Day 1

Moorea - Meeting and accommodation

We will pick you up at the ferry terminal and transfer you to your accommodation. In the evening, we will hold a short briefing about humpback whale behaviour and the types of encounters and interactions you can expect during the days ahead.

Accommodation: Moorea​

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Day 2

Moorea – Lagoon, Rays and Reef Sharks

Moorea is considered one of the most beautiful islands in French Polynesia. Today, we will explore its stunning lagoon aboard a private boat. Throughout the day, we will snorkel with blacktip reef sharks, rays, sea turtles, and a wide variety of tropical fish. We will visit the most beautiful areas of the lagoon and enjoy our first days in the crystal-clear waters of the South Pacific.

Accommodation: Moorea

 

Day 3 - 5

Moorea - Swimming with whales 

Each morning, we will board a private motorboat and search for the best opportunities to encounter humpback whales and their calves. During the Southern Hemisphere winter, humpback whales migrate from the icy feeding grounds of Antarctica to the warm, sheltered waters of French Polynesia, where they mate and where mothers give birth to their calves.

During our time on the water, we will look for and observe three different types of whale interactions:

• The first is the unique bond between a mother and her calf, often resting close to the surface. These are special moments when a mother may choose to interact with us, slowly closing her eyes as a sign of trust and allowing us to share the water with her calf.

• The second possibility is observing male whales courting a female.

• The third is witnessing the spectacular mating displays of humpback whales, listening to the haunting songs of the males, and watching them breach and display their strength in an effort to impress a potential mate.

We will also search for other whale and dolphin species that can be encountered in the marine-life-rich waters of French Polynesia. While wildlife encounters can never be guaranteed, we may have opportunities to swim and snorkel with:

• Spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris) – A resident pod of approximately 160 individuals inhabits the area. These dolphins are famous for their aerial acrobatics, often launching themselves out of the water and spinning up to seven times in the air.

• Rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis) – Curious and intelligent dolphins that often approach swimmers.

• Pilot whales – These gentle and charismatic marine mammals are often seen slowly travelling near the surface during the day, allowing boats to approach respectfully.

Accommodation: Moorea Ocean View Villas and Tahiti

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Day 6

Tahiti – Polynesian Culture

After three intensive days on the water, we will enjoy a day on the main island of Tahiti, exploring its rich culture, traditional craftsmanship, and artistic heritage. This day is dedicated to discovering local traditions, meeting artisans, and experiencing the unique atmosphere of French Polynesia.

There will also be an opportunity to take home a truly authentic memory of your journey, whether in the form of a renowned Tahitian black pearl or a traditional Polynesian tattoo.

Accommodation: Hotel, Tahiti

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Day 7

Fakarava and Transfer to Tetamanu Village

In the morning, we will head to the airport for our flight to Fakarava Atoll, one of the world's most extraordinary destinations for diving, snorkeling, and exploring marine life. The flight itself is an unforgettable experience. The aerial view of the endless turquoise ocean dotted with tiny coral atolls is truly breathtaking. If there is one view everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime, this might be it.

After landing in Fakarava, we will continue by boat to the remote village of Tetamanu, where we will spend the next few days immersed in nature. Tetamanu is a place where time slows down and life follows the rhythm of the ocean. Along the way, we will pass endless lagoons, sandy motus, and vibrant coral reefs.

As soon as we arrive, we will spot our first sharks and hundreds of tropical fish swimming directly beneath our bungalows. The healthy ecosystem, crystal-clear water, and extraordinary abundance of marine life are the reasons why Fakarava is considered one of the best diving destinations on the planet. In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to experience this underwater paradise firsthand during your first drift snorkeling session.

Accommodation: Bungalow, Tetamanu Village

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Day 8

Fakarava – Drift Snorkeling Among Hundreds of Sharks

The highlight of the entire expedition. During our drift snorkeling sessions, we will explore one of the most spectacular marine ecosystems on the planet. We will have the opportunity to observe hundreds of grey reef sharks, enormous schools of tropical fish, moray eels, barracudas, Napoleon wrasse, and pristine coral gardens in remarkable condition.

Fakarava is widely regarded as one of the best places in the world to observe sharks directly from the surface. The combination of crystal-clear water, strong currents, thriving coral reefs, and an incredible concentration of marine life creates an underwater experience unlike any other.

Accommodation: Tetamanu Village

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Day 9

Pink Sand Motu, Final Snorkeling and Return to Tahiti

In the morning, we will enjoy our final drift snorkeling session in Tetamanu, making the most of our last opportunity to experience the extraordinary underwater world of Fakarava.

Afterward, we will visit the iconic Pink Sand Motu, where we can relax and enjoy our final moments in this remote corner of the Pacific. Surrounded by turquoise waters and untouched natural beauty, it is the perfect place to reflect on the experiences of the past days.

In the afternoon, we will return to Fakarava's main village and board our flight back to Tahiti, where we will connect to our international flights home.

Accommodation: Tahiti

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Day 10

End of the Expedition