Join us on the idyllic island of Vava’u in Tonga to experience the magic of the Humpback whales. Every year these gentle giants make their way to Tonga's warm waters to breed and give birth. Witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a truly unforgettable and life changing experience. This trip is perfect for those wanting to get up close and personal with some of the most majestic creatures on earth, and to witness one of conservations greatest success stories in action. Swimming with the often inquisitive and graceful Humpbacks is an experience you’ll never forget.

July - October 2025

Island Living

7 nights waterfront house
Accommodation/Airport transfer
Private in house award-winning chef

Guided Encounters

Private boat charter
Max 7 guests per trip
5 full days of whale swims

Adventures & Learning

Explore hidden caves
Photography package
No scuba experience needed

$4,500 USD

October 4th - 11th 2025

Special guest Tom Cannon

Tom Cannon is an Australian wildlife photographer, expedition leader, and passionate conservationist whose work dives deep into the ocean’s most impactful stories. Using his lens, he captures numerous incredible marine phenomena - from dancing humpback whales to bait balls and whale sharks. With a background that combines storytelling, adventure, and environmental protection, Tom has led numerous expeditions and always focused on bringing his guests closer to nature’s most majestic subjects.

Join Tom into Tonga this year for an unforgettable week and get inspired by not only his technical expertise but also his conservation vision. Tom will bring countless years of experience from working on the Ningaloo reef and all the knowledge he has accumulated in his photography career to make this week truly special - focused around respect, understanding, and connection. Whether you’re a budding wildlife photographer or simply seeking a transformative ocean experience, join Tom in Tonga for the adventure of a lifetime!

September 13–20, 2025

Join Alex Kydd in Tonga

An exclusive collaboration between wildlife photographer Alex Kydd and Blue Vagabonds.

Experience a life-changing week in Tonga capturing intimate moments with humpback whales in their natural habitat. This is a rare opportunity to witness and photograph these gentle giants up close in one of the most spectacular whale interaction destinations on Earth.

Select the dates below to join Alex as your host for an unforgettable week!

Humpback heaven

Vava'u, Tonga

Tonga, a South Pacific gem, is renowned for its untouched beauty, but its greatest treasure lies in its waters—an annual aggregation of majestic humpback whales. These gentle giants migrate to Tonga’s warm, sheltered lagoons to breed and nurture their young, offering one of the world’s most awe-inspiring wildlife encounters. Visitors to Tonga can witness the incredible spectacle of whales breaching, tail-slapping, and nurturing their calves in an environment that feels almost untouched by time. Throughout the week you will observe incredible behaviours both above and below the waves. This could include playful newborns, adrenaline fuelled heat-runs and the surreal sounds of singing whales. You’ll also visit secret caves and weave between the idyllic islands that make up Vava’u.

Day 1

Arrival in Vava'u

A warm Tongan welcome awaits you as our private driver meets you at the Vava’u airport.

After helping you with your luggage, our driver will take you to your water-view accommodation.

We'll kick off with an engaging lunch where you can get to know Jono and discover the stories that fuel his passions for underwater photography and marine conservation, as well as sneak peeks into the groundbreaking projects he's involved with.

Before catching some well-deserved rest, you’ll be taken through a masterclass where you'll learn about humpback whale behaviours and best practices for safe and responsible interactions with these majestic creatures.

Rest up at Vava'u Resort.

Day 2

Explore the Island

Get ready to explore the idyllic island of Vava’u. Sunday is a day of rest in Tonga which means you’ll have the chance to test your snorkelling gear and get ready for swimming with whales on day 3.

During the day you’ll experience the crystal waters, check out the view from various island look outs and enjoy some of Tonga’s culinary delights while soaking in an iconic sunset.

You’ll turn in at Vava’u Resort for a night of rest before the adventure really begins!

Day 3-7

Swimming with Whales

You’ll start your days off early with some breakfast and a coffee before you jump on board our private vessel and start looking for the whales.

Under the morning sun you’ll scour the rugged coastline of the islands to look for whales breaching, cruising or interacting with each other. This will be a full day (7 hours) out on the water combining whale spotting with safe, locally guided interactions with these incredible marine creatures.

You’ll enjoy a lunch break out on the ocean or tucked away on one of the many secluded bays in Vava’u, enjoying treats prepared by our private chef.

After a full day you’ll return home to relax and unwind before reviewing photos and footage of the day’s adventure.

Day 8

Farewell

After a more leisurely breakfast at Vava’u Resort, Jono will take you through a masterclass on editing the incredible memories you captured during the week.

You will then sadly have to say goodbye to the magic of Vava’u, your new friends and Jono before our private driver takes you back to the airport for your flight home.

Meet your Guides

Jono Allen

Jono Allen has been leading unforgettable whale encounters in Vava’u, Tonga, since 2019. With years of experience in the water and behind the lens, Jono’s expertise in marine life, photography, and guiding ensures each trip is not just an adventure, but a deeply immersive experience.

In 2023, Jono partnered with Airguides, bringing their expertise in curated travel into the mix - and the rest is history. Together, Jono and Airguides provide an experience that blends world-class wildlife encounters with expert storytelling, photography, and conservation awareness.

With Blue Vagabonds, you’re not just swimming with humpback whales - you’re seeing them through the eyes of someone who has dedicated years to understanding and capturing their world. Whether you’re a photographer, ocean lover, or just looking for a the adventure of a lifetime, this trip promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Meet your Guides

Eva Sychold

Eva is an enthusiastic expedition host at Blue Vagabonds, having joined the team in January 2024. Her passion for the ocean runs deep, especially when it comes to whales. Eva specialises in guiding unforgettable whale swimming experiences, helping guests forge meaningful connections with these awe-inspiring animals.

Eva loves capturing the stunning beauty of marine life during her dives and providing guests with unforgettable encounters in the deep blue. Her knowledge of whale behaviour and ecology enriches the experience, making each encounter both educational and inspiring.

With a background rooted in high-end hospitality management, Eva excels at creating personalised, seamless experiences. Her dedication to care and excellence ensures that guests can relax completely and immerse themselves in the magic of the ocean.

Book your Adventure

Download full trip brochure

What's included in your package?

Included

7 nights shared accommodation
5 full days on the water looking for whales
Breakfast, lunch & dinner daily
Private in house award-winning chef
Interacting with marine megafauna workshop
Underwater photography workshop
Photography package of trip highlights
Airport transfers
Snorkelling on tropical coral reefs
Swimming and exploring hidden ocean caves

Not included

International flights & travel insurance (mandatory)
Snorkeling gear and wetsuits
Cafe items between meals
Alcoholic drinks

Notes

Blue Vagabonds proudly supports and adheres to the ethical whale swimming regulations and guidelines in Vava'u, Tonga.

This immersive experience is designed to bring you close to some of the most beautiful marine life on our planet. While we always strive to send you home with memories of this experience and moments of you with these animals, photography and "insta" content are not the main objectives of this trip.