Snorkeling with humpback whales in Tahiti
In summary
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Sports
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Duration2 days
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LevelAll levels
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DestinationFrench Polynesia / Tahiti
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AgeFrom 6 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions3.17 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
Every year, from July 20th to November 20th, humpback whales come to the warm waters of Polynesia to give birth and raise their calves. This boat trip offers you the unique opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat, using fins, mask, and snorkel. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you will search for them, then enter the water in strict compliance with Polynesian regulations, which govern distances and approach conditions to preserve the animals' tranquility. No diving experience is necessary; you simply need to be comfortable in the water. A magical encounter with one of the largest mammals on the planet. As whales are wild animals, sightings cannot be guaranteed.
The highlights
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A respectful and ethical whale encounter with 30 years of experience.
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A 5-star PADI club, a guarantee of quality and safety, open since 1994.
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2026 World Winner – Best Water Experiences, by the REVE Lifestyle Awards
Photos
Sport
Level
Snorkeling
The expert's opinion
Suitable for beginners and senior citizens
In figures
Snorkeling
- Average duration/day: 3h
Management
French
English
- IDC Staff Instructor PADI (IDCS)
- PADI Specialty Instructor
- MF2 (FFESSM, FSGT)
- ADIP Instructor Trainer
- BEES1 (scuba diving)
- DEJEPS (scuba diving)
- 3* Instructor (CMAS, ANMP)
- ANMP Sea Guide
- Trimix Instructor (IANTD, ANMP)
- Emergency First Response Instructor (EFRI)
- Coastal boating license instructor
- PADI Course Director (CD)
- PADI Specialty Instructor Trainer
- MF2 (FFESSM, FSGT)
- ADIP Instructor Trainer
- 3* Instructor (CMAS, ANMP)
- ANMP Sea Guide
- BEES1 (scuba diving)
- DEJEPS (scuba diving)
- Emergency First Response Instructor Trainer (EFRI-T)
- Coastal boating license instructor
- Vice-President of the Polynesian Institute of Biomimicry
Our instructors, guides, and supervisors experience diving as a true passion: attentive to your comfort, they accompany you throughout the acquisition of the skills necessary for safe underwater progression for maximum enjoyment.
Program
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Arrived in Tahiti
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
You will arrive in Tahiti at your place of stay.
Day 1 -
Whale watching and snorkeling
- Activity Snorkeling
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
You will embark on the legendary ship " Discovery " which has covered numerous films and reports for the BBC, Disney Channel and National Geographic.
A whale watching tour of approximately 3 hours and entry into the water with fins, mask and snorkel in groups of 6 to go and swim with the whales.
(Since whales are wild mammals, we may not see them during the excursion or their behavior may not allow entry into the water).
Day 2
Accommodation
A 6-minute drive from your dive center: relax in the hotel's spa and pools after your underwater explorations.
An 11-minute walk from the diving center: enjoy the friendly atmosphere and relaxing garden of the Pension after your sea excursions.
A 10-minute drive from the centre: enjoy quiet rooms and an early breakfast for your outings.
Access
Last whale watching outing at 1:15 PM only, from July 20th to November 20th
Go to the starting point
Large free parking lot
Price details
The price includes
- Pilot authorized by the Regional Directorate for the Environment (DIREN) for approaching marine mammals
- Footbridge and observation deck
- Hydrophone for listening to whale songs
- Shade structure
- Refreshments and snacks available on board.
- Water hiking
- In a small group (maximum 6 people in the water)
- Professional guide authorized to approach marine mammals
- Neoprene wetsuit provided for comfort and safety
- Fins, mask and snorkel available
- Accommodation according to the chosen package
The price does not include
- Transportation to the dive center
- Meals and drinks
- Underwater photos and videos
- The tourist tax
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
- Meals according to the chosen package
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
Nothing is to be expected
Clothing to bring
- swimsuit
- towel
The Nicolas team
A PADI 5-star certified dive center, our local expert is dedicated to providing high-quality experiences, accessible to both beginners and seasoned divers. Safety, professionalism, and a friendly atmosphere are at the heart of his commitments. His team guides each participant with a personalized approach that respects the marine environment. With over 30 years of experience, he creates unforgettable moments while raising awareness about ocean conservation.