Humpback Whales, Coral Reefs and Wild Seas in Niue, South Pacific
This small island of around 1500 inhabitants is not widely known – flung far out into the vast Pacific Ocean, Niue is an upraised coral atoll – a small green dot that is a standalone land mass in the centre of a triangle of Polynesian Islands – the others being; Tonga, Samoa and the Cook Islands. Here the blue blue water around the island is still wild, respected and teeming with life. It’s in these waters that the beautiful humpback whales come to deliver their young and nurse them to be strong enough to join in the yearly migration. There are few places in the world where it is legal to swim with whales, and fewer still where the codes of conduct and regulations are well enough enforced for these interactions to have no negative impact on the well-being of these gentle giants.
We recommend this destination because in supporting the responsible local ecotourism operators who will guide you to the whales we hope to be a part of the continued economic growth of Niue Island and lend our voice (and dollars) to the continued regulation and strict management of in- water meetings with whales.
IMPORTANT NOTE on whale interactions & freediving: In Niue it is not allowed to freedive down with the Humpback Whales as this can disturb them.
Niue is surrounded by wild oceans and diving days are ‘ocean safaris’ where you can expect to find pelagic fish, various kinds of dolphins as well as sea snakes and sharks. With an average water temperature of approximately 80°F (27 °C), you will be able to spend plenty of time in and underwater.
There are also numerous spectacular low-tide hikes around the island, where coral reef snorkelling and hiking can be combined to have a truly adventurous day of exploration. Niue is also known for several underground caves harbouring beautiful fresh water pools which can be explored on days off from diving.