About This Trip
- Snorkel alongside humpback whale mother and calf pairs in their calving and breeding grounds—an experience found in only a handful of places on Earth.
- Enjoy six full days of snorkeling with the goal of in-water whale encounters in the tropical waters surrounding Vavaʻu, Tonga. Opportunities for mid-day snorkeling among Tonga’s colorful coral reefs.
- Observe intimate whale behaviors—breaching, singing, nursing, and courting—guided by expert naturalists and local whale experts.
- Explore Vavaʻu’s Polynesian culture, with time to visit local markets and restaurants.
- Named one of National Geographic Traveler's "50 Tours of a Lifetime".
Why Tonga? A Humpback Whale Breeding Ground
Tonga is one of the few places on Earth where you can swim with humpback whales, thanks to its warm waters and strict, low-impact ecotourism regulations that help protect both whales and swimmers in open ocean conditions.
Every year from July through November, endangered Southern Hemisphere humpback whales migrate from their Antarctic feeding grounds to Tonga’s tropical waters to mate, give birth, and nurse their calves. The proximity of whales to shore in Vavaʻu makes it one of the few places in the world where swimming with these giants—under licensed, respectful guidance—is not only possible but profoundly moving.
Humpback whales, once devastated by commercial whaling, remain listed as endangered in parts of the world. The sub-population known as the “Tongan Tribe” was estimated to number as few as 250 individuals before Tonga declared all of its waters a whale sanctuary in 1978—one of the first countries in the world to do so. Thanks to decades of protection and ongoing conservation efforts, this population has grown to the low thousands, with hundreds of whales returning to Tonga each season.
Tonga is one of only a few places globally where swimming with humpback whales is legally permitted—and it stands apart for its strong eco-tourism regulations and respect for whale well-being. Vavaʻu, in particular, has developed a global reputation for responsible, small-scale whale tourism that emphasizes conservation, education, and deep connection with nature.
Beyond its marine wonders, Tonga is rich in Polynesian heritage and hospitality. You’ll have the opportunity to visit local markets, dine in family-run restaurants, and experience the island’s culture through meaningful community interactions.
Go Beneath the Surface with Tonga Whales
Our expedition centers around the opportunity to respectfully observe and swim with humpback whales, particularly mother-and-calf pairs that linger in Vavaʻu to rest and build strength before the long migration south.
Travelers often witness a range of behaviors, including tail slapping, spy-hopping, pectoral fin waving, and full breaches. On occasion, it’s possible to hear the ethereal sounds of male whales singing—an unforgettable moment for many travelers.
All swims follow strict guidelines that prioritize whale safety and limit distress, as well as yours. Our experienced crew and naturalist guides work together to maximize your chances of meaningful encounters while ensuring we align with Tonga’s eco-tourism regulations.
In addition to the whales, we’ll explore Tonga’s flourishing coral reefs, home to hard and soft corals, reef fish, and an array of colorful invertebrates. While snorkeling, sightings have included dolphins, spotted eagle rays, sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, pilot whales, and more. Each day includes time for reef exploration and marine life observation, adding depth to this already extraordinary marine wildlife experience.
Have Questions? Read our Tonga Humpback Whale FAQs
Note: Good swimming ability in open ocean waters and some strength is required in order to participate in this expedition. If you are lacking in these areas, sea conditions could impact your total time in the water; the guides and captain will make these determinations for your safety.
Trip Cost Details
Includes: transfers upon arrival and departure, accommodations, daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner, activities and excursions listed in itinerary
Does Not Include: airfare to or from destination, accommodations like a limited single supplement of $1,350, optional trip extensions, trip cancellation or travel insurance, visas when applicable, alcoholic beverages, and gratuities.
Click here for more detailed trip cost information or read our full expedition terms and conditions.
Conservation Impact
As a nonprofit organization founded in 1969, Oceanic Society has been a leader in ocean conservation and ecotourism for over 50 years. Our travel programs are designed not just to inspire, but to directly support our mission: creating a more oceanic world through conservation, education, and responsible travel. This expedition reflects our commitment to ethical wildlife travel. We operate in full alignment with Tonga’s strict whale swim regulations, which are among the most thoughtful and conservation-minded in the world. In addition, for every traveler, we sponsor the removal of 200 lbs. of plastic from coastal environments around the world. Your participation directly supports our global efforts to protect marine life and promote healthier oceans. Dive deeper into our innovative travel approach here.
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to the South Pacific
Arrive in Vavaʻu, Tonga after crossing the International Date Line and a transfer through Nadi, Fiji. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to our beachfront accommodations, where you’ll settle in and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Days 2–6: Swimming with Whales and Exploring the Reefs of Vavaʻu
Each morning we’ll set out by private boat into the calm, tropical waters surrounding Vavaʻu to search for Tonga’s visiting humpback whales. These full days are immersive and unforgettable—patiently watching, listening, and when the opportunity arises, slipping into the water for respectful swims alongside these gentle giants.
When conditions allow, you may find yourself face to face with a 40-ton mother resting beside her playful calf, or witness a curious juvenile slowly circling nearby, eye to eye. From the surface or the boat, you’ll observe incredible whale behaviors—towering breaches, tail lobs, fin slaps, spy-hops, and possibly the haunting songs of nearby males echoing through the sea. We may also see the more competitive side of humpback behavior, as mature males jostle and chase in displays of strength and courtship.
In between whale swims, we’ll explore the region’s coral reefs, snorkeling through clear waters rich with marine life. Vavaʻu’s sheltered coves and reefs are home to large sea fans and a colorful array of reef fish and invertebrates. Above the waterline, keep your eyes peeled for seabirds like brown boobies, noddy terns, great frigatebirds, and herons gliding overhead or roosting on coastal outcroppings.
After spending 5–6 hours on the water—typically returning to shore in early afternoon—the remainder of the day is yours to rest and recharge. These are full, immersive days, and most travelers appreciate the opportunity to unwind after such an active morning. Whether that means a quiet moment by the water, a short beach walk, or simply relaxing at your accommodations, this built-in rest time allows you to recover and reflect after unforgettable wildlife encounters.
These five days are the heart of your journey—expertly guided and thoughtfully paced to maximize your chances for meaningful whale encounters, while connecting you to the rich biodiversity and beauty of Tonga's marine environment.
Day 7: Free Day for Exploration or Rest
Tonga observes Sunday as a national day of rest, and by law, no tours or commercial activities take place. But this pause is not a disruption—it’s a gift.
Use this day to reflect, rest, and reconnect. Walk the beach, snorkel nearby seagrass beds, kayak, or simply sit with a book in the sun. It’s also a quiet reminder of the rhythm of Tongan life—rooted in community, respect, and connection to both land and sea. This built-in stillness becomes a meaningful part of your experience, offering space to be fully present in the moment.
Day 8: One Last Swim
Enjoy one final full day on the water, with more chances to swim with humpback whales and explore coral reefs. This last outing is a celebration of everything you've seen, felt, and shared—an opportunity to say goodbye to the whales, the reefs, and this magical part of the world.
Day 9: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to the Vavaʻu airport for your flight home or continue on with an optional trip extension. Depending on your flight schedule, you may cross the International Date Line and arrive back on the same calendar day.
Accommodations
Utungake Island (Vava'u), with Tongan Beach Resort in foreground. © Doug Perrine
Naturalist(s)
Your expedition will be led by one or more of the following expert naturalist guides:
Trip Extensions
Looking to extend your adventure beyond Tonga? We offer customizable pre- or post-trip extensions tailored to your interests, including additional snorkeling, birdwatching, or cultural experiences. Many travelers extend their journey to Snorkel Fiji’s Rainbow Reef, renowned for its vibrant reefs and rich marine life. Whether you want more time in the water or an off-the-beaten-path experience, our travel team can help craft an itinerary that fits your goals.
