Have you been dreaming to swim with humpback whales? With non-stop flights from California to Tahiti, it is time to make your dreams come true. In this post, I will share when to go, what to expect, gear to bring, and a couple of my personal recommendations for tour companies.
Humpback Whales in Moorea
French Polynesia is one of the few places in the world where you can enter the water and swim with these gentle giants.
Nothing truly describes being in the water with a mom and baby humpback whale who is so playful dancing and showing off their belly.
You watch every movement and then suddenly, the eye of a whale, approximately the size of a baseball is then watching you.
By far, one of the best and powerful experiences.
Pure magic.
Why Are The Whales In French Polynesia?
The short answer is protection. In 2002, French Polynesia declared its waters a Marine Mammal Sanctuary. This provides protection to all of the 20 species of Whales and Dolphins found in their waters.
This is no small act as the Polynesia triangle is over 5 million square kilometers in the Pacific Ocean. The widest part is 180 degrees, half of Earth.
Where Do The Whales Migrate From?
Every singe year the humpback whales swim from Antarctica to Polynesia. The journey is 15,000 km or 9,320 miles in total. The swim can take 3-4 months with the whales making an appearance as early as June.
Moorea is an incredible island with a stunning reef system that creates beautiful lagoons. The reef line runs around the entire island, making it a safe haven for a variety of marine life, with 12 breaks in the reef, known as passes. The passes allow the marine life to safely enter the lagoon and away from predators.
For mom and baby, the lagoon acts as a nursery. The scientists and researchers used to think the whales only traveled to Polynesia to care for the babies, however, they have learned they also mate. During the commute from Antartica, male whales are also present. The males have a job to make sure the females arrive safely in Polynesia. And, if the male does a good job he might just have a chance to mate.
When Is The Best Time To Go?
July – October is Humpback whale season. September is known to be a fantastic time to observe the newborns with mom.
With that being said, these are wild animals. All interactions are on their terms.
The male whales are commonly referred to as escorts or minders. They swim deep out of sight, and are often singing. Their songs can travel up to 10,000 miles underwater. So, if you do not see them, you might be able to hear the powerful songs.
The closer they are to you, the stronger the vibration will be. Once you feel the vibrations in your lungs, they are close, maybe directly below you.
Best Way To See The Whales
Book a tour! You can choose public or private and half or full day. Half day tours are 4 hours and a full day is 8 hours.
If you are a group of 4 or more I would recommend a full day private tour. Also, some companies have underwater photographers available for hire.
It is the best way to be as present as possible while someone captures the magic for you.
The guide will explain what to look out for, how to behave in the water, and the laws.
Once the whales are located, both the captain and guide will assess the whale’s behavior, weather, water, and of course, other boats.
When it is safe for both the whales and humans, the guide will explain how to enter the water quietly. Boats cannot operate within 100m of the whales, you should expect to swim with your fins underwater.
What To Bring
If you have your own mask, fins, and snorkel, recommend bringing your own gear. If not, the boat will have options available.
A wetsuit is not required and the boat will not have one for you. If you get cold easily, wear a shortie or a rash guard. The water temperature is ~80F or 28C year round. Warm enough for only a swimsuit.
Extras: Towel, water, reef safe sunscreen, and an underwater camera. Visibility in French Polynesia is top notch. Yes, take your DJI Action Cam or even your cell phone in a waterproof case will work great.
Highly Recommended Tour Companies
When I left corporate health care to travel full time, French Polynesia was my first destination.
The Tahitian way of life restored my faith in humanity. Most importantly, it reset my heart and soul back to what really matters in life.
With each trip back to Polynesia, I will continue to update and share more information here.
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