Swim with whales in Tonga and around the world
contact@swimmingwithgentlegiants.com
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A humpback whale calf, rolling on its back under the water, beside a group of swimmers on tour with Swimming with Gentle Giants
Duration: 24 Sep - 1 oct 2025, 7 nights (5 days in the water with the whales)
Location: Vava'u, Tonga
Price: $6,990 USD
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These gentle giants of the sea give birth in the tropical waters of Vava’u to ensure the safety of their new born calves. You will be witness to the bond between mother and calf and the unique behaviour that can only be experienced by observing these amazing creatures in their natural environment. Humpback males escort the mother and calves waiting for the opportunity to mate before heading back to the Antarctic waters to feed. Your day is filled with excitement and admiration, only stopping to explore the coral gardens and abundant marine life that inhabits Tonga.

Date

24 Sep – 1 oct 2025

Charter

Includes; boat, crew and guide for 5 days on the water

Deposit

USD $1000 (This is non-refundable)
Note: All costs are in United States Dollars

Total tour cost = $6.990 USD per person

Single Supplement (additional) $2,500 USD

Group

Maximum of 6 people to maximize your time in the water with the whales.

Tour Leaders

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.

Tour includes

  • Boat, experienced crew and guide for 5 days on the water
  • Professional Photographer and Marine Biologist on every tour
  • 7 nights accommodation
  • All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch – onboard, Dinner)
  • Photography & Marine Biologist lectures
  • Daily snorkeling on reefs and in caves
  • Airport transfers in Vava’u

Itinerary

Download your Itinerary & Checklist to help you prepare for your visit to Tonga.

The success of our trips is very much dependent on the whales and weather conditions. Two things which are beyond our control. However, many years of experience has showed us that the period we operate these trips give the best chances for a great experience.

Day 1 Arrival (Flight)

Our driver will be waiting for you at the airport and will take you to your accommodation (Check-in 1 pm). In the evening your guides will meet you for dinner and give you a briefing about the upcoming tour and what to expect during your time in Tonga.

Day 2 -4 Swim with whales

Pick-up from your accommodation for a day of whale watching & snorkeling.

Day 5 – Day of rest (Sunday)

Sundays are a day of rest in Tonga, so it’s a great time catch up on a good book or just relax on a beach.

Day 6 – 7 Swim with whales

Pick-up from your accommodation for a day of whale watching & snorkeling.

Day 8 –Departure (Flight)

Our driver will be waiting for you at your accommodation to take you to the airport (Checkout 10am). As flight schedules can change, we recommend confirming your flights the day before you leave.

 

Tonga Time

The schedule above is a guide and things change often when you are on an Island in Tonga. The locals are on what we call ‘Tonga Time’, so don’t be disappointed if the skipper is late, or your meals are not served on time, or you don’t get exactly what you ask for, just relax and enjoy this tropical paradise.

Other Activities

We try to visit some of the most amazing snorkeling spots in Tonga as we search for the whales, including untouched coral reefs, caves and lagoons. But if you haven’t had enough after your days on the water there are always lots of other adventures:

  • Scuba Diving
  • Kayaking
  • Sailing
  • Island Tours

Accommodation

Tour costs include 7 nights in a premium shared accommodation on beautiful Neiafu Harbour. If you wish to extend your stay or arrive early and depart later, we can organise accommodation. Any dates outside the tour packaged will be charged accordingly.

How to get there

You can find travel and flight suggestions here. We can also connect you with travel agents in Australia, US and the UK who can assist with planning your flights.

Important information

If you are unsure about anything please refer to our FAQs or contact us for more details.

Please review our Terms & Conditions and Cancellation policy

Download Booking Information Form

Download Liability Waiver
Download Whale Fact Sheet