Swim with Humpback Whales in Moorea
Swim With Humpback Whales - Photography & Video Expedition
Moorea, French Polynesia | August 18–27, 2025
Overview
This is the 3rd year I am back to Moorea and now you can join me for a once-in-a-lifetime experience swimming with humpback whales in one of the best locations on Earth—Moorea. This expedition is designed for underwater enthusiasts, ocean-loving photographers & videographers, and anyone drawn to the magic of the deep.
You don’t need to be a scuba diver or freediver to join—if you're a confident swimmer and can breathe through a snorkel, you can be part of this incredible journey.
Why Moorea?
Nestled in French Polynesia, just a short ferry ride from Tahiti, Moorea is a stunning volcanic island surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear lagoons. With its year-round warm waters, it’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and relaxing in paradise.
The island’s dramatic mountain peaks, lush rainforests, and turquoise bays create postcard-perfect scenery. White sand beaches line the coast, while the interior offers rich jungle trails and panoramic views.
Moorea is home to abundant marine life, including blacktip reef sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, dolphins—and from July to October, humpback whales migrate here to give birth and nurse their young.
A blend of adventure and tranquility, Moorea offers a magical experience rooted in Polynesian culture and untouched natural beauty.
Moorea’s warm, clear tropical waters and surrounding coral reefs make it a perfect sanctuary for humpback whales to birth and raise their calves. Strict local regulations ensure ethical and respectful whale interactions, with only 6 people (including the guide) allowed in the water at any given time.
We work exclusively with a highly experienced local captain and licensed guide who focus on finding whales—not following other boats—ensuring intimate, non-disruptive encounters. While the whales ultimately decide whether to approach, we regularly swim with them daily during the season.
Expedition Itinerary
Water Days
- 3 Half Days (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
-
4 Full Days (8:00 AM – 3:30 PM)
We maximize time on the water to increase chances of meaningful whale encounters.
Island Exploration Day
Take a break from the sea and immerse yourself in Moorea’s lush landscapes. Hike volcanic trails, relax on pristine beaches, or snorkel at your own pace—this day is yours to unwind and explore.
The Lagoon Experience
Weather permitting, we’ll spend a half-day meeting Moorea’s iconic stingrays and blacktip reef sharks in the shallow lagoon.
Photography & Editing Guidance
Capture stunning underwater moments and refine your editing skills with a dedicated photography evening. Whether you’re new to underwater photography or looking to take your edits to the next level, we’ll guide you through practical tips, answer questions, and help you make the most of your images.
You'll return home with a personal collection of high-quality photos—perfect for sharing with your friends and family.
Trip Logistics
Getting to Moorea
- Fly into Papeete International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti
- Take a scenic 30-minute ferry to Moorea
- We’ll arrange transfers from the Moorea ferry terminal to your accommodation
The Accomodation
Tucked away in a quiet, secure residence on the lagoon’s edge, this stylish 3-bedroom twin share villa is perfect for our expeditions. Each bedroom is air-conditioned and has its own private bathroom, offering both comfort and privacy.
The highlight is a beautiful saltwater infinity pool with lagoon views, surrounded by a spacious deck with sun loungers, outdoor seating, and a shaded dining area.
Inside, the open living space includes a cozy lounge and high-speed fiber internet. The fully equipped kitchen has everything we need—oven, gas hob, fridge, microwave, dishwasher, Nespresso machine, and more.
Extras include kayaks and paddle boards, an outdoor shower, private lagoon access, and a laundry room.
This is the perfect place to wind down and relax after a day out on the ocean.
What’s Included
- Daily boat excursions with expert captain and guide
- 7 days of water-based whale watching & snorkeling
- 1 island exploration day
- Breakfast
- Snacks on the boat
- Photography & editing guidance
- Transfers between Moorea ferry terminal and accommodation
What’s Not Included
- International flights
- Ferry from Tahiti to Moorea
- Lunch & Dinner, alcohol, and drinks
- Personal snorkeling equipment
- Snacks or extras you may want
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
Trip Price & Payment
$4900 USD per person
- A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your place
- Final payment is due 60 days prior to departure
Key Requirements
- Strong swimming skills and confidence in open ocean
- Comfortable using snorkel, mask, and fins
- Freediving is not required—we snorkel respectfully at the surface
- Open-mindedness and respect for marine wildlife
- Bring your own camera equipment, everything is suitable from action cameras to professional camera setups.
Wildlife Encounters
Humpback Whales
These gentle giants migrate from Antarctica to French Polynesia to mate and give birth. July–October is peak season for sightings, with calves often seen swimming beside their mothers. Encounters may include breaching, tail slapping, spy hopping, and even hearing the haunting songs of male whales underwater. We may encounter other ca
Did you know?
- Female humpbacks weigh up to 45 tonnes and reach 16 meters in length
- Calves are born at 1–2 tonnes and grow quickly on nutrient-rich milk
- Mothers often rest at depth while calves play near the surface—some even approach swimmers with curiosity
Sharks (Optional Bonus)
Shark encounters, while rare, can be a thrilling part of the experience. Species like the oceanic white tip may occasionally appear. Our team follows strict safety protocols, and no prior shark experience is necessary—just a respectful attitude and sense of wonder.
What to Bring
Essentials include:
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Mask, snorkel, and fins
- Wetsuit or thermal top (2–3mm recommended)
- Windbreaker and warm hat for boat rides
- Bring your own camera equipment, everything is suitable from action cameras to professional camera setups.
Ready to Join Us?
If you’ve ever dreamed of making eye contact with a humpback whale, hearing their song through the water, or capturing raw, emotional ocean imagery—this is your opportunity.
Spots are limited to ensure the highest quality experience. Reserve yours today and be part of something truly extraordinary.