“I’ll try to keep this short… my wife loves humpback whales. I know some people love horses or puppies, but this is a whole next level. I think she was probably a humpback whale in a previous life.
We’ve done a ton of whale watching trips where, from a boat we watch the surface activity and hope and pray for an occasional breach. We have even stuck a GoPro under water and pointed it in the general direction of the whales hoping for footage of their under water activity.
When she discovered Nadia’s swim with the whales trips, there was no stopping her.
We signed up in 2019 for a trip in 2020. And you know the story; in 2020 it was postponed until 2021 and so on until earlier this year when it was postponed until 2023. That is, until Tonga suddenly opened their borders in September and Nadia said there was availability for a few trips this year. We decided to drop everything and go to the other side of the world (we live in the states).
We trusted Nadia and she did not let us down. She helped us with every step along the way from travel arrangements, to lodging, to what gear to bring, to of course the whale swims. Just getting to the small island of Vava’u would have been nearly impossible without her guidance.
Nadia’s boat was crewed by a skipper and a guide. The skipper found the whales and kept us safe in all conditions (there were a couple days with rough seas) and the guide was nothing short of an ocean Sherpa.
And finally, about the whales… everyday was different, but the common theme was OMG we are swimming with whales! Our favorite encounters include moms and calves where the baby was super curious about us and Mom seemed to enjoy us entertaining her baby, and a group of 5 or 6 adults where we think one might have been a pregnant mom close to giving birth.
We were really there to be with the whales so we didn’t have the big professional looking underwater cameras, just GoPros. I’ve added a few of the shots from our GoPros.
There are almost no words for how fantastic this trip was. We met some new friends from all over the world and we are currently planning our trip back for next year.”
“We had a trip of a lifetime!
We spent seven days swimming with the whales and each day was a unique encounter - some long, some short. We mostly had mom-calf interactions, and the calf sometimes would be very curious and playful. We saw a singing whale and spent almost an hour listening to the otherworldly music.
The crew was very experienced and did a splendid job spotting the whales and guiding us. Our captain Datey was awesome. He'd always drop us off at the right spot. Our boat crew - Sifa, Pula and David were really good guides and gave their 100% in order to get us the best experience while always being respectful of whales and paying attention to our safety. We even got to explore some very cool caves and reefs, although most of Tonga's reefs are sadly dead. Also, our boats were very spacious, which I really appreciated.
The entire trip was very well organized. Nadia was extremely helpful about everything - getting visas, finding lost luggage, getting around in Tonga and guiding us about the best ways to swim with the whales. She was extremely responsive and this trip wouldn't have been possible without her.
Our stay at Flying Annie Moa was lovely! The caretakers were so helpful and made us feel at home :)
Overall, we absolutely enjoyed being in Tonga and swimming with the whales. What an incredible experience!!! I would definitely come back again.”
“5 STARS & cheers to Humpback Swims & Nadia! Simply extraordinary & amazing!!
Every aspect of our expedition was very well organized & executed perfectly. Nadia’s communication, responsiveness & follow up was outstanding. Nadia made suggestions for all we needed before & all along our travel journey. The boats, crew & all affiliates delivered top notch. The crew worked hard to find the whales, kept us safe & were very respectful of the whales. I have been fascinated & learning about humpbacks for many years, so it was truly a dream come true! The gentle giants were majestic & every encounter was different & magnificent. Some days better than others. The trip was everything I had hoped for & then some! I can’t stop looking at my videos & photos! Lots of playful calfs. We met some lovely people during our trip & it’s great to share the experience with others who were as excited & as mesmerized as we were. I had a glitch with my bag arriving & Nadia came to the rescue with things I needed & gear until my bag arrived. She sent someone to the airport & actually had it delivered to me. This spunky girl gets it done! Flying Annie Moa accommodations were basic but very clean & provided everything we needed. The host ladies are so kind. The Tongans are special people with beautiful souls & we loved getting to know them. Truly the trip of a lifetime!!”
“An Unforgettable 8-Day Whale Swim Adventure in Vava'u with Humpback Swims!!!
Our recent trip to Vava'u, Tonga with Humpback Swims was nothing short of magical. We booked the 8-swim day package and stayed at Mystic Sands, a stunning resort situated right on the water. The experience was fantastic from start to finish, and I can't recommend it enough!
Mystic Sands truly is a gem on the island. With its beachfront location, we were treated to the sight of whales from the resort itself on multiple occasions. Imagine waking up, enjoying your morning coffee, and seeing a humpback whale blowing in the distance. It was simply breathtaking and added to the wonder of the entire trip.
Our whale guides and skippers were top notch! Their expertise, passion, and care for the whales made every swim an extraordinary experience. They knew the best spots to take us, and their respect for the animals and deep knowledge of their behavior made us feel both safe and in awe of these gentle giants. They created an environment where we could deeply connect with the whales in a responsible and unforgettable way.
Each day in the water was a new adventure. No two swims were the same, but every one was special in its own way. From mothers and calves playfully interacting to majestic solo whales gliding through the deep blue, every moment was like a dream. The whales seemed just as curious about us as we were about them, making each encounter feel incredibly intimate and unique.
Mystic Sands, with its peaceful ambiance, was the perfect retreat after a day on the water. The staff was warm and accommodating, the rooms were comfortable, and the fact that we could see whales from the beach was the icing on the cake. Without a doubt, Mystic Sands is the top option on the island for anyone seeking a complete Vava'u experience. It is very clear to see this after spending two weeks on the island.
This trip was truly life-changing, and I cannot recommend Humpback Swims and Mystic Sands highly enough. The combination of expert guides, a perfect location, and the awe-inspiring presence of the humpbacks made it a trip of a lifetime!”
“I dreamed of swimming with whales since I was a kid, so when I applied to "Humpback Swims" I expected a lot : the experience is over my expectations !
And it would be impossible without Nadia Aly’s team. Guides and Captains are experienced and friendly, boats are comfortable and accomodation as well
I saw and swim with whales every day, and you definitely have to choose a 5 or 8 days experience, because each day is different. Sometimes the sea is wavy or the visibility isn’t great, or the whales aren’t in the mood to interact too long and sometimes the whales are playful, the weather is perfect and this day become a great day. Just maximize your chances.
Here a pic I took the 2nd day. You can see more on my instagram page : xavier_clement_photography
Apply and enjoy your swim days!”
“This was definitely one of the most amazing experiences of my life. And I’m telling you this after visiting 108 countries. Everything was perfectly organized. It’s worth every penny. Especially my multiple encounters with a humpback calf were mesmerizing. If you can afford it then DO IT!! You won’t regret it!! Special thanks to dedicated Nadia, sharing her love for whales to everyone!!”
“I really can't explain the trip... it's hard... it's like the most amazing the I have ever done.
You just have to do it yourself. I booked with Nadia in 2018 and because of the Pandemic, finally got to go this year in 2022. Nadia was with me, and I am sure everyone else, every step of the way. The minute I emailed her, it seemed within minutes she would email me back. She is a serious rockstar at what she does, not just at photography, but literally everything else when it comes to business.
I stayed at Flying Annie and had such a wonderful time. The staff there are just amazing. The rooms were super comfortable, and it is very obvious that Flying Annie is the best place to stay in/near town.
Vava'u is very undeveloped and it's clear that Humpback Swims/ Nadia has the best of everything.
The boat was very comfortable and to my surprise had a great head! I had Nadia show me all the boats she uses, and it's clear they are the best in Vava'u. When we were out and saw the other boats, I was kind of surprised, they were nothing like the boat we were on. I would certainly not be happy if I was on any of the other boats that I saw out on the water.
The whales were amazing, I don't know what it's like to go out with other people, but our crew were amazing. They worked hard every day, and got us the best of the best. I have attached one of my best clips to this review. This mom was amazing. She came up to us with her calf, and when we could not keep up, she came back to us. The experience on this day was over 1 hour. It was amazing.
Every day was different and every whale was different. I felt like each day it just got better and better!!!
Nadia puts on great trips, and is always there every day. Even if she doesn't go out on the boat. She meets you in the morning and when you get back. She joins for dinner most nights, and honestly, I can't think of anyone else in the world who cares so much about your trip and expeicne. She is very unique and her energy is contagious!
I am so happy to have my dreams come true! I am still in shock! I hope to come back in 2024!”
“This has been the trip of a lifetime. Being with the whales in the water is not just a dream come true, it has been a life altering experience, one I’m still reflecting on.
The arrangements made and the care taken to allow us to make the most of this experience and focus all our energy only on the whales- shows just how much thought Nadia and her team have put into making these experiences possible for her guests. Everything has been taken care of for you down to the smallest details.
Mystic sands was a little piece of paradise and the people there look after you like family. Room is comfortable after a long day out on the water and has everything you need. Peta and her staff are amazing and always check in with you if you need anything. We’ve had some wonderful conversations and I wouldn’t hesitate to come back and stay here again.
I was on a boat called Echo and it is in excellent condition; felt very safe on it in all kinds of weather and jumping off it and getting back on was easy. My skipper and guide- the brothers Ali and Villi are whale whisperers and you can just see how much they love and care for these animals. Their whole approach to making the encounters enjoyable for guests while keeping the whales in high regard (as should always be the case) left me in awe. They have years of experience and I feel like them and the whales are one family.
Oh and the lunches- man they were so good thank you so much Julie!! I’m still thinking of your lemon slice and brownies!
Thank you Nadia for looking after us, for making dreams come true for me and for so many others out there and for allowing us to experience magic.
See you in 2025 🤞🏼🩵🩵🩵🐋🐋”
“What an experience. Been thinking about what to write or post since returning home a few weeks ago. Looked at every picture, read every journal entry, and sat with the experience hoping that magical words explaining the experience would come to mind and my fingers could furiously type.
However, with every skim, every read and every moment of silence, all I could do was smile in gratitude knowing that I was able to have a once in a lifetime experience. It's truly out of a dream, and entices joy and child like exuberance.
As far as the nuts and bolts, Nadia is incredible at setting everything up, providing detailed information on where to get insurance, what to pack, being accessible during the trip for questions and help, etc., and the guides she arranges are the best in the world. They knew the better areas to find whales and were jovial and informational the whole time.
If I could add more stars, I would, but 5 is the max. Incredible experience and biggest thanks to Nadia and the team for being so amazing and making it happen.”
“What an epic trip! This was just an incredible experience and loved every minute of it. Swimming with the humpbacks blew my expectations out of the water. I did the 8 swim day package and the duration and amount of time out on the ocean was perfect. We had amazing swims each and everyday. One of the top wildlife experiences I’ve had. Everyone at Humpback Swims was great and a pleasure to interact with. Nadia is super helpful, organized, and quick to respond with any info. The skippers, guides, and boats were all amazing. Lunches on the boats were great too and they were able to deal with all dietary requirements. Highly recommend Mystic Sands as well. Perfect spot and fantastic staff. This trip was one of the best I’ve done and highly highly recommend!”
“This was my SECOND trip with Nadia Aly, and this is because she is not only a great human being (and quite fun!) but she also has one of the smoothest operations in this field out there. You MUST know who you are traveling under and MUST know their ethics. Some people just want to cash in on people signing up and have a poorly run trip. Others will jump in right in front of you and use the trip to get their own photos at your expense. And some pay no attention to/enforce the local rules and do not respect the wildlife. You need this to matter to your organizer because when systems flow well and properly, your trip is enjoyable. Nadia is on top of her game, on top of the local rules, on top of the local culture and doesn't tolerate anything aside from professionalism w her crew and honestly, from her customers. She chooses great captains and guides, solid boats and excellent (no scary surprises ever--and thank you Nadia for this) lodging. The food is always tasty and the water always safe. If you have questions pre or post trip--she responds ASAP. And she will always help make your trip smoother if something arises. She's got you. She always does. Trust me. And if you have questions regarding photography, she is a baller photographer--and an excellent resource. You are covered all around always w Nadia and your money is well-spent. I loved Vavau. And I loved the humpbacks. My wish is that in the future the boats are staffed with only 4 people instead of 6 bc Tonga only allows 4 at a time in the water (but I think that may be the 2024 plan ). She pays attention to all of her customers and is really excellent at what she does. When I had a travel issue, she troubleshot the issue for me and made it all seamless. I pretty much feel like if you book a trip w Nadia, you will get results and you will get quality. Every single time. You rock, lady.”
“Swimming with humpbacks in Tonga has been on my bucket list for years, but it still managed to exceed every expectation. A big part of that was thanks to Nadia. It's hard to believe there's someone out there who knows these incredible creatures better than she does. Her never-ending enthusiasm, knowledge and day-to-day help made our incredible whale encounters even more special. If there was an option for 6 stars, I'd be clicking it. Can't wait for next year.”
“WOW, Just WOW! It doesn't seem real...But it IS! The whale encounters are an experience of a lifetime. With only 4 in the water at a time and some encounters with moms, calves and escorts lasting over an hour...Simply Incredible! We even had a singer!! It's always exciting to hear the whale's song but to be close enough to physically feel it resonate through your body... UNFORGETABLE! As for Nadia... total rockstar! Her attention to detail and knowledge of Tongan logistics are invaluable. She's operated for years on Vava'u securing access to the best resorts, boats, captains and guides. She is very quick to respond to any questions/concerns you might have pre-trip and is always available throughout your stay. Factor in her infectious energy along with the warmth and kindness of the Tongan people, and you can't go wrong. Do not hesitate to book this trip!”
“The best in Vavau!
I just got back from a wonderful 8 swim day trip in Tonga. This is my third time to Tonga and my best so far. The reason being that I booked with this company. It is very clear to me now that booking with the right company does matter in Vavau. Nadia by far has the best boats in the area, the staff seem to be the best. I don’t day this lightly, as in 2019 and 2018, I went with other companies, and it’s clear that having well trained staff with the whales can make or break your trip. I actually met Nadia as she saved me from a terrible experience in 2019, allowing me a great day of whale swimming. I was so happy, I booked 2021 right away! Of course the tours got pushed, but communication was great and rescheduling was easy!
I had amazing encounters this year, and have already signed up for next year! Thank you!”
“Baja was amazing! The variety of wild sea life exceeded my expectations, and every day was full of surprises. The house was absolutely beautiful, comfortable, and well-stocked. The crew was full of excellent information about the sea of Cortez and all of it’s resident species, I always love learning new facts about ocean wildlife.
Orca/Fin/blue/humpback/ Bairds beaked whales were all present during our trip, as well as countless dolphins, mobula rays, mantas, marlin, sea lions, turtles and lots of fun small fish on the reefs. Our day with orcas was absolutely wild! Definitely a dream to experience such a powerful display of intelligence, coordination and grace for allowing us to witness and join their hunt.”
“My first jump into the water I was adjusting my vest and weights and sloshing around a bit. When done I looked up to see what looked like a missle shooting towards me. A humpback calf was interested in me and was coming straight at me. When it was within inches it turned to the side, tucked in its fins so not to hurt me, and coasted by me with a baseball sized eye looking into my eyes as it passed. Amazed I stay still in the water watching the new born swim away when the cow swam underneath me, maybe 40 feet long and following the calf closely. Then the two banked back my direction and came back for a second pass. One of the greatest experiences of my life and that was my first time in the water!”
“Humpback swims provides again!!! This was my second trip to Vava’u with HS, and I am confident in saying that this time was even better than the first! So many INSANE whale encounters, really amazing human connections, and I’m perpetually enamored with the warmth and generosity of the Tongan people. Everything about these trips is fulfilling, and Tonga feels like a piece of home now. I believe that humpback swims truly cares to make the individual experience a complete one. Every base is covered, they are prepared, organized, thoughtful with group matching, and above all, FUN. I can’t wait to return!!!”
“Wow, wow, wow! There are truly no words to fully capture this experience. It was the best trip my wife and I have ever taken, and we will definitely be back!
We chose the 8-day whale swim tour, and we’re so glad we did! While we had a few days where the swims weren’t ideal (just as Nadia had prepared us—because it’s nature and whales!), we still had six absolutely unforgettable days with these magnificent creatures. Each day was completely unique. From swimming alongside 20 whales in shallow waters to witnessing a resting mother and calf at the surface—it was beyond incredible. I had no idea how accessible it is to swim and connect with whales in such an intimate way!
We’ve been going to Hawaii every year to whale watch in Maui, but after this, we’re saying goodbye to that tradition. Hello, Tonga!
A huge thank you to Nadia, Julie, Bob, and the amazing team at Mystic Sands, as well as the fantastic boat crew. We can’t say enough good things! We’re already planning our return with our kids and grandkids, ASAP!”
“Best trip I have ever taken!! Everything was well organized and planned out, thank you to Nadia and the ENTIRE team that was there to make things run smoothly. Tonga is beautiful and the people are so welcoming. Our bungalow at Ocean Song was clean and private. I did the 5 day swim and had encounters each day with the whales. Trip of a lifetime!!”
