Vava'u Tonga is a the perfect place for a whale watching trip

Tonga is an archpelago of 170 islands

The Kingdom of Tonga consists of about 170 islands divided into four main island groups ranging over an area from 15 to 23 degrees south latitude, and 173 to 177 degrees west longitude, situated 1200 miles north of New Zealand and just west of the international dateline. In this age of political volatility, Tonga remains a safe haven, far off the beaten track, with a popular 200 year old constitutional monarchy, the only Polynesian country never to have been colonised. It is a proud independent nation with a rich cultural history, maintaining customs and traditions while embracing Christianity. Tongans love to sing and Sunday mornings the air is filled with the voluminous sound of enthusiastic choirs. The shy, gentle, dignity of the handsome people of Tonga reflects a refreshing feeling of timelessness, in their easy, friendly smiles. Laughing seems to be the national pastime.

The Vava’u island group, where “Jocara” sails, is situated approximately 240 kilometers north of Tongatapu. There are about 40 islands in an area 23 by 25 kilometres, which is protected by a semi-circular reef. The Southeast tradewinds provide excellent sailing conditions, while the surrounding reef protects the open waters from ocean swell. Most of the islands we visit are uninhabited and we are the only visitors. Vava’u is still relatively untouristed. Villagers are shy, but quite welcoming if we decide to visit, and a Tongan Feast in Vava’u is local, family oriented and charmingly unprofessional.

Climate during whale watch season

Tonga is slightly cooler than most tropical areas, with an annual average temperature of 23C / 77F. The average daytime high temperature hovers around 25-26C (77-80F) from May through September. SE trade winds (15-25 knots) predominate during the Austral winter (May-Sept). For extended time in the water it is best to plan to bring a thin wetsuit or skin.

Whale watch charter in Vava'u

On a whale watch trip in Vava’u, Tonga we can visit a different island in the Vava’u group each night, or stay in anchorages close the where the whales are. Each island has special snorkeling spots. Most of the islands we visit are uninhabited with white sand beaches and interesting reefs for snorkeling. We can also visit an island with a Tongan village and attend a Tongan feast, where the food is authentic and delicious, and the local children perform traditional Tongan dances. You may want to take one or more dinners onshore at one of the very small and interesting resorts in the outer islands.