Private Whale Watching Tour

Swimming is not compulsory, you can observe from the boat, our priority is respect for mammals and the safety of our passengers.

Our guide will authorize the launch for the swim only after having observed that the weather conditions and the behavior of the animals are favorable.

The government of French Polynesia imposes specific rules of approach. We will explain the instructions to follow before launching to ensure your safety and that of the animals.

Swimming with whales means swimming in the deep blue in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Approach rules also require us to swim long distances to approach animals discreetly.

This activity can be quite physically demanding and requires knowing how to swim and effectively using snorkelling equipment, fins, mask and snorkel.

Note: We unfortunately cannot guarantee you will swim with a whale on your tour. Why? We don’t choose to swim with a humpback whale, it chooses to swim with us. We are talking about a truly wild animal, in the open ocean, with the weather having a major impact too.

• Guided boat excursion led by certified Whale Experts
• Safety briefing and in-depth explanation of whale behavior and local regulations.
• Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, and fins)
• Life Jacket or snorkeling vest (mandatory to wear in water unless you bring a personal 3mm wetsuit -shorty or full suit-)
• Complimentary drinking water & juice on board.

• Pickup transportation is not included (Please ensure you select the “Transfer Option” during checkout if you require transportation.)
• Wetsuit is not included but you can rent some at this address – mooreawetsuitsrental

• maximum 6 swimmers in the water at one time
• wildlife encounters cannot be guaranteed
• entry into the water depends on the captain’s decision and conditions
• whale season operates within official government dates

• Key Regulations & Season:
  • Whale Season: July 20 – November 20 (Only period swimming/observation is permitted).
  • Safety Rule: Only three boats are permitted per whale group. We adhere to this strictly to prevent stressing the whales.
  • In-Water Group Size: A maximum of six passengers are allowed in the water at any time, regardless of boat size.
  • Mandatory Floatation: All guests must wear a floatation device (life jacket or Snorkling vest (which we provide free of charge) while in the water, as required by French law.
  • If you would like to avoid the mandatory life jacket requirement in water, please bring your personal 3mm wetsuit (shorty or full) you can rent some on our partners website:
    https://www.mooreawetsuitsrental.com/

  Swimming & Approach Rules:

  • Approach Distance: The boat cannot approach closer than 100m. You must swim the remaining distance to the whale.
  • Pace: The swim is designed to be calm and slow-paced. Guides are available to assist you.

  Prohibited Actions:

  • No Freediving: Diving down can intimidate the whales and cause them to leave.
  • No Chasing: Never pursue or swim after the whales. The interaction is on their terms.
  • Stay with Guide: You must remain with your assigned group and guide at all times for safety and compliance.
  • If you do not obey the regulations and guidelines provided by your onboard team, you will be asked to remain on the boat.

  Our Commitment to Responsible Ecotourism:

  • We go beyond minimum requirements to ensure respectful practices:
  • We do not enter the water with whales already accompanied by three boats.
  • We do not pursue whales that are moving quickly or trying to leave the area, as their energy reserves are vital for their migration back to Antarctica.
  • Patience is Key! Whales hold their breath for 5-30 minutes. Trust your guide to maximize your viewing experience, as they constantly monitor whale behavior.

  Guide Authorisation Only: Our guide will authorize the in-water launch only after observing that the weather conditions and the animals’ behavior are favorable.

• Please bring towels reef safe sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Light Rain Gear / Waterproof Jacket.
• If you have your own snorkeling equipment, feel free to bring it along!
• If you would like to avoid the mandatory life jacket requirement in water, please bring your personal 3mm wetsuit (shorty or full)

Pregnant women in the first trimester should avoid this tour due to possible rough ocean conditions.

Physical Requirements : Swimming with whales takes place in the open ocean. Approach rules often require us to swim long distances to reach the animals discreetly. This activity is physically demanding and requires participants to be strong swimmers.

Seasickness Warning: Our excursions take place in the open ocean, where conditions can be unpredictable. If you are prone to seasickness, we strongly recommend taking the necessary precautions (medication)

Wild animals encountered during this experience must be respected at all times. All animals encountered are completely wild, and their behavior may vary. Please adhere to ALL guidelines provided by your guide and captain at ALL times.

SHARK SAFETY:

Guest safety is our top priority. While sharks may occasionally be encountered in the open ocean, our captains and guides are trained to assess shark behavior and manage these situations.

A safety briefing is provided before entering the water, and our experienced crew continuously monitors conditions to ensure your safety.

If an oceanic whitetip shark is encountered, all guests must remain calm, keep their focus on the shark, and follow the guide’s instructions at all times.

For a cancellation up to 7 days before the excursion, we offer a 100% refund. For cancellations less than 7 days, we do not offer refunds.