Moorea: Humpback Whale Watching & Marine Life Boat Tour

Summary

Swim near whales in Moorea’s blue lagoon with a local crew

You’ll float through Moorea’s lagoon by boat with a local guide, listen for humpback whale songs, slip into clear water for snorkeling, and snack on fresh island fruit. Expect laughter, maybe goosebumps when whales appear, and moments that stay with you long after you’ve dried off.

What’s the experience like?

“If you listen, you might hear them before you see them,” Manu said as he cut the engine and let us drift. I’d never heard silence like that on the water—except it wasn’t really silent. There was a low hum from somewhere deep below, and then someone’s phone buzzed (which made all of us laugh). The sun was already warm on my shoulders even though it wasn’t even 10 a.m., and the smell of sunscreen mixed with something sweet—maybe pineapple from the basket near Manu’s feet. He handed me a mask and grinned. “Ready?” Honestly, I wasn’t sure.

The first time a humpback surfaced near our boat, I actually forgot to take a photo. It was just so big—bigger than I’d pictured—and there was this sudden quiet among everyone onboard except for one little kid who whispered “whoa” like he’d seen magic. We watched her (Manu thought it was a female) glide past, her back shining dark against the blue. Sometimes Manu would point out other creatures too—a turtle bobbing up in the distance, or schools of silvery fish flickering just under the surface when we stopped to snorkel. The water felt cooler than I expected when I slid in, but after a minute it was just peaceful and bright. And yeah, I tried to say “Mauruuru” (thank you) when Manu handed me some local fruit later—he laughed at my accent but seemed pleased anyway.

I didn’t expect to feel so calm floating there with strangers and whales nearby. The whole thing lasted maybe four hours but felt longer somehow—like time slowed down out on that lagoon. When we got back to shore there were sticky fingers from mango slices and salt in my hair, and everyone looked kind of dazed in a good way. Sometimes now if I hear water running or catch the scent of coconut oil, my mind goes right back to that morning off Moorea.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half-day whale watching boat trip

• Meet at designated meeting point
• Board boat for ocean fauna observation
• Swim with humpback whales (July-November)
• Enjoy marine life and natural scenery
• Return to meeting point

Top questions

When is humpback whale watching season in Moorea?

Humpback whale watching is allowed from July 20 to November 20 in French Polynesia.

How long does the Moorea whale watching tour last?

The tour lasts about four hours depending on the season: morning or afternoon slots are available.

Is swimming with whales included on this tour?

Yes, swimming with whales is possible during whale season (August to November) if conditions allow.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the boat trip?

Yes, light lunch or local snacks plus cold drinks and fresh fruit are included depending on your tour time.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your booking.

What age can children join this whale watching tour?

Children are welcome from age 5 and up.

Are pregnant travelers or those with health issues advised to join?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?

The tour includes private transportation; check details at booking for pickup specifics.

What’s included

Your half-day includes private transportation from your meeting point in Moorea (timing varies by season), use of snorkeling gear for exploring the lagoon, light lunch or platters of local fruits depending on your slot (morning tours offer brioches and hot drinks; midday tours have sandwiches or quiche), plus plenty of cold drinks—all alongside an experienced local guide who’ll help spot marine life and share stories as you go.