Patrick Dykstra
Patrick Dykstra is a TV presenter, BAFTA award-winning wildlife cameraman, and one of our specialist leaders.
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Swimming with Humpbacks
Cook islands
An incredible opportunity to swim with humpback whales and other relaxed marine life in the crystal waters of Aitutaki, in the Cook Islands, with NWS' expert guides for one of the natural world's most unforgettable wildlife encounters. Spend eight days on and around Aitutaki, exploring this tropical paradise, snorkelling off uninhabited islands abundant with sea life and relaxing on a private island offering barefoot luxury.
WHY BOOK THIS TRIP
- Swim beside schools of eagle rays, white tip reef sharks, huge wrasse and more.
- Spend time with humpback whales including juveniles and mothers with calves.
- Enjoy water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking, and even exploring the lagoon via a Polynesian Outrigger Canoe.
- Relax at the outstanding Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort in your own Beachfront Bungalow.
Your Example Day by Day:
Day 1 - Arrive in Aitutaki
On arrival in Aitutaki you will be met at the airport and transferred to your water facing villa at Aitutaki Private Island Resort. Tonight the group will meet for dinner and learn about the days ahead.
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Days 2 - 6 - Swimming with Whales
After breakfast from 8am-12pm, head to the marina where our spacious, covered and safety-equipped private boat will take you out to find humpback whales. In the afternoon, enjoy snorkelling, exploring the vibrant coral reefs, paddleboarding or kayaking.
Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island
Situated on its own private island, Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort offers barefoot luxury with views across the translucent turquoise waters of the O’otu (Full Moon) Channel down to Aitutaki Lagoon and the main island of Aitutaki with its rustling palm trees. The island is well geared for tropical relaxation; swing in your hammock above the champagne sands and drift off to the sound of the lagoon lapping on the shore and the gentle breeze rustling through the coconut palms. Alternatively if you are feeling energetic this is the ideal place for watersports.
Day 7 - Swimming with Whales
On the last full day, after our whale trip we will take an extraordinary trip in a small-covered speedboat around the famous Aitutaki lagoon, where we snorkel and float on rafts while drinking fresh coconut. End the day with a sunset dinner on an uninhabited island.
Humpback Whales
Humpbacks are known for their complex, imaginative songs which have the largest frequency range used by whales. In warm waters, they create beautiful, sometimes eerie sequences of squeaks and howls that travel through calm oceans. When the water is cold, the sounds become rougher, sounding more like groans. The reason for their songs and the difference in temperature in not known but could be to do with mating season or hunting, although only males have been recorded singing.
Day 8 - Depart Aitutaki
You will be dropped off at the airport for your onward international flights home.
Visibility is usually excellent, often over 50m. Between July and October the waters around the Cook Islands in the South Pacific vibrate with the melodies of the humpback whale. This is where they gather to sing and socialise, to mate and give birth. Their song can be clearly heard both above and below the water. Humpback whales are by nature one of the most gentle and non-aggressive marine animals, ranging from 12 to 16 metres (39 to 52 feet) in length.
Your Stay in Aitutaki
2026 - Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort
Situated on its own private island, Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort offers barefoot luxury with views across the translucent turquoise waters of the O’otu (Full Moon) Channel down to Aitutaki Lagoon and the main island of Aitutaki with its rustling palm trees. The island is well geared for tropical relaxation; swing in your hammock above the champagne sands and drift off to the sound of the lagoon lapping on the shore and the gentle breeze rustling through the coconut palms. Alternatively if you are feeling energetic this is the ideal place for watersports.
Your Beachfront Bungalow offers a distinctive island experience and is set on its own private beach with complimentary stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, and bicycles to use at your leisure, at the resort, on the lagoon or around the main island. Equipped with glorious Polynesian-style outdoor shower, king size bed, in-room Wi-Fi access (charge applies), satellite flat screen TV, refrigerator, coffee/tea making facilities, hairdryer and bathrobes, your Beachfront Bungalow comes complete with your own private balcony with sunloungers.
2027 - Tamanu Beach, Aitutaki
Tamanu Beach, Aitutaki is a relaxed, beachfront resort set on the western shores of Aitutaki, prized for its tranquil setting, authentic island atmosphere, and consistently high guest satisfaction. Located in Amuri Village, just a short drive from Aitutaki Airport, the resort enjoys a prime position overlooking a top-rated beach with excellent snorkelling directly offshore. Guests stay in spacious bungalows and villas, each designed in a classic Polynesian style with private verandahs, garden or ocean views, and a strong emphasis on indoor-outdoor living, including much-loved outdoor showers.
At the heart of the resort is Tamanu Restaurant and Bar, where Pacific-inspired cuisine and fresh local ingredients are served throughout the day, best enjoyed with sunset views over the lagoon. Facilities include two swimming pools, a spa and wellness centre, and complimentary use of kayaks, snorkelling equipment, and bicycles, making it easy to explore both land and sea. Weekly cultural evenings featuring traditional Cook Islands song, dance, and fire performances add a strong sense of place. Known for its warm hospitality, excellent breakfasts, and peaceful beachfront setting, Tamanu Beach is an ideal choice for couples, small groups, and travellers seeking an intimate, characterful stay on Aitutaki.
Dates & Prices Swimming with Humpbacks
| Date | Passengers | Trip Length | Trip Style | Prices from | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 - 08 Sep 2026 | 4 | 8 Days | Small Group | 10500 | |
| 08 - 15 Sep 2026 | 4 | 8 Days | Small Group | 10500 | |
| 15 Sep - 22 Sep 2026 | 4 | 8 Days | Small Group | 10500 | |
| 18th - 25th Aug 2027 | 4 | 8 Days | Small Group | 9500 | |
| 25th Aug - 1st Sept 2027 | 4 | 8 Days | Small Group | 9500 | |
| 1st Sep - 8th Sept 2027 | 4 | 8 Days | Small Group | 9500 | |
| 8th - 15th Sept 2027 | 4 | 8 Days | Small group | 9500 | |
| 15th - 22nd Sept 2027 | 4 | 8 Days | Small Group | 9500 | |
| 22nd - 29th Sept 2027 | 4 | 8 Days | Small Group | 9500 |