The austral winter announces the arrival of humpback whales in Polynesian waters. Marine mammal with the largest migratory cycle in the animal world, the humpback whale comes to enjoy the warm waters of Polynesia to mate, give birth and enjoy the temperate climate of the austral winter, far from the polar cold of the Antarctic.

Its imposing size, grace and legendary song will mark you forever.

You will board the mythical vessel ‘Discovery’, which has covered numerous films and reports for the BBC, Disney Channel and National Geographic:

• Pilot authorised by the DIREN (Direction de l'Environnement) to approach marine mammals.
• Observation deck and footbridge
• Hydrophone for listening to whale songs
• Shade
• Refreshments and snacks on board.

By reservation, Eleuthera offers 2 whale watching tours per day with a meeting point at the centre at 7.30 am and 1.30 pm and 3 different options (duration: 3h00 approx subject to sea and weather conditions.):

Snorkeling excursion

• Small group (maximum 6 snorkelers in the water)
• Professional guide qualified to approach marine mammals
• Neoprene wetsuit on loan for comfort and safety
• Fins, mask and snorkel available
• Beachwear required
• From age 6
• Price: 27,000 XPF (approx. 225 EUR)/pers.

Observation from the boat

• Small group (maximum 8 people on board)
• Pilot qualified to approach marine mammals.
• Snorkeling not authorised (observation only from the boat)
• From 6 years old
• Price: 22,900 XPF (approx. 195 EUR)/pers.

Private Tour

• 8 people maximum
• Professional guide qualified to approach marine mammals
• Neoprene wetsuit on loan for comfort and safety
• Fins, mask and snorkel available
• Beach attire required
• No age limit
• Price: 220,000 XPF (approx. 1,850 EUR)/pers.

HUMPBACK WHALES
(source: Mata Tohora)

• Size: 13 to 16 m
• Weight: 30 to 40 tons
• Longevity: +/- 50 years
• Pigmentation: Dark gray to black back. Flanks black or white. White belly.
• Dentition: 250 to 400 pairs of black baleens (330 on average), with a maximum length of 65 cm and a maximum width of 35 cm
• Food: Krill (+/- from November to June)
• Sexual maturity: 5 years
• Gestation: 10 to 12 months
• Breastfeeding: 6 to 8 months, followed by breastfeeding and feeding during 4 to 6 months
• Reproduction: Every 2 to 3 years