The Southern Hemisphere's Humpback Whale populaton migrates to the warm waters of numerous islands in the South Pacific every July thru October to give birth, nurse their young and breed. A good number of these magnificent whales grace us with their presence in a very special place, the Kingdom of Tonga.
Few places in the world have as much to offer the adventure traveller as the Kingdom of Tonga. Not only can you take a whalewatch adventure, Tonga is one of only two places in the world where you can actually swim and snorkel with the magestic Humpback Whales.
The Vava'u Group is the northernmost island group of the Kingdom of Tonga, where the largest concentration of whales tends to congregate. This is in part due to the large areas of protected waters. Neiafu, Vava'u is also the Port of Refuge for blue water sailors and home to the Moorings Yacht Rentals. A true sailors' paradise.
We have been taking tours to Vava'u to swim with and photograph the Humpback whales for 7 years and have chosen the best of the boat tour operators to ensure a successful trip. Their local knowledge and expertise in finding the whales and interpreting their behavior will offer the opportunity to swim with them whenever possible. We only use operators that we feel are "whale friendly" and will not harass the whales. If the conditions are right, the whales will be curious and choose to swim with us.
It is highly recommended that you are comfortable swimming in the open ocean and have some snorkeling experience to make this a fun, safe experience for you and the whales.
We purposely keep our groups small to ensure a quality experience. They do fill up quickly, and we recommend reserving your spot well in advance.
Upon
boarding your flight from Tongatapu to Vava'u, it will soon become
apparent why some refer to this string of islands as the "Jewels
of the South Seas." The shapes and colors transport you
to a land and time forgotten by most. The feelings of joy and
well-being seep almost unnoticed into your subconscious and before
your know it ... you are smiling and beginning to relax ... really
... really ... relax...
You will be staying at the "Harborview Resort". The private units are self contained with beautifully landscaped grounds with a picturesque view of the Port of Refuge. They are conveniently located a short distance from town with its many restaurants, shops and local market.
There is a dock in front of the resort where our private boat will pick us up for our whale swim trips.
There is a communal "Tongan style " BBQ area to gather and share photos and talk story at the end of the day.
One week $1895.00 (per person, dbl. occ.)
Sept. 16-23 & Sept.23-30
includes 7 nights accommodations
4 full day boat trips
complimentary video
transport to and from the airportExtended week $2750.00(per person dbl. occ.)
Sept.16-26 & Sept.23- Oct.3
includes 10 nights accommodations
6 full day boat trips
complimentary video
transport to and from the airport
Air Pacific, Air New Zealand, and Virgin Blue Airlines fly to Tongatapu, then a commuter flight on Airlines Tonga will get you to Vava'u. Travel insurance is recommended. Contact Jennifer at Travelteam (800) 788-0829.
We will provide airport transport upon arrival and departure.
A detailed itinerary will be sent to you upon enrollment. (Printable enrollement form.)
We are looking forward to sharing this incredible life changing experience with you!
Please
note that Tonga is very different from the United States. The
pace and standards of the islanders are part of the experience,
please do not bring your expectations on vacation with you, to
experience their culture is part of the adventure!
The people of Tonga, the humpback whales, and the pristine coral reefs and beaches, will make this a trip of a lifetime! Tongan tapa cloth, wood carvings (of whales & dolphins, and baskets are some of the treasures you may want to allow for. [crfters pix]
The Tongan people are very modest, please wear appropriate clothing while in villages, airports, etc. (longer walking shorts, skirts, and short sleeve blouses or tees are fine) bathing suits, shorts , etc. are fine on the boats and at resorts.
Deposit of 50% required at time of booking to confirm reservation.
To secure your reservation, the deposit must be paid by check, money order, or credit card within 3 days of our receiving your registration form. A confirmation of receipt and packet containing further details pertaining to your trip will be sent to you by return mail.
Cancellation policy: Written
cancellation notice of more than 30 days, full refund minus $200.
processing fees.
Less than 30 day notice, no refund.
Checks shall be made payable
and mailed to:
Tonga Tiki, Inc.
77-116 Queen Kalama Ave.
Kailua-Kona Hi 96740
(808) 324-0433
Whale / Human A Life Experience
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