Whale Watching in The Islands of Tahiti

Published on 14 August 2023

Reading time: 5 min.

There are few destinations in the world where you can observe whales in their natural habitat, and The Islands of Tahiti is one of them. Those who have had the privilege of witnessing these majestic creatures up close describe it as a magical, almost surreal moment of pure wonder.

Observing whales in The Islands of Tahiti is an unforgettable experience. Even the newly born calves—already weighing around a ton—are awe-inspiring when seen up close. Now imagine the thrill of being near an adult female humpback whale, weighing over 40 tons and stretching 50 feet in length.

Each year, from July to November, groups of humpback whales migrate to the warm, protected waters of The Islands of Tahiti to mate and raise their young. French Polynesia is designated as an Exclusive Economic Zone and a marine sanctuary by the United Nations, where whale hunting is strictly prohibited. The region has also been recognized by the WWF for its environmental efforts, including a ban on trawl fishing.

Protect our Whales

‘A pāruru tō mau parāoa

Regulations, conservation efforts, and even Polynesian legends — learn more about whales and the role they play in the daily lives of Polynesians by watching the videos below.

Patea Alexandre, a whale watching guide approved by the French Polynesian Environment Department, lists the rules to be observed when watching humpback whales.

Cindy Gillier, vice president of Oceania, presents all the actions they have undertaken to preserve these cetaceans and encourages everyone to play their part at their own level.

Michael Poole, a marine biologist, has been studying the cetaceans of French Polynesia since 1987.

For the ancient Polynesians, the arrival of humpback whales in French Polynesia has always held significant meaning.

Observing Humpback Whales

At the right time of year, you can book an excursion to observe humpback whales in French Polynesia, sometimes even experiencing close encounters in the water if conditions and the animals allow. There are also tours where you can observe various species of dolphins, including bottlenose and spinner dolphins, as well as long-finned pilot whales (which are technically dolphins). Whale watching is a strictly regulated activity in French Polynesia, and only accredited professionals are authorized to organize excursions. A safe distance must always be respected, and it is forbidden to approach the whales — any interaction must be initiated by the animals themselves. Sharing the ocean with these gentle giants is a powerful experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who have the chance to witness it.

Watch a whale in Polynesian waters© Grégory Lecoeur — Whale watching © Grégory Lecoeur

Whale watching is a popular activity in Moorea, Tahiti, and Bora Bora, alongside excursions to discover the other marine species that thrive in The Islands of Tahiti. Among the year-round nautical activities available is snorkeling. Put on a mask and snorkel to explore the vibrant life beneath the surface of the lagoons. You’ll encounter harmless blacktip sharks, spotted eagle rays, stingrays, sea turtles, and majestic manta rays. The Austral Islands are especially renowned for whale observation, and on the island of Rurutu, you can even spot them from the shore. Local residents will gladly guide you to the best vantage points for witnessing these magnificent animals up close.

Where to Go Whale Watching

The only way to observe whales up close in French Polynesia is by joining a group excursion led by a certified guide. Numerous such tours are available in Tahiti and Moorea. The whales can often be seen from afar, thanks to the tall spouts of water they shoot into the air.

View of a whale and its calf © Grégory Lecoeur

Once the whales have been spotted, your boat will approach slowly, so as not to frighten them. Everyone puts on a mask, snorkel, and flippers and, on the guide’s signal, you gently enter the water and float calmly, allowing the whales to decide whether to approach. One of the most moving aspects of observing whales in the water is listening to their haunting songs, which can travel across several kilometers. Please show respect for these majestic, endangered creatures. They are honored visitors to French Polynesia, where ancestral culture regards them as guardians of the ocean.

Whale watching rules

In French Polynesia, the conditions for humpback whale watching and launching are subject to strict rules, so as not to disturb these creatures. These rules apply to the observation and approach of all cetaceans. If you wish to photograph or film protected marine species and use these images for commercial or marketing purposes, you must first submit a filming request to the Environment Direction of French Polynesia.

Whale Watching Rules