Humpback Whales September 2020

Swimming with Humpback Whales in Tonga September 2020

Humpback whales in the Southern Hemisphere migrate North to give birth or to find a mate. They end up in various warm water locations, including the island nation of Tonga, where they will spend a number of months mating, or giving birth and raising their calves. This is an incredible opportunity to spend time with them in the warm, clear water of the Vava’u islands. Some humpbacks rest near the surface all day, allowing us to slip in and observe them for hours at a time. Having worked around the globe on various wildlife projects I can attest to the fact that this is one of the most amazing ocean encounters it is possible to have.

As Tonga is an island nation far from other land masses, this an expensive trip due to logistics and accomodation. I have two separate trips running consecutively in order to provide different pricing options. You will notice that both these trips are 10-day trips, with 8 water days. Whilst this does push up the price significantly, I feel that it is the best way to pretty much guarantee some breathtaking in-water experiences. The ocean is untameable and those extra few days are like an insurance policy to ensure you get the experience you are looking for.

Both trips will be accommodated at Flying Annie guest house, this is a cosy guesthouse near the harbour with access to the restaurants and bars. We will pick you up and bring you back after every day where we can get food, maybe a beer and chat about the day.

Here is a gallery of Tonga, the islands, the waters and the wildlife to see for yourself.

What is included:

– Accommodation
– Hot breakfast
– Lunches on whale water days
– Boat, skipper and accredited whale guide
– Return transport from VAV to accommodations
– Photography and videography tuition for those who are interested. I am a passionate photographer and have lectured photography for various levels in the past. We can cover basic settings, editing, equipment, animal behaviour, or any topic you wish.

I strongly believe that the best way to progress in your photographic career is to spend time with like-minded people. Out on the water using cameras in the day, and relaxing in the evening, going through images, and chatting about them with others will help you to develop your practice and ideas for the next day out on the water. Being in a non-competitive environment makes it comfortable to try different techniques and learn together.

Flights to Vava’u are not included. You will need to land in Vava’u on the arrival date (first date of the trip).

September 5th - 12th $2900

September 12th - 19th - $2900

Flying Annie is a cute bed and breakfast, located near town. Within 5 minutes of walking, you will find yourself at restaurants and at the water's edge.

For our trips, we have a small house with two bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms. We also have a room inside the main building with a double bed and ensuite bathrooms. Air conditioning is available in all of these suites, however, it is winter in Tonga, and most people do not need air conditioning.

Guests can choose from twin share or single occupancy (based on availability), with the price based on twin sharing. If you would like your own room there is a single supplement cost of $1300 USD, space permitting.