Lonely Planet™ · Thorn Tree Forum · 2020 |

# Tonga - Whales in June? Country forums / Pacific Islands & Papua New Guinea / Tonga
islanddiva 15:49 UTC 16 Mar 2011 | I'm planning to be in Tonga in the latter half of June this year. Is there any chance of seeing or swimming with the whales? My LP guide indicates that tours start in June but when I look online, it appears that tours start in July. Are they birthing in June? Sadly.... I think I'm going to miss out! If I understand correctly, tours initiate from the Vava'u Group. If this is correct and my chances are slim to get on a tour, am I best to stay in the Ha'apai Group for beach chilling - ie no need to go the distance if there are no whales? Any feedback very much appreciated! |
finsnflukes 23:13 UTC 16 Mar 2011 | Unfortunately June is too early for the whales. They start arriving in July and even the first half of July can be tricky. The whales come from the South, so Tonga's Southern islands are visited by the whales first. Vava'u is further North than Ha'apai and the whales will arrive there later. If the whales are a priority for you then mid July to mid October is the best time to travel to Tonga. | 1
islanddiva 00:28 UTC 17 Mar 2011 | Thanks for the prompt reply. Unfortunately, I can't change my plans but will certainly have to return another year for the experience. | 2
skicrazy72 01:22 UTC 17 Mar 2011 | Hi, sorry to piggy back the thread, but are the whales still around in the first 2 weeks of Nov? Where are they most likely to be found, Ha'apai or Vava'u thanks | 3
finsnflukes 02:26 UTC 17 Mar 2011 | November is too late for the whales. We see the last ones between middle and end of October. You can see whales in both Vava'u and Ha'apai, the difference is the number of operators and tourists. Vava'u is generally busier and there are more boats out on the water while Ha'apai is very laid back and has a personal atmosphere. | 4