swimming pool
Swimming with Whale Sharks in Gorontalo: An Unforgettable Experience
Visiting Gorontalo was one of the most extraordinary experiences of my life. This hidden paradise in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, offered me a rare opportunity to swim alongside the majestic whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean. Unlike many other places where whale sharks can only be seen in deep waters, Gorontalo provided a unique and accessible encounter just a short distance from the shore.
My journey began with a trip to Botubarani Village, located in Kabila Bone District, Bone Bolango Regency. The village was only 10 kilometers from Gorontalo City, and after a 30-minute drive, I finally arrived. As I stood by the shore, excitement filled the air. The thought of seeing these gentle giants up close felt almost surreal. What made this place so special was how close the whale sharks swam to the beach—just 25 to 30 meters away. I knew I wouldn’t need to venture far to witness them in their natural habitat.
As I entered the water, I felt a mix of anticipation and awe. The ocean stretched endlessly before me, its deep blue depths hiding secrets I had yet to discover. Then, out of nowhere, a massive shadow emerged. My heart raced as a whale shark glided gracefully towards me, its spotted skin shimmering under the sunlight. Despite its immense size, it moved with such elegance and calmness, completely undisturbed by my presence. I floated beside it, mesmerized by its peaceful nature. Unlike predatory sharks, whale sharks are filter feeders, consuming only plankton and small fish. This made it possible for snorkelers like me to swim alongside them without fear.
Beyond the whale sharks, Gorontalo’s underwater world amazed me even further. I encountered the famous Salvador Dali sponge, a rare coral formation with bizarre, flowing patterns that resembled surrealist artwork. Schools of vibrant fish darted around me, and in the distance, I spotted a tiny pygmy seahorse camouflaged among the coral. The underwater landscape was breathtaking, with dramatic coral walls, caves, and tunnels waiting to be explored.
While my encounter with the whale sharks was exhilarating, I also became aware of the importance of conservation. These magnificent creatures are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), facing threats such as illegal fishing and habitat destruction. In Gorontalo, strict guidelines were in place to protect them—touching, feeding, or disturbing the whale sharks was strictly prohibited. I was impressed by the efforts of local fishermen and researchers who worked tirelessly to educate visitors and monitor the whale shark population.
After my time in the ocean, I immersed myself in Gorontalo’s rich culture. I visited traditional markets, where friendly locals welcomed me with warm smiles. I also had the chance to taste Binte Biluhuta, a delicious local corn soup with shrimp and fish. Every aspect of my visit, from the marine adventure to the cultural experience, deepened my appreciation for this incredible place.
As I left Gorontalo, I carried with me not just memories, but a newfound respect for the ocean and its inhabitants. Swimming with whale sharks was more than just an adventure—it was a humbling and transformative journey. The experience reminded me of the importance of preserving marine life so that future generations could continue to marvel at these wonders. For anyone seeking a truly unforgettable experience, Gorontalo is a place where the magic of the ocean comes to life.
By: Bayu Agus Saputro
Write and Win: Participate in Creative writing Contest & International Essay Contest and win fabulous prizes.
About the Author
