Day 1 | Depart for Tonga (TBU)

Depart the USA for the Kingdom of Tonga, flying into Fuaʻamotu International Airport (TBU) near the capital city of Nukuʻalofa. This marks the beginning of your South Pacific adventure to one of the world’s most exclusive destinations for whale photography and immersive ocean experiences.

Day 2 | Tongatapu → Foa Island (Haʻapai)

After arriving in Tongatapu, Tonga’s capital, we take a short domestic flight to Foa Island, located in the remote Haʻapai island group—a pristine archipelago rarely visited by tourists. These warm, sheltered waters are one of the very few places on the planet where swimming with humpback whales is legally permitted. Our expedition operates under strict ethical guidelines, prioritizing respect, safety, and minimal impact while allowing for once-in-a-lifetime photographic encounters.

Days 3 – 7 | Whale Encounters, Snorkeling & Island Exploration

Over the next several days, we head out daily by boat in search of humpback whales, migrating here to mate, calve, and nurture their young. When conditions allow, we enter the water to snorkel alongside these gentle giants—experiences may include calm pass-bys, curious interactions, and moments of courtship behavior. At times, we pause in the water to listen as male humpbacks fill the ocean with their complex and haunting songs—ancient compositions that evolve year after year.

Afternoons are unhurried and flexible, offering time for snorkeling over coral reefs, sea kayaking between neighboring islands, or cycling around Foa Island. Kayak excursions often take us through crystal-clear channels between islands, where we land on quiet beaches to snorkel among vibrant marine life including Moorish idols, butterflyfish, wrasse, and clownfish.

Our home base is a secluded beachfront lodge, featuring spacious island bungalows, warm hospitality, and a relaxed beachside café serving fresh, locally caught seafood. Evenings are reserved for reflection and connection—watch the sun sink into the Pacific, stargaze beneath brilliant Milky Way skies, and learn how early Polynesian navigators used the stars and sea to cross vast oceans long before modern instruments.

This is a rare opportunity to photograph wildlife, ocean, and island life in one of the most untouched corners of the South Pacific—guided by local expertise and designed for photographers who value depth, access, and authenticity.

Depart on Day 8 via Tongatapu