Swim and snorkel with whales in Tonga

This Polynesian archipelago is the best spot to meet whales in crystal-clear waters

Swimming and snorkeling with whales in Tonga is unique. This archipelago in Polynesia has since become known as a whale paradise. The reason: Tonga has a unique excursion. You can often enjoy these mighty animals remarkably close in the water.


Tonga is a Polynesian island nation, and it has become known as a whale paradise. Here you can join these majestic animals for a swim (or a snorkel).

Tonga's warm waters are ideal for a very unique meeting. Every year the humpback whales mothers and calves come to the calm waters. You can join them for a swim. They are very curious creatures and interacting with them is magical.

The curious whales of Tonga

Humpback whales (which can be between 15 to 20 meters long) come here every year to leisurely spend the winter in Tonga’s warm water. They are mostly mothers with their young. Researchers say swimming with the animals does not bother them at all.

A humpback whale in the clear waters of Tonga.

Better yet, they’re intrigued by tourists. They’re obviously free to move away from us, but they tend to come closer for a better look. This offers an ideal situation to admire them up close, so a guided tour is absolutely worth it.

Tours are tightly monitored by the government to ensure they don’t cause the whales any stress.

How do I get there?

Whale tours are operated from the harbour in Vava’u, and they are also offered from other islands in Tonga.

More information:
www.whaleswim.com
www.tongaholiday.com/whale-watching