Tonga • 7 Days • Maximum 6 Guests • Marine Biologist & Photographers on every tour

Tonga Swim With Humpback Whales

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7 Day Tonga Humpback Whale Tours

An unforgettable wildlife encounter in the warm tropical waters of the South Pacific.

Each year, thousands of humpback whales migrate to the sheltered waters of Vava'u, Tonga, to breed, give birth and nurture their newborn calves. It is one of the few places in the world where you can respectfully enter the water and experience these gentle giants in their natural environment.

Join renowned marine biologists and photographers on exclusive small-group tours, limited to just six guests. Spend each day searching for mothers and calves, playful juveniles, competitive male pods and solitary singing whales, while experiencing the unforgettable opportunity to hear the haunting songs of humpback whales beneath the surface.

With more than 25 years of experience leading expeditions in Tonga we understand whale behaviour and know how to maximise opportunities while ensuring every interaction is conducted safely and respectfully. Between whale encounters, we'll explore vibrant coral reefs, underwater caves and the rich marine life that makes Tonga one of the South Pacific's premier snorkelling destinations.

Designed for photographers, snorkelers and wildlife enthusiasts, this expedition combines unforgettable whale encounters, expert photographic guidance and incredible time in the water with one of the ocean's most iconic species.

This is an opportunity to experience one of nature's greatest migrations, witness the remarkable bond between mother and calf, and return home with memories and photographs that will last a lifetime.

Expedition Details

 

  • For all tour dates, click here

    • 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 Scott 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 resort 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.

      Explore detailed expedition information, accommodation, availability and travel advice on the Swimming with Gentle Giants website, your complete guide to this extraordinary whale encounter.

  • Vava'u, Tonga

  • 7 Day

  • Maximum 6 Guests

  • From USD $6,990

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  • Humpback whale surfacing in the crystal-clear waters of Tonga.
  • Aerial view of a coral reef in the turquoise waters of Tonga.
  • Humpback whale and calf swimming together in the clear waters of Tonga.
  • Milky Way rising above the tropical forests of Tonga.
  • Sunset reflecting across the tranquil waters of Tonga.
  • lose-up underwater portrait of a humpback whale in the crystal-clear waters of Tonga.

Expedition Highlights

  • Swim with humpback whales in the warm, crystal-clear waters of the Kingdom of Tonga.

  • Experience unforgettable encounters with mothers and calves, playful juveniles and singing adult whales during the annual breeding season.

  • Travel in an intimate group of just six participants, ensuring personalised experiences and maximum time on the water.

  • Explore pristine coral reefs, sea caves and vibrant tropical marine life between whale encounters.

  • Receive personalised photography guidance from internationally award-winning wildlife photographer Scott Portelli, drawing on more than 25 years of experience photographing whales in Tonga.

  • Join experienced local guides who specialise in humpback whale behaviour, ensuring safe, respectful and memorable wildlife encounters.

  • Photograph one of the world's most intimate whale interactions in one of the few destinations where swimming with humpback whales is permitted.

  • Enjoy five full days on the water, maximising opportunities to observe, photograph and swim with these gentle giants in their natural environment.

Humpback whale swimming beneath the crystal-clear waters of Tonga.

What’s Included

  • Comprehensive pre-departure information

  • Shared accommodation in a premium waterfront lodge or guesthouse

  • Daily boat charters with experienced skipper, crew and licensed whale guide

  • Airport transfers within Vava'u

  • Daily humpback whale swimming and whale watching excursions

  • Daily snorkelling on coral reefs and in sea caves

  • All breakfasts, lunches, snacks onboard and dinners

  • Marine biology and whale behaviour insights throughout the expedition

  • Small group experience with a maximum of six guests

What’s Not Included

  • International and domestic flights

  • Airport transfers

  • Excess baggage charges

  • Comprehensive travel insurance

  • Personal expenses, including laundry, beverages and telecommunications

  • Meals not specified in the itinerary

  • Gratuities

The Vessel

Purpose-built for whale encounters, our comfortable day vessel has been selected to maximise your time on the water while providing a safe, stable and enjoyable platform for exploring the islands of Vava'u. There's plenty of space onboard to move around, prepare your camera equipment and enjoy uninterrupted views as we search for humpback whales.

The vessel is operated by an experienced local crew and licensed whale guides who have an exceptional understanding of whale behaviour and the local waters. Equipped with easy water access for snorkelling, shaded seating and all required safety equipment, it provides the ideal base for respectful wildlife encounters. Between whale swims, you'll cruise through the sheltered islands of Vava'u, snorkel vibrant coral reefs and sea caves, and experience one of the South Pacific's most spectacular marine environments.

Snorkeller preparing to swim with humpback whales during a Tonga wildlife photography expedition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore detailed expedition information, accommodation, availability and travel advice on our Swimming with Gentle Giants website

View Accommodations, availability & travel advice
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Designed by Scott Portelli

Scott Portelli Marelux Ambassador

Every expedition reflects more than three decades of experience exploring and photographing some of the world's most remote environments.

Internationally recognised wildlife photographer, filmmaker and expedition specialist Scott Portelli has spent more than a decade working throughout Antarctica and the Sub-Antarctic, developing an intimate understanding of the region's wildlife, landscapes and seasonal conditions.

His experience has shaped every aspect of this journey, from the itinerary and timing to the wildlife encounters and photographic opportunities, creating an experience that goes beyond simply visiting these extraordinary places.

Whether Scott is leading the expedition himself or working alongside a trusted expedition team, guests can expect the same commitment to immersive wildlife experiences, responsible travel and exceptional photographic opportunities that define the Scott Portelli brand.

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