30th September - 8th October 2024
Kingdom of Tonga
swimming with whales
For more informations
A small hidden gem in the south Pacific A birthing and mating place for Humpback whales. The close and gentle encounters of these majestic animals are a unique experience.
The Kingdom of Tonga is a hidden gem in the South Pacific, a lush group of islands surround by thriving tropical reefs and clear blue water. Between August and October Humpback whales come to the archipelago of Tonga to give birth and mate. This spectacle of epic proportions gives photographers the chance to observe Humpback whale behaviour in their natural environment.
Humpback whales are curious creatures and underwater encounters are often quite close and unique. For anyone passionate about whales, this is a must see event that can be life changing for many people.
The crystal clear waters of Tonga are the perfect place for snorkelers to swim with humpbackwhales nurturing mothers teaching their calves how to be whales.
This is a land-based expedition where you stay in a hotel or resort and go out for daily expeditions on the water. These tours, with a small group of maximum 6 guests, and extremely experienced crew, give you the best chance to interact with the humpback calves and mothers in the crystal clear water around the Islands. We keep a safe distance of the animals and will only go in the water with a few people at a time to make sure we don’t disturb the whales.
Every morning we embark at 7:00am for a full day of swimming with Humpback whales, stopping only for lunch or to explore the coral gardens, impressive caves and abundant marine life that Tonga has to offer. You will encounter boisterous males, nurturing females and energetic calves. With a bit of luck you might also see large groups of pursuant males on a heat run, or experience the eery beauty of a singing male.
These gentle giants of the sea give birth in the tropical waters of Vava’u to ensure the safety of their new born calves. You will witness the bond between mother and calf and the unique behaviour that can only be experienced by observing these amazing creatures in their natural environment.
Early pickup from your resort for a day of whale watching & snorkelling.
We embark every day from your resort for a full day of swimming with Humpback whales, stopping only for lunch and to admire this marine sanctuary and snorkel pristine coral reefs. You will encounter boisterous males, nurturing females and energetic calves, and may be lucky enough to join large groups of pursuant males on a heat run, or experience the eery beauty of a singing male. We jump in with those we think will be approachable and interactive. Lunch depends on the whales, but we try and stop in a number of snorkelling spots each day.
In the afternoon you will return to your resort for a warm shower before you venture out for dinner in Neiafu
Leisure day – Sunday’s are a time for rest in Tonga and most places are closed except for the café’s. You can still spend the day exploring the islands, snorkelling near your resort or just relaxing on a beach.
Early pickup from your resort for a day of whale watching & snorkelling.
Anytime – Humpback whales, and also the opportunity to jump in with other wildlife if we spot anything. On previous trips we have encountered everything from Sperm whales, to Manta rays, to Whale sharks, to Pilot whales. When we’re ready for a break, we’ll have lunch before snorkelling pristine coral reefs.
In the afternoon you will return to your resort for a warm shower before you venture out for dinner in Neiafu.
Departure after breakfast to go to the airport.
Goodbye Tonga.
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