Swimming with Humpbacks in the 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. Travel to the tranquil Aitutaki, with NWS' expert guides for one of the natural world's most unforgettable wildlife encounters. 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. 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.

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.

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.

Days 2 - 7 - Swimming with Whales

After a good breakfast each morning, we will head to the marina, where our spacious, covered and safety-equipped private boat will take you out to find humpback whales. Visibility is usually excellent, often over 50m. Our mornings with the whales normally last for around 4 hours, from 8am-12pm. In the afternoon you have the opportunity to enjoy the many other activities on offer such as snorkelling and exploring the vibrant coral reefs, making use of complimentary water sport equipment to go paddleboarding or kayaking, or even exploring the lagoon via a Polynesian Outrigger Canoe. 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 off the uninhabited islands, float on rafts while drinking fresh coconut and end the day with a delicious sunset dinner on an uninhabited island.

Day 8 - Depart Aitutaki

You will be dropped off at the airport for your onward international flights home.

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.