DATES & AVAILABILITY
Choose your time in Tonga
Join us in Vava’u for seven nights and five days on the water with humpback whales.
Our expeditions run throughout Tonga’s humpback whale season, from July to October, with a maximum of six guests on each departure.
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To view Tour Dates click here
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Day 1 – Arrive in Vava'u
Arrive in Tonga, where you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your accommodation. In the evening, meet our professional team and the group for a welcome dinner and expedition briefing.
Days 2–4 – Swim with Humpback Whales
Spend three full days on the water searching for humpback whales. Snorkel with mothers and calves, playful juveniles and adult whales while enjoying incredible photography opportunities and exploring Tonga's crystal-clear waters.
Day 5 – Rest Day
Enjoy a relaxing day ashore. Explore the islands, unwind at your accommodation or simply soak up the laid-back atmosphere of Tonga.
Days 6–7 – Swim with Humpback Whales
Return to the water for two more unforgettable days of whale encounters, with additional opportunities to snorkel, photograph whales and explore coral reefs and marine life.
Day 8 – Departure
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight home.
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7 Nights / 5 Days on the water
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Deposit: $1,000 USD
Trip Price: From USD $6,990 -
Maximum 6 Guests
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Seven nights of waterfront accommodation
Stay in one of our secluded waterfront homes in Vava’u, shared exclusively with your small expedition group. You’ll have your own private bedroom, with living, dining and outdoor areas shared with fellow guests.
Each property has private jetty access, allowing us to pick you up and drop you home by boat each day.
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Our team of professional award winning photographers and marine biologists will be the tour leaders/hosts on your tours.
Check out our team profiles for more information. Your tour leader will contact you 1-2 weeks before you depart, to introduce themselves. -
Boat, crew and guide
Experienced Boat, crew and guide
Accommodation
(Shared premium lodge/house on the water)
All Meals
(Breakfast, Lunch & snacks while onboard, Dinners)
Professional guidance
Photography/Marine/research advice and guidance in the water
Daily snorkeling
On reefs and in caves
Airport transfers
In Vava’u.
Maximum of 6 people
To maximize your time in the water with the whales
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Airfare
International and domestic flights
Excess baggage charges
On the flight
Items of personal nature
Such as laundry, meals ashore, bar, beverages and telecommunication charges
Gratuities
Gratuities
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Purpose-built for whale encounters, our comfortable day vessel provides a safe and stable platform for exploring Vava’u. With plenty of space, shaded seating, easy water access and uninterrupted views, it’s designed to maximise your time on the water. There is also a toilet on the boat.
Operated by an experienced local crew and licensed whale guides, it’s your base for whale swims, coral reefs, sea caves and exploring the sheltered islands of Vava’u.
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For the best experience, we strongly recommend bringing your own mask, snorkel, wetsuit and fins, that you have used before and are comfortable with. We have limited supplies of rental gear here in Vava'u.
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Once your place is confirmed, we’ll guide you through everything you need to prepare. Around six months before departure, you’ll receive a preparation checklist, followed by our Know Before You Go guide one month before your trip. Two weeks before departure, we’ll introduce your guide and send your final arrival and meeting details.
In the meantime, you can find answers to common day-to-day questions in our FAQs.
Your Tonga adventure starts here
Discover the full Swimming with Gentle Giants experience
Ask Our Team
Not sure what week is right for you?
Talk to our team about dates, availability or anything you’d like to know before joining us in Tonga.