So You Wanna… Swim with Humpback Whales in Moorea

Swimming with humpback whales in Moorea is an experience that will forever change the way you view the ocean. To find yourself floating in the crystal-clear waters of Moorea, surrounded by the majestic presence of these gentle giants, is both thrilling and humbling.

Here’s My Step-by-Step Planning Guide:

The best time to swim with humpback whales in Moorea is from mid-August to late October. This is the only time that there are humpback whales in Moorea.

1. Fly to Tahiti (FAAA – Airport Code: PPT). Air Tahiti Nui is the main international carrier (not be confused with Air Tahiti which is the domestic airline within French Polynesia).
2. If you land in the morning you can head straight to Moorea, but if you land late, you will need to book accommodation for the night. I usually use points and stay at the Hilton Tahiti. There’s no beach, but it has a large pool with a swim up bar and a nice view of Moorea. There are also local hotels that would work. I find Airbnbs challenging for a 1 night stay with a late checkin because they can be hard to find in the dark and it may be difficult to coordinate a ride to the ferry/back to the airport the next day.
3. You can get to Moorea 2 ways: Fly Air Tahiti ~ 10 minutes ($100 ish) or take the ferry. There are multiple ferry companies and they depart regularly to Moorea from the ferry terminal. The ferry terminal is a +/- 25 minute taxi ride from the airport.
4. There are 2 big considerations for your stay on Moorea – How much you want to spend and how you want to get around (if at all). There are 3 choices: Big resort (expensive), local hotel (less expensive), and airbnb (big range). Taxis are limited; here are some questions to ask yourself: Does my whale swimming operator offer pick up/drop off? Does my hotel have food options for all my meals? Are there things on the island I want to see outside of the hotel/whale swim? If you choose to stay at an airbnb, a rental car will be essential so that you can get food and other items, but if you stay at a resort or a hotel with a restaurant, then a rental car may not be necessary. Moorea is not walkable, but it is safe.
5. Choose a whale swim operator. I like Moorea Moana Tours, Pacifik Attitude, and Moorea Reo Tours.

What to Expect: Preparing for Your Whale Swim

The Day of the Tour

You’ll board a small boat that will take you out into Moorea’s lagoon. The guide will provide gear and give a safety briefing about swimming with the humpback whales and other animals you may encounter in the ocean.

Once a whale is spotted, the guide will assess the animal’s behavior. If the whale is calm and approachable, you’ll enter the water in small groups. It’s crucial to enter quietly and swim slowly, minimizing splashing to avoid startling the whale. You may find yourself face-to-face with a curious calf or floating near a massive adult as it serenely glides through the water.

What You’ll Need

• Mask, Snorkel, and Fins: Most operators provide these, but you can bring your own if you prefer.

• Rash Guard: The open ocean can have jellies, sea weed, and other stuff in it. I prefer to cover either my legs or my arms for the swim, but a regular swimsuit will be just fine.

Physical Requirements

Swimming with whales can be physically demanding. You should be a confident swimmer, comfortable with snorkeling, and prepared to swim in open water. Although you don’t have to be an elite athlete, being in good physical shape will help you enjoy the experience more.

The Magic of the Encounter

Nothing can prepare you for the first moment you see a humpback whale underwater. Their sheer size is staggering — adults can grow up to 50 feet long and weigh up to 40 tons. But what’s even more remarkable is their grace and gentleness. They move slowly and effortlessly, seemingly aware of your presence. If you’re lucky, a curious calf might approach, playing and twirling in the water as its massive mother hovers protectively nearby.

The feeling of being in their world, seeing them up close, and even hearing their haunting songs reverberate through the water is indescribable. Many people describe it as a life-altering experience, one that inspires a deeper respect and appreciation for marine life.

Responsible Whale Watching: Tips for a Respectful Experience

1. Keep Your Distance: While it may be tempting to get close, always maintain a respectful distance of at least 10 meters from adult whales and 30 meters from mothers with calves.

2. Do Not Chase or Dive: Let the whales approach you. Diving directly toward a whale can be seen as threatening and may cause them to flee.

3. Listen to Your Guide: They are there to ensure your safety and the well-being of the whales.

Swimming with humpback whales in Moorea is more than just a bucket-list experience — it’s a profound encounter that will leave a lasting impression. The opportunity to connect with these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a privilege and a reminder of the importance of protecting our oceans.

If you’re ready to experience the magic of Moorea and swim alongside humpback whales, start planning your trip today. With the right preparation and a little bit of luck, you’ll come away with memories that will last a lifetime.