Whale Swim Tours

Discover the magic of swimming with Humpback whales in Vava'u, Tonga!

Enjoy one of the world's most unforgettable marine adventures--swim with majestic Humpback whales in the pristine waters of the Vava'u Island Group.

This is a bucket-list experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike!

Tour Times

Shared day charters depart at 7AM from our Neiafu dock. Please arrive to our Fungamisi base by 6:45 AM to start your day on the water smoothly.

Most tours return between 1 PM and 3 PM, depending on how the day goes.

If you have a late afternoon flight, you may still enjoy the whale watch & swim.

Whale Encounters

Every whale encounter is unique.

From the boat, witness magnificent breaches above the water.

For underwater views, snorkel at the surface in a small group of 4, slipping in gently alongside your licensed guide.

As wild animals, the whales dictate the duration of interactions, which vary.

Optional Snorkeling

After your whale experience is finished for the day, you might have time for an extra stop to snorkel among vibrant reefs and fascinating marine life at places like the Coral Gardens,

Swallow's Cave, or Mariner's Cave.

Additional snorkeling is solely at the discretion of the skipper.

Gear Included

Explore Vava'u offers snorkels, masks, fins, and 3mm shorty wetsuits to wear while in the water, free of charge.

You are welcome to bring your own gear if you prefer. We also supply neoprene boat jackets for your to wear on board for cooler days on the water.

Whale Season

The best time to join us for whale watching and swimming

is July through October.

The Antarctic Humpback whales

migrate to Vava'u's warm, sheltered waters to mate, give birth, and

nurture calves--often offering remarkable moments that make memories for a lifetime.

Explore Vava'u takes tour bookings

1 July through mid to late-October.

Lunch On Board

Enjoy a relaxed lunch on the boat

or on a beach, with snacks,

hot water for coffee and tea, and plenty of fresh drinking water included.

Please let us know of food allergies or strict dietary requirements at the time of booking so we can cater for you.

Regulations

Your safety--and the whales'

wellbeing--come first.

We follow the Ministry's 2013 Whale Swim Regulations and additional guidelines to ensure respectful, responsible wildlife encounters (for example, no scuba diving or free-diving with the whales.) This protects the whales' natural behaviour while still giving you amazing photo and video opportunities from the surface.

Safety Tips

Before departure, your guide will give a quick boat and water safety briefing. Stay well hydrated and protect your skin with reef-safe sunscreen.

If you're prone to seasickness,

please prepare accordingly

so your day stays enjoyable.

Your Adventure

Ready to make incredible memories?

Fill in your name, email, travel dates, and number of guests to enquire about availability and secure your spot for

this once-in-a-lifetime

bucket-list experience.