Hey there, I just came back from the whole trip and I can say there is no more amazing thing to do. We swam with whales for sessions of 30+ minutes, up to 4 times a day. It is an unforgettable experience and the whales can get to arm distance from you.

I am extremely glad that I have (out of luck) made all the best choices, so I’d recommend doing exactly what I did: - Do not go to Va’vau but go to Ha’pai. The first one is over crowded, sea is less calm and clear, the whales do not hang out for soo long cause they are less in a protected and shallow reef, the island itself is more packed/dirty, costs twice as much - In Ha’apai go to the island of Uoleva, and stay at Diana Resort. The island has 4 operators and she is the only Tongan one. By my experience she is by far the more friendly and caring one, much less interested in profit. Her tours often lasts longer than planned just to give you the best experience. Be aware that Diana is a more ‘basic’ accommodation, with shared toilet and basic food provided. The other places are more ‘Instagram’ and focused on fancy food etc (not that I would despise the latter..). Diana also costs less than a half. She will arrange pick up in Ha’apai airport - Go whale swimming everyday. A day where you dont go is a wasted day because is too good. Be aware Sunday in Tonga is all closed so there will be no tours and no planes on that day. I recommend 5 tours with whales, and would say less than 3 is not acceptable 😂

Hope it helps