Dear Pacific Experience Partners,
‘Ia Ora Na,
The humpback whales are back in French Polynesia. The 2026 whale watching season is now open, running from July 20 to November 20, 2026, and we invite you to start including this extraordinary encounter in your clients’ itineraries to Tahiti Nui and Moorea.
An Epic Migration
Every year, humpback whales complete one of the longest migrations of any marine mammal on Earth, travelling several thousand kilometers from the icy feeding grounds of Antarctica to the warm, sheltered lagoons of French Polynesia. Here, in calm and protected waters, they mate, give birth, and nurse their calves before beginning the long journey back south.
Where to See Them: Tahiti Nui & Moorea
From July to November, the waters off Tahiti Nui and Moorea become a privileged stage for these gentle giants. Mother-and-calf pairs, often accompanied by an escort male, can be observed in some of the most breathtaking marine landscapes of the South Pacific — a highlight for any client visiting during the austral winter and spring.
A Protected Sanctuary Since 2002
French Polynesia has been an officially designated Marine Mammal Sanctuary since 2002, making it one of the very few places in the world where humpback whales can still be observed in a genuinely preserved natural environment. This status reflects our islands’ long-standing commitment to responsible, low-impact marine tourism.
Strict Regulations, For the Whales and Your Clients
All whale watching excursions must be led by operators certified by the Direction de l’Environnement (DIREN) of French Polynesia, under strict rules designed to protect the whales and their calves:
- Boats must keep a minimum distance of 100 meters from the animals
- In-water encounters are limited to a maximum approach distance of 15 meters
- Swimmer groups are capped at 6 people per encounter
- Guests must remain calm and follow their guide’s instructions at all times
- Sightings and in-water encounters are never guaranteed — these remain wild animals in their natural habitat
We ask all our partners to share these rules with their clients ahead of departure, to ensure a safe and respectful experience for guests and whales alike.
Book With Certified Partners
Pacific Experience works exclusively with DIREN-certified whale watching operators in Tahiti Nui and Moorea, so your clients can enjoy this unforgettable encounter in full compliance with local regulations, and in the best possible conditions for a genuine, responsible sighting.
The season runs until November 20, 2026. Contact our team today to build this unique experience into your clients’ Tahiti Nui and Moorea itineraries.
Maururu,
The Pacific Experience Team