TONGA

HUMPBACK WHALE EXPEDITIONS

HUMPBACK WHALES

Annually, Between July and October, humpbacks take part in one of the longest migrations in the animal kingdom, both on land and sea. During the Southern Hemisphere winter, the humpbacks leave their feeding grounds in Antarctica and start migrating north to the warm waters of Tonga; to mate, give birth and nurse their young. 

Join us on an incredible journey to swim with Humpback whales in Tonga.

Ever since our first whale encounter in 2008 we have been on a continues journey of heart expansion and our mission is to share these whale moments with others and help increase awareness and understandings of the extraordinaire of whales and at the same time, their fragility. Throughout his thirty-year career as a professional Freediver and world record holder Erez, now focuses on Human-Whale encounters, conservation and breathing education. As an award-winning underwater photographer Erez, will help you maximise and refine your photography skills.

After 15 unforgettable years of swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, we’re thrilled to introduce something truly special —

SANCTUARY: an Eco-resort on the pristine Uoleva Island in the Ha’apai group.

Nestled along a stunning stretch of beach, SANCTUARY offers an intimate retreat with accommodations for up to 16 guests. Our beautiful oceanfront rooms provide the perfect space to unwind between adventures.

At the heart of the resort, you’ll find a 10-meter dome designed for yoga, sound healing, and transformative workshops. A spacious communal area and easy access to vibrant coral reefs make SANCTUARY the ultimate base for whale swims and other ocean experiences.

We’re also a fully equipped freediving facility, offering unlimited depth, a 3-meter training platform, and access to some of the most breathtaking freedive sites in the region.

The 2025 season is nearly full — only a few rooms remain from September 18 onward, now available at a special rate.

Visit our website to learn more and secure your spot.

Use the code SANCTUARY2025 at checkout to receive an exclusive discount.

INCLUSIONS

  • Domestic flight between Tongatapu and Ha'apai
  • Transfers between the airport to the Hotel
  • 7 Nights Hotel Accomodation at Sanctuary Tonga
  • All Meals
  • 5 days on the water - Whale Swim / Freediving
  • Daily Freediving / Snorkelling / Yoga - Optional

ITINERARY

  • DAY 1 - Arrive in Ha'apai with a domestic flight from Nuku'alofa. Check into resort. Whale swim briefing and afternoon activities.
  • DAYS 2-7 - Morning Yoga session followed by breakfast. Full day of whale swim. Dinner followed by evening activities such as camp fire, workshops and lectures.
  • DAY 8 - Saying goodbye and transfer to the airport. If time permits, we will swim with whales in the morning before heading to the airport
  • SUNDAY - It is a national rest day. We will visit a local village, have a traditional lunch and conduct a beach clean-up

Exclusions

  • Tips
  • International Airfare
  • Alcohol / Soft Drinks
  • Travel Insurance

Required for the trip

  • Wind Stopper jacket / Rain Coat
  • Sunscreen
  • Any personal medication
  • Snorkelling / freediving gear (Weights are provided)

Upcoming Trips

Book now

Humpbacks of Tonga, Sanctuary Resort – 2025 / 2026

August-September
(2 Reviews)
From$4,690 USD
FULL

Humpbacks of Tonga, Serenity Beaches – 2025

August-September
From$4,900 USD

PAYMENT POLICY

In order to join our trips you will be required to pay a deposits. Our payment schedule is as follows:

25% deposit to be made at the time of booking. Deposits are only refundable with the conditions listed in our Terms and conditions page. 

25% of total amount deposited 3 months prior to the estimated start of the trip – non-refundable + transferable for the 2024 season with conditions listed in the Terms and Conditions page.

50% to be paid 60 days before trip commencement.

CANCELLATIONS

  • Cancellations over 180 days before the trip are refundable except for a 300$ administrative fee.
  • Cancellations between 90-180 days before the trip – 25% of trip price
  • Cancellations made less than 60-90 days from the trip – 75% of trip price
  • Cancellations made less than 60 days from the trip – Full trip price.

*some trips may have different payment schedules – please check individual trips.

Lisa

This expedition was absolutely beyond anything I could have ever imagined. Not only was the location fantastic, not only did we have the opportunity to swim and dive with humpback whales at arms’ reach, but: the way Erez and Ally from Apnea Australia took care of everything really turned the whole experience into something luxurious you will never want to forget. If you can only do one trip this year, that is the one you want to enjoy. I wish I could join them again, and I know that one day, I will.