Welcome to an unforgettable adventure in the pristine waters of Niue Island, where you’ll have the privilege of swimming alongside the most gentle creatures of the ocean!
Humpback whales, known for their iconic songs and acrobatic displays, migrate to Niue Island from July to September, for mating and nurturing their calves. To witness these majestic mammals in their natural habitat, where females bond with their calves while males engage in spirited courtship displays, is truly extraordinary.
Dive into crystal-clear waters to snorkel with humpback whale mothers and calves, guided by experts sharing insights on their behavior and conservation.
Join us in the Pacific for a life-changing expedition to connect with the ocean and witness the gentle giants of the sea up close
Niue Island, nestled in the heart of the South Pacific, remains one of the last hidden paradises untouched by mass tourism. With only two flights a week to the “Rock of Polynesia,” it’s an ideal escape for nature lovers seeking tranquility. Its secluded bays, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for connecting with nature. With in-water visibility often reaching 60+ meters, it is the perfect location to witness the humpback whale migration to their breeding and mating grounds.
Click the button and follow the link to the Niue Island Highlight to explore the breathtaking beauty of this place!
Duration: 8 days/ 7 nights
Swim with Whales: 4 sessions (with the possibility to add more).
Group Size: Maximum 6 pax per boat for an intimate experience.
Accommodation: Comfortable accommodation at the Tuaga Lodge (bedroom, private bathroom and kitchen, laundry & Wi-Fi).
Additional Activities: Snorkeling in the surrounding reef, walking the sea tracks, marine biology lectures about whales, editing/underwater photography workshops, and stargazing!
PLEASE NOTE:
Please note, Niue is 24 hours behind Auckland (or one calendar day ahead, depending on the context).
Day 1 (Monday in Niue / Tuesday in Auckland) – Arrival in Niue: We meet in Auckland and travel together to Niue Island (please note that you can only fly to Niue from Auckland Airport, and there are only two flights per week). Upon arrival (Monday, Niue local time), you’ll be greeted and transferred to your accommodation.
Days 2-6 (Tuesday to Saturday) – Whale Encounters: Experience four incredible snorkeling excursions with humpback whales over these days. Your experienced guides ensure safe and respectful interactions. Additional excursions can be arranged if desired. Other activities include scuba diving, shore snorkeling, fishing charters, stargazing, and more.
Day 7 (Sunday) – Explore Niue: Sunday is a traditional day of rest in Niue, so boats do not go out at sea. Instead, we’ll explore the island’s unique landscapes, including caves, rockpools, and cultural sites.
Day 8 (Monday in Niue / Tuesday in Auckland) – Departure: Bid farewell to Niue Island as we depart for Auckland. Due to the time difference, arrival in Auckland will be on Tuesday. Carry unforgettable memories of your time spent in the company of whales.
Up-Close Encounters: Experience the beauty of humpback whales in their natural habitat, observing their graceful movements up close and listening to their iconic songs.
Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable guides will provide insights into the behavior and conservation efforts surrounding these incredible marine mammals.
Other Wildlife: While swimming with whales is the highlight, keep an eye out for other marine life such as dolphins, turtles, reef sharks and vibrant coral reefs.
Adventure Beyond the Waves: Explore Niue Island’s natural wonders through optional activities like scuba diving, hiking, and stargazing.
Local Niuean crew and Marine Biology guide!
The package includes onboard guidance for in-water activities, complemented by evening lectures on marine biology and underwater photography workshops led by Federico Facchin.
Fede, a marine biologist and PhD Candidate at the University of Sydney, will travel to Niue for a week to share his expertise. Having previously lived and worked on Niue Island, he possesses an in-depth understanding of its unique traditions, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty.
With extensive experience as a marine biologist, whale-watching guide, divemaster, and expedition leader for snorkeling with whales and sharks, Federico will ensure an unparalleled adventure in respect of the marine life.
Collaborating with local operators, he and the team will provide unforgettable time at sea, stunning photography opportunities, and invaluable insights into marine life and conservation.
Make Memories Together!
Bring your group or family for an unforgettable stay with us. Enjoy exclusive discounts on accommodations and amenities. Book now and create lasting memories with your loved ones!
Trips at sea: fuel, skipper, boat, guides, snacks and drinks.
Equipment: snorkel, mask, fins, and wetsuit (you are welcome to bring your own).
Accommodation: Lodge accommodation, as well as all lunches and dinners at the local restaurants.
Photo Package: bring home a package of high-quality underwater images to be printed or shared on your social media.
Additional: Snorkeling from the shore, photography workshops, presentations on whale ecology and conservation efforts.
Breathtaking landscapes: free of charge!
Flight tickets: round trip.
Additional activities: such as scuba diving, orientation tours with minibus, fishing charters, bike and car hiring.
Breakfast: you can prepare your meal according to your tastes at the lodge.
Alcohol: please note that beverages (soft drinks and alcoholic) are not included in the package.
ONLY A FEW SPOTS LEFT!
I had the privilege of meeting Fede during an expedition over the Great Barrier Reef, and it was unforgettable! His passion and extensive knowledge about the environment were truly inspiring. His presentation about the reef was not only fascinating but also incredibly engaging—it left me with a deeper appreciation for the ecosystem. On top of that, Fede shared invaluable tips to help improve my freediving performance, which made my time in the water even more enjoyable. His enthusiasm is contagious, and his dedication to creating meaningful experiences really stands out. Highly recommend joining one of his trips!
Fede was my guide for the craziest adventure of my life—snorkeling with killer whales in Norway. The conditions were challenging, with freezing winds, dim light, and icy waters (not to mention the incredible wildlife), but Fede and his team made it all feel like a walk in the park. His experience and calm demeanor were invaluable. Even in the evenings, Fede kept us engaged, sharing his deep knowledge about whales and the Arctic environment. I also really appreciated his tips for underwater photography, which helped me capture some amazing shots. This trip was unforgettable. Thanks Fede!
I’ve never been particularly drawn to the sea, but the week I spent in Niue with Fede and his team completely changed my perspective. The experiences with the whales were beyond words—a true must-do in life. What stood out even more was how Fede helped me overcome my fears of the deep blue, sharks, and even sea snakes! Despite his busy schedule, he found time to take me spearfishing and explore the island, which made the trip even more special. I truly appreciated every moment on the island, food included!
Fede was absolutely amazing in organizing every aspect of our stay in Niue. From finding us the perfect accommodation to arranging the most incredible whale watching excursions, he took care of it all. To top it off, Fede patiently sat with me and shared his secrets for editing in Photoshop and Lightroom, I learned so much! The photography package he sent us at the end of the trip was so beautiful that I printed seven of the photos and hung them on my wall. Thank you, Fede, for making this experience truly special!
Q: What is the best time to visit Niue for swimming with humpback whales?
A: The best time to visit is during the humpback whale migration season, typically from July to September.
Q: Do I need prior snorkeling or diving experience?
A: While experience helps, our team provides guidance for swimmers of all skill levels.
Q: Which camera do you recommend for taking photos?
A: Unless already equipped with a proper camera and adequate housing, a small action camera can suffice. However, we recommend enjoying the moment and not staring at the small screen of a GoPro while in front of these majestic creatures. Please remember that a photo package with professional high-resolution images is included in the expedition.
Q: Are the expeditions eco-friendly?
A: Yes, we adhere to strict guidelines set by the Fisheries Department to ensure minimal disturbance to whales and their environment.
Ready to fly in the heart of the Pacific?