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Humpback whale tours off Moorea (2 OPTIONS)

249 Reviews 4.92 out of 5 stars Based on 249 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 96% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Moorea, French Polynesia
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 33 (0) days in advance.

4 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 1 more
French
Instant confirmation

Overview

We offer 2 options depending on availability: 6 spots for boat launches and 4 spots for observers.

From July to early November, humpback whales migrate to French Polynesia. Come observe them in their natural habitat and enjoy a unique experience! We can also encounter globiceths and pelagic sharks.

After the observation, we finish with a snorkeling session in the lagoon, among manta rays and blacktip sharks. In shallow water, accessible to all, you will be able to stand easily.

What's Included

  • Bottled water
  • Dry compartment
  • Flotation device (lifejacket suitable for snorkeling) for option with launch
  • Towels, sunscreen
  • 3 mm neoprene wetsuit
  • Round trip pickups are not included. Please proceed to our Check-out location.
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Moorea-Maiao
French Polynesia

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Moorea

FOR SWIMMERS: Our Guide only allows for the launch of a boat after it has been determined that weather conditions and animal behaviour are favourable. Regulations require us to swim long distances to approach animals in complete secrecy. It is mandatory to wear a flotation device. We supply the most suitable lifejackets for snorkeling and comply with regulations. You can wear a neoprene jumpsuit of at least 3mm if you do not wish to wear a vest.FOR OBSERVERS: You can observe cetaceans 100 meters from the boat. Wearing the vest is not mandatory. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that you will encounter a whale on your excursion. What's wrong? A humpback whale chooses to let itself be approached. It is a wild animal, in the open sea, and weather conditions also have a major impact.
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3 hours 50 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Moorea

If the high seas trip goes well and the weather allows us to stop in the lagoon, snorkeling with the reef's pastenague rays and sharks will be added at the end of your trip
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
  • TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR OBSERVATION EXIT FROM THE VESSEL: 1. Purpose of the outings: The proposed outings are intended to observe cetaceans in strict compliance with the regulations in force in French Polynesia and maritime safety rules. The presence of whales is never guaranteed, as they are wild animals in their natural environment. 2. Conditions of participation: Participation in sorties is subject to the following conditions: Do not present any medical contraindications to sorties on the high seas. Strictly follow the instructions of the Captain and Guide. Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult. The tour operator reserves the right to refuse boarding to any person who does not meet these conditions or exhibits inappropriate behaviour. 3. Safety on board: Passenger safety is a top priority. The vessel is equipped in accordance with the maritime regulations in force (lifejackets, safety equipment, means of communication). Passengers agree to: Sitting or standing at designated points during navigation. Do not move without permission. Wear a life jacket if requested by the crew. Observe all safety instructions given on board Any behaviour endangering people or equipment may result in the immediate cessation of the trip without refund. 4. Seasickness and Health: As outings take place in the marine environment, participants acknowledge that they are exposed to the risks inherent in navigation, including the risk of seasickness. No refund will be granted in case of pain, nausea or voluntary interruption of the trip by a participant for these reasons. Participants are advised that once the excursion has begun and the boat Committed to its itinerary, it will not be possible to interrupt the excursion or return to the lagoon or Check-out Point at the request of a participant, except in cases of emergency involving the safety of persons or personnel. It is strongly recommended to take the necessary precautions before boarding (preventive treatment, hydration, rest). 5. Weather and sea conditions: Exits are subject to weather and sea conditions. The tour operator reserves the right to: change the itinerary, shorten the trip or cancel the trip. This can occur before or during the ride, if conditions become unfavourable. In case of cancellation for weather or security reasons, a postponement will be offered depending on availability. Otherwise, a refund may be made. No additional compensation may be claimed. 6. Personal effects: The tour operator accepts no responsibility for the loss, damage or theft of your personal belongings. Bringing valuables is strongly discouraged. 7. Cancellations by the client: Any cancellation by the client must be reported as early as possible 72 hours before the start time of the excursion. Cancellations are as follows: Late cancellation or no-show: no refund. Early cancellation: refund or postponement according to the conditions communicated at the Reservation 8. Responsibility: Participation in the outings is at the risk of the participants, within the limits of the applicable regulations. The tour operator cannot be held liable for: Careless behaviour of participants, failure to comply with safety instructions, incidents related to the natural environment (waves, currents, wildlife), bodily injury or property damage resulting from events beyond its control. Each participant acknowledges that they are aware of the risks inherent in Water and Marine Things to do.
  • TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR OBSERVATION RELEASES WITH LAUNCH: 1. Purpose of the outings: The proposed outings are intended for the observation of cetaceans, and when conditions permit, the supervised launching, in strict compliance with the regulations in force in French Polynesia and maritime safety rules. The presence of whales is never guaranteed, as they are wild animals in their natural environment. 2. Conditions of participation: Participation in the outings is subject to the following conditions: Being in good physical condition, Being able to swim properly, Not presenting any medical contraindication to the practice of Water Things to do, Strictly comply with the instructions given by the Captain and the Guide, Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult. The tour operator reserves the right to refuse boarding or launching to any person not fulfilling these conditions or exhibiting inappropriate behavior. 3. Safety on board: Passenger safety is a top priority. The vessel is equipped in accordance with the maritime regulations in force (lifejackets, safety equipment, means of communication). Passengers agree to: Remain seated or stand at designated points during navigation, Do not move without authorization, Wear a lifejacket if requested by the crew, Respect all safety instructions given on board Any behavior endangering people or equipment may result in the immediate cessation of the trip without refund. 4. Launching – strict rules: Launching is conditioned: At sea state, Whale behaviour, Guide assessment, Regulations in force on the day of the launch, Final decision on launching is the exclusive responsibility of the Master and Guide. Entrants agree to: Enter the water only with permission, Respect distances from animals, Never attempt to touch or chase a whale, Exit the water immediately upon request of the Guide Failure to comply with these rules results in immediate exclusion from launching, without refund. 5. In the context of whale watching and launching trips, the tour operator makes available buoyancy vests specifically adapted to whale trips. The tour operator cannot be held liable in the event of an accident resulting from the refusal, misuse or non-wearing of the safety equipment provided. The wearing of the buoyancy vest is mandatory for all launches, without exception. These vests are designed to ensure the safety of participants while allowing freedom of movement adapted to whale watching. Diving suits 3mm neoprene diving suits (short or long) are also allowed as a flotation device. 6. Seasickness and Health: As outings take place in the marine environment, participants acknowledge that they are at risk of seasickness. No refund will be given in case of: discomfort, nausea, voluntary abandonment of the trip It is strongly recommended to take the necessary precautions before boarding (preventive treatment, hydration, rest). 7. Weather and sea conditions: Exits are subject to weather and sea conditions. The tour operator reserves the right to: Change the itinerary, shorten the trip or cancel the trip. This can occur before or during the ride, if conditions become unfavourable. In case of cancellation for weather or security reasons, a postponement will be offered depending on availability. Otherwise, a refund may be made. No additional compensation may be claimed. 8. Personal effects: The tour operator accepts no responsibility for the loss, damage or theft of your personal belongings. Bringing valuables is strongly discouraged. 9. Cancellations by the client: Any cancellation by the client must be reported as early as possible 72 hours before the start time of the excursion. Cancellations are as follows: Late cancellation or no-show: no refund. Early cancellation: refund or postponement according to the conditions communicated at the Reservation 10. Responsibility: Participation in the outings is at the risk of the participants, within the limits of the applicable regulations. The tour operator cannot be held liable for: Careless behaviour of participants, failure to comply with safety instructions, incidents related to the natural environment (waves, currents, wildlife) and personal injury or property damage resulting from events beyond its control. Each participant acknowledges that they are aware of the risks inherent in Water and Marine Things to do. 11. Insurance: The tour operator is covered by professional liability insurance in accordance with the legislation in force. Participants are invited to have personal insurance covering Water Things to do.

Frequently Asked Questions (9)

Q: Will I get seasick on Humpback whale tours off Moorea (2 OPTIONS)?

A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-194557P2

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.92
249 reviews

Average 4.92 out of 5 stars based on 249 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
238
4 stars
2
3 stars
9
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 33 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Bottled water
  • Dry compartment
  • Flotation device (lifejacket suitable for snorkeling) for option with launch
  • Fins, mask and snorkel
  • Towels, sunscreen
  • 3 mm neoprene wetsuit
  • Round trip pickups are not included. Please proceed to our Check-out location.

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Do not present any medical contraindications to the practice of water Things to do
  • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
  • TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR OBSERVATION EXIT FROM THE VESSEL: 1. Purpose of the outings: The proposed outings are intended to observe cetaceans in strict compliance with the regulations in force in French Polynesia and maritime safety rules. The presence of whales is never guaranteed, as they are wild animals in their natural environment. 2. Conditions of participation: Participation in sorties is subject to the following conditions: Do not present any medical contraindications to sorties on the high seas. Strictly follow the instructions of the Captain and Guide. Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult. The tour operator reserves the right to refuse boarding to any person who does not meet these conditions or exhibits inappropriate behaviour. 3. Safety on board: Passenger safety is a top priority. The vessel is equipped in accordance with the maritime regulations in force (lifejackets, safety equipment, means of communication). Passengers agree to: Sitting or standing at designated points during navigation. Do not move without permission. Wear a life jacket if requested by the crew. Observe all safety instructions given on board Any behaviour endangering people or equipment may result in the immediate cessation of the trip without refund. 4. Seasickness and Health: As outings take place in the marine environment, participants acknowledge that they are exposed to the risks inherent in navigation, including the risk of seasickness. No refund will be granted in case of pain, nausea or voluntary interruption of the trip by a participant for these reasons. Participants are advised that once the excursion has begun and the boat Committed to its itinerary, it will not be possible to interrupt the excursion or return to the lagoon or Check-out Point at the request of a participant, except in cases of emergency involving the safety of persons or personnel. It is strongly recommended to take the necessary precautions before boarding (preventive treatment, hydration, rest). 5. Weather and sea conditions: Exits are subject to weather and sea conditions. The tour operator reserves the right to: change the itinerary, shorten the trip or cancel the trip. This can occur before or during the ride, if conditions become unfavourable. In case of cancellation for weather or security reasons, a postponement will be offered depending on availability. Otherwise, a refund may be made. No additional compensation may be claimed. 6. Personal effects: The tour operator accepts no responsibility for the loss, damage or theft of your personal belongings. Bringing valuables is strongly discouraged. 7. Cancellations by the client: Any cancellation by the client must be reported as early as possible 72 hours before the start time of the excursion. Cancellations are as follows: Late cancellation or no-show: no refund. Early cancellation: refund or postponement according to the conditions communicated at the Reservation 8. Responsibility: Participation in the outings is at the risk of the participants, within the limits of the applicable regulations. The tour operator cannot be held liable for: Careless behaviour of participants, failure to comply with safety instructions, incidents related to the natural environment (waves, currents, wildlife), bodily injury or property damage resulting from events beyond its control. Each participant acknowledges that they are aware of the risks inherent in Water and Marine Things to do.
  • TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR OBSERVATION RELEASES WITH LAUNCH: 1. Purpose of the outings: The proposed outings are intended for the observation of cetaceans, and when conditions permit, the supervised launching, in strict compliance with the regulations in force in French Polynesia and maritime safety rules. The presence of whales is never guaranteed, as they are wild animals in their natural environment. 2. Conditions of participation: Participation in the outings is subject to the following conditions: Being in good physical condition, Being able to swim properly, Not presenting any medical contraindication to the practice of Water Things to do, Strictly comply with the instructions given by the Captain and the Guide, Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult. The tour operator reserves the right to refuse boarding or launching to any person not fulfilling these conditions or exhibiting inappropriate behavior. 3. Safety on board: Passenger safety is a top priority. The vessel is equipped in accordance with the maritime regulations in force (lifejackets, safety equipment, means of communication). Passengers agree to: Remain seated or stand at designated points during navigation, Do not move without authorization, Wear a lifejacket if requested by the crew, Respect all safety instructions given on board Any behavior endangering people or equipment may result in the immediate cessation of the trip without refund. 4. Launching – strict rules: Launching is conditioned: At sea state, Whale behaviour, Guide assessment, Regulations in force on the day of the launch, Final decision on launching is the exclusive responsibility of the Master and Guide. Entrants agree to: Enter the water only with permission, Respect distances from animals, Never attempt to touch or chase a whale, Exit the water immediately upon request of the Guide Failure to comply with these rules results in immediate exclusion from launching, without refund. 5. In the context of whale watching and launching trips, the tour operator makes available buoyancy vests specifically adapted to whale trips. The tour operator cannot be held liable in the event of an accident resulting from the refusal, misuse or non-wearing of the safety equipment provided. The wearing of the buoyancy vest is mandatory for all launches, without exception. These vests are designed to ensure the safety of participants while allowing freedom of movement adapted to whale watching. Diving suits 3mm neoprene diving suits (short or long) are also allowed as a flotation device. 6. Seasickness and Health: As outings take place in the marine environment, participants acknowledge that they are at risk of seasickness. No refund will be given in case of: discomfort, nausea, voluntary abandonment of the trip It is strongly recommended to take the necessary precautions before boarding (preventive treatment, hydration, rest). 7. Weather and sea conditions: Exits are subject to weather and sea conditions. The tour operator reserves the right to: Change the itinerary, shorten the trip or cancel the trip. This can occur before or during the ride, if conditions become unfavourable. In case of cancellation for weather or security reasons, a postponement will be offered depending on availability. Otherwise, a refund may be made. No additional compensation may be claimed. 8. Personal effects: The tour operator accepts no responsibility for the loss, damage or theft of your personal belongings. Bringing valuables is strongly discouraged. 9. Cancellations by the client: Any cancellation by the client must be reported as early as possible 72 hours before the start time of the excursion. Cancellations are as follows: Late cancellation or no-show: no refund. Early cancellation: refund or postponement according to the conditions communicated at the Reservation 10. Responsibility: Participation in the outings is at the risk of the participants, within the limits of the applicable regulations. The tour operator cannot be held liable for: Careless behaviour of participants, failure to comply with safety instructions, incidents related to the natural environment (waves, currents, wildlife) and personal injury or property damage resulting from events beyond its control. Each participant acknowledges that they are aware of the risks inherent in Water and Marine Things to do. 11. Insurance: The tour operator is covered by professional liability insurance in accordance with the legislation in force. Participants are invited to have personal insurance covering Water Things to do.
  • Acceptance of the conditions: Reservation of an outing implies full acceptance of these general conditions. These conditions may be modified at any time and are applicable from the time they are posted on the site.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers

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