Between August and November, the waters of French Polynesia become a sanctuary for humpback whales. Observing them is a rare and precious opportunity, requiring patience and guidance from experienced local teams.

Whale watching and swimming activities are highly regulated in the region to ensure the safety and well-being of these majestic animals, and spotting them is not guaranteed, as they must be allowed to approach on their own terms.

The sheer size of these 30-ton, 14-meter creatures is humbling, and swimming alongside them in the open ocean, braving the swell and currents, is an intense, yet unforgettable experience.