Being in the water with humpback whales is one of the most magical wildlife encounters any snorkeler can experience, and it is accessible to nearly all adventure travelers. Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) are among the most beautiful, playful, and interactive whales on the planet.
Humpback Whale Behavior
Humpback whales are fun to observe, as they are truly the acrobats of the large whales. They are the only large whale that jumps completely out of the water, a behavior called breaching. They might do this to communicate with other whales, scratch an itch, or just because it is fun. Humpbacks grow up to 18 meters in length and weigh up to 36,000 kilograms, so they can create an impressive splash when their entire bodies exit and renter the water. They show a repertoire of at least 15 different surface behaviors. All of that splashing makes them easily visible from the shore or from a boat from quite a distance. Eager watchers lock on to glistening bodies breaching in the air, backs, and fins breaking the surface, and tails on display as they descend below the surface. When whales exhale, warm air meets colder air and condenses into mist. The spray, or spout, from a whale taking a breath, can be seen for several kilometers.
Whale Song
Did you know that whales sing? They emit sounds that likely serve as communication with other individuals. Only the males sing, and they orchestrate a new song each year. Current research suggests that humpback whales sing these songs to help find a mate or to mark their territory. Hearing a whale song is a magical experience, and it is possible to hear it crystal clear while you are underwater. You can hear a whale song from kilometers away. So listen closely on your next whale swimming adventure. The hauntingly beautiful song will linger in your ears.
Toothless Wonders
Unlike many large animals, the humpback whale has no teeth. They eat tiny animals called zooplankton, primarily made up of a shrimp-like creature called krill. Instead of teeth, they have baleen plates hanging from the top of the inside of their mouths that filter and sift food from seawater. Each baleen plate consists of rows of long hairs that resemble bristles. Baleen is made up of keratin, which is the same protein that creates our hair and nails. They cannot even swallow large animals, as their throat narrow to the size of a soccer ball.
Great Travelers
Humpback whales are migratory animals, which means they travel long distances to reach their colder feeding territory and warm water breeding areas. They remain in polar waters during the summer to feed on plankton and small fish. In the winter months, they seek warmer waters to breed and give birth. During this yearly migration, humpback whales can travel up to 8,000 kilometers, a very impressive journey. Although many distinctly different humpback populations exist, each returns to its specific feeding waters near the poles and breeding waters near the equator.
Locations To Swim With Them
The opportunity to respectfully swim with and observe these majestic whales exists in a limited number of destinations around the world. Swimming with whales is only possible in the tropics, specifically in humpback whale calving waters.
Moorea, French Polynesia
French Polynesia is one of the few destinations where it is possible to swim with humpback whales, specifically, the islands of Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora. Fortunately for us as adventurers, this area of the world happens to be one of the most exquisitely beautiful places on Earth. Many high-quality companies in French Polynesia offer whale-watching trips and swimming excursions in their vibrant blue and clear waters.
The population of humpback whales that visit Moorea and Tahiti in French Polynesia migrate over 6,000 km each year from Antarctica. They come here to mate and give birth to a single calf, that is 4 meters and 500kg when born. Here in the warm, sheltered waters of Moorea, mother humpbacks nurse their calf and prepare for the long migration back to Antarctica. Mothers typically care for their calf for one year.
The blue lagoon and ocean surrounding Moorea are warm and clear, making it one of the best places in the world to swim with and observe humpback whales. Importantly, French Polynesia declared itself a marine mammal sanctuary in 2002, offering protection to all of the 20 species of whales and dolphins found here.
Every year, between July and early November, humpback whales migrate to the warm Polynesian waters. This is a unique opportunity we have to admire them, and you can go snorkeling and see the humpback whales!
Best Time to Visit: August to October is the peak season to swim with humpback whales.
Book a Private Charter
While they seem friendly and playful, it is important to recognize that humpback whales are wild animals, and only experienced guides know how to safely approach them. Whales are large, and astonishingly fast. Strategy, timing, and safety are needed for a good interaction. A guide will do his or her best to make sure you swim from the boat to where the whales will pass right by you. The smaller the group, the more likely its participants will be able to successfully get to be in the right place at the right time.
In order to provide the best experience for you and the whales, I recommend booking a private charter to swim with humpback whales. Large groups of people scare whales away. A more private experience ensures safety for swimmers, creates minimal disturbance for the whales, and manages the crowds the whales encounter. A private charter is the best way to make this a safe experience and a lasting positive memory. Traveling with a companion or small group allows you to make the charter more economical.
Animals other than humpback whales are often observed from the boat during whale excursions. Possibilities include dolphins, pilot whales, and pelagic sharks.
With a private adventure, you get to choose what you do on your time schedule.
An additional perk of a private charter is the freedom it affords you to explore other areas besides the open water where the whales are found. Having the luxury of your own schedule gives you the freedom to experience the reefs and lagoons nearby, where you may have the opportunity to swim with blacktip reef sharks, sting rays, and several other unique animals that are exhilarating to see.
Respectful Whale Encounters
It is very important to not disturb animals while viewing them. Whales are protected thanks to the establishment of a marine sanctuary, and there are guidelines in place so that tourists can observe the whales without disturbing them.
The French Polynesian government has implemented regulations that only allow swimming with whales from August 1-November 11.
It is imperative to follow the guides’ instructions while enjoying humpback whale encounters. Humpback whales are especially vulnerable to boat traffic and can be easily disturbed or injured by boats that approach at high speeds or too close to the whales.
It is also important to remember that humpback mothers are nursing newborn calves during this time. It is vital that we do not disturb the nursing pair of whales. Calves must gain a significant amount of weight in short duration so they can survive the long migration back to their feeding ground in the summer. Please verify the whale tour company is registered and has a permit to lead swimming tours. It is important to use eco-friendly companies that comply with safe boating practices and are strong supporters of the conservation and protection of whales. This will ensure you have the best possible experience, knowing that the whales and environment are respected.
SCUBA diving is generally not allowed with whales. The bubbles produced can be interpreted by these animals as a sign of aggression or danger since whales will often release air from their blowholes as a signal of aggression during confrontations with other whales. This regulation serves to limit the disturbance of the whales in their nursing areas. Snorkeling with whales is a better experience than SCUBA diving for many reasons. It is easier to hear their singing, which is very commonly heard while in the water with these giants.
Whale Swimming Preparation
It is important to realize that swimming with whales means swimming in the blue waters of the open ocean. Open-water snorkeling is more difficult than lagoon or reef snorkeling due to currents, waves, and swells. Also, we often have to swim at least 200 meters from the boat in order to respect the whale approach rules of French Polynesia. It is quite physically and energy-demanding. To ensure safety, tour operators require that whale swim guests be able to swim efficiently at a certain distance and sustain themselves in the water without wearing a lifejacket or a floating vest. This experience does require prior snorkeling and swimming experience. Everyone must know how to properly use snorkeling gear (fins, mask, and snorkel). The open ocean is definitely not a place to learn how to swim or use your gear.
Remember that humpback whales are one of the most gentle animals in the world. It is safe to swim with them, but do listen to your guide’s instructions. They want to keep you and the whales safe. Be respectful to the whales by keeping your distance and not touching them. Humpback whales avoid contact with anything or anybody in their path. They are very aware of their surroundings and incredibly agile for their large size. Please be mindful of their powerful tail, as they cannot see who is behind them.
My Experience Swimming With Humpback Whales
We first went on a private half-day swim with a humpback whale excursion with Moorea Moana Tours, and then another private trip with Tahiti Shark Expeditions. Both companies are excellent, and I highly recommend them with equal enthusiasm. They are both ethical companies that care about whale protection and safety. This is essential for responsible wildlife observations and experiences. Book early because these excursions are booked well in advance.
Once aboard, we were taught about humpback whale biology. Next, we discussed behavior and safety while swimming near them. Our guide located whales nearby, and we donned snorkel equipment in anticipation. It is important to be ready to go for these interactions as the process moves quickly. We were taught to quietly slide into the water when instructed and stay with the guide. Once in the water, we swam quickly toward the direction of the whales’ path and hoped they were curious about us. Once in position, we waited, floating in the gentle ocean swells and excited for our first glimpse of the majestic creatures. All of a sudden, I saw distant movement underwater, and then a dark silhouette quickly sharpened into the shape of a gorgeous humpback whale. She gently but quickly swam toward us to investigate. She rolled gently as she turned slightly to dive just under our fins, briefly giving us a glimpse into her beautiful eye. We calmly and quietly floated in the water, watching the colossal animal slowly swim by us. It was a powerful and magical moment, and I was overjoyed. The whale continued on her way, and we swam back to the boat to excitedly discuss our experience.
In Conclusion
Swimming with whales in French Polynesia is more than an adventure; it is a profound and moving experience that stays with you long after you have left the crystal-clear waters. The gentle giants of the ocean, with their majestic presence and serene grace, offer a perspective on life that is both humbling and exhilarating. This encounter is a poignant reminder of our connection to the natural world and the responsibility we have to protect these magnificent creatures and their habitat. As you leave the warm embrace of French Polynesia, you carry with you not just memories but a renewed sense of awe and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of our planet. This journey is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, etching itself into your heart and soul, forever changing the way you view the ocean and its inhabitants. This was by far my favorite experience in French Polynesia, and I highly recommend it!
