SWIM WITH THE WHALES

PLEASE NOTE ALL IN WATER WHALE SWIM ACTIVITIES ARE ONLY PERMITTED BEGINNING JULY 20. ANY WHALE OBSERVATIONS BEFORE JULY 20 OR AFTER NOVEMBER 20 ARE STRICTLY FORBIDDEN.

During the months of July-November, the southern hemisphere population of humpback whales commences their winter migration with a portion of the population choosing the islands of French Polynesia as their destination. The first arrival and last departure of the humpback whales varies season by season. Typically, observations become consistent around the end of July and extend through the beginning of November with the peak of the season being from mid-August to mid-October. French Polynesia remains one of the few locations in the world where we are able to enter the water with humpback whales to observe them directly. Our priority lies both to guest safety and to respect of all wildlife we encounter during our tours. We will only enter the water with humpback whales after the biologist on board has observed their surface activity and deemed it safe and non-invasive for both the guests and the whales.

Allowing the whales to continue their natural behavior, mating rituals, and migrational movements is vital for a healthy marine environment.

In water encounters with humpback whales as well as whale observations are not guaranteed and may only begin under permit August 1st. Our priority lies both to guest safety and to respect of all wildlife we encounter during our tours. We will only enter the water with humpback whales after the biologist on board has observed their surface activity and deemed it safe for both the guests and the whales. Allowing the whales to continue their natural behavior, mating rituals, and migrational movements is vital for a healthy marine environment. 

JOIN OUR LAGOON FOCUSED ‘MOOREA WILDLIFE EXPEDITION’ TO EXPERIENCE THE REEF SHARKS, STINGRAYS, TURTLES, CORAL REEFS, AND VARIOUS SPECIES OF THE LAGOON ECOSYSTEM. WHEN BOOKING THE ‘MOOREA WILDLIFE EXPEDITION’ IN ADDITION TO YOUR ‘WHALE SWIM TOUR’, AUTOMATICALLY RECEIVE 30% OFF YOUR MOOREA WILDLIFE EXPEDITION BOOKING.

2025 REGULATIONS FOR HUMPBACK WHALE OBSERVATIONS

WHALE SEASON IS JULY 20 - NOVEMBER 20: THIS IS THE ONLY PERIOD IN WHICH WHALE OBSERVATIONS AND SWIMMING IS PERMITTED

Regulations are subject to change season to season. This is the most current, up to date regulation code of conduct for observing the humpback whales. However, as a company that wishes to promote responsible and respectful ecotourism practices, we choose to adhere to a more sustainable guideline and take measures beyond what is required of us by regulation.

• There is currently NO LIMIT to number of vessels allowed per whale. As tourism continues to grow in Mo’orea and the number of operators increases each year, we want to ensure that respect for the whales is the priority of our operation. We do not wish to add stress, force interactions, or condone harassment of the humpback whales. For this reason we generally do not enter the water with whales already accompanied by 3+ vessels. We also do not pursue whales that are moving quickly trying to move out of the area and away from boats. Humpback whales rely on their energy reserves to make the migration back to Antarctica after their time here in Mo’orea where there are no food resources available to them.

• The boat cannot approach the whales closer than 100m (150m for mom and calf). You must swim the remaining distance to the whales. You will not be dropped directly onto the whales. It is a calm, slow paced swim. If you need assistance with the swim our guides can aide you. We also offer floatation devices.

• No freediving with the humpback whales. This is to provide the best interaction possible and also to respect the whales. Diving to their depth can be seen as an intimidating gesture to the whales and often will cause them to leave. This regulation is established to not disturb the whales and also to prevent disruption of observation for other observers. The whales hold their breath anywhere from 5-30 minutes and will come to the surface. Patience is key!

• No chasing or swimming after the humpback whales. The whales are wild, sentient beings and we cannot force them and will not try to force ourselves into a desired interaction. The whale chooses whether it is feeling curious or playful and if it would like to approach us. Our guides are constantly observing the behavior to place you in the best position to maximize your viewing experience. Trust your guide and remember, you can’t control wildlife!

• You must stay with your group and your guide. You cannot venture off on your own with the humpback whales. This is for your safety and the whales.

Please keep in mind that following regulation guidelines and listening to your guide will provide you the best experience possible. The rules given by your guides are not here to limit your fun, but to give you the maximum success! If you want to ensure that you have your dream experience, we recommend joining us for a couple or even a few days to maximize your chances. Wildlife and conditions can be highly variable and each tour is a unique experience.

A percentage of all booking costs are donated to local nonprofits to further conservation and research of sharks and whales in French Polynesia. Thank you for supporting these initiatives by joining our tours.