Underwater view of a humpback whale swimming through sunlit blue waters.
Blank white image with no visible content, text, or objects, appearing as an empty white background.


SWIM WITH HUMPBACK WHALES


 

 

MO'OREA - FRENCH POLYNESIA

 

 

SHAPED BY THE WILD


There’s a place where towering green mountain peaks meet turquoise lagoons.


A place that welcomes one of the most extraordinary migrations on Earth. Every year, humpback whales travel from the cold waters of Antarctica to the warmth of French Polynesia, where they come to rest, mate, and give birth.


And on a little island called Mo’orea, we have the chance to witness a small part of their incredible journey.


For one week, let nature lead the way. Spend your days exploring the open ocean, searching for whales, and connecting with the island, its people, and its culture.


Leave expectations behind, embrace the unexpected, and join us next season for what could be one of the most special weeks of your life.

What?

Where?

 

Swimming with

Humpback Whales

and exploring the

island of Mo'orea

 



Mo'orea

French Polynesia

 

When?

 

 

Who?

 

October 2027

Week 1:

Sept 30 - Oct 6

Week 2:

Oct 8 - Oct 16



YOU! and 4 other humans

(5 guests)

Panoramic view of tropical bay with sailboats anchored near mountainous coastline.

Mo'orea, French Polynesia


MEANING YELLOW LIZARD:  

LIZARD (MO'O), AND YELLOW (REA)


Mo'orea, a volcanic gem in the South Pacific, lies just a few kilometers from Tahiti.


Known for its crystal-clear lagoons, dramatic peaks and rich marine life, Moorea is a paradise for nature lovers.

Its turquoise waters are home to vibrant coral reefs, graceful rays,  reef sharks, and a variety of tropical fish.


From July to November, humpback whales migrate to these warm waters, offering breathtaking encounters.

 

What we will experience

 

 

The Whales


From July to November, humpback whales embark on an incredible journey from Antarctica to the warm waters of French Polynesia to breed and give birth. This region is one of the few places where swimming alongside these majestic creatures is possible.


As these islands are protected wildlife sanctuaries, whale encounters are carefully regulated to preserve their natural habitat.

We will be guided by a locally owned company we trust, renowned for their ethical approach to whale tours. They provide valuable insights about the islands, the whales, and their ongoing conservation efforts.


To ensure respectful and meaningful interactions, we begin by observing the whales from the boat, carefully assessing their behavior, whether they’re socializing, resting, or traveling, before we enter the water.


Please note: We will never force encounters with the whales. Our priority is always their well-being and comfort.

 

Underwater Wildlife


In addition to the humpback whales, these islands offer the incredible opportunity to encounter a wide array of marine species.


You may have pelagic encounters with pilot whales, rough-toothed dolphins, spinner dolphins, oceanic white-tip sharks, and much more. Occasionally, we might even witness inter-species interactions if we’re fortunate.


What makes this experience so thrilling is the unpredictability of the ocean. Spending hours on the water gives us the chance to encounter whatever the sea decides to reveal.


It's a true privilege to witness these animals in their natural habitat, experiencing the ocean’s wonders as they unfold before us.


Please note: Interactions are not guaranteed.

 

The Lagoon


The Lagoon, best known as "Sharks & Rays," is a stunning and protected sandbar in Moorea.


This crystal-clear lagoon is home to blacktip reef sharks and pink whiped stingrays, offering a unique and magical experience. It's one of the island's most captivating spots, where you'll have the chance to interact with these incredible creatures up close.


Whether you're an underwater photography enthusiast or simply want to immerse yourself in the island's beauty, this is the perfect place to connect with nature and capture unforgettable moments.

 

 

The Island & The People


Mo’orea is not just about its underwater world. The island is also home to some of the most breathtaking mountain ridges and landscapes.

There are several beautiful lookout points we can reach by car, offering incredible views of the island and its unique peaks.


What makes these mountains even more special are the stories behind them. Polynesian culture is deeply connected to nature, with mountains, animals, plants, and the ocean all holding their own meaning and history.


But what truly makes this place special is its people. Their warmth, hospitality, and strong connection to their land and traditions are such an important part of experiencing Mo’orea.


During our time on the island, we hope to share a little of this culture with you, learning from the people who call this beautiful place home.

 

A humpback whale swims upward through deep blue ocean water with long white pectoral fins, while a second whale glides in the background.

 

INVESTMENT STARTING AT:

 

 

$5750 USD

A 30% deposit is required to book your spot

 

 

SHARED ROOM

 

 

Our pricing is per person.

Private rooms are limited, but we’ll do our best to accommodate requests based on availability and the order in which we receive them. An additional fee applies.


If you’d prefer a private room, just let us know in your application, and we’ll reach out to explore the options available!

 

SPOTS AVAILABLE:


WEEK 1: SEPT 30TH - OCT 6TH

5 SPOT AVAILABLE



WEEK 2: OCT 8TH - OCT 14TH

5 SPOTS AVAILABLE


Only 5 guests, meaning no rotation, you’ll be in the water for every drop.


HOW MANY DAYS: 7 DAYS 6 NIGHTS

DAYS ON THE WATER: 3 FULL DAYS - 2 HALF DAYS

EXPERIENCE NEEDED: COMFORTABLE SWIMMING IN OPEN WATER

WHAT'S INCLUDED?


  • Accommodation 7 days 6 nights + Breakfast
  • x3 Dinners (Welcome, Pizza Night and Goodbye)
  • 3 Full days on the water looking for whales (Lunch included onboard)
  • 2 half days - Time to explore the island
  • Transportation: Pick up upon arrival to Moorea & Around the Island
  • Professional Photographer (General photo gallery of the trip)
  • Experienced captain and local guide/company
  • Editing Workshops
  • Visit to Keep Moorea Wild sanctuary (conservation project)

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?


  • Flight Tickets to Tahiti
  • Accommodation & transportation on Tahiti (if needed)
  • Ferry Transportation to Moorea
  • Personal Expenses
  • Gratuity for boat captain (It's highly recommended to tip)
  • Travel Medical Insurance (Required)
  • Freediving Gear
  • Not specified meals
  • Alcohol beverages

 

Why an application process?


Every expedition is shaped not only by the places we explore and the wildlife we encounter, but also by the people who share the experience.


We keep our groups small, and the application process helps us get to know you a little better, understand your experience in the ocean, and make sure everyone shares a similar respect for nature and wildlife.


But just as importantly, we want to make sure we’re the right fit for YOU! That you understand what to expect from this experience and feel comfortable and excited about joining us.


It’s not about being an expert or having a certain level of experience. It’s about bringing together people who are open-minded, respectful, and ready to embrace whatever nature has in store.

 

 

A few more details...

 

Collage of underwater marine life and ocean scenes at sunset.

WHO IS THIS EXPEDITION FOR?

If you love the ocean, feel comfortable stepping outside your comfort zone, enjoy connecting with people from around the world, and are excited to let nature lead the way, this expedition might be for you!


OCEAN EXPERIENCE

You don't need to be a certified freediver, as freediving with whales is not permitted. However, you must be a confident swimmer, comfortable in open water without a life jacket, and prepared for changing ocean conditions.

Whale encounters may require swimming distances of 100 meters or more, so a good level of swimming fitness is essential.


WHAT TO EXPECT

We'll spend full days (7+ hours) on the boat searching for whales. Conditions can be unpredictable, with wind, swells, and rain all part of the experience.

If you're prone to seasickness, please come prepared. Returning to shore early would mean ending the tour for the entire group.

Most importantly, wildlife encounters are never guaranteed. Patience, flexibility, and respect for nature are essential parts of this experience.


WHALE ENCOUNTER REGULATIONS

Swimming with whales in French Polynesia is strictly regulated, and guidelines may change each season. All encounters will follow the latest regulations and our local guides' instructions.


Once your booking is confirmed, you'll receive a detailed guide with the latest regulations, safety information, and recommendations to help you prepare.

 

Our Local Partners


We collaborate with local operators who share our commitment to ethical wildlife encounters, conservation, and a deep respect for the ocean.


Our main partner in Mo’orea is WILDMA, a locally run operation led by Temoana and Tearinui Poole, who carry forward their family's legacy of knowledge, respect, and connection to the ocean.


Through this partnership, we also support KEEP MOOREA WILD, a local conservation initiative dedicated to protecting the island's remaining wild spaces. We're proud to contribute to their efforts through our expeditions.


@wildma.expeditions

www.keepmooreawild.org



DR. MICHAEL POOLE


Temoana and Tearinui's father, Dr. Michael Poole, is a marine biologist and whale researcher who has dedicated nearly four decades to studying marine mammals in French Polynesia.


His work played an important role in the creation of French Polynesia's whale and dolphin sanctuary, and he continues to combine research, education, and conservation through his work in the field.


We're grateful for the opportunity to learn from his experience and support his ongoing research through our expeditions.


drmichaelpool.com

 

Collage of whale watching tour: a whale tail above the ocean, a guide briefing guests on a boat, a pointing hiker, and a boat with a canopy.

 

Our Home in Mo’orea


Our home in Mo’orea is a beautifully architect-designed house perched on a hilltop, with a swimming pool and stunning views of the island’s turquoise lagoon.


The house has spacious, open living areas where we can relax, unwind, and spend time together after full days out on the water.


Located in Maharepa, it’s close to pharmacies, shops, and other essentials, and just a 10-minute drive from our boat departure point.


ACCOMODATION DETAILS:


As we’ll be sharing a home during our time in Mo’orea, our accommodation is ideally arranged for guests to share rooms. One of the bedrooms is also perfect for a couple or two friends who are happy to share a bed.


The house has 3.5 bathrooms, making it easy and comfortable for everyone to share these spaces.


Private rooms may also be available upon request, depending on the group’s accommodation preferences. We’ll consider requests on a first-come, first-served basis, and an additional fee will apply.


If you’d prefer a private room, simply mention it in your application, and we’ll get in touch to explore the available options.


We’ll do our very best to make sure everyone feels comfortable and at home throughout our stay!

 

Tropical hillside villa with a wraparound deck and pool, plus a bright living room with ocean views, a sofa and timber beams.

 

Your Hosts

 

Portrait of a photographer with camera equipment wearing a sun hat.

Dana Bjarner

 

PHOTOGRAPHER

FREEDIVER

STORYTELLER

 

Black and white photo of a surfer in a wetsuit resting his hands on a surfboard aboard a boat, gazing at misty mountains and ocean.

Juan Gomez

 

FREE SURFER

WATERMAN

PHOTOGRAPHER

 

We’re Juan and Dana, and we’ve been partners for over eleven years. At the heart of our connection lies a shared love for nature and the ocean. These passions have shaped not only our relationship but also the way we experience and explore the world together.


We’ve always found joy in opening our home to others, welcoming friends and travelers, and sharing the places that inspire us most.


Dana began leading expeditions three years ago, creating experiences rooted in connection, exploration, and a deep respect for nature. Now, we’re incredibly excited to begin this new chapter together with KAIJU @kaijuexpeditions, combining our love for the ocean, storytelling, and hosting as we lead expeditions around the world.


For us, KAIJU feels like a natural continuation of everything that has brought us here, and just the beginning of many more journeys to come.

Four friends stand arm in arm with their backs to the camera, gazing at a majestic jagged mountain peak under a golden sunset sky.

OUR COMMITMENT TO SAFETY & VALUES


At KAIJU, we believe that how we explore the world matters just as much as where we go.

Creating a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment is at the heart of everything we do. Our responsibility extends beyond our guests to the wildlife, local communities, and places that welcome us.

HERE'S WHAT YOU CAN ALWAYS EXPECT FROM US:
Five people stand in clear shallow water as a blacktip reef shark swims past, with rugged green mountains and a blue sky behind.
Small groups, thoughtfully brought together:

Our application process helps us connect with guests who share our values, respect for nature, and spirit of exploration.

Our guests are our priority:

From the moment you apply until the end of the expedition, we're here to help you prepare, answer questions, and make sure you know what to expect. During the expedition, our priority is creating a supportive environment where everyone feels included and cared for.


Swimmer in the ocean holds an action camera toward a whale's tail rising above the blue water on a clear day.
Safety always comes first:

We work with experienced operators and guides, prioritize safety briefings, and never compromise anyone's well-being for an encounter or photograph.

RESPECT WILDLIFE AT ALL TIMES:

WE ARE VISITORS IN THEIR WORLD. EVERY ENCOUNTER HAPPENS ON NATURE'S TERMS, WITH PATIENCE, RESPECT, AND WITHOUT FORCING INTERACTIONS. NO PHOTOGRAPH OR EXPERIENCE IS WORTH COMPROMISING AN ANIMAL'S WELL-BEING.
Man with long hair tilts his head back, wearing a black t-shirt with a small heart design, standing among green plants and trees.
Respect for local communities:

We prioritize working with local guides, businesses, and partners who know these places best. We believe in listening, learning, and making sure our presence contributes positively to the communities that welcome us.

Giving back:

We contribute to locally led conservation projects that work to protect the wildlife and ecosystems we have the privilege of experiencing. We believe in supporting the people who dedicate their lives to protecting these places.
Group of friends cheering with raised arms on a white inflatable boat in clear turquoise water at sunset near a mountainous coastline.
Professional boundaries are non-negotiable:

Our expedition leaders and collaborators are expected to maintain respectful and professional relationships with every guest. We have zero tolerance for harassment, discrimination, inappropriate behavior, or abuse of power. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected.

Respect goes both ways:

We expect everyone to approach the experience with kindness, openness, and consideration for others. Behavior that compromises the safety or well-being of the group will not be tolerated.
Group of smiling friends posing together on a covered boat deck with sunny tropical mountains and calm blue water behind them.
Above all, we want KAIJU to be a space where people can connect with nature, with others, and with themselves, while feeling safe, respected, and welcome.

These aren't just guidelines for our expeditions. They're the values we want to carry into every place we visit and every experience we share.

 

WHAT 2026 LOOKED LIKE...

 

FAQ

 

Are whale encounters guaranteed?

As with any wildlife experience, encounters can never be guaranteed. We plan our expeditions during peak humpback whale season, when the chances of sightings and in-water encounters are at their best.

However, every day in the ocean is different. Weather, ocean conditions, and the whales' behavior will always determine what is possible.

We believe the most meaningful encounters happen when we leave expectations behind, respect the animals' space, and allow nature to lead the way.

What happens if weather conditions are bad?

The ocean is unpredictable, and weather conditions can change quickly in Mo’orea. Our guests' safety will always come first.

If conditions are unsafe, our local operators may adjust the schedule, change locations, etc

We'll always do our best to adapt our plans, but flexibility is an important part of this experience. Ultimately, nature has the final say!

Do I need to be a certified Freediver to join?

Not at all!

Since Freediving is not permitted with the whales, you are not required to be an experienced or certified freediver. However, we will be spending a significant amount of time in the water, often in unpredictable conditions.

One of the key regulations for swimming with whales is that boats must remain at least 100 meters away. This means that if and when we are permitted to enter the water with a whale, we will need to swim 100 meters to reach them.

It is essential that you feel comfortable swimming in open water without a life jacket.

Is Freediving gear included or available for rent?

We do not include gear on this trip!

We recommend bringing your own gear, including a mask, freediving fins, and wetsuit, as rental options on the island are very limited and expensive.

If you're buying new gear, we also recommend testing it out on a few dives before the trip to make sure everything fits and feels comfortable.

Once you book your spot, we'll share a detailed expedition guide with gear recommendations and everything you need to prepare!

What is allowed to wear in the water with whales?

As of 2025, weight belts are not permitted when swimming with whales in French Polynesia. However, we’ll also spend time exploring the lagoon and outer reefs, where weight belts may be used.

Wearing neoprene is also mandatory during whale encounters. Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive a detailed expedition guide with our wetsuit recommendations and everything you need to prepare.

Keep in mind that regulations in French Polynesia may change each year. We’ll do our best to keep you informed of any updates before the expedition.

How do I get to Mo'orea?

Getting to Mo’orea is pretty simple, but it does require a few steps.

You’ll first need to fly into Faa’a International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti. From there, it’s a short taxi ride to the ferry terminal, followed by a 30–45 minute ferry ride to Mo’orea.

We recommend arriving in Tahiti at least one day early, especially if you’re traveling internationally, to avoid any issues with flight delays or connections.

Our meeting time in Mo’orea will be around 12:00 PM on the first day of the expedition, and we’ll arrange your transfer to our accommodation from there.

You’ll receive a detailed travel guide before the expedition with everything you need to know about getting to Mo’orea and planning your arrival.

What will we be doing for meals?

Breakfast is included and served fresh every morning at the house, and lunches are provided on all full boat days throughout the expedition. We’ll also enjoy 3 group dinners together at some of our favorite local restaurants in Mo’orea.

Some evenings, we’ll choose to order food in so we can fully enjoy the comfort of the house, sharing meals, hosting editing workshops, playing board games, and connecting beyond our time in the ocean. Any additional dinners will be optional and self-funded.


Can you handle dietary requirements?

Yes, within reason.

Before the expedition, you’ll receive a short form where you’ll be asked to detail any dietary restrictions, allergies, or intolerances. This helps us plan meals and communicate clearly with local providers.

How do I secure my spot?

Once you've read through all the expedition details and are ready to join us, simply hit the APPLY NOW button to fill out our application form!

After reviewing your application, we'll send you an invitation via email. Please note that we can only hold your spot for 48 hours after sending the invitation.

To officially secure your place, a 30% deposit is required to confirm your reservation. That's it, you're in!

What if I need to cancel my trip?

We understand that plans can change! However, due to our small group sizes and commitments to local partners, our 30% deposit is non-refundable under our standard cancellation policy.

If you need to cancel, you may be eligible for a refund depending on when you cancel:

  • 121 days or more before departure: 100% refund of your booking price, excluding the non-refundable deposit.
  • 91–120 days before departure: 50% refund of your booking price, excluding the non-refundable deposit.
  • 90 days or less before departure: No refunds under the standard cancellation policy.

The remaining 70% balance is due 120 days before departure.

Refunds are calculated based on your agreed booking price, including any discounts or additional fees, after deducting the non-refundable deposit. Refunds cannot exceed the amount you've actually paid beyond your deposit. Any applicable international bank transfer fees will be deducted from your refund.

If an approved replacement guest books and pays 121 days or more before departure, you may receive a full refund, including your deposit. Later replacements may still be possible, subject to additional costs.

Please review our full Cancellation & Refund Policy for all conditions, exceptions, and applicable legal rights before booking. Linked below

Split-level view of five snorkelers standing in clear shallow water as a blacktip reef shark swims past, with rugged mountains behind.

 

STILL HAVE SOME DOUBTS?

 

We are here for you!

Reach out with any questions you might have and let’s bring this adventure to life.

*
*
*