Tonga Ocean Expedition: Swim with Humpback Whales

September 6 - 13, 2025

Just

7

Spots Left

Tonga Ocean Expedition: Swim with Humpback Whales
with
Jono Allen
Guided Trip

The Story

Immerse yourself in the unparalleled splendour of the deep blue as you join Jono Allen, a renowned ocean photographer, environmental scientist, and marine megafauna guide, on this epic Tongan adventure. Witnessing humpback whales in their natural habitat is a magical experience. Every year, thousands of these gentle giants make their pilgrimage from Antarctica's icy waters to the tropical haven of Tonga for mating and birthing. With a naturalist's precision and an artist's eye, Jono will be your guide in unlocking the majestic world of these sentient beings.

Make your base in the island paradise of Vava'u, where every day you'll venture out on a private boat, led by one of the world's most experienced humpback whale boat operators to get the best chance to interact with these gentle giants of the deep. Elevate your underwater photography through exclusive Masterclasses led by Jono, capturing ethereal moments that will last a lifetime. But that's just the tip of the iceberg! Explore mysterious blue caves and hidden beaches, all while enjoying the warm hospitality of your new Tongan community.

Download Trip Brochure
Experience

The Highlights

  • Up-close encounters with humpback whales
  • Storyteller Guide
  • Airguides Expedition Leader
  • Boat Operator with 20+ years guiding humpbacks
  • Internationally recognised professional chef
  • 7 nights private waterfront accommodation
  • Exclusive Photography Masterclasses with Jono Allen
  • 5 full days on our private boat swimming with whales
  • Explore Vava'u's secret blue caves & isolated beaches
  • Local Tongan welcome feast

Reserve Your Trip

8

Days,

7

Nights

Unveil the Secrets of the Deep Blue
Just
7
spots left
Price from

$4,500.00 USD

Questions? Text or call us

+61 402 552 918

STORYTELLER

Jono Allen

Tonga Ocean Expedition: Swim with Humpback Whales

Why Travel With Jono?

A passionate and knowledgeable environmental scientist, marine megafauna guide, and ocean cinematographer, Jono is dedicated to capturing powerful visuals to catalyse meaningful change for our oceans. His knowledge and expertise empower you to get as close as possible to these majestic creatures, forging an unforgettable connection through a face-to-face encounter. With Jono, you can be assured that you are in the hands of an expert who is committed to providing a truly thrilling and authentic travel experience.

Jono's approach to encounters with humpback whales is far beyond what you would consider a typical tour. He rejects the touristy "smile for the camera" approach and instead takes you on a journey of exploration and deep understanding of their physiology, behaviour, and unique personalities. With Jono, you can expect encounters that are both immersive and enlightening, providing a deeper connection with these magnificent creatures.

Jono is committed to supporting the local Tongan community of Vava'u, where humpback whales come every year to mate and give birth. It's important to him to use local services, food, accommodation, and staff wherever possible, ensuring high-quality experiences without compromising on the community's authenticity. By traveling with Jono, you can be assured that your trip is sustainable, responsible, and supports the local community.

Day by Day

Itinerary

You'll get picked up
Day
1

Welcome to Vava’u

Dive into Humpback Heaven

Day
2

Sunday, Day of Rest

Embrace Tongan Tranquility

Day
3-7

Whale Odyssey: The Quest for the Gentle Giants

Daily Encounters with Oceanic Titans

Day
8

Farewell, Vava’u

Turning Your Experiences Into Lasting Captures

Day
Day
Day
Day
discover the

Experience

Tonga Ocean Expedition: Swim with Humpback Whales
“Thanking the stars I found Airguides and Jono Allen's trip. We were totally taken care of! Paul answered all our questions and took care of the details so all we had to do was get there. Jono is an amazing, talented photographer who created a special group experience. The WHALES were mind blowing. What a gift to be in Tonga staring into the eye of a baby whale! This trip was a lifelong dream come true. I highly recommend it so much we’ve already signed up again for next year!"

- Laura Cottril, United States
Participant in our Tonga 2023 Trip
No items found.
FAQ

Questions?

What's included
What's not included?
Why swim with whales in Tonga and do the whales mind?
Do I need any scuba dive experience?
Is it safe?
Who will lead this trip?
What fitness level is needed?
Who will I be travelling with?
Is there a solo traveller supplement?
Can you assist with flights?
Can I speak to someone about this trip?
REVIEWS

What Our Travellers Say

“Thanking the stars I found Airguides and Jono's trip. We were totally taken care of! Paul answered all our questions and took care of the details so all we had to do was get there. Jono Allen is an amazing, talented photographer who created a special group experience. The WHALES were mind blowing. What a gift to be in Tonga staring into the eye of a baby whale! This trip was a lifelong dream come true. I highly recommend it so much we’ve already signed up again for next year!"

Laura
United States

"The Airguides trip to Tonga to swim with humpback whales was the experience of a lifetime. I have traveled all over the world, and nothing compares to being in the wild, rustic, deep blue waters of the South Pacific while interacting with whales and their calves. A wonderful and caring team made our adventures stress free. Absolutely amazing, so much so, that I am doing it again this year! Thanks a million Paul, Jono, Al, Alistair, Christian and Polly!"

Mary
United States

"Thank you for your help in putting together our trip to the Northern Territory. Everyone agreed that it was the best family holiday we'd ever had and - even better - everyone nominated something different as 'the best thing'."

Elizabeth
Australia

"The trip with Airguides was magic. Paul was our kind and patient guide, Mark Fitz was our talented and positive photographer/storyteller. It was a perfect mix of activity and relaxation and I’m already planning my next Airguides trip."

Lisa Thomas
Australia

"I recently visited Lady Musgrave Island with Airguides. They have a unique and meaningful approach to travel and travelling with and learning from a world-class photographer, who was on the trip, was incredible."

Katie
Australia

"I cannot say enough amazing things about Airguides and the amazing honeymoon they planned for us. We began our trip planning by being overwhelmed with travel blogs, not knowing what was actually the best plan for us."

Ashley Ferrel
United States

“Just had an amazing trip to Heron Island organised by the Airguides team. Perfect balance of activity and relaxation, they made it so easy. Can't wait until I can do another trip!“

James Crowley
Australia

“ We recently organised our trip to Heron Island with Bibi and Paul as a last minute getaway. Seamlessly dealt with and an added bonus of having a world-class photographer/ free-diver as our story teller. The trip has only whet our appetite for more positive and relaxing experiences with the Airguides team- Awesome “

Damon Faint
Australia