Swim with Humpback whales

country:	Tonga
departures:	2008: 16 Sep, 23 Sep, 7 Oct 2009: 4 Aug, 18 Aug, 15 Sep, 6 Oct
price:	From AU $1200 - AU $1520 (3 days) excluding flights (double/twin share). 12 guests only Watch a

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Whale watching holidays

the amazing things you'll be doing

If you are short of time OR you just want 3 days out with the Humpback whales, then this package will be perfect to include in your visit to Vava'u.

This trip includes: 3 nights accommodation (2 resorts to choose from) with breakfast & dinner at Blue Lagoon and just breakfast at Hilltop Hotel; 3 full day boat trips with the whales with a packed lunch; snorkeling; experienced skipper and guide (with water safety qualifications); guidance in the water with the whales; information on Humpback whale behaviour, guidelines and education for 'in the water' encounters, whale spotting etc.; conservation and environmentally aware staff.

Our tours begin at 9am at our boat jetty in Neiafu on the first day of the tour. If you are staying on an outer island prior to the tour, you will need to pay extra for the boat transfer and we will pick you up between 9.30 - 10am for the whalewatching days.

Accommodation
A choice of 2 resorts in Vava'u!
Hilltop Hotel
Set in beautiful gardens high above the town of Neiafu, with spectacular views over the beautiful Port of Refuge harbor. It has 8 spacious & comfortable modern rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Breakfast is served in their café with great views. Just a short walk to the shops, cafes and bars in Neiafu. (Evening meals are NOT included in this package.)

Blue Lagoon Resort
3 nights on the paradise island of Foeata out in the humpback whale nursery. Pristine beach and clear turquoise lagoon, wonderful accommodation and serves the best gourmet food in Tonga. (All meals are included)

travellers' tales

The highlight to me was snorkelling with Humpback Whales. (more)

how this holiday makes a difference

There are approximately 450 Humpback whales that migrate to Tonga each year, during our days on the water, we endeavor to allow as many in-the-water encounters as possible without harassing the whales. Some days we may only witness surface activity other days we may experience in-the-water encounters, as weather and tides are believed to effect the behaviour of the whales and where they 'hang out'.

We ask you to fully appreciate that to have an opportunity to swim with humpback whales is rare, very unique and a precious gift. We strictly abide by the Whale-Watching Guidelines therefore there is always only four people plus the Guide in the water with the whales at one time.

When whale-watching:

Cease contact at any sign of whales, particularly mothers and calves, becoming distressed or alarmed
Allow the whales to control the nature and duration of the encounter
Whales may leave an area if continually disturbed
Respect the marine environment
Do not throw rubbish or other objects into the water.
Dumping rubbish, particularly plastics, can kill whales and other sea life through accidental swallowing or entanglement
If whale-watching from land, remain within established footpaths and lookout points, protect the environment, e.g. don't trample vegetation, minimise noise levels and don't swim to the whales from the shore

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