LOSE YOURSELF... DISCOVER YOURSELF...
!Whale Watch & Swim
Swim with Humpback Whales in Vava'u, Tonga!
ENQUIRE & BOOK NOW
ExploreVavau@gmail.com
WhatsApp +676 849-1270
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should I Book?
We recommend booking early! Shared charters often fill up a year in advance, and private charters up to two or even three years ahead. Most guests secure their spot between August and November for the following whale season (July-October).
How Many Days Should I Book?
That's up to you! Some guests have an amazing experience in a single day, while others prefer 3 days or more to increase their chances of a variety of whale encounters. If you're planning a longer stay, we also offer discounts for 3+ and 5+ day bookings.
Will I Always See Whales?
Humpback whales migrate to Vava'u each year because it's an ideal environment for mating, birthing, and caring for their young. While we have rarely have days without swimming with whales--and even more rarely without sightings--there are no guarantees with wild animals. Our experienced skippers will do their best to get you into the water safely with the whales once they have settled.
Do I Need Any Certifications?
No certifications are required! All whale swims are done at the surface while snorkeling. SCUBA and free-diving aren't permitted here, so you simply need to be comfortable swimming at the surface and able to climb back up the ladder onto the boat.
How Many Guests Are On Board?
We keep things intimate: shared day charters have a maximum of 8 guests. In the water, we rotate 4 guests at a time with our licensed guide. While you wait for your turn in the water, it's a great opportunity to watch whale behaviour from the boat, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.
How Do I Make A Booking?
To book, simply click the BOOK NOW button and tell us how many people are coming and your preferred dates. Your spot is confirmed with a 25% non-refundable deposit.
How Do I Make Payments?
All invoices include a 15% Consumption Tax.
You can pay by credit card in Tongan Pa’anga (TOP) via Visa, MC, AMEX or bank transfer.
You can pay by Bank Transfer in TOP, USD, NZD, AUD currencies. (Please include your invoice number with transfer.)
Note: bank fees and currency exchange rates apply.
What About Crew Tips?
Gratuities are not included in the tour price, and there's no obligation to tip. If you do choose to, 10% - 20% of the tour cost is the typical range.
The tips go directly to the skipper and guide crew and are greatly appreciated!
What Is The Cancelation Policy?
~ Cancellations made 150+ days before arrival: loss of the 25% deposit.
~ Cancellations 150 days or less, or no-shows: 100% of invoice forfeited.
~ Group Bookings: Payments are forfeit at each of the 4 date thresholds. Dates are non-transferable.
~ Applies for all situations including health, weather, flight issues, pandemics, natural disasters, border closures, etc.
We strongly recommend appropriate travel cancellation and medical with evacuation insurance with pandemic coverage. Bookings can be transferred to another person (client-sourced) minus the original 25% deposit and cancellations must be in writing.
Can I Fly My Drone On Board?
Drones must be registered in Tonga and cleared through customs. There are strict regulations about flying near whales, airspace, and on a moving boat, so any drone use is at the skipper's discretion.
Can I Whale Watch On Sunday?
Sunday is quiet day in Tonga--no tours or flights operate. We recommend relaxing on a resort's beach, attending morning church to hear the lovely local singing, or simply enjoying a quiet day.
Are There Any Vaccine Requirements?
At this time there are no vaccine requirements to enter the Kingdom.
Need Help With Travel Plans?
Head over to the Travel Guide page for tips on flights, visas, accommodation, and more!