floating Fish Farms That Feed the Giants

Around Saleh Bay, there are more than 100 bagang traditional floating fish farms built from wood and bamboo. Fishermen use powerful lights at night to attract schools of small fish such as anchovies and sardines.

These platforms play an important role in the ecosystem because the whale sharks feed on the leftovers or spilled catch from these bagang. The fishermen and whale sharks have developed a peaceful coexistence; the fishermen welcome the sharks as a blessing, while the sharks enjoy a reliable source of food.

If you visit in the early morning, you can often see these massive creatures circling beneath the platforms, waiting for breakfast as fishermen begin their work.

Snorkeling and Swimming with Whale Sharks

Swimming with a whale shark in Saleh Bay is one of the most extraordinary experiences a traveler can have. Despite their massive size  some reaching up to 10 meters long  whale sharks are completely harmless to humans. They move gracefully and calmly, feeding only on plankton, krill, and small fish.

Visitors can jump into the water with a mask and snorkel and watch these majestic animals glide peacefully below. The visibility in Saleh Bay is generally good, and because the water is calm, even beginner swimmers can enjoy this activity safely.

It’s important to always follow the safety guidelines:

• Never touch or chase the whale sharks.
• Keep a respectful distance (at least 3 meters).
• Do not use flash photography underwater.

By respecting these rules, you help protect the natural behavior of the whale sharks and ensure that future generations can enjoy the same experience.

What Do Whale Sharks Eat Daily?

Despite their intimidating size, whale sharks are filter feeders. They consume primarily plankton, krill, small fish, and squid. In Saleh Bay, they are particularly fond of the small fish and shrimp that gather around the bagang platforms.

Every day, they swim gently beneath these floating farms, opening their massive mouths to filter water and collect tiny prey. Watching them feed is a fascinating sight a reminder of how nature works in harmony with the local fishing tradition.

How to Go to Saleh Bay

There are two main ways to reach Saleh Bay and experience swimming with whale sharks:

By Sailing Trip (Most Recommended)

The best and most scenic way to visit Saleh Bay is through a 4D3N sailing trip organized by Bose Company through komodoexplore.com.

This sailing adventure usually starts from Labuan Bajo or and Lombok, taking you across the stunning islands of Komodo National Park and westward or eastward to/from Sumbawa. During the trip, you’ll have the chance to visit iconic destinations such as Padar Island, Komodo Island, and Pink Beach, before finally reaching Saleh Bay for the whale shark encounter.

With komodoexplore.com, you can choose the style of your trip:

• 🛳️ Private Boat Tour – exclusive for your group, perfect for families or couples.
• 🚢 Open Luxury Boat Tour – enjoy premium comfort and meet new travelers.
• ⛵ Backpacker Low-Cost Boat Tour – an affordable adventure with shared accommodation.

All of these packages are managed by Bose, ensuring safety, comfort, and memorable service throughout your journey.

By Land and Local Boat

If you’re traveling from Lombok or Sumbawa, you can also reach Saleh Bay by car. From Lombok, take the public ferry to Poto Tano Harbor (about 2 hours), then drive to Labuhan Jambu Village in Sumbawa Besar Regency the main departure point for whale shark tours.

From there, local fishermen offer small boat charters to the bagang areas where the whale sharks usually appear in the morning. This option is ideal for independent travelers who prefer a shorter trip or have limited time.

The Best Time to Visit

Although whale sharks can be seen throughout the year, the best time to visit Saleh Bay is between May and October, during the dry season. The sea is calmer, the visibility underwater is excellent, and the chance of spotting multiple whale sharks at once is higher.

Early morning (around 6:00–8:00 AM) is the most active feeding time, the perfect moment for snorkeling and photography.

Final Thoughts

Saleh Bay is more than just a travel destination  it’s a rare meeting place between humans and the gentle giants of the sea. Watching the harmony between the local fishermen, the floating bagang, and the majestic whale sharks is a reminder of how beautifully balanced nature can be when treated with respect.

Whether you arrive by luxury sailing trip from Labuan Bajo or take a local route from Sumbawa, one thing is certain: swimming with whale sharks in Saleh Bay will be one of the most unforgettable memories of your life.

So, when you’re ready for your next adventure, set your course with Bose at komodoexplore.com and dive into the magic of Saleh Bay, where every wave tells a story and every encounter leaves your heart full of wonder.