When Is the Best Time
Tonga is one of the very few places in the world where you are able to swim with humpback whales. The whales come to Tonga for two reasons; first, for mating and second, to give birth eleven months later.
A large population of humpback whales gathers around Vava'u Islands in Tonga between July and October. These months are the best time for whale watching and the unique opportunity to swim with a humpback mother and her calf. These tours are guided to protect the humpbacks from too much disturbance.
Are Humpback Whale Sightings Guaranteed?
To be on the safe side, book your visit between mid-July and the end of September. The high number of whales in this area means there are plenty of opportunities to see and swim with them. It's also the 'dry season' with less precipitation, less wind, and usually a calmer sea. If you decide to go in October: Whales are starting to leave in late September. However, especially mothers and their calves are still around in October, which can lead to fascinating encounters.
How Long to Stay?
It's recommended to spend several days, even better, an entire week there, to maximize your chances of sightings and to swim with the whales. The whale-watching tours take place in the open water. Sightings can't be guaranteed, and the swell can be pretty high. Consider on Sundays; none is working.
Where to Stay on Vava'u Islands?
There are not plenty of accommodations in Tonga; Vava'u Islands available. The most excellent hotel is the Mystic Sands Hotel, with crystal clear water in front. You can get your pick up by boat for the whale watching trip from their jetty. Another option nearby is the Tongan Beach Resort, with a tasty restaurant.
Best Months to Visit
Location and Tips
The southern Humpback Whales are migrating from their feeding grounds in Antarctica in the southern winter to the islands of Tonga for breeding and giving birth to their young ones. Around Vava'u, you can look out for whales in the ocean; there are plenty around.
Additionally, Tonga is one of the few places in the world where it is allowed to swim with whales. This is a fabulous and affordable spot. You can watch a mother and her calf from a few meter distance in a protected lagoon. This means queuing by boat until your group is allowed to get to the lagoon.
This can take a while, but limiting the snorkelers around the mom and her calf is important. Or you swim with youngsters in the open ocean. Be prepared to swim in rough conditions; this means high waves can occur.
Where to Spot Whales in Tonga
- Vava'u
- Ha’apai
Quick Notes What You May Experience
- Safety first for the whales and you! The whales are given respect.
- 4 people at one time are allowed in the ocean.
- The time in the water is fixed and monitored.
- Snorkelling with a mother and her calf is absolutely stellar. They behave quite calmly. Often calves are playful and curious, coming pretty close to the snorkelers.
- If it's safe, you can even observe a head run; a female humpback with a couple of bulls in the back.
- Males are more often aggressive during the mating season; showing their dominance.
- Singing whales are calling out for a female humpback.
- Be prepared for a several meters high surf.
- It frequently gets windy and cold on board. Bring a windproof jacket.
What Is the Price for Swimming with Humpback Whales?
I want to give you an idea of what you have to expect roughly. It depends on the tour operator and the number of days you like to participate. The prices are in AUD. The price for one trip swimming with whales is around $ 325, and for 3+ days, it's $ 300. In comparison to other locations, it's a good offer.
Where Can I Swim with Humpback Whales?
There are a few places around the world. These are the top four:
- The Islands of Tonga
- Tahiti, Moorea, from July to October/November
- Dominican Republic - Silver Banks but on a cruise only; high priced. Tours from mid-January to mid-March
- Australia - Ningaloo Reef migrating whales from August to October
The Vava'u Islands have a few beaches in the south, but the beautiful ones are situated in the north. These beaches are difficult to reach, but it's easier by boat.
Reviewed by my friend and diver Leif
I've stayed there for 14 days, and I'd recommend a minimum stay of a week. You must remember that Sundays mean no business in Tonga; no diving, snorkelling, no flights - no activities! I've chosen Beluga diving, and I was fortunate; I spotted whales on each day I went out to snorkel - in total, 8 days. Beluga offers a good service, and they got out with three boats connected by radio and shared their whale sightings. In addition, they have a small B&B on the hill; there are no five-star resorts in vava'u which is great.
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