Plunging headfirst underwater to swim with whales is as unforgettable an experience as it sounds. As this activity rises to the top of many travel lovers’ bucket lists, new hotspots around the world are popping up too. From Western Australia’s Exmouth Bay to the Azores in Portugal, we’ve uncovered incredible holiday spots filled with dramatic landscapes, colourful reefs, and World Heritage listed sites that allow you to swim with the giants of the sea. So dive in with our must-read guide because now is the time to put those dreams into reality!
Experience the Pacific Islands like never before
Tonga is one of the few places on earth where you can swim with whales while witnessing stunningly colourful reefs – a pretty awesome combination bound to impress even the well-versed travellers. If you’re lucky, you may catch southern humpback mothers with their calves as they’re travelling in from the Antarctic. The best time to catch these playful whales is between July and October, so best to plan ahead and snag the cheapest flights with KAYAK’s Price Forecast and price alert feature! We recommend booking a tour with Tongan Expeditions or Tonga Holiday and let the experienced team take you on a dive of a lifetime!
Swim with whales and uncover the allure of Australia’s Hervey Bay
If you want to swim with whales, and if it has been on your bucket list for a while but has been put off because of pricey international airfares, good news. Queensland’s Hervey Bay is an aquatic paradise for holidaymakers all year round and also an incredible spot for some of the best humpback whale encounters in the world! There are a number of experienced tours to take you on this trip of a lifetime, such as Swim with Whales and Tobruk Dive tours. Whilst you’re there, head to nearby Fraser Island and rent a 4WD car to drive through the world’s largest sand island, stretching over 120km! Stop at panoramic viewpoints along the way, such as Indian Head, before taking a dip at Lake McKenzie. To get there, find flights from Singapore to Hervey Bay via Brisbane, or check Brisbane car rental prices – it’s about a three and a half hour drive from Queensland’s capital to the bay.
Broaden your horizons by uncovering the underwater world of the Azores, Portugal
For something a bit different, uncover the Azores – an archipelago composed of nine volcanic islands outside of Portugal. There, you’ll get the chance to swim in crystal-clear water accompanied by friendly dolphins and whales for a mind-blowing dive. Take time to discover the dramatic landscapes, fishing villages and green pastures of the region. Fun Fact: the Azores holds one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries, home to over 20 different types of whales and dolphins. Before jetting back home, be sure you tick off jaw-dropping scenery such as the lake of Sete Cidades and the view from Miradouro do Pisao. The main island (Ponta Delgada) can be easily reached via a connecting flight from Lisbon or Porto.
Snorkel through abundant marine life against jaw-dropping coral reefs in Western Australia
Embark on a truly extraordinary experience by swimming with migratory whale sharks as you take in the beauty of the nearby coral reefs at Exmouth and Coral Bay (don’t be put off by their names, whale sharks are totally harmless)! Located on Australia’s doorstep, this family favourite destination is a sanctuary with pristine white beaches, sky blue waters and charming coastal towns. Snorkel in turquoise water, as you drift over the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo reef, and watch dolphins, manta rays, turtles and humpback whales in their natural habitat. Take your trip to the next level by paying a visit to the local reef shark nursery at Coral Bay, a short 20-minute walk from Main Beach.
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Note: These rates are based on search queries made on KAYAK.sg on 9 November, 2017. The prices are quoted in SGD. Flight prices are based on results for a return economy flight search. Hotel prices are for double occupancy and include taxes and fees. Prices are subject to change, may vary, or no longer be available.
