Top Destinations to Experience Whale Swimming Globally
Take the Plunge: Top Locales for Swimming with Whales
Swimming alongside whales is a remarkable, once-in-a-lifetime experience that leaves an indelible impression. Get ready to dive into the magical world of these majestic creatures as we unveil some of the world's best spots for humpback whale encounters.
Brace yourself for an adventure and get ready to tick this awe-inspiring experience off your bucket list!
1. Mo'orea, French Polynesia
Reserve Your Spot
French Polynesia declared itself a Marine Mammal Sanctuary in 2002, ensuring a safe haven for various marine mammals, including humpback whales. The unparalleled experience of swimming with humpbacks in Mo'orea is unforgettable and truly life-changing!
So, pack your bags, and let's immerse ourselves in crystal-clear waters, tropical white sandy beaches, and dreamy island vibes!
Visit our 2022 trip to Moorea and experience the magic for yourself!
Up-close humpback encounter snapped by Bluewater Owner Scott Gietler during our annual whale trips to Moorea.
Between July and November, a multitude of humpbacks migrate to the idyllic waters surrounding Mo'orea, seeking mates or nursing their young on the outer reefs.
For a truly unique encounter, consider opting for a private whale tour with a smaller group size. Choose an operator who frequently embarks on expeditions and prioritizes long whale encounters over cutting them short.
Explore the wonder of shark diving in French Polynesia for an even more memorable adventure!Click here for an amazing video and don't forget to subscribe to our channel!
Getting There
The easiest way to reach Mo'orea is by flying from the U.S. to Tahiti (PPT). Upon arrival, you can hop on a small plane for a quick 15-minute flight or opt for a scenic boat trip via the ferry from Papeete, which takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Whales can even be spotted while on the ferry's top deck!Discover French Polynesia dive resorts.
Water Conditions
During the humpback season in July/August to October/November, water temperatures in Mo'orea hover around 27–29°C (83–85°F), ideal for a light 3mm wetsuit. The warm and welcoming overall climate in Mo'orea remains between 21–27°C (70–82°F) all year round.
Join us for our Mo'orea Whale Trips in Aug-Sep 2024 for an unforgettable experience with humpbacks! Limited to 6 people per group, and 5 exciting days in search of these gentle giants!
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2. Tonga
Book Your Journey
The Kingdom of Tonga offers an extraordinary whale-swimming experience due to the consistent arrival of a specific population of humpbacks. This heavenly island destination boasts pristine surroundings, untouched by commercialism, making it the perfect escape!
Photo credit: Mark Strickland. Captured using a Nikon D7000 with a Tokina 10-17mm fisheye lens while on board the Nai'a liveaboard in Tonga.
Each June, humpbacks congregate in the reefs of Vava’u, located north of Tonga, for mating and birthing. Visitors can marvel at the crystal-clear waters, perfect for capturing magnificent whale photos.
The prime season for swimming with humpbacks in Tonga is between July and November. Choose land-based tour operators based in Vava’u for the best experience or opt for a liveaboard adventure with The Nai'a. Bookings for liveaboard trips fill up years in advance, so don't miss out – add your name to the waitlist!Learn more about liveaboard diving.
Getting There
If flying from the U.S., there are numerous flights from major cities to Fua'amotu International Airport (TBU) in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, from Air New Zealand, Fiji Airways, Virgin Australia, and Talofa Airways.
Real Tonga operates domestic flights within Tonga, including flights to Vava’u. Alternatively, you can take a ferry trip for a more budget-friendly and comfortable voyage.
Water Conditions
During the whale season in Tonga (July – November), water temperatures tend to stay between 24–27°C (75–80°F), precisely what you need for a 3mm wetsuit or even a shortie to keep you warm.
3. Silver Bank, Dominican Republic
Set Sail
The Dominican Republic’s Atlantic waters, particularly the Silver Bank and Navidad Bank, host the largest concentration of North Atlantic humpback whales compared to any other place in the world[1].
Swimming with these breathtaking creatures in the Silver Bank is a regulated practice. Permits are required, and only a select few boats are allowed to sail in the area[2].
The Turks & Caicos Aggressor II is one of the lucky vessels granted access to bring visitors to this enchanting world.
Prepare yourself for a memorable, multi-faceted adventure! Above the water, spectate the stunning aerial displays put on by the humpback males. Below the surface, immerse yourself in intimate, personal interactions with mothers and their calves, or simply marvel at the sluggish whales in their peaceful slumber.
Silver Bank trips tend to book up years in advance, so book your whale trip to the Silver Banks ahead of time to ensure a spot!
Getting There
There are numerous flights from the U.S. to the Dominican Republic from New York, Newark, and Miami to Santo Domingo, Puerto Plata (POP), and Santiago. European travelers can also fly to Punta Cana (PUJ) from London and Paris. The Silver Bank lies around 80 miles north of Puerto Plata, where liveaboard trips usually depart from.
Water Conditions
During the whale season in the Dominican Republic, which runs from January to April, water temperatures average 25°C (78°F). A full 3–5mm wetsuit is recommended to keep you warm during your whale encounters.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Swimming with humpback whales may feel intimidating, but fear not. Humpbacks are known for their gentle nature and are safe to swim with[2][3]. Remain vigilant, respect their space, and adhere to your guide's instructions, and you'll be thoroughly enjoying this extraordinary experience.
- It is indeed possible to hear whale songs while beneath the surface. Listen carefully, and you might just catch a mesmerizing serenade from these colossal creatures.
- While most whale encounters happen during snorkeling trips, it's not unheard of to spot whales during dives[4].
- Seeking out more exceptional locales for swimming with whales? The Sea of Cortez in Mexico, Baja, Hawaii, Sri Lanka, Norway, and Australia all provide mesmerizing adventures!
Further Reading
Continue exploring with our Top 5 Big Animal Encounters, dive deeper into the family Humpback Adventure in Mo'orea, and discover more with our Wet Wide Angle Lens Buyer's Guide and Best Underwater Cameras recommendations brought to you by Bluewater Photo and Underwater Photography Guide.
[1] https://www.noaa.gov/media-release/new-noaa-report-reveals-previously-unknown-status-of-endangered-humpback-whales-in-the-atlantic[2] https://bluewaterventures.com/blog/2018/08/16/swimming-with-humpback-whales-frequently-asked-questions/[3] https://www.tongawhalewatch.com/swim-with-humpback-whales-faq/[4] https://www.bluewaterdivetravel.com/blog/2018/06/20/swimming-with-humpback-whales-silver-bank-dominican-republic/
- While Swimming with Whales might be an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience in Mo'orea, French Polynesia, don't miss the chance to also indulge in shark diving for an even more memorable adventure.
- Tired of expeditions and craving for a more exclusive encounter with humpbacks? Opt for a private whale tour in Mo'orea, where smaller group sizes ensure longer whale encounters.
- For those who enjoy the underwater lifestyle, consider extending your stay in French Polynesia and visiting a dive resort, exploring its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
- Travelling to Tonga for whale-swimming presents the perfect opportunity to invest in high-quality diving equipment, such as a Nikon D7000 and a Tokina 10-17mm fisheye lens, ideal for capturing remarkable pictures underwater.
- If you're craving a multi-faceted adventure, set sail for the Dominican Republic's Silver Bank and witness awe-inspiring aerial displays by humpbacks above the water, as well as intimate, personal interactions below the surface.
