Encountering Humpback Whales in French Polynesia 2026: Stunning Dive into Marine Life's Grand Spectacle
Venture into the Astonishing Blue Waters of French Polynesia with Humpback Whales!
Take your whale-watching experience to new heights! Imagine stepping aboard a boat directly from your hotel jetty, only minutes later diving into the magical world of humpback whales. This incredible adventure unfolds in breathtaking French Polynesia, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Why choose this Trip of a Lifetime?
- Unparalleled Whale Encounters: This expedition boasts the best in-water humpback whale experience globally, placing you mere steps away from these magnificent creatures.
- Jaw-dropping Island Beauty: French Polynesia showcases an island so beautiful, it'll leave an indelible impression on you. This tropical paradise might even claim the title of the most charming island on the planet.
- Adventurer's Delight: The trip is tailor-made for thrill-seekers, providing an unparalleled experience to satisfy even the most daring travelers.
- Reduced Travel Time: Compared to other humpback whale destinations, French Polynesia requires less travel time, saving you precious vacation days.
- Small Group Sizes: Forget crowded boats – you'll be traveling with a tight-knit group of like-minded adventure lovers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience. Imagine spending your days on the water with just six to eight fellow enthusiasts!
Ready to Dive In?
Here's what you need to know:
- August 29 - September 5, 2026 & September 12 - 19, 2026 – 3-star Hotel Kaveka Package
- August 22 - 29, 2026**, September 5 - 12, 2026, & September 19 - 26, 2026 – 4-star Cook's Bay Hotel & Suites Package
- September 26 - October 3, 2026 – 5-star Manava Beach Resort & Spa Package
For more information, don't hesitate to reach out to us!
Want a peek into what the trip might hold for you? Don't miss our 2023 Moorea Humoback Whale Trip and 2024 Close Encounters with Humpback Whales trip reports!
Welcome to the ultimate underwater adventure – book now and make dreams come true!
Worried about the nitty-gritty details? Here's what's included in your package:
- Accommodation at hand-picked locations – enjoy comfortable, authentic stays tailored to your budget!
- Lunch on the boat days – fuel up for your underwater escapades!
- 5 days on the water, weather permitting, in a private boat with a knowledgeable guide, and 1 day of rest for exploration or relaxation.
Now, onto the details you'll need to budget for:
- Mandatory City Tax and optional Eco Donation paid to the resort on check-out.
- Ferry expenses – tickets start at around $30 USD round trip.
- Transfers between the airport, ferry, and resort – taxis are available for around $25 USD or make use of the public bus service for an affordable $3.50 USD one way.
- Tips and personal expenses – remember to splurge on your favorite resort amenities!
- Travel Insurance – learn more about our preferred plan to travel worry-free.
Don't forget, this adventure is suitable for adventure travelers – the trips include some elements that are best suited to those seeking an adrenaline rush!
Looking to extend your Polynesian getaway? We have options to explore the world's best diving sites! Reach out for more information.
Hotel Kaveka offers charming 3-star accommodations designed to immerse guests in the stunning French Polynesian scenery while offering great-value stays. Perfect for travelers focused on wildlife and snorkeling, Hotel Kaveka provides a relaxed base with all the essentials, without intimidating you with a luxury price tag.
Cook's Bay Resort provides the perfect setting for guests whose main goal is to swim with whales. With a brand-new 4-star accommodation, you'll enjoy an affordable trip without compromising on a superior underwater experience!
Unwind and revel in luxury at the 5-star Manava Beach Resort & Spa, an ideal destination for those seeking the ultimate Moorea experience, both on the boat and at the resort.
Each accommodation option offers unique experiences to fit your budget and priorities.
This exhilarating voyage comes aboard a 31ft/9.5m boat, accommodating 10 passengers yet limited to only 8 for an intimate whale-watching experience. The boat's amenities include an additional guide to support guests with different swimming abilities and fixed central seats for added comfort.
Spare no thoughts about the itinerary, glance below:
- Day 1: International arrival at Tahiti, then catch a ferry to Moorea, and finally, hotel check-in.
- Days 2-5: Devote these days to whale-watching escapades from 8 AM to 4 PM (this schedule is based on historical expeditions and may vary in 2026).
- Day 6: Rest day – indulge in optional diving, explore the island, or perhaps extend your whale-watching adventure (based on availability and group consensus).
- Day 7: Departure day – hop a ferry back to Tahiti, and spend the day getting ready for your flight home.
Bring your underwater photography equipment for unforgettable shots, but remember that our Trip Leader's expertise lies more in guiding your adventure rather than image composition.
Keep in mind the following restrictions:
- We'll spend substantial time on the boat searching for whales, potentially prolonged periods.
- Swimming ability: All participants must be strong swimmers due to local regulations requiring travelers to swim briskly towards whales from a distance. Need help getting on the boat? Private guides are available at an additional cost.
- Sun protection is essential. Cover all skin areas and wear plenty of sunscreen to ward off burns!
- Boarding assistance: Please remember to assist your own boarding onto the boat – our crew will be there to lend a helping hand when needed.
This Guided Group Trip will be led by an experienced Bluewater Trip Leader, providing reassurance and logistical support throughout the journey. For travelers seeking a camaraderie-filled exploration, this group experience is an excellent choice.
Want to learn more about what this trip includes? Check our comprehensive rundown on different trip types.
Internet/Wi-Fi connections in French Polynesia can be sporadic. To stay connected, consider pre-booking a Wi-Fi box from Tahiti WiFi for boat-wide coverage or purchase local SIM cards upon arrival. Some hotels offer Wi-Fi services as well.
Preparing for take-off? Here's a quick guide to the flight logistics:
- Flights arrive and depart from Tahiti's Papeete International Airport (PPT).
- A taxi ride from the airport to the ferry port costs approximately $25 USD and takes 15 minutes. The ferry crossing to Moorea typically lasts around 45 minutes.
- Keep in mind that our group trips attract guests from around the world, and we're happy to guide you through your flight booking process, from itinerary suggestions to helpful travel tips.
Questions? Ready to book this unforgettable adventure? Reach out to us today at 1-310-915-6677 or [email protected].
Join us at 3961 Sepulveda Blvd, Suite 206 Culver City, CA 90230, and we'll help turn your dream vacation into reality!
We've scoured the world for the ultimate underwater adventure, and we've found it – join us on a magical journey you'll never forget!
Photo Gallery – peek at the sights that await you!
Book Now – embark on an adventure into the breathtaking depths of French Polynesia, face-to-face with humpback whales!
[1] Bluewater Travel (2023, April 20) Close Encounters with Humpback Whales in French Polynesia 2026. Retrieved April 20, 2023, from https://bluewaterdivetravel.com/dives/close-encounters-with-humpback-whales/[2] Bluewater Travel (2023, June 1) Moorea Trip Report 2023. Retrieved June 1, 2023, from https://bluewaterdivetravel.com/reports/moorea-trip-report-2023/[3] Bluewater Travel (2024, August 14) Close Encounters with Humpback Whales in French Polynesia 2024. Retrieved August 14, 2024, from https://bluewaterdivetravel.com/dives/close-encounters-with-humpback-whales/
- This underwater adventure, focused on encountering humpback whales, takes you to breathtaking French Polynesia, a destination known for its striking blue waters.
- The trip offers an opportunity to dive into the magical world of humpback whales, with unparalleled whale encounters that place you mere steps away from these majestic creatures.
- French Polynesia also features jaw-dropping island beauty, boasting some of the most gorgeous landscapes on earth, making it a perfect lifestyle travel and adventure-travel destination.
- As a diver, you can expect to explore the crystal-clear bluewater, teeming with marine life, including sharks, during this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- To help navigate this adventure, a knowledgeable guide will accompany you on your journey, providing expert insights and ensuring a safer, more enjoyable trip for all participants.
- Whether you're a seasoned traveler or an adventurer seeking a thrill, this trip catering to daring souls promises an experience that satisfies even the most daring of hearts.
- With a focus on promoting responsible tourism, you'll also have the opportunity to contribute to conservational efforts in French Polynesia through optional eco donations during your stay.
