Every encounter is different. Some may be brief, while others can last much longer depending on the whales' behaviour, conditions and location. We never control or guarantee an interaction. The whales decide what happens next.

Expect approximately seven hours on the water each day, with time spent searching for whales, swimming when conditions allow, having lunch onboard and exploring reefs, caves and other parts of Vava’u.

You should be comfortable swimming at least 100 metres and confident snorkelling in open water. Conditions can occasionally be choppy.

No. Whale encounters are snorkelling only. Freediving with whales is no longer permitted in Tonga.

Humpbacks are in Tonga to mate, give birth, rest and raise their young. Throughout the season you may encounter mothers and calves, males, juveniles, singers and competitive groups, although no particular behaviour can be guaranteed.

We often see dolphins, pilot whales and false killer whales, and on occasion whale sharks, sperm whales and manta rays. You never know what you might come across.

We try to snorkel every day on the coral reefs, in caves and the clear waters surrounding the islands.

No. We only snorkel with the whales, as there are specific regulations that prohibit diving with them. The whales often stay close to the surface, so there is no need to dive.

There are no age restrictions, but participants should be able to swim 100 metres comfortably and be confident snorkelling in open ocean, which can sometimes be choppy. We endeavour to stay close to the islands in calmer waters and will usually be able to avoid rough seas.

The whale season runs from early July to late October.

Our expeditions are limited to a maximum of six guests. A maximum of four guests plus a licensed guide can enter the water at one time.

Our expeditions are designed as multi-day experiences. Spending several days on the water gives us time to work around weather, changing whale behaviour and conditions, while also experiencing the reefs, caves and other wildlife of Vava’u.

Whales are wild animals, so no particular encounter can be guaranteed. We spend multiple days on the water to give ourselves the best opportunity to find and spend time with them.

There is no set age limit, as long as participants are good swimmers and very comfortable in the water. Keep in mind that days on the water are long and we generally won't return to the accommodation during the day.

Humpback whales come to Tonga to calve, rest and mate before returning to Antarctica to feed. This includes mothers, calves, males and sub-adult whales. While there may be smaller calves earlier in the season, there is a range of whales and behaviours throughout the season, including singing males, competitive groups and interactive calves.

Swimming with humpbacks is limited by regulations to snorkelling. If you would like to scuba dive elsewhere around the islands, this can be arranged with a local dive operator.

Yes. Our tours include a photography guide, Tongan skipper and licensed Tongan whale guide. We pride ourselves on having experienced, friendly and knowledgeable local crew.

Each expedition has a group leader alongside our licensed guides and skipper. Your group leader will contact you approximately one to two weeks before your expedition to introduce themselves and brief you.

Our days are flexible so we can work around the wild nature of the humpback whales. As a rough guide, you'll be picked up from your accommodation in the morning, spend the day searching for and swimming with whales, have lunch on the boat and usually return during the afternoon.

Yes. Our marine biologist will give presentations about marine life, the environment and conservation during your stay in Tonga.

No. Freediving or diving down towards, alongside or beneath humpback whales is not permitted during our whale encounters.

Guests must remain at the surface and follow the instructions of their licensed whale guide at all times. These requirements help protect the whales and ensure encounters are conducted safely and responsibly.

As well as the whales, there are many beautiful locations and wildlife in Tonga, including underwater caves, cliffs, sandy beaches, reefs, palm trees, churches, flying foxes, seabirds and clear night skies. We can help you find the best locations to capture what you have in mind.

Of course. You're welcome to take photography equipment into the water with you, and our experienced guides can provide photography advice throughout the trip. There's also no expectation to have a camera in your hands.

Yes. Our professional photographer and guides will conduct talks about photography and the whales.

The largest fin size we have available is 15. Generally, we recommend bringing your own fins, mask and snorkel as it is always more comfortable using equipment you know.

No, weight belts are not provided.

We will do our best to accommodate dietary requirements, but food availability and variety in Tonga can be limited. Let us know your requirements in advance and consider bringing suitable backup snacks for specific dietary needs.

The approved standard-sized fins have a maximum length of 70cm from heel to tip. Snorkelling fins must be plastic. Carbon fibre and fibreglass fins are prohibited during whale swimming.

Since 2024, Ministry of Tourism regulations prohibit freediving activity with whales in Tonga.

Our photographers and guides may capture images of guests throughout the expedition when opportunities arise, and these may be shared with you as a courtesy.

However, photographs of individual guests are not guaranteed and are not included as part of your expedition. Our team is there first and foremost to ensure your safety, provide guidance and support responsible encounters with the whales. These responsibilities will always take priority over photography.

You need to register your drone with the Civil Aviation Department before arriving in Tonga.

If you are intending on bringing a drone, the rules in Tonga have changed recently and they ask you to declare the drone at customs. The process is a little convoluted but you may need to go through this if you want to use it in Tonga (However, note there have been no issues when coming directly through Vava'u).

You declare the drone at customs. They take it from you or send it with you to the Ministry of Infrastructure which is close to town. You then need to go to the office of Ministry of Infrastructure to the civil aviation department and fill in a form. They inspect the drone then give it back to you.

Contact details are: cadstaff@infrastructure.gov.to or +67628024 or +67623100

Your expedition includes seven nights in one of our waterfront properties in Vava’u. You'll have your own private bedroom, with living, dining and outdoor areas shared exclusively with your small expedition group.

Our waterfront accommodation also has private jetty access, allowing the boat to collect and return you directly each day.

Yes. You'll have your own private bedroom, while the common areas are shared with the other guests on your expedition.

No. The islands are very close together and the whales are never too far from where we set off.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in your tour. Continental breakfast supplies will be at your accommodation, lunch is provided on the boat and dinners are generally at local restaurants. Options in Vava’u are limited, so meals can sometimes be repetitive.

No. Lunch and snacks, including morning and afternoon tea, are provided, as well as water. We encourage you to bring your own reusable water bottle.

We will do our best to accommodate dietary requirements, but supplies and variety in Tonga can be limited. If you have specific dietary requirements, we recommend letting us know in advance and bringing some backup options if necessary.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. Lunch is provided on the boat, while dinner is usually at a local restaurant or café.

Generally, tap water in Tonga is okay, although rainwater is often a better option. We also have water filters on the kitchen taps in the accommodation and encourage guests to bring a reusable bottle.

Yes. Our accommodation has Starlink Wi-Fi. Local SIM cards and mobile data are also available in Tonga.

Accommodation is included only for the period specified in your expedition itinerary. Our expeditions run back-to-back, so we are unable to accommodate additional nights, but we can recommend other places to stay.

Our accommodation is normally shared with your expedition group, with your own private bedroom. Private accommodation may be available for an additional single supplement. Contact us for current availability and pricing.

Gratuities are entirely optional and at your discretion. If you would like to thank our local crew for their efforts, a suggested guide is around USD $10 per person, per day. There is no obligation or expectation to tip.

There are several ways to reach Tonga from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and other connecting destinations. See our Getting to Tonga page for current travel information.

There are a number of accommodation options in Tongatapu. We can recommend convenient options depending on your flight schedule.

There are several things to see around Nuku’alofa and Tongatapu, including the Mapu'a Vaea Blowholes, Royal Palace and Haʻamonga ʻa Maui.

Local airlines can be strict about baggage allowances and may weigh both checked and carry-on luggage. If you're travelling with additional photography equipment, check your options before travelling.

Domestic flight schedules can change, so we recommend checking your flight details regularly and allowing plenty of time for connections.

Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover things such as baggage loss, flight changes and other circumstances outside your control.

Yes. We recommend giving yourself an extra day around your expedition where possible so flight or transport changes don't affect important connections.

Additional baggage may be available to pre-purchase. We recommend checking your baggage options directly with the airline before travelling.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check the current entry requirements applicable to your passport before travelling.

For specific health and vaccination advice, speak with your doctor or a travel health professional before departure.

We recommend bringing your own mask, snorkel and fins, wetsuit, swimmers, reef-friendly SPF30+ sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, beach towel, windproof jacket, summer clothing, insect repellent and basic personal medical supplies.

Yes. Sunday is a day of rest in Tonga and most places are closed. Very little activity takes place, so it's a good opportunity to slow down and enjoy the island.

The local currency is the Tongan Paʻanga.

There are banks and ATMs in Vava’u. You can also obtain local currency when you arrive in Tongatapu.

Tonga is tropical, with temperatures generally ranging between approximately 20°C and 28°C during July to October. Evenings are usually cooler.

Tonga has a tropical climate, so rain is always possible. Weather and conditions can change throughout the week.

Water temperatures generally range between approximately 25.5°C and 27°C. We recommend a 3mm wetsuit as you can become cold during extended periods in the water.

Tonga uses the same plugs as Australia and New Zealand, with 240V power.

There is usually time during the week to slow down or explore more of Vava’u. Depending on availability, activities can include scuba diving, fishing, sailing, kayaking and island tours.

Many shops, markets and other places around Neiafu are within walking distance.

There are a number of restaurants and cafés around the main area of Neiafu.

Opening hours vary. Most are open into the evening Monday to Friday, with reduced hours on Saturday. Stores are generally closed on Sunday.

Local mobile credit can be topped up online or locally once you arrive.

Local SIM cards are available through TCC and Digicel. We recommend ensuring your phone is unlocked before travelling and downloading the relevant app before you arrive.

Yes. Please view our current expedition dates and availability or contact us.

Yes. We can organise private expeditions for up to six people. Contact us to discuss a customised trip.

Payments can be made by credit card or direct bank transfer. Full payment information is provided when you book.

All expedition prices are in US dollars.

To make payments more manageable, your expedition cost is divided into a deposit and scheduled payments before departure. Your individual payment schedule will be provided when you book.

Credit card fees vary depending on the currency used. Current fees will be shown when making your payment.

We recommend 20 Tongan Paʻanga per day, per person, for the Tongan crew.

On arrival, your team leader or host will let you know the meeting time and venue for your welcome dinner and briefing. This is where we'll talk through what to expect for the week ahead and prepare you for your first day on the water.

Yes. A welcome pack will be available at your accommodation with information about where to eat, convenience stores, getting around, useful contacts, SIM cards and general information about Vava’u.

We'll keep you informed in the lead-up to Tonga.

Around six months before departure, we'll send you a preparation checklist. Around one month before, you'll receive your Know Before You Go information. Then, approximately two weeks before departure, we'll send final details about your guide and what to do when you arrive.

In the meantime, these FAQs should answer most day-to-day questions.