Swim with Humpback Whales in French Polynesia
Swim with Humpback Whales
Each year, humpback whales migrate thousands of miles to the warm, shallow waters of French Polynesia — and for a short window, we get to share the ocean with them. These are not staged encounters or guaranteed sightings. They're rare moments of connection, guided by marine biologists who know the science, respect the animals, and still get goosebumps every time a whale turns toward them. This is not a tour. It's an invitation to experience humpbacks in the wild — up close, on their terms, and with a deep sense of respect for their world
Join our small groups (just 5 clients) for 6 full days of swimming with these amazing giants of the sea. No SCUBA certification needed.
2025 Expedition Dates- Mo’orea Island
Session 1 - August 9 - August 16 (SOLD OUT)
Session 2 - August 16 - August 23 (SOLD OUT)
Session 3 - August 23 - August 30 (SOLD OUT)
Inclusions - Mo’orea Island
6 Full days on the ocean looking for humpback whales and other marine life
Lunches each day on the water
Digital access to photos taken by me on the trip for you to keep
Experienced Local Guide and captain
Non-alcoholic drinks on board
Exclusions
Airfare and Transport to destination
Accommodation (we will help direct where to look for accommodation)
Gratuities
Additional expenses (alcoholic drinks, gifts, personal expenses)
Travel Insurance (Required)
Itinerary - Mo’orea Island
Day 1. Arrive in Tahiti- Land in Papeete (PPT) , and transfer to Mo’orea
Day 2-7. 6 full days on the water looking for humpbacks and other marine life - 730/8 am - 330/4pm
Day 8. Transfer back to airport for flights home
What to bring
Rash vest, or thermal top, wetsuit if you get cold.
Mask
Snorkel
Fins
Wet weather jacket (lightweight water proof/windproof shell)
Camera
When to go ?
From our many years of experience guiding humpback whale encounters in French Polynesia, we’ve found that August and September are the peak months for seeing the whales at their most dynamic. During this time, the migration is in full swing, and you can witness heat runs, competitive males, and social groups playing and dancing in the warm waters. These months offer the highest chances for thrilling, high-energy encounters that leave a lasting impression.
By October and November, the pace slows. The focus shifts to mother-calf pairs, and mating behaviors taper off. While these months still offer beautiful experiences, it’s the lively interactions of August and September that have consistently proven to be the most spectacular, based on what we’ve seen over nearly a decade of guiding in these waters.
What Makes Our Encounters Different?
The whales make the encounter — this is the cornerstone of everything we do. It’s the guiding principle behind how we approach each expedition, always putting the animals first. Our daily goals are shaped not just by the behaviors we aim to witness, but by the real, raw encounters we’ve had over the years, and the stories we continue to create with the whales.
So, what does it mean when we say, "the whales make the encounter"? It means that we don’t control the experience. No matter how fast you swim, how skilled you are at freediving, or how expert you might be at photography, you’ll never dictate the moments that unfold. The key is to receive, not take. When we stop trying to force an encounter, that’s when we can truly experience it on the whales' terms — and those are the moments that stay with you.
You can’t force a whale to approach, you can’t force it to show you its elegant dance — the only thing you can force is the whale to swim away. So, follow us, be patient, and trust the process. The outcomes speak for themselves, and you can see them on our Instagram.
And given the timing of our expeditions, we’re always tracking the behaviors we’ve seen and those we’re still hoping to witness. If we've already encountered a mother and calf or heard a male singing, we'll shift focus to smaller groups, looking for signs of mating or social rituals. We might also seek out sleepers — whales that, when they surface and notice us, decide to engage.
FAQ
How many people are on each expedition?
We keep our groups small, and limited to 5 on our humpback expeditions, to ensure a personalized experience. Our smaller groups allow for more meaningful interactions and greater flexibility, which means more opportunities to connect with the whales.
Do I need to be an expert swimmer or freediver?
No! While a certain level of comfort in the water helps, you don’t need to be an expert swimmer or freediver to join us. Our guides will support you, and we offer plenty of opportunities to experience the whales on your own terms. The focus is on patiently observing, not on competing with the animals.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Yes, you will need to be comfortable swimming in the open ocean with a mask, snorkel, and fins, without aid (no flotation devices) or assistance (such as someone holding you). However, we understand that the first day or two can bring a bit of anxiety, and we’re more than happy to take things slow. If you’re feeling nervous, just let us know, and we’ll guide you through it — you wouldn’t be the first to experience those nerves, and we’re here to help.
What can I expect during an encounter with a whale?
Every encounter is unique, but our goal is always the same: to create a safe, respectful space where you can witness the whales on their terms. Some days may bring up-close moments, while others may involve watching the whales from a distance. What’s certain is that each encounter will leave you with a deep appreciation for these magnificent animals.
Can I take photographs during the expedition?
Absolutely! We understand the importance of capturing these moments, but we also encourage you to enjoy the experience beyond your camera. The key is to balance receiving the moment while also documenting it. If you’re an avid photographer, our guides will provide tips for capturing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
What happens if we don’t see whales during the trip?
While we can’t guarantee whale sightings (because the whales are, of course, the ones in control), we’ve designed our expeditions around the best time and locations for sightings. We aim to provide you with an unforgettable experience, whether it’s through other marine life encounters or the stunning environment of French Polynesia.
How can I prepare for the expedition?
We recommend arriving well-rested, with a positive attitude, and ready to embrace the journey. Our humpback whale expeditions involve being on the water for most of the day, so it’s important to be physically prepared for the conditions. We'll also provide a detailed packing list and tips to ensure you’re ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
How do I book my spot on an expedition?
Booking is simple! You can book directly on our website through our secure booking platform (link above). If you have any questions or would prefer to speak with a member of our team before booking, feel free to reach out to us via email or text us via Whatsapp. We’re here to help guide you every step of the way.
Expedition Leader -
Dr. Caine Delacy see his bio here
PAYMENT POLICY
A deposit of $1500 is require to reserve your booking
The balance is due 180 days prior to departure.
No surcharge fees for credit card payments
CANCELLATION POLICY
All cancellations made more than 150 days prior to departure will receive a refund (less an administrative fee of $500 USD per person). This fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Cancellations made <150 calendar days prior to departure will not be refunded. It is advised and recommended that you get travel insurance.
We are not responsible for cancellations due to medical or other reasons.
No fees will be refunded if you withdraw after an expedition begins.
We are not responsible for any fees associated with non-refundable air travel.
Buy Travel Insurance.