That’s a wrap! Another humpback whale season in Vava’u, Tonga, has come to a close as the whales begin their long journey back toward their Antarctic feeding grounds. Each year, humpbacks migrate to Tonga’s warm, sheltered waters to mate, give birth, and nurse their calves before heading south again as the Southern Ocean’s summer feeding season approaches.
The season left behind plenty of moments worth remembering. From whales breaching just feet away and calves rolling at the surface to humpbacks gliding beneath swimmers, rising from the depths, and slapping their tails against the water, no two encounters were quite the same. Some of the most memorable moments happened right beneath the boat, while others came from simply taking in the beautiful reef life surrounding these islands.
And it wasn’t just about the time spent in the water. Shared stories over meals, quiet moments on the boat, and getting to know the people who call Vava’u home were all part of what made the season special.
“This trip reminded me that life is worth giving it my full attention…being in the open water with whales, I felt connected to the planet and life in a way I don’t think I had before. My fellow travelers were excellent companions on this journey. Andy was practical and personable and ensured that we had a good experience, and I’ve been showing off the video he made to everyone I talk to.”
— Steven Haydu
This season, Pei Lee, Oceanic Society’s Conservation Travel Manager, traveled to Vava’u and finally met Lia and her son Iven in person after years of coordinating by phone and email. Lia and Iven operate the boat that takes our travelers and naturalists out to see the whales each morning. For Pei, it was a chance to put faces to the names she’d come to know through countless conversations.
Pei helps so many travelers plan their expeditions, so meeting the people who help bring those experiences to life was especially meaningful. These relationships are an important part of what makes our trips special, keeping tourism dollars in the local community and drawing on the knowledge of people who know these waters best.
That local knowledge also helps shape how we approach every whale encounter. Before ever entering the water, we talk with our travelers about how to approach whales responsibly and why it matters.
Following Tonga’s whale-swim regulations is about more than following the rules. It’s about understanding the animals we’ve come to see and recognizing when they need space. We intentionally keep our expedition groups small, enter the water calmly, and let the whales decide whether to approach.
If a mother and calf show any sign of disturbance, we give them room. We want travelers to leave with incredible memories, but also a better understanding of how to respect these animals and share that knowledge with others.
“Amazing experience to swim with the whales in an ethical and humane environment! The naturalist and guides were well organized and extremely knowledgeable. I highly recommend this trip and plan to book additional trips with Oceanic Society.”
— Michelle S.
“My Oceanic Society whale snorkel experience in Tonga was truly one of the most extraordinary experiences of my life— an unforgettable, otherworldly connection with nature.”
— Mandie Dixon
As the 2026 season comes to a close, we’re grateful to everyone who made it special: the travelers who shared these experiences with us, the naturalists who brought their knowledge and curiosity to every day, and our local guides and partners in Vava’u who welcomed us onto their waters.
Swimming alongside humpback whales is an experience that stays with you long after you leave Tonga. With just eight travelers per group, our expeditions offer a more personal experience in the water and plenty of opportunities to take in these incredible encounters.
If it’s on your list, now is a great time to start planning, as these expeditions do fill up in advance.
