Swimming With a Humpback Whale in Mo’orea ~ Tahiti

Swimming with a humpback whale has been on my dream list for so long, and something I’ll remember for the rest of my life. In this post, I'll share our full family experience, tips for snorkeling with kids and advise for making the most of your Mo'orea whale adventure.

Why Mo'orea is the Perfect Destination for Whale Adventures

Mo'orea is an absolutely stunning island in French Polynesia, known for its turquoise lagoons, dramatic mountains and rich marine life. And is extremely easy to reach from Tahiti - its on a 40 minute ferry ride from Papeete!

Between July and October, humpback whales migrate through these waters, offering one of the best opportunities in the world to swim with these incredible creatures. For families, Mo’orea combines adventure, safety, and unforgettable wildlife experiences — making it an ideal destination for family travel in Tahiti.

Our Family Experience Swimming with Humpback Whales

We booked our tour with Tip Nautic, a small local operator. There were only nine of us on the boat, which made the whole experience feel much more personal. As we motored out across the reef, we passed a couple of huge turtles gliding through the water. The lagoon slowly shifted from shallow reef turquoise to a deep, endless blue as we headed out into the open ocean.

We waited for a while, listening for any news of whales nearby, and finally the guide said there was one close enough for us to try. Six of us geared up, slid off the side of the boat, and started following the guide (who, like everyone else on the tour, only spoke French). It was a strange mix of excitement and nerves. Out in that deep ocean, you’re very aware that anything could be below you—including the tiger sharks that sometimes hang around these waters (we were warned just before getting on the boat)

While we were snorkeling, Jason and the girls stayed on the boat and a humpback whale suddenly came right up to them. It swam alongside the boat and looked straight up at the girls, like it was just as curious about them as they were about it. It swam lifting its huge eye up to look at the girls. They were buzzing when we swam back, all talking at once about how close it was. I was honestly just so happy they got that moment.

Soon we were back in the water again and this time I kept looking down into the blue, and suddenly something started to take shape—a long, white line rising slowly upward. It took me a second to realise it was the whale’s belly and fins coming out of the depths. It came closer and closer until it was right next to me! The whale surfaced with a gentle exhale that rippled through the water. I swam alongside it completely in awe! Absolutely massive, but so calm and gentle. Its enormity didn’t frighten me; it humbled me. Time stretched thin in that moment, and everything else fell away. Just me and this magnificent creature drifting together in the open Pacific. A moment that will stay with me forever

Humpback whale

Snorkeling and Spotting Other Wildlife

After that incredible encounter, the crew took us to a dive spot where we floated above schools of fish and even saw a few blacktip reef sharks cruising below. Then we headed back toward the shallows, spotting more turtles on the way.

Black tip reef sharks

For our last stop, we were dropped off in a sandy, waist-deep area where super friendly stingrays and reef sharks glide around. The girls loved it, and it was such a fun way to top off an already incredible day 🐋

Swimming with Stingrays

It honestly ranks as one of the best travel days we’ve ever had. If you are travelling through French Polynesia during whale season, put this on the top of your list!

Humpback Whale

Overall, it was an incredible day full of unforgettable moments — from swimming alongside a gentle humpback whale to spotting turtles, reef sharks, and stingrays. Seeing the adventure through the girls’ eyes made it even more special, and it reminded me why family travel is so rewarding. Whether snorkeling in shallow waters or simply enjoying the ride from the boat, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

It’s one of those experiences you’ll remember and talk about forever, and the kind of adventure that stays with your family long after the day is over.

Mo'orea

Tips & Info

• Whale season runs July - November

• Mo'orea is one of the best places in the world for ethical whale encounters

• I would highly recommend this tour for families with young kids who are confident on the water. Even if they stay on the boat, the experience is magical — watching the whales up close and spotting turtles and reef life is unforgettable. Snorkeling in shallow waters is also safe and a lot of fun for little ones.

• The ocean was so flat and calm when we went out. No need for seasick tablets.

• Click HERE to read about the cheapest way to get to Tahiti from Australia

What to bring on tour

• Mask,  Snorkel & Fins if you prefer to use your own, otherwise Tip Nautic will provide them

• Reef Safe Sunscreen. We love MooGoo Invisible Zinc!

• Rash shirt

• Go Pro and underwater camera gear. I absolutely love my go pro dome - for those half land/half water photos

• Water , snacks and a sense of adventure!

When to Book & Prices

We choose Tip Nautic as they keep the tour group size small, as we wanted to support a small, local business. As they keep the numbers low and only go out once a day (conditions permitting) it’s best to book in advance. You can email them anytime to book on.

For people choosing to swim with the humpbacks (never guaranteed) 15,000 XPF per person

If you wish to enjoy whale watching from the boat 10, 000 XPF per person (you can always jump off in the shallows and snorkel with the reef sharks and stingrays too)

Next up: read about how we kayaked out to the stingrays and sharks…

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