Tonga Ocean Expedition: Swim with Humpback Whales

September 6 - 13, 2025

Just

Spots Left

with

Jono Allen

Guided Trip

The Story

Immerse yourself in the unparalleled splendour of the deep blue as you join Jono Allen, a renowned ocean photographer, environmental scientist, and marine megafauna guide, on this epic Tongan adventure. Witnessing humpback whales in their natural habitat is a magical experience. Every year, thousands of these gentle giants make their pilgrimage from Antarctica's icy waters to the tropical haven of Tonga for mating and birthing. With a naturalist's precision and an artist's eye, Jono will be your guide in unlocking the majestic world of these sentient beings.

Make your base in the island paradise of Vava'u, where every day you'll venture out on a private boat, led by one of the world's most experienced humpback whale boat operators to get the best chance to interact with these gentle giants of the deep. Elevate your underwater photography through exclusive Masterclasses led by Jono, capturing ethereal moments that will last a lifetime. But that's just the tip of the iceberg! Explore mysterious blue caves and hidden beaches, all while enjoying the warm hospitality of your new Tongan community.

Download Trip Brochure

Experience

The Highlights

Up-close encounters with humpback whales
Storyteller Guide
Airguides Expedition Leader
Boat Operator with 20+ years guiding humpbacks
Internationally recognised professional chef
7 nights private waterfront accommodation
Exclusive Photography Masterclasses with Jono Allen
5 full days on our private boat swimming with whales
Explore Vava'u's secret blue caves & isolated beaches
Local Tongan welcome feast

‍

STORYTELLER

Jono Allen

Tonga Ocean Expedition: Swim with Humpback Whales

Why Travel With Jono?

A passionate and knowledgeable environmental scientist, marine megafauna guide, and ocean cinematographer, Jono is dedicated to capturing powerful visuals to catalyse meaningful change for our oceans. His knowledge and expertise empower you to get as close as possible to these majestic creatures, forging an unforgettable connection through a face-to-face encounter. With Jono, you can be assured that you are in the hands of an expert who is committed to providing a truly thrilling and authentic travel experience.

Jono's approach to encounters with humpback whales is far beyond what you would consider a typical tour. He rejects the touristy "smile for the camera" approach and instead takes you on a journey of exploration and deep understanding of their physiology, behaviour, and unique personalities. With Jono, you can expect encounters that are both immersive and enlightening, providing a deeper connection with these magnificent creatures.

Jono is committed to supporting the local Tongan community of Vava'u, where humpback whales come every year to mate and give birth. It's important to him to use local services, food, accommodation, and staff wherever possible, ensuring high-quality experiences without compromising on the community's authenticity. By traveling with Jono, you can be assured that your trip is sustainable, responsible, and supports the local community.

Day by Day

Itinerary

You'll get picked up

discover the

Experience

“Thanking the stars I found Airguides and Jono Allen's trip. We were totally taken care of! Paul answered all our questions and took care of the details so all we had to do was get there. Jono is an amazing, talented photographer who created a special group experience. The WHALES were mind blowing. What a gift to be in Tonga staring into the eye of a baby whale! This trip was a lifelong dream come true. I highly recommend it so much we’ve already signed up again for next year!"

‍

- Laura Cottril, United States

Participant in our Tonga 2023 Trip

The Trip

In Pictures

FAQ

Questions?

REVIEWS

What Our Travellers Say

“Thanking the stars I found Airguides and Jono's trip. We were totally taken care of! Paul answered all our questions and took care of the details so all we had to do was get there. Jono Allen is an amazing, talented photographer who created a special group experience. The WHALES were mind blowing. What a gift to be in Tonga staring into the eye of a baby whale! This trip was a lifelong dream come true. I highly recommend it so much we’ve already signed up again for next year!"

Laura

United States

"The Airguides trip to Tonga to swim with humpback whales was the experience of a lifetime. I have traveled all over the world, and nothing compares to being in the wild, rustic, deep blue waters of the South Pacific while interacting with whales and their calves. A wonderful and caring team made our adventures stress free. Absolutely amazing, so much so, that I am doing it again this year! Thanks a million Paul, Jono, Al, Alistair, Christian and Polly!"

Mary

United States

"Thank you for your help in putting together our trip to the Northern Territory. Everyone agreed that it was the best family holiday we'd ever had and - even better - everyone nominated something different as 'the best thing'."

Elizabeth

Australia

"The trip with Airguides was magic. Paul was our kind and patient guide, Mark Fitz was our talented and positive photographer/storyteller. It was a perfect mix of activity and relaxation and I’m already planning my next Airguides trip."

Lisa Thomas

Australia

"I recently visited Lady Musgrave Island with Airguides. They have a unique and meaningful approach to travel and travelling with and learning from a world-class photographer, who was on the trip, was incredible."

Katie

Australia

"I cannot say enough amazing things about Airguides and the amazing honeymoon they planned for us. We began our trip planning by being overwhelmed with travel blogs, not knowing what was actually the best plan for us."

Ashley Ferrel

United States

“Just had an amazing trip to Heron Island organised by the Airguides team. Perfect balance of activity and relaxation, they made it so easy. Can't wait until I can do another trip!“

James Crowley

Australia

“ We recently organised our trip to Heron Island with Bibi and Paul as a last minute getaway. Seamlessly dealt with and an added bonus of having a world-class photographer/ free-diver as our story teller. The trip has only whet our appetite for more positive and relaxing experiences with the Airguides team- Awesome “

Damon Faint

Australia