Swim with humpback whales

If you’ve ever dreamed of sharing the ocean with one of nature’s most majestic creatures, this tour in Moorea might just make that dream come true. For around $264 per person, you’ll spend approximately 3 to 4 hours exploring the tranquil lagoon and open ocean, guided by knowledgeable locals who know where to find the whales. Led by friendly guides who speak both English and French, this small-group excursion promises an intimate experience with humpback whales, rays, and even black-tip sharks.
What we love about this tour is the personalized attention in small groups—capped at 12 travelers—which means fewer crowds and more chances to connect with the marine environment. Also, the comprehensive package includes snorkeling gear, so there’s no need to bring your own equipment.
A potential consideration is that the tour’s success hinges on whale activity and weather conditions. Sometimes the whales are constantly on the move, making close encounters tricky, or seas can be rough, especially in open water.
This experience is best suited for those with a decent level of fitness and an adventurous spirit—especially if you’re eager to get in the water with the whales. It’s ideal for animal lovers and snorkelers who want more than just a sightseeing cruise; this is about active engagement with marine life.

Key Points

• Ideal for July to early November: The season when humpbacks frequent Moorea’s waters.
• Small group size: No more than 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
• All equipment provided: Snorkeling gear and bottled water included.
• Guides speak both English and French: Making communication accessible for most travelers.
• In-water safety: Guides supervise swimmers in waist-height water, perfect for nervous or beginner snorkelers.
• Weather-dependent: Success depends on whale activity and sea conditions, so flexibility is helpful.

The Ultimate Guide to Your Moorea Whale Swim Adventure

Location and Timing: When and Where

Moorea, part of French Polynesia, becomes a magnet for humpback whales from July through early November. These whales migrate here for breeding and calving, making it the best time to see and swim with them. The tour departs from Corallina Tours’ meeting point in Maharepa at 8:30 am—a good reason to start your day early and maximize your chances of sightings before the afternoon winds up.

Moorea’s calm lagoon and open ocean provide an ideal environment for both whale spotting and snorkeling. The boat takes you on a scenic cruise around the island’s coast, offering beautiful views of the island’s lush hills and clear waters, which are as much part of the adventure as the whales themselves.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Cruise in the Lagoon and Open Ocean
Your guide will take you on a relaxing boat ride through Moorea’s tranquil lagoon. This initial part offers a chance to enjoy the scenery, get familiar with the boat, and listen to the guides’ expert commentary. Not only do you get to admire the island’s natural beauty, but you also get to see rays and black-tip sharks—a thrilling preview of the ocean life that awaits.

Swim with Humpback Whales
The core of this tour is swimming with humpbacks. Depending on whale activity, guides will lead the group into open water where whales have been spotted. Many reviews mention successful sightings of mothers with calves, or even close encounters with adult whales. As one reviewer put it, “Seeing the whales’ eye was amazing,” and “we were fortunate enough to see a mother and her calf.”

Swimmers are supervised in waist-high water, which makes it accessible even for those nervous about ocean swimming. This setup, coupled with local guides’ expertise, helps you feel safe while experiencing the thrill of being close to such enormous and gentle giants.

Additional Marine Life
After the whale experience, the tour continues to a lagoon where you can stand or snorkel amidst rays and sharks. This part is relaxed and fun, offering excellent opportunities for photos and just soaking in the marine environment. Many guests mention how memorable it was to share the water with rays and sharks, often noting how close and safe they felt.

Return and Refreshments
Back on the boat, bottled water and sometimes fresh fruit are provided to keep everyone refreshed. Some reviews highlight the friendly crew and the overall positive vibe, mentioning how fun and knowledgeable the guides, like Francesca and Tamahere, made the outing.

The Experience: Why It Stands Out

Knowledgeable Guides and Personal Attention
Reviews consistently praise the guides’ professionalism and friendliness. One comment described the team as “very knowledgeable, friendly, and making me feel incredibly safe,” which is a huge plus when dealing with wild animals and open water. The guides’ ability to switch seamlessly between English and French ensures clear communication, making the experience accessible for most travelers.

Authentic Marine Encounters
Many travelers shared that they “had multiple close encounters with whales,” highlighting the thrill of seeing a mother and calf or a solo whale passing nearby. The guides’ skill in locating whales and respecting their space adds value to the experience, making it more than just a tour—it’s a genuine interaction with nature.

Good Value for Money
Considering the inclusion of snorkeling gear, bottled water, and the expert guidance, the cost of $264.13 seems reasonable, especially given the chance to see and swim with humpbacks—a rare and special opportunity. Reviewers who’ve booked other tours pointed out that the experience exceeded expectations for the price.

Potential Drawbacks: Be Prepared

While the tour has many positives, a few travelers noted that whale sightings can be unpredictable. Sometimes whales move quickly or stay out of reach, which can lead to disappointment. Seas can also be rough, especially in the open ocean, so a decent level of fitness and comfort in the water is advisable.

Another consideration is that the group size can be relatively large (up to 12), which some might find less intimate than private charters. However, this does help keep costs reasonable and allows for a lively, shared experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for animal lovers, snorkelers, and those who appreciate authentic wildlife encounters. It’s well suited to travelers who enjoy active days and are comfortable in the water, as swimming with the whales requires some effort. The mix of marine life, breathtaking scenery, and knowledgeable guides makes it ideal for those who want a genuine, not overly commercial, adventure.

FAQs

When is the best time to see humpback whales in Moorea?
The tour operates primarily from July to early November, which is the peak season for humpbacks in Moorea.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, the tour includes the use of snorkeling gear, so you don’t need to bring your own.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 3 to 4 hours from start to finish, including transportation, boat time, and water activities.

Will I see whales every time?
While guides are skilled at locating whales, sightings depend on whale activity and weather conditions. Some days are more successful than others.

Is it suitable for beginners or nervous swimmers?
Yes, guides supervise in waist-height water and ensure safety, making it accessible even if you’re less comfortable in the ocean.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the price covers snorkeling gear, bottled water, and round-trip transportation. Restroom facilities on board are not available.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, and possibly a light waterproof camera. Wear comfortable swimwear and a hat for sun protection.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While children are allowed, the tour recommends caution for young children due to the deep open water and physical activity involved.

Final Thoughts

Swimming with humpback whales in Moorea offers an unforgettable glimpse into the ocean’s gentle giants. With expert guides, small groups, and well-organized logistics, this experience balances adventure with safety and comfort. It’s a chance to connect directly with nature, see stunning marine life, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

If you’re an animal enthusiast, a snorkeler eager to explore marine environments, or simply someone craving a meaningful adventure, this tour offers excellent value and a genuine encounter. Just remember, patience is key—whale sightings are dependent on nature, and seas can be unpredictable. But when the whales do appear, you’ll understand why so many reviewers call this “exceptional” and “the highlight of their trip.”

In summary, this tour is designed for those who want more than just sightseeing—they want to participate, to feel the power and grace of these magnificent creatures, and to do so in a respectful, environmentally conscious way. It’s best suited for active travelers who are comfortable in water and looking for a meaningful, authentic marine adventure in Moorea.