Whale shark congregations in the waters off Qatar’s northeast coast happen until September, and travelers to Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara can take advantage of the property’s partnership with Discover Qatar to see these majestic creatures up close. New whale excursions aboard a high-speed catamaran depart five times weekly from Al Ruwais Port in Qatar.

Make yourself comfortable on the deck of the excursion boat for a two-hour viewing session in the company of a whale shark expert from Discover Qatar, who provides an interactive lecture and answers questions about these giant sea creatures. A professional photographer also accompanies the expedition, and a continental breakfast and sandwich lunch buffet will be served. Luxury catamarans also feature WiFi and wall-mounted televisions.

Back at the resort, test your skills in the newly renovated surfing pool, where two extra-wide lanes provide artificial ocean waves. Professionally trained attendants are there to monitor your experience. Book a private surfing lesson or reserve a lane in advance for your family and friends. The surfing pool is open 10 a.m.–10 p.m. daily.

When you’ve had enough of ripping through the pool’s waves, head to the spa to enjoy a heavenly massage in one of the peaceful treatment rooms, each equipped with its own steam bath. The spa also offers a Thai massage suite, Moroccan and Turkish hammams with an indoor plunge pool, a flotation pod, sauna, ice well and an Aemotio experiential spa cabin. Banana Island is located on the coast off of downtown Doha.