Humpback Whales in Bora Bora 2025

Bora Bora has been a safe haven for humpback whales for more than two decades now, thanks to its warm, tropical waters, rich wildlife, and suitable climate. The whales mainly come here to give birth and nurse their calves, which makes it a great opportunity for travelers to witness a pod or a small family of these magnificent creatures up close. Whether on a whale-watching tour or diving, encountering whales in Bora Bora is an unforgettable experience.

Best Time to See Humpback Whales

Humpback whales come to Bora Bora and other islands in French Polynesia from August through November. The local waters have long played the role of the birthing grounds for these magical creatures on their way to Antarctica, where they spend the warmer months. The months of September and October, when the weather starts to get warmer, are the best times to see humpback whales in the waters off the Moorea Island coast. During this time, the visibility in the water is still excellent, and you can even hear the call of the whales during your dive, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Types of Whales & Other Marine Life

While humpback whales are what draws most people to Bora Bora, you might encounter other creatures on your whale-watching trip. Orcas can occasionally be spotted off the coast of French Polynesia, as well as rorquals, which make up the group of baleen whales, stingrays, tropical fish, and dolphins.

Whale-Watching Tours & Snorkeling

Bora Bora has plenty of whale-watching operators, all offering a chance to witness humpback whales up close. The success rate of the expedition is relatively high, with most tours resulting in whale sightings. In case you weren't able to spot a whale during your trip, some whale-watch agencies make detours to showcase other interesting aspects of marine life.

The tours generally last 3 to 3.5 hours but might take up even more of your time, so consider planning in advance. Cost generally varies around €125-200 for adults, with tours offering discounted prices for children at around €109. Several tour operators, like Bora Ocean Adventures and Tohora Bora Bora, also offer an opportunity to safely snorkel near the whales.

Snorkeling Tips

Humpback whales are gentle and curious animals but can be unpredictable and may act aggressively if they feel threatened. To ensure your safety, it’s best to maintain a distance of at least 100 feet (30 meters) from the whales while diving to avoid startling them. Snorkelers should refrain from swimming directly toward the whales, especially mothers with their calves, and instead let the whales approach at their own pace. It’s also important not to touch the whales or swim behind them, as this could lead to an accidental tail swing, which can be dangerous.