Swimming With Moorea’s Humpback Whales (What to Expect)

Swimming with humpback whales in Moorea is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to connect with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. 

BUT getting the chance for an up-close encounter with a humpback whale is rare.

As you plan your trip, here’s what you can expect during your Moorea swimming with whales excursion.

Key Takeaways:

• Swimming with humpback whales in Moorea is a highly regulated activity only offered during whale season from August to November.
• Reputable tour companies follow strict guidelines to ensure the safety of both whales and swimmers.
• In the water, you’ll float calmly and quietly as the whales approach – not chase after them.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen, swimsuit, snorkel gear, underwater camera, and towel.
• Be prepared to spend time searching for whales and waiting your turn if other boats are present.

When is the Best Time to Swim with Whales in Moorea?

The annual humpback whale season through French Polynesia runs from July to December. 

BUT you can only swim with the whales from August through November, as regulated by the government.

This protects the gentle giants during sensitive periods (at least 4 months) in their migration.

The peak weeks for a Moorea whale swim are mid-August to mid-October. 

This is when you’ll see the most whale activity around the island and have the best chance for an in-water encounter.

What if I want to visit Moorea in December, will I still have a chance to swim with whales?

Outside of the official whale swim season, you can still observe them from boats and shore, but can’t enter the water with them. 

So be sure to plan your trip during the approved months.

Booking Your Whale Swim Tour

To swim with whales in Moorea, you must join an authorized tour operator. 

Independent swimming is strictly prohibited. 

Reputable companies work closely with whale research nonprofits to ensure ethical practices.

Tours generally run for 4 hours at around $100 – $150 (rough estimates) per adult. 

This includes snorkel equipment, snacks/drinks, marine biologist guidance, and usually hotel pickup/drop-off.

When choosing a reputable whale swim tour operator, look for ones that:

• Employ, local guides, biologists, and researchers on staff
• Have small group sizes
• Use quiet electric motors on boats
• Follow responsible whale swim practices

I highly recommend booking with Mo’orea Moana Tours or Nani Tours, both of which follow sustainable practices and contribute data to vital humpback whale conservation research.

What to Expect During Your Whale Swim

Humpback whales can weigh up to 30 to 40 tons, so coming face-to-face with one of these massive mammals in open water is bound to get your heart pounding!

While the experience may seem daunting, permitted tour operators follow strict guidelines to keep both whales and swimmers safe. 

Here’s a quick rundown of what your Moorea whale swim will be like:

On the Boat

After boarding, you’ll receive a full safety briefing from your guide. 

They’ll cover whale behavior, swimming protocols, and emergency procedures. 

You’ll cruise around Moorea’s waters searching for humpback whales, which requires patience as they roam a wide area.

It may take up to 2 hours to sight whales so be patient. 

If none appear, operators often offer vouchers to try again another day.

Getting in the Water

Once whales are spotted, your captain will assess the situation before allowing anyone into the water. 

By law, you must stay at least 150 meters away from the whales at all times and let them approach you. 

Groups take turns in the water, waiting if other boats are present.

You’ll put on your snorkel gear and enter the water only when your guide gives the signal. 

They may have you hold a floating line as it’s a lengthy swim to reach the whales’ location.

The Encounter

In the water, you’ll float calmly and quietly with minimal splashing and kicking. 

No chasing after the whales.

The guide will position your group in the whales’ path so they may swim close by when surfacing to breathe. 

You may hear whales singing underwater. 

Stay calm and avoid loud noises or splashing that could startle them. 

The whales decide how the interaction goes, but calves are sometimes curious and approach swimmers. 

After a brief but magical encounter, you’ll return to the boat glowing with excitement!

Swimming with Whales Ethically

As wondrous as it is to swim with humpback whales in Moorea, we must be mindful that these are wild animals in their natural habitat.

Responsible tour operators follow strict guidelines, but it is also our duty to practice ethical whale watching.

DO:

• Book tours that support conservation efforts
• Follow all instructions from your guide
• Move slowly and calmly in the water
• Keep noises and splashing to a minimum

DON’T:

• Chase or touch the whales
• Disrupt whales’ migration paths
• Wear chemical sunscreen that pollutes the waters
• Leave behind any trash

By being respectful during our brief visit into the whales’ world, we can ensure that these glorious creatures thrive for generations to come. 

Are you ready for a magical Moorea whale swim?

Frequently Asked Questions