Humpback whales are one of the most majestic creatures to see underwater. Swimming with the gentle giants of the ocean, the humpback whales, is a humbling, indescribably beautiful, and life-changing experience. What are the different behaviors you can observe during whale watching and whale swimming? And how to enjoy these experiences in the most sustainable and respectful way?
Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) are one of the largest species of baleen whales and are known for their distinctive long fins and elaborate songs. They are found in oceans around the world, both in polar and tropical waters. In the cold, nutrient-rich polar waters, they feed during the summer, and in the warmer tropical or subtropical waters they breed and give birth in the winter. It is a cycle that repeats year after year, guided by ancient instincts.
The behavior of humpback whales is captivating. These magnificent creatures, known for their awe-inspiring acrobatics and haunting songs, have long fascinated scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. Let's delve into the fascinating behavior of humpback whales and explore the secrets of their majestic existence.
What behaviors can you observe during whale swimming in Tonga?
Breaching and Tail Slapping: A Display of Power and Communication
Humpback whales engage in breathtaking breaches, leaping out of the water and crashing back with a thunderous splash. They are the whale species that engage in this behavior the most frequently of all whales. Witnessing a whale breach is spectacular, especially when it happens close to the boat we are on, or if it's performed by a baby whale, learning its best way to surface the ocean. A whale breach leaves us in awe - and with a question - Why do whales breach? Well, studies were performed, and although we cannot be absolutely certain, it seems that most of the breaches happen for communication purposes. The loud sound produced when a whale breaches can transmit signals over long distances through the water, allowing individuals to convey information to others in their vicinity. But, there seem to be more reasons for breaching and tail slapping than just communication: courting behavior, signaling a warning, getting rid of parasites, or establishing dominance. And last but not least - for the love and fun of it.
Melodic Mysteries: The Enchanting Songs of Humpbacks
Humpbacks are renowned for their captivating songs, haunting melodies that reverberate across the ocean depths. These complex vocalizations, lasting up to 20 minutes, are unique to each individual and can travel great distances. It is an interesting fact that although both male and female whales can vocalize, only the males produce these loud, long and complex melodies within the humpback whale species. That and also the fact that these sounds are most often heard in their breeding grounds is why scientists believe that the main purpose of the songs is mating.
Mating Dances: Complex rituals to enchant the females
The mating rituals of humpback whales are a sight to behold. Male whales compete for female attention through vocal displays, physical competitions, and elaborate courtship dances. One of the most remarkable displays is the male's haunting song. These complex and melodious vocalizations, unique to each individual, can last for minutes or even hours. The songs, filled with whistles, clicks, and eerie moans, are believed to serve as both a means of attracting females and establishing dominance over rival males. Male humpbacks also engage in physical competitions known as "competitive groups" or "heat runs." Several males pursue a single female, creating a high-energy chase as they jostle and vie for the opportunity to mate with her. These interactions can involve powerful breaches, tail slapping, and head lunges, creating a captivating spectacle for observers.
Motherly love: Unique bond between mother and her calf
The bond between humpback whale mothers and their calves is profoundly strong and vital for the survival of the young. Female humpbacks typically give birth to a single calf after a gestation period of approximately 11 to 12 months. During the early stages of life, the mother nurtures and protects her calf. She closely accompanies her offspring, guiding it through the water and teaching essential skills, such as breathing, swimming, and feeding. The mother's milk, rich in fat, provides the nourishment necessary for the calf's rapid growth. The mother-calf relationship is characterized by physical contact, with frequent touching and rubbing between the two. This tactile communication strengthens the bond and helps the calf develop a sense of security and trust. The mother-calf relationship continues for several months, with the calf gaining strength and independence under the watchful eye of its mother. Eventually, the calf will venture out on its own, marking the start of its journey toward adulthood. Most calves leave their mothers shortly before or during their second winter, however, some associations can remain for up to two years.
The spectacular behaviors described above can be watched in several places in the world, but there are not many places in the world where it is possible to swim with humpback whales. These places must balance sustainable tourism that brings profits to the country with the well-being of these amazing animals.
Why choose whale swimming in Tonga?
1. Vava'u offers the best water conditions
The water conditions in Vava'u create a perfect environment for encountering and swimming with whales. Located in the South Pacific, Vava'u is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, which provide excellent visibility for underwater exploration. The water temperature in Vava'u ranges from a pleasant 75 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit (24 to 28 degrees Celsius) throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for swimming with whales. The warm waters ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, allowing you to spend extended periods in the ocean without feeling cold. The waters surrounding Vava'u are typically calm and tranquil, especially during the whale season, which generally runs from July to October.
2. Only licensed operators can operate tours in Tonga
Whale swimming in Tonga, Vava'u is conducted under strict guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of both the whales and humans. Only certified vessels (approx. 20 vessels in Vava'u for the whole season) may put swimmers in the water with whales, and each licensed provider is responsible for determining whether the conditions for clients to swim with whales are safe. We always carefully watch the behavior of the whales we approach and our interaction is completely on the whales' terms. We do not go to the water if the whales show stress or if decide we would be disturbing them.
3. Only 4 swimmers + guide in the water
In accordance with the Government of Tonga's Whale Watching and Swimming Regulations only 4 guests (plus the guide) are allowed in the water at one time. We will be taking turns to always respect the rule. We always choose a respectful and responsible approach to minimize disturbance to the whales' natural behavior. The staff of our private 10-m speed boat has many years of experience in the whale swim industry. Our guides are fully trained and certified in compliance with regulations, which ensures a safe and professional experience.
Is swimming with whales ethical?
We choose to perform our interactions with the whales in a manner that we believe is ethical. Whale swimming in Tonga follows one of the strongest regulations and not too many licensed operators - that's why we chose this location, plus all of our interactions are conducted with the utmost respect for the whales.
But of course, each coin has two sides and if all the animals in the world were left free from human influence it might be for the best. But maybe not - through unforgettable experiences like whale swimming in Tonga, we think it's possible to inspire people's love for the ocean and its protection. And of course, as with all of our trips, the profits are used for our ocean conservation efforts.
Book your whale swimming expedition in Tonga with us here.