Yes! Swimming with whales in Tonga is a safe and regulated experience. Our expert guides ensure that all interactions follow strict guidelines to protect both guests and the whales.
You don’t have to be an expert swimmer, but you should feel comfortable in open water. We provide life jackets and snorkel gear, and our guides will assist you throughout the experience.
The best time is July to October, when humpback whales migrate to Tonga to breed and give birth.
We follow responsible whale-watching guidelines. While encounters depend on the whales, we maintain a respectful distance and only enter the water when conditions are right.
Our tours typically last 4-6 hours, including boat travel, searching for whales, and multiple swimming opportunities.
✔ Swimsuit
✔ Towel
✔ Reef-safe sunscreen
✔ Sunglasses & hat
✔ Waterproof camera (optional)
While sightings are highly likely, they are wild animals and not guaranteed. However, we always do our best to provide an incredible ocean experience!
There is no set age restriction; however, depending on age, swimming abilities, and conditions on the day, flotation devices may be provided at the guide's discretion.
Some swimming experience is highly recommended due to open ocean conditions. Guests are encouraged to communicate any concerns or nervousness to the crew, who are committed to ensuring safety and enjoyment.
The whale season typically runs from mid-June to the end of October, with peak sightings in August and September.
Whale swim tours include all equipment hire, lunch, and refreshments.
Whale sightings and swimming encounters cannot be guaranteed because whales are wild animals. No refund or price-difference reimbursement is provided if no whales are sighted or swimming is not possible, except where a refund is required by applicable law. Please review our full booking policy at https://tongatourguide.com/policy.
Yes, personal cameras are permitted. However, guests are encouraged to balance capturing moments with fully experiencing the swim. Guides and onboard photographers will also take videos and photos, and guests are welcome to bring USBs for copies.
The boat has a maximum capacity of 30 people, with tours typically accommodating 20 people for swimming and 10 for whale watching or standby for swims.
Bookings can be made by purchasing your place here with your details.
The whale season in Tonga runs from July to October, with peak sightings in August and September. We recommend booking at least 3–6 months in advance to secure your preferred dates.
You can book by reserving your place on this listing
All deposits and payments are non-refundable, regardless of cancellation reason or notice period, except where a refund is required by applicable law. This includes weather-related cancellations, travel disruptions, illness, changes of plans, late arrivals and no-shows. Date changes or credits may be offered only at management’s discretion, subject to availability, and are not guaranteed. Please review our full booking policy at https://tongatourguide.com/policy before booking.
You’ll stay in a cottage, offering comfortable rooms and a relaxing island atmosphere.
Aside from whale swimming, the package includes a full island tour, visits beaches where you can snorkel at coral reefs and/or a swim.
A daily breakfast is included. Lunch is provided during whale excursions, and we can recommend great local dining spots for other meals.
Yes! We provide airport pick-up and drop-off, as well as transfers between your accommodation, ferry terminal, and all tour activities.