WHALE SWIMS & UNDERWATER PHOTO EXPEDITION
INTIMATE, ETHICAL, CONSERVATION-MINDED OCEAN JOURNEYS DESIGNED FOR TRAVELERS SEEKING MEANINGFUL WILD ENCOUNTERS.
5 DAYS - HUMPBACK WHALE EXPEDITION & UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP TONGA
Tour Details | UP TO 6 PARTICIPANTS
Experience Tonga’s humpback whale migration through an intimate, conservation-minded ocean journey designed for travelers seeking meaningful encounters in the wild. Hosted in partnership with fully licensed local operators, these curated expeditions combine ethical whale swimming, personalized guiding, underwater photography mentorship and professionally captured memories with photo+video throughout your time on the water.
Based in Tongatapu, Tonga, each itinerary is intentionally kept small to create a calmer, more flexible experience both for guests and whales. With only a few guests onboard, there is more time in the water, more personal guidance and greater opportunity to experience authentic moments with humpback whales in a respectful and low-impact way in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
TOUR VIDEO
Get On Our List! SUBSCRIBE HERE
Interested? Stay on our list for Updates, Spot openings, Upcoming Trip Dates, Reservations for 2027, Features and more!
Underwater Photography & Ocean Storytelling Sessions Included
Whether you are a beginner with a GoPro or an experienced photographer, the focus is on helping guests create authentic imagery while building a deeper connection to the experience.
Guests will have the opportunity to participate in a small, hands-on course covering:
Underwater photography basics
Composition and natural light techniques
Whale behavior and ethical wildlife interaction
GoPro and camera setup guidance
Creating meaningful travel and conservation imagery
Ocean confidence while shooting in open water
Expedition Details
Tongatapu, Tonga
DATES - 2026
July 27-31 - (SOLD OUT)
September 3-8 (with Sunday down day) (SOLD OUT) AVAILABLE
September 8-12 LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE
September 21-24 (4 days on water reduced price) LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE
October 1-6 (sunday down day) LIMITED SPACE
Up to 6 GUESTS
5 DAYS WHALE SWIMMING
UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY COURSE
PRICE - $2,600 USD
Accommodation not included, in our experience guests appreciate flexibility in choosing the option that best suits their preferences and needs. Upon request for more information, a PDF of resources and especially nearby accommodations is included.
INCLUDED
5 Full days on the ocean looking for humpback whales and other marine life.
Lunches each day on the water or island.
Experienced Local Guide and captain
Non-alcoholic drinks on board
Professional digital imagery taken during the expedition
Wetsuit- minimum 2-3 mm wetsuit top (mandatory regulation)
Mask
Snorkel
Fins
Wet weather jacket (lightweight water proof/windproof shell)
EXCLUDED
Airfare
Accommodations
Airport Transfers
Additional expenses (alcoholic drinks, gifts, personal expenses)
Travel Insurance (Recommended)
Gratuities
EXAMPLE ITINERARY
Day 1. Arrive in Tonga- Land in Tongatapu (TBU)
Group meet & greet introduction/dinner,
Pre-mission brief, welcome, expectations, overview, gear check and preparation.
Day 2-6- 5 full days on the water looking for humpbacks and other marine life
Daily voluntary post-mission debrief
Image recap & Review +Photo/Video Q&A
Day 7. Transfer back to airport for flights home
PREVIOUS EXPEDITIONS
Few experiences on earth compare to sharing the ocean with humpback whales. These moments—quiet, powerful, deeply moving—offer a rare glimpse into the lives of some of the planet’s most extraordinary animals. These photos are real encounters from past whale swim expeditions: curious calves, graceful mothers, unforgettable underwater encounters set against the stunning backdrop of Tonga’s blue waters.
Connection, adventure, and respect for the wild. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing whales not only from the deck of a boat, but alongside them in their world, this may be the beginning of your own unforgettable journey.
BOOKING & PAYMENT
Confirm and secure your place on the expedition with a non-refundable deposit of $1,350 USD per person required at time of booking.
The remaining balance must be paid no later than 15 days before the expedition start date.
We do not charge additional processing fees for credit card payments.
CANCELLATION TERMS
Cancellations happen, if you cancel more than 30 days before departure, you may receive a partial refund $400 USD per guest. This fee is non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another trip.
Cancellations made within 30 days of departure are non-refundable.
As we are unable to make exceptions for personal circumstances, medical situations or travel disruptions, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance.
No refunds will be issued for unused portions of the expedition once the trip has started.
Please note that we are not responsible for any costs related to flights, airline penalties or other non-refundable travel arrangements.
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all guests.
WHALE SWIMS & UNDERWATER PHOTO EXPEDITION
INTIMATE, ETHICAL, CONSERVATION-MINDED OCEAN JOURNEYS DESIGNED FOR TRAVELERS SEEKING MEANINGFUL WILD ENCOUNTERS.
EXPEDITION LEADER
RHYS LOGAN
With a Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Journalism from Western Washington University, over 10 years experience in media production, video and documentary photography, Rhys has been building experience as a PADI Advanced and scientific Diver, working on projects in the South Pacific-especially Tonga and working with operators in Tonga the last four years.
Projects have included:
U.S. State Department $250,000 Grant through the U.S. Embassy Fiji for the Young Pacific Leaders Regional Workshop on Media Literacy & Journalism. Led by Dr. David Sattler PhD.
U.S. Embassy Fiji Grant, My Climate Story, providing workshops to students in Tonga, Fiji and Tuvalu. Led by Dr. David Sattler PhD.
Multi-year event coverage for the Tonga Animal Welfare Society (T.A.W.S.) annual Global Fundraising Marathon.
Participating in the COP 19 as observational delegate from Tonga at the Climate Conference in Madrid, 2019.
Support and Collaboration with International non-profit Nuku'Alofa based OHAI Tonga, OHAITonga.org and providing imagery for The Whale Corridor Concept Note envisioned by the late international artist and activist Uili Lousi.
Whale and Portrait imagery supplied for the Golden Jubilee commemorative book published for the Honorary Consulate General of the Kingdom of Tonga in Australia, commemorating 50 years of the Waterhouse family serving as representatives for the Kingdom of Tonga in Australia.
Shooting globally, he has worked on projects ranging from shark conservation in Argentina, documentary filming in Mongolia, photographing birds and wildlife in the Amazon and South America and helping lead workshops in Fiji, Tuvalu and Tonga.
He brings a deep love and respect for the ocean, especially for the incredible Humpbacks of Tonga and the people who ensure their encounters are patient, respectful and memorable.
Highlights
An opportunity to photograph wild Humpback whales, adults, juveniles and mothers and calves in one of the most stunning places on earth.
A chance to build memories of a lifetime learning and experiencing the beautiful people and culture of the South Pacific and especially Tonga.
An opportunity to build underwater shooting experience and network and collaborate with other ocean-minded creatives and passionate photographers
The chance at seeing dozens of other incredible marine species including dolphins, leopard sharks, hammerhead sharks, sea turtles and explore small tropical islands and see wild coral reefs.
FAQS
-
Tonga’s professionally licensed operators are guided by strict national laws allowing 4 guests in the water with 1 guide at a time. Group dynamics will be arranged under these rules always.
-
No! A camera is not required, however highly suggested, even iPhone underwater housings can complete a great underwater setup for capturing incredible underwater media. GoPro’s, DSLR’s and powershots are all wonderful options.
-
A high level of swimming ability is not required, but the ability to swim in general is required. Life rings, life vests and special accommodations can be arranged through proper communications before hand.
-
While it is almost practically guaranteed to see whales from the boat, although highly likely, it is ultimately never guaranteed to swim with whales. These are highly intelligent, sensitive WILD animals and their comfort, body language, weather conditions and water safety and captain’s directions will ultimately determine swims.
-
Yes, flexible payment options can include and be coordinated to ensure confirmation, identity safety and security. Venmo, Wise, Bank Transfer or preferred methods can be communcated.
Get On Our List! SUBSCRIBE HERE
Interested? Stay on our list for Updates, Spot openings, Upcoming Trip Dates, Reservations for 2027, Features and more!