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Fins 'n' Flukes | Whale Watching

Every year from July to November, the serene islands of Ha'apai provide a safe haven for one of mother nature´s most captivating creations - the majestic Humpback Whales.

Tonga is one of only a few countries in the world where it is allowed to actually swim with Humpback Whales and the tropical paradise of Ha'apai is simply the most beautiful and tranquil place to do it.

Our Humpback interactions are conducted with a very cautious approach, we adhere to all current legislation and the welfare of these gentle giants is very important to us. We are an eco-friendly operator and use environmentally friendly E-Tec engines that exceed stringent Environmental Protection Agency standards. Conservation of the local marine eco-system that we use everyday is very important to us.

We are delighted to offer you a memorable and very private experience through our:

 

What to expect

Every day of whale watching in Tonga is different and there's a vast array of interesting whale behaviour that may be witnessed - from a single breath, graceful spyhop or powerful tail slaps to continual full body breaching or inquisitive approaches to the boat. These intelligent marine mammals are always suprising us.

As a fully licensed operator we can take you swimming with Ha'apai´s Humpback Whales and we strive to make it happen on every trip. However, it is good to realise that the whales are wild animals and you will be observing them in their natural environment. The open ocean is nothing like a circus and the whales are not trained to put on a show or sit still when a boat is nearby. Swimming may or may not be possible depending on the behaviour of the animals, their reaction to us and the weather conditions.

We are only visitors in their realm and their welfare is one of our primary concerns, so we always adopt a precautionary approach during our encounters and if the whales show signs of being disturbed we cease contact. Sometimes the dream of swimming with a Humpback cannot be fulfilled in just a single day...

That being said, our experience with the whales combined with our careful approach technique usually results in exhilarating in-water encounters that leave our guests with unforgettable whale moments in Ha'apai.

Months

June • July • August • September • October

Duration

Full day (6-9 hours) • Multi-day

Vessel types

Small boat (0-50 passengers)

Times and prices

Full day - departing 9am, returning 3-4pm: T$230

including lunch, snorkeling gear (with shorty wetsuit, prescription mask if required), reef snorkeling, deserted island visit

About our skippers and naturalist guides

Brian holds a degree in marine biology and tropical reef conservation. He has worked with the Humpback Whales in Ha'apai since 2006 and is also the skipper on most of our expeditions.

Sabine has worked with Ha'apai's whales since 2007 and is an experienced an reliable guide on the boat as well as in the water.

Both Brian and Sabine love documenting their and their guests' encounters with the majestic whales on photo and video to capture those magic moments.

 

 

Facilities

Access to wheelhouse • Carbon neutral • Deck with 360?vision • Hands-on materials (bones, shells etc) • Naturalist guide(s) as well as skipper • On board hydrophone • Posters / displays / maps • Reading material available • Scenic backdrop to encounters • Snacks / drinks • Support conservation • Swim / snorkel included • Use a code of conduct

We frequently

Listen to whale song • Listen to whales and dolphins • See a whale's tail • See leaping whales • Showered by whale blows • Swim with them in the wild • Watch whales only

Baleen Whales

Humpback Whale • Minke Whale

Toothed Whales

Short-finned Pilot Whale

Ocean Dolphins

Spinner Dolphin

Other wildlife and points of interest

While the focus of our trips is clearly on Humpack Whales, we occasionally see Pacific Spinner Dolphins that like to swim in the bow waves of the boat and a few lucky ones will actually see them spin (Tonga Spinners do that very rarely). We also encounter Green and Hawksbill Turtles and have found what seems to be a fairly regular spot for Manta Rays. Also short-finned pilot whales as well as dwarf minke whales, sailfish or seasnakes can be observed roaming Ha'apai's waters sometimes.

Address
Main Street
Town / City
Pangai
State / County
Lifuka Island, Ha'apai
Zip / Postcode
Country
Tonga
Website
Tel
+67660051
Email
carlo possagno
HUMMBBLED Life changing Experience
Traveled: 2013-09-01, Reviewed: 2013-09-01
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
I don,t were to start, so much to say,
Brian and Sabine are the the most professional operators that I have come across in a very long time .
I have actual named them both as the Whale Whisperers it,s amazing how they can see the whales in the depths of the beautiful peaceful blue ocean they have this ability to know exactly what is the whales next thought, along with where in the big ocean it will come up for its next breathe of air
The rules were all explained to us before we went out as the norm of things but when we got there it wasn,t jump in and swim, it was done in such a way that it was a very very slow process and calm type of way that at Times I was sure that even the whales didn,t know we were there. Like the time we were in the water with the Mother and calf and both were sleeping and not bothered one bit to have the presents of our company
Brian is a true Master Whale whisperer, Marine biologist, and photographic guru problem solver, Sabine is the true smoothie Queen .A big thank you Sabine
Credit to all the team the service was excellent on the land and on the water and in the water
The accommodation and facilities are excellent Graham the Chef what a master The crew and all the staff a very big thank you
It was so relaxing I do really recommend doing this It was a privilege to swim with the whales and a honour to be in the company of BRIAN and SABINE
Keep up what you are doing The world needs caring people like you. it is the best of the best and I hope I can do it again soon
Thank you for the honour
Gill Clark
Respect for whales and all sea life
Traveled: 2013-09-01, Reviewed: 2013-09-01
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
Tour with Vanessa Mignon, we had an excellent time in Tonga. Fins and flukes run an excellent operation with the well being of the whales ALWAYS at the forefront of each day and each encounter. It was good to see folk doing the right thing each and every time a whale was approached not easy in today's tourist demanding times. Wildlife encounters are a priviledge and fins and flukes keep this in mind, not always easy in today's climate of folks believing they have paid so are "entitled" to do as they please. We can only hope that other operators follow this operators ethics and keep uppermost the welfare and respect for these gentle giants so that the whales can continue to have a safe haven to return to for calving.

All the resort staff were hard working and made sure we were looked after during our 3 week stay it was not easy to leave our new friends though they may have a quiter time less "smoothies" to get the boys.

The chef was also amazingly clever at producing fab food for the piggies on the boat, thanks guys!

If you are doing a trip to interact with whales within the whales best interests this is definitely the group to go with
vanessa mignon
I don't know how that's possible, but it was even better than last time!
Traveled: 2013-09-01, Reviewed: 2013-08-30
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
I spent 3 days at Fins N Flukes last year and loved it so much that I went back this year, this time for 12 days. Once again, I had a great stay.

I have been to Tonga 8 times and I now organise tours to swim with whales. Brian and Sabina, who run Fins N Flukes, are one of the best whaleswim operators I know. They are professional, reliable, knowledgeable, but more importantly their respect for the whales is outstanding. They focus on the whales well being and only put people in the water when they feel that the whales are comfortable about it. To them, swimming with the whales is a privilege, not a right, and I highly value the fact that they care so much about the animals. I would 120 % recommend them to anyone.

We swam with whales every day, sometimes it was a short swim, other times we had the full 1h30 mns in the water, but every time the swim was conducted on the whales terms. One day we spent 1h30 around a mother and calf who were resting at the surface, while their escort was gently circling below or around us. They were so relaxed around us that the baby eventually fell asleep. It is such an humbling experience to be accepted that way by those beautiful giants.

We were very well looked after at the resort and on the boat, with lots of good food. Every day the chef will offer several menu options and be flexible with guests, allowing me to get yummy pancakes on a daily basis, breakfast, lunch or dinner!

The resort is right on the beach and is one of the most peaceful places I have ever stayed at.
Brett Brett Brett
Life Changing
Traveled: 2010-09-08, Reviewed: 2013-08-22
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
Having the opportunity to see the whales was priceless. Even though I am scare of anything larger than a goldfish in the ocean, Brian and Sabine made the trip enjoyable and safe. I was surprised how prepared they were and the amount of safety equipment they had on board. We spent the entire day watching whales and experiencing great views of beautiful islands surrounded by breathtaking coral reefs. I would recommend this trip to anyone, and highly recommend Finns and Flukes. Thanks Brian and Sabine for a great time, I look forward to visiting Tonga and Ha'apai again soon.
Maddl
Just awesome
Traveled: 2012-09-05, Reviewed: 2013-08-21
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
What can I say? It is really hard to explain what an awesome experience meeting the whales was.
It was my first trip to Tonga and my first whale-experience. So I really didn´t know what will happen.
When we went out with the boat, Sabine and Brian told us a lot about the whales and how to behave in the water. They know what they are doing and the whales always come first!
My first whale-meeting was with a mother and a very curious calf. It came very close to us - so my first whale-experience was very exciting. Before I couldn´t imagine that I can get so close to a whale! They are so huge, but so gentle. I learned a lot on the trips with Fins 'n' Flukes and it was really a life-changing-experience.
If you can make it possible, go to Tonga, meet Sabine and Brian and of course meet the whales!
I say thank you to Sabine and Brian - please keep on going, you do an amazing job!
PEREE
De purs moments de bonheur, un tour opérateur fantastique!
Traveled: 2031-07-20, Reviewed: 2013-08-19
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
Nous avons séjourné une semaine à Haapai chez Fin's Flukes.
Brian et Sabine sont extrêmement professionnels et d'une gentillesse incroyable. Chaque jour, ils ont fait tout leur possible et bien plus encore pour rendre chaque moment passé sur et sous l'eau à la rencontre des Baleines, incroyable et magique, toujours dans le plus grand respect pour notre sécurité, et le bien être des Baleines.
Brian et Sabine ont une connaissance rare et intime des Baleines à bosse, capables de lire, prédire, leur comportement. Ils n'hésitent pas à multiplier les immersions, avec d'infinies précautions, une infinie lenteur, jusqu'à se faire accepter, pour des moments d'émotions inoubliables ! Ou même parfois virer de bord, lorsque celles ci semblent ne pas vouloir accepter notre compagnie.
Car en finale, ce sont toujours les baleines qui décident de la compagnie des hommes....!
Chaque journée, les comportements et les rencontres sont différents, aussi Je conseillerai au moins 3 jours, pour pouvoir optimiser le séjour, et les opportunités de rencontres.
Les Tonga sont un des 3 endroits au monde où l'on peut réellement nager avec des baleines. Conscient de ce grand privilège et soucieux de leur environnement, Fin's Flukes a adopté des moteurs non polluants, éduque la population locale, emploie du personnel Tongien sur le lodge, ou à la pratique respectueuse du "whale waching".
Nous avons aussi adoré le confort, la propreté, le calme, l'environnement chaleureux d'un petit lodge à dimension humaine au bord d'une superbe plage. Une semaine bien trop courte, hors du temps.
Merci infiniment Brian et Sabine, pour ces moments ces moments précieux, avec les baleines et en votre compagnie !
Nous reviendrons.
Avec toute notre amitié Annie et Georges

PS : Si par malheur vous faisiez le choix d'une autre île, et d'un autre Tour opérateur, ce qui serait bien dommage pour vous....puisque sur Haapai, n'exercent que deux bateaux ( contre une vingtaine ailleurs) exigez une licence de whale watching. D'aucuns, pratiquent l'activité illégalement au détriment du respect des baleines...
Phillip Edward Russell
Already planning a return trip!
Traveled: 2013-08-16, Reviewed: 2013-08-14
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
The F&F team were very knowledgeable about the whales and marine environment. At all time they demonstrated 100% respect for the whales we saw. One day was just not enough so I'm planning a trip back.
Chris L
All Expecations were Met or Exceeded
Traveled: 2013-08-21, Reviewed: 2013-08-14
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
I am now angry at this website. I just wrote a long and detailed review about Fins'n Flukes and it signed me out and lost everything. So here is the short and sweet.

They are great. Everything was as described on their website. Small, clean, cozy rooms, comfort style food for dinner and a friendly staff.

Out on the boat was where they really make their mark. They are safe and respectful towards the whales, educational and ready to help make sure guests and photographers are taken care of. With Brian's help in suggesting where to be for the whales we got some amazing photos that really share why we were there and our experience. Thank you to Brian, Sabine and the entire Fins'n Flukes crew for making our holiday amazing.

All our expectations were met or exceeded and we are working on plans for a return trip next year.
Ina Ansmann
Nothing but respect!
Traveled: 2013-07-29, Reviewed: 2013-08-13
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
I am a marine mammal biologist and whale watch guide myself, so I have pretty high standards when it comes to responsible whale watching. Coming to Tonga to get up close and face to face to humpback whales under water was obviously a dream for me. But I have to admit I was weary about the sorts of impacts this form of whale tourism may have on the animals, especially given that this is where the females give birth and are at their most vulnerable. We traveled around Tonga for 2 weeks and spent time on all four different island groups and the differences between them are huge. In terms of the islands themselves, tourism development and also the whale watch operators. We had one pretty bad experience of racing right up to whales in a small boat with very noisy engine, being tossed into the water with no instruction and getting a 2 second glimpse of a whale before it swam off (and fair enough!).

Fins'n'Flukes in Ha'apai stood out as by far the most competent, respectful, responsible and knowledgeable operator. It helps that they are one of only two whale watch boats in Ha'apai, whereas on the main island group (Vava'u) up to 20 boats crowd around the whales. I cannot give enough praise on how Brian and Sabine of Fins'n'Flukes run their business. The whales ALWAYS come first. They assess their behaviour from the boat first (their 2 boats by the way were built by the local community and fitted with environmentally friendly and very quiet engines), approach slowly and not too close, then if the situation looks favorable 4 guests and a guide carefully enter the water and swim towards the whales. At no point do you feel unsure or left alone, as your guide is always there and telling you exactly where you should be positioning yourself and what to do. Brian in particular was AMAZING in the way he was able to "read" the whales, observe and predict their behaviour and work WITH them, getting us in the perfect position to make the whales comfortable and at the same time achieve the best experience for us. He is a marine biologist but that sort of ability to observe and understand animals is rare and not something that you can learn / train. On one of our days we were lucky enough to be the only guests on board and got to spend over an hour with a mother and calf. This involved several swims, approaching them carefully, quietly and slowly (and never too close) and then waiting for them to get used to our presence, build up confidence. The calf was still quite young (maybe a couple of weeks old) and quite shy at first. But every time it surfaced it had a look at us, from afar at first but inching closer and closer until eventually it had built up the confidence to come over to us, swim past at about a metre in front of us and look each one of us in the eye. It was the most incredible moment and the one-hour build up to it only added to the experience. It was amazing to watch their behaviour towards us develop and change. And all of it was always on the whales' terms.
Aside from the amazing whale swim experiences we had, we also loved our stay in their lodge which was clean and comfortable and in a breathtaking beachfront location. Graham cooked up some amazing food, and evenings were spent sitting together with the hosts and fellow travellers and marine enthusiasts, swapping stories and pictures. Absolutely loved every minute of our 5-day (too short!!) stay with Fins'n'Flukes and I would never go whale swimming with any other operator in Tonga. Thank you Brian & Sabine!
Victoria
Most amazing experience of my life
Traveled: 2013-08-20, Reviewed: 2013-08-13
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
Wow, I don't think I can say enough amazing things about Brian, Sabine and all of the crew at Fins 'n' Flukes. My husband and I headed over to Tonga for a week and 5 days of whale experiences. Knowing that they are wild animals we were always aware that we might not get to see more than a blow in the distance, but Tonga delivered and the excitement that Sabine and Brian, and all of the crew felt was infectious. It shows when someone loves what they do, and they simply adore it. They started with a behavior briefing, explaining why the humpbacks were around, what they would be doing and what we might be lucky enough to see, and told us how to be in the water, rules we needed to follow for the animals protection. We saw and heard so many whales! They were amazingly aware of the welfare of the animals, making sure that we didn't stress of upset them at any point, and if they didn't want us around, we moved away, not pushing them. We sat and watched behaviors from the boat before even considering entering the water. Everything they did was to an excellent standard, and gave both of us the most amazing experience. I will never forget it, and only being home three days I'm trying to rally friends to go back with next year. Just keep doing what you are doing!!
Patricia O'Donnell
Experience of a lifetime
Traveled: 2013-08-09, Reviewed: 2013-08-06
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
I spent 12 days at Fins n Flukes, and 9 days of those on the water looking at and swimming with beautiful humpback whales. I had no idea what to expect, so every experience was new and exciting. Some days the whales did not want us close to them, so as we approached they swam off, always keeping us on the periphery. Other days (the majority for us), we had the most amazing swims with mothers and calfs, mothers and calfs and escort, juveniles in groups or solitary, and large male 'singers'. Every day was different, sometimes calming and peaceful, sometimes a bit adrenalin-pumping if the whales felt a little 'playful' or too curious to my inexperienced mind!
Our group was with Brian most days, and he instilled 100% confidence in me that he would keep us safe. The rules were made very clear to us, for both our safety and the whales' wellbeing. If we got too close in the water, he made us retreat, and if the whale looked like we were agitating it, he asked that we return to the boat. I never felt that the whales were being imposed upon, and in most instances it was a very calming and beautiful encounter. To see something so big looking back at you trying to work out what you are and whether you represent a threat to it or it's baby, and then allowing it's baby to play around you, is a very special thing.
Brian and Sabine are doing a great job helping to educate both tourists and locals, and we throughly enjoyed their company.
Nadia Kouri
Life-long memories, amazing people
Traveled: 2010-09-19, Reviewed: 2013-08-06
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
Brian and Sabine were wonderful. I learned so much on our whale watching trip. I couldn't believe how close we were able to get to the whales. Brain and Sabine are obviously very knowledgeable about their business and eco-system in the South Pacific and were respectful of their surroundings.

If I could return to Tonga and spend more time with Brian and Sabine, I would!
Emma
EXCELLENT
Traveled: 2013-08-01, Reviewed: 2013-08-06
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
Absolutely fabulous trip. Brian and Sabine go out of the way to accommodate guests and get them fitted on to boats as best possible. The diving was fine although I could easily have dived around with my eyes shut listening to the song of the male Humpback-so soulful! We did get buzzed by a humpback so kind of glad I had my eyes open for that part!
We were given a thorough brief on how to approach the whales, staying behind the guide sat all times, safe distances to stay away from the whales etc. So hard to control yourself when they are all you have dreamed of for years!
Brian and Sabine are really knowledgeable-Brian is a marine biologist. Brian seems to be in tune with the whales and knows exactly where they are going to come up most times!
Couldn't be better! Loved the hydrophone!
Thanks guys!
vanessa mignon
Great operator
Traveled: 2012-09-06, Reviewed: 2013-08-06
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
I went to Tonga 7 times but this was my first time in Ha’apai. All I can say is that I wish I had been there much earlier. I went whale watching with Fins ‘n’ Flukes and I was very impressed. They have a great, reliable operation and well organised. Good boat, professional and knowledgeable team, and they are very respectful of the whales and responsible around them. The whales well being is always a point of focus. In addition they run a clean, quiet and very comfortable resort right on the beach. Brian and Sabine, the owners, are doing a great job with it all. I totally recommend them and I cannot wait to be back there.
Please note: the only reason I put 4 stars for the learning experience is because I had been to Tonga and with the whales many times before. But I am sure people who have their first time with Fins 'n" Flukes would rate that as a 5 stars
Gary peart
Extraordinary encounters
Traveled: 2013-08-09, Reviewed: 2013-08-06
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
What a week.

We loved our stay at Fins & Flukes, great atmosphere, location and value. Brian and Sabina were great company, running a brilliant set up on Ha'apai, not an easy island to run a successful business.

Most important of all however, was their passion, knowledge, and approach to the whales. They have 7-8 years of experience, and use it all to give customers the best chance of memorable and safe encounters. Patience, respect, and a great understanding of the whales behaviour allowed us to have some extraordinary swims. At times we could sense some customers getting impatient or frustrated but Brian and Sabina trusted their experience and left alone whales that were not exhibiting the right behaviour for us to enter the water. The whales came first every time, and that takes commitment and belief when customers have travelled from around the world with high expectations.
As a photographer I came away with some memorable images, we will never forget the week we spent with the whales around Ha'apai, and we would absolutely stay with Fins& Flukes if hopefully we get to return in the future. Thanks guys
Lisa Parsonage
Fins n Flukes Rock!!
Traveled: 2013-07-19, Reviewed: 2013-07-24
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
Fins n Flukes are amazing! I stayed under Brian and Sabine’s care for 8 nights and from the moment I arrived they made me feel very much at home and it didn’t take long till I felt like I had known them for ages! They are extremely friendly and have so much knowledge about whales and the area and were keen to pass their information on.
Fins n Flukes have 2 boats – Malolo the dive boat which is the smaller of the 2 and caters for 4 divers doing 2 dives each and the other Moana takes up to 8 guests on the whale watching trips. Both boats were extremely comfortable and catered for all (apart from no toilet but we had several ‘secret’ snorkelling stops!)
My first 4 days were spent diving and they were brilliant ;) 25m vis, relaxing dives with amazing coral and the sightings of an Eagle Ray, white tip reef shark, sea snake, octopus, moray eels, tuna, puffer fish, cleaner shrimps and a whole array of nudibranchs + lots more. The water was 25C and the wetsuit provided (5mm long suit) kept me toasty warm and their equipment was safe and reliable. In our surface intervals on the boat we would occasionally see humpbacks breaching the surface in the distance and there was always the hope of hearing or seeing a whale on a dive (ultimate dream of course!) although we weren’t so lucky. I heard a group that went out a few weeks later were fortunate enough to have that happen to them! All about being in the right place at the right time.
When I got back from diving each day I would hear all about the whale watching trips that the other guests had been on and we would share our experiences. Everyone was extremely positive about their days whale watching and they got to swim with the whales every day! I originally only had one day whale watching booked before I was due to leave so was quickly encouraged to change that to two! Im so glad I did.
The weather was quite challenging and Brian said they wouldn’t have gone out in any windier conditions but the days were very well organised, I learnt a lot about the whales and the waves were soon forgotten once the first whales were spotted! It quickly became apparent how serious they took all the laws around distances and times spent near the whales and always gave the whales plenty of space and time to get used to us. Our instructions were always clear and we were only allowed in the water on their say so when we were in the right positions/distances from the whales so not to distress them. I went to Tonga early in the season and a lot of calves we saw were very young (maybe a couple of weeks old!) so of course the mothers were quite cautious of us. I was happy enough to see the whales from the boat coming to the surface and do a bit of fin slapping but was also lucky enough to go for a snorkel with them :) I managed to get a glimpse of mother and calf and get a couple of photo’s which I’ll treasure forever!
It’s not every day you get to have this kind of opportunity to swim with humpback whales and while Brian and Sabine endeavour to make sure you have an experience of a lifetime, the whales and their well being come first. I was extremely impressed by this and have a lot of respect for how they operate.
They were perfect in every way and although Ha’apai itself doesn’t have much to offer in terms of tourism Fins n Flukes catered for everything I could possibly want during my stay there – food, accommodation, hot shower, books, hammocks, beach, snorkelling, bike hire, great guests (not sure how they managed that but everyone staying there was lovely!) and of course whales :) I hope Brian and Sabine continue with what they’re doing for a long time to come and wish them every success. They’ve totally got a great thing going on.
10/10 – perfect holiday (even though the sun only shined for 1 day out of 8!)
jenni wyrsta
Experience of a lifetime.
Traveled: 1901-12-13, Reviewed: 2013-07-23
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
I just love how the welfare of the whales came first. We all had to adhere to strict rules in the water, and this was to ensure there was no stress to the whale. Since we did follow the rules, we were treated to the most amazing moments a human can experience. To look into the eye of a whale, you see ancient wisdom and the soul of the Universe. I am a strong advocate for the protection of whales and dolphins, and was so pleased Fins 'n' Flukes care for the whales first, tourists second. That's how it should be.
Bryant
The Best!
Traveled: 1901-12-13, Reviewed: 2013-07-23
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
I photograph whales for a living and have worked all over the world. Brian and Sabine are hands down the best operators I've ever worked with. None of the operators I've hired in Tonga even come close in terms of operating among whales with respect and within regulations as well as a deep commitment to their clients. I chartered their vessel for five weeks and both Brian and Sabine were tireless in ensuring my time was productive and well spent. Brian also speaks fluent Tongan and I was impressed just how fast he could resolve any logistical or technical challenge I faced. Fins 'n' Flukes exceeded all of my expectations and I wish there were more than five stars to chose from in this review.
chris
Breathtaking
Traveled: 2012-08-06, Reviewed: 2013-07-23
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
Absolutely amazing, breathtaking experience with two wonderful experienced & very knowledgeable guides.
From the first moment you get on the boat you start learning about the whales, their habits and any questions you have are answered completely. The thing that impressed me so much was being told that if they didn't feel that the whales wanted us in the water we don't go in the water.
It was great to know that they care so much about the whales & always put them first.
They are there to show you the beauty of them rather than chasing them down for the tourists benefit.
The whales & their protection are their passion & by taking people on these trips & educating them, they are creating new conservationists & getting you to think more carefully about the environment & how to protect it & the things that live in it.
Grant Kouri
Two of the most environmentally conscious naturalists I know
Traveled: 2010-10-07, Reviewed: 2013-07-23
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
I lived in the Kingdom of Tonga from 2007 to 2011. I witnessed lots of environmental degradation during my time there. Brian and Sabine were constantly working to teach the local populations about sustainable co-habitation in Tonga's ecosystem.

When they began to conduct whale watching they did an enormous amount of research to ensure that they: brought this experience to people who may then be advocates for whales, and made sure it was done without leaving a footprint.

On my many trips with them, while on the boat, they made sure to provide information and knowledge about what were were going to see and observe. This knowledge made the experience much more meaningful. They also did a great job to explain the behavior they expected from their guests in order to maker the experience comfortable and safe for both humans and any ocean wildlife we would encounter.

Fins 'n' Flukes provided a meaningful, educational, and incredibly inspiring experience for their guests. They set the bar for the how responsible whale watching should be measured, and I hope they are able to continue to take many more people out, and inspire a conservationists love of whales for all.
Alienor
An experience like no other
Traveled: 2012-08-29, Reviewed: 2013-07-23
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
If there is one word to say about Fin's and flukes, it is PASSIONATE ! Spend a day with them swimming with the whales and you'll understand... they are not after your money like other operators...no, they just want to go in the water and see whales ! They are all about conservation, and education. Because of them, I know more about whales, not just because I swam with them, but because a trip with Fin's and Flukes is like a teaching program. You learn in the water, you learn on the boat, you learn when you follow them on facebook. They dedicate their lives to knowing more about these amazing creatures and conservation. If all of the operators in the industry could be like them, we would have a better world...
Sandy
Best experience EVER
Traveled: 2011-09-22, Reviewed: 2013-07-23
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
Fins n Flukes were passionate about the conservation of whales, respecting their habitat and their protection. Sabine and Brian shared their knowledge of the whales and in particular the humpback whales in an effort to educate their whale swim clients and encourage us to respect and protect them. They were very knowledgable about whale behaviour and their major priority was to ensure they were comfortable with our presence before allowing us to enter the water. They made sure we were aware of the rules of being in the water with the whales in relation to distance and time, and ensured we abided by these - respectful of the whales at all time. They offered a great day out including snorkelling n a picnic lunch on a secluded spot on one of the outlying islands. The experience was so outstanding we are returning this September to do it all again taking three more family members. Great operators passing on their skills and passion to others - a true ambassadors to the industry.
Brett
Awesome time with Fins 'n' Flukes!
Traveled: 2011-07-20, Reviewed: 2012-03-01
Safe approach to whales / dolphins
Valuable learning experience
Trip meets expectations
Minimal impact on the marine environment
Own research / support for conservation
The owners/operators of Fins n Flukes, Brian and Sabine, were outstanding. Right away, we felt like we made new friends. Their knowledge of the humpback whales and marine life brought even more to our experience.
Fins 'n' Flukes is reducing their carbon footprint by using environmental friendly boat engines. They have concern for the safety of the guests and the marine environment.
Brian and Sabine picked us and other guests up along the beach by boat in front of Sandy Beach Resort for the whale watching tour. Once all the guests were on board, Brian explained the safety features on the boat, Sabine gave an informative talk about the humpback whales including some small model whales to look at more closely, discussed different marine life that we may encounter, and both explained what to expect when we see some whales. This included, instructing on how to enter and exit the water to not disturb the whales. In addition, there were no more than 5 snorkelers in the water at one time which included Brian or Sabine. The day we went scuba diving, we took a taxi to the Fins 'n' Flukes' office in town. Kaitlin and Tom were our dive guides that day, both are certified specialty instructors, who also explained the safety features on that boat along with a detailed dive briefing for each dive site. Some of the highlights during the dives, we saw an abundance of healthy coral, a banded sea snake, pipehorse fish, lobsters, cushion starfish, and moray eels.
Fins 'n' Flukes has two boats. We were on the Moana for the whale watching and the Malolo for diving. The Moana was larger with a covered area at the front portion. The number of guests aboard each day varied. One day, there were a total of 12 people on the boat which did not impact us being comfortable as there was still plenty of room for everyone to move around on the boat. The Malolo is smaller. There were two other divers for a total of 6 on the boat (us, Kaitlin, Tom, and 2 other divers). We entered the water with a back roll.
The weather was mostly sunny with some partly cloudy days during our stay. One night, there was a wind/ rain storm which then cleared by morning. The water was calm for 4 out of the 6 days planned for whale watching/snorkeling and diving. One day, the swells were larger which was the day before the storm came through. However, that day we enjoyed seeing 3 humpbacks breaching simultaneously or all together. It was incredible.
We saw several humpback whales. The first day we spent time with a juvenile in the morning and afternoon and had in water encounters. There was a pod of dolphins by the whale as well. The regulations only allow a boat to be near a whale for no more than 1hr 30 minutes at a time. One time we entered the water and saw a dolphin swimming directly in front of the whale. You can really compare the size difference. We were in the water when the juvenile was resting below the surface. The five of us stayed in a group at the surface and watched as the whale slowly swam to the surface for a breath. Then the whale turned towards us, swam right next to us and turned around for another pass. What an incredible feeling to be able to look in the whale's eye and watch their movements. We thought that as the whale turned, we might feel some water displacement from the fluke but the whale was so graceful, we couldn't feel any movement of the water. One day, we saw the 3 whales breaching simultaneously throughout the morning. Another day, we saw a humpback breach, a heat rush where two males were vying for the female and showing off by slapping the pectoral fins, flukes, and breaching; an awesome display; that same day, we saw a couple more whales breaching and swimming near the boat. However, what topped that day for us was encountering a mother and her calf who was about 3 weeks old. We estimated the mother was about 60ft and the calf about 10ft. The small groups took turns entering the water. We approached snorkeling perpendicular to the mother's side and remained floating at the surface watching the mother and calf rest at the surface.
The distance we were from the whales ranged from about 10ft to 30 ft while we were snorkeling depending on the whales' movements as the whales would come close as they swam by. When we saw a whale, Brian and Sabine approached downwind and kept the boat at a certain distance while watching the whale's behavior. If they decided the small groups could enter the water, we got our snorkel gear on and slowly slipped into the water without splashing. We swam away from the boat and watched the whale(s) . We stopped for lunch either at a reef or on a nearby island. After lunch, we snorkeled at the reef for about 30minutes and then continued looking for whales. We were dropped off at the beach in front of our resort in the afternoon.
We recommend booking with Fins 'n' Flukes, bring sunscreen, and bring some mosquito repellent for the evenings. The only disappointment is that we couldn't stay longer.
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2013 Responsible Whale Watch Partnership:Click here to read more about the partnership