Swim with Humpback whales - Remote island expedition 2026

Tubuai Island

Jt
Just the Wild
  • Email address verified
63 reviews
Sep 13 - Oct 18, 2026
Group size: 1 - 25
Swim with Humpback whales - Remote island expedition 2026
Tubuai Island

Just the Wild
  • Email address verified
63 reviews

$NaN
Sep 13 - Oct 18, 2026
Group size: 1 - 25

About this trip

What’s included

  • 6 days on the water
    We go out each day from about 730 am- 4pm
  • 7 Nights Accommodation
    Accommodation is twin share rooms, at a small family run lodge.
  • All meals on the island
    Breakfast and dinner at the lodge, and lunch on board the boat
  • Digital photos
    An online drive is shared for you to access photos taken by our guides
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
    Basic refreshments on board the boat
  • Airport Transfers
    Transfers from and to Tubuai Airport
  • Gear if needed
    There is limited gear available, and this resource is not expected to outfit everyone, but more for a backup. Wetsuits, mask, snorkel and fins are available, but we advise having your own.

What’s not included

  • Arifare
    International and Domestic airfare
  • Travel Insurance
    We cant stress it enough- please get this
  • Gratuities
    For the crew

Available Packages

Session 1 - September 13 - September 20
5 left
$5,490
Session 2 - September 20 - September 27
5 left
$5,490
Session 3 - September 27 - October 4
Sold Out
$5,490
Session 4 - October 4 - October 11
Sold Out
$5,490
Session 5 - October 11 - October 18
5 left
$5,490

Available Add-Ons

Single supplement - Session 1
$1,300
Only 2 left
Single supplement - Session 2
$1,300
Only 2 left
Single supplement - Session 3
$1,300
Only 2 left
Single supplement - Session 4
$1,300
Only 1 left
Single supplement - Session 5
$1,300
Only 2 left


Your Organizer


Jt
Just the Wild
63 reviews
Just the Wild" is more than just a name—it's the philosophy that guides every expedition. We cut out complex itineraries and invest 100% of our energy and experience in finding you the animals you joined to see. When you choose Just the Wild, you’re choosing: Unmatched Expertise: A team of marine scientist-led professionals who have dedicated their lives to the wild. Authenticity: No gimmicks, no guarantees—just real, animal-focused adventures. Commitment to Safety: Decades of field experience ensure your safety is never compromised

Reviews

Wonderful and knowledgeable guide and crew, really amazing accommodation + local staff. Thank you so much Caine Shane Pernil and team, will definitely be back.
By Victoria G for Swim with Sperm Whales, Dominica November 2025 on Dec 23, 2025
After swimming with whales in Dominica, I want to exclusively travel with Just the Wild. It's clear everyone involved really cares about the whales, which made all the difference. We were thoughtfully guided on how to swim with them in a way that prioritized safety for both us and the animals, which made the experience feel respectful, calm, and truly special. The entire team was fantastic: the hotel crew, our guide Shane, captain Pernell, and the other guests. Every detail was handled seamlessly—food, lodging, transportation—so all I had to do was show up and be present for the experience. Lastly, worth mentioning that I was quite pregnant on this trip. My first whale encounter was a mother and baby (and yes, I did shed a little tear in my goggles and smiled through my snorkel). I could tell everyone had an extra eye out for me in a way that felt supportive but not overbearing. I'm so thankful to the entire team for making this once in a lifetime experience possible.
By Rachel B for Swim with Sperm Whales, Dominica November 2025 on Dec 22, 2025
I have had the honor to travel on many of Caines trips, including one of his very first, and hats off and tipped to him. My most acknowledged respect is to him and his respect to the whales being primary and how he decides on our guides. A priority for sure. And his demeanor, knowledge, and enthusiasm at table talk is always to the point where I hope to sit next to him at our table. Southern Right trip was beyond what I ever could have imagined from boat crew to in the water crying from incomprehensible experiences. It’s cold, but you will not feel a moment of it with this trip and will be leaving promising you’ll be back. 1000/10 ✨
By Tiffany O for Swim with Southern Right Whales- Argentina 2025 on Dec 14, 2025
Upon arrival, I was met with kindness, professionalism, and a deep respect for the wildlife and the island that welcomed us. Our hosts created a home away from home — warm hospitality, fresh delicious meals, hot showers, and spacious rooms just across from the lagoon. With a natural pride in the culture and a thoughtful approach to hosting, I felt fully cared for. On the water, our team was exceptional — always reading the conditions, making thoughtful decisions, and bringing steady enthusiasm. Their calm confidence, clear guidance and knowledge of both the whales and the island created the space for us to fully immerse in each encounter. A sharp eye for wildlife and precise seamanship kept us safe and positioned perfectly for respectful encounters — always mindful of both the whales and our wellbeing. The whole team worked with genuine care and adaptability, aiming each day to give us the best nature was willing to offer. A rare balance — a deep respect for wildlife paired with a thoughtful level of service to the human experience. Kellon, Thibault, and Laris — Thank you. The whales… so many whales. Each encounter unique. Those moments of eye contact — a profound connection entirely on their terms — stirs something deep within you. Their presence is humbling, a reminder that other species move through the world with an awareness, connection, and quiet grace we as humans often lose sight of. Another gift was the lack of crowds — a peaceful, intimate atmosphere that allowed every encounter to unfold naturally and respectfully. Sharing this journey with other like-minded guests made the experience even more special. This is a place that embraces you. Its people, its land, and its whales made this a transformative adventure I will carry with me. If you’re seeking connection — to the ocean, to wildlife, to humanity — this is a trip that delivers it.
By Meg R for Swim with Humpback whales - Remote island expedition 2025 on Dec 04, 2025
This was my second trip with Just the Wild and I already have my third trip booked. Our trip to Dominica was incredible: we had a lovely and charming place to stay with very kind staff members. The hotel owner also informed us about a baby turtle excavation which we were able to fit into our trip which was so special to see! Our guide Shane was knowledgeable, kind and eager for us to have the best experience. Pernell is indeed the whale whisperer and expertly navigated us to find false killer whales, pygmy whales, and sperm whales. We were so lucky to be able to experience this and I cannot wait to join Just the Wild again for my next trip!
By Sarah S for Swim with Sperm Whales, Dominica November 2025 on Nov 30, 2025
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References

I traveled twice this past year with Just the Wild - last January to Dominica to see the sperm whales and this past November to see the big blues in Timor-leste - and it may sound like hyperbole but it was nothing short of life changing! As a child I was torn between my two loves: art and science, specifically marine biology. I chose art in the end and fast forward 30 years to a somewhat disenchanted life as a Creative Director in advertising looking for a change. I stumbled across Just the Wild and after a few years of following Caine's IG and emails, finally decided it was now or never. I'm so so so glad I did! It wasn't just the whales - which we're breathtaking, beautiful, mind-blowing and just so, so, so cool - it's the people you meet. The other guests, the boat captain and first mate, the hotel owners and staff, the dive shop instructors - everyone is just amazing. Travel gives you such an amazing perspective of the world and I can't recommend it enough. Caine has taken care to find the nicest and most knowledgable folks to work with and support. Up till last January I had been snorkeling exactly twice, both times in the shallows. But I'd always dreamed of seeing my favorites: the cetaceans. Between the other guests (special thanks to Wayne and Ellyn) and Caine, I quickly acclimated to open water snorkeling and now I can't wait to get back in the water! And speaking of the dude himself, as a wannabe marine biologist, to have a guide that's not only knowledgable but as excited about the animals we're interacting with is infectious. I have a new found desire to pursue a live that supports swimming in the ocean as much as possible - from getting my scuba certification to exploring the world of underwater photography. And, of course, booking a trip to see the humpbacks in French Polynesia with Just the Wild ASAP!
By Liesje K on 14 Dec, 2024