Haapai: 8 Day Awesome Whale Swim Adventure (30 Jul – 6 Aug)

Swim alongside majestic humpback whales in Tonga's captivating marine world on this meticulously curated 8-day eco-adventure, with limited slots ensuring personalized encounters.

Embarking on the "Haapai: 8 Day Awesome Whale Swim Adventure" promises an unparalleled opportunity to take in Tonga’s captivating marine world. This meticulously curated expedition offers travelers a chance to swim alongside the majestic humpback whales that grace the southern islands, all while staying in a breathtaking eco-resort and indulging in an array of complimentary water activities. With limited participant slots, this intimate adventure ensures personalized encounters and an unforgettable experience that prioritizes the well-being of the whales and their aquatic habitat.

Key Points

  • This 8-day excursion in Tonga’s southern islands allows participants to swim with humpback whales in their natural habitat, led by expert guides.
  • The experience includes 5 days of whale swimming excursions, accommodation in beachfront fales, meals, flights, and access to water sports equipment.
  • The trip is priced at $5,059.23 per group (up to 1 person) and has a small group size of 8 participants for an intimate experience.
  • Participants must be capable swimmers and provide their own snorkeling equipment, with wetsuits being optional.
  • The cancellation policy offers flexibility, with a full refund for cancellations up to 30 days in advance and a 50% penalty for cancellations within 15-29 days.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Adventure

The Haapai Whale Swim Adventure is an 8-day excursion that immerses participants in the stunning marine environment of Tonga’s southern islands.

Priced from $5,059.23 per group (up to 1 person), this small-group experience allows guests to swim with humpback whales in their natural habitat.

The adventure takes place from July 30 to August 6, 2025, and is led by expert guides who prioritize the safety and well-being of both participants and the marine life.

With an exclusive eco-resort, private boat, and range of included activities, this tour offers a unique and ethical opportunity to connect with the whales.

Highlights of the Experience

Participants can expect an immersive, up-close encounter with humpback whales during the Haapai Whale Swim Adventure. Expert guides provide safety and knowledge, ensuring responsible encounters that protect the whales.

The small group size of 8 participants creates an intimate experience, while the exclusive eco-resort and private boat offer a unique setting.

Highlights of the experience include:

  • Swimming alongside majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat

  • Exploring the waters of Tonga’s Haapai region, a renowned whale watching destination

  • Enjoying complimentary access to kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to further immerse in the marine environment

Itinerary and Inclusions

Over the course of the 8-day adventure, you will enjoy 5 days of whale swimming excursions. They’ll stay in beachfront fales on the island of Uoleva, with all main meals included. Flights between Tongatapu and Haapai, as well as airport transfers, are provided. Guests will also have access to kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and a yoga deck.

| Inclusions | |

| — | — |

| 7 nights beachfront accommodation | Packed lunch |

| Daily continental breakfast | Escorted tour guide |

| 2-course dinner | Complimentary water activities |

All participants must be swimmers and bring their own snorkeling equipment and travel insurance. Wetsuits are optional.

Preparing for the Trip

Before embarking on this whale swimming adventure, guests should ensure they’ve all the necessary gear and paperwork. This includes bringing their own snorkeling equipment, as well as optional wetsuits to stay warm in the Pacific waters.

Plus, all participants must sign a waiver prior to the trip. To prepare, guests should also consider the following:

  • Travel insurance to cover any unexpected events or medical emergencies

  • Comfortable beachwear and a towel for the excursions

  • Personal items such as sunscreen, hat, and water bottle

The meeting point is the domestic airport, where guests should arrive one hour before check-in, unless alternative arrangements have been made.

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Requirements for Participants

To participate in the Haapai Whale Swim Adventure, guests must be capable swimmers. The experience isn’t suitable for non-swimmers.

Participants will need to bring their own snorkeling equipment and travel insurance. Wetsuits are optional. Guests should also pack towels, beachwear, and personal items.

All participants must sign a waiver before joining the tour. The group size is limited to 8 for an intimate adventure, allowing expert guides to provide safety and respect for the marine life.

This ethical tourism experience ensures responsible encounters that protect the whales.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

The Haapai Whale Swim Adventure offers a free cancellation policy up to 30 days in advance, providing guests with a full refund. This flexible policy allows travelers to book with confidence, knowing they can receive a complete refund if their plans change.

Some key points about the cancellation and refund policy:

  • Cancellation within 30 days of the start date results in a full refund.

  • Cancellation within 15-29 days of the start date incurs a 50% penalty.

  • Cancellation within 14 days of the start date is non-refundable.

This straightforward policy gives guests peace of mind when securing their spot on this unique adventure.

Additional Costs and Considerations

While the Haapai Whale Swim Adventure includes a comprehensive package, there are additional costs and considerations travelers should keep in mind. International flights to Tonga are not covered, and guests are responsible for any excess baggage charges, visa, and passport fees. Optional activities and personal expenses, such as Wi-Fi charges and alcohol, are also not included in the package price.

| Additional Costs | Details |

| — | — |

| International Flights | Travelers are responsible for booking and paying for flights to/from Tonga |

| Excess Baggage | Any baggage exceeding the airline’s weight limit will incur additional fees |

| Visa and Passport | Guests must ensure they have valid passports and obtain any necessary visas |

Meeting Point and Transportation

Guests meet at the domestic airport in Tonga’s capital, Tongatapu, one hour before their scheduled check-in time, unless alternate arrangements have been made.

From there, the group is transported by private transfer to the enchanting Haapai islands, the heart of the adventure. The journey includes:

  • A scenic 40-minute flight from Tongatapu to Haapai

  • A 30-minute private transfer from the Haapai airport to the eco-resort on Uoleva

  • Complimentary round-trip transfers for the duration of the 8-day experience

This seamless transportation ensures guests arrive at their beachfront accommodation refreshed and ready to embark on their immersive whale swim encounter.

The Sum Up

Join the Haapai: 8 Day Awesome Whale Swim Adventure for an unparalleled opportunity to swim with humpback whales in Tonga’s stunning southern islands. This intimate expedition offers personalized encounters, beachfront accommodation, and complimentary water activities, all while prioritizing marine life safety. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime chance to learn about the breathtaking eco-resort and create unforgettable memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: