Humpback Whale Migration and Behaviours in Rurutu
Two pairs of mothers and calves swim above a reef off the coast of western coast of Rurutu. Matt Reichel.
For over seven years, we’ve been fortunate to witness and document the awe-inspiring humpback whale migration in Rurutu, a small, remote island in French Polynesia’s Austral Islands. Each year, these magnificent creatures travel thousands of kilometers to Rurutu’s clear, tranquil waters, creating a unique opportunity to observe and even swim alongside them in their natural habitat.
Why Humpback Whales Migrate to Rurutu
Humpback whales undertake one of the longest migrations in the animal kingdom, leaving their Antarctic feeding grounds to reach warmer tropical waters. Between August and October, they arrive in Rurutu to calve, nurse, and mate in a safe, predator-free environment.
The fringing reef around Rurutu provide an ideal setting for swimming with humpback whales, offering calm seas and incredible visibility, with a gradually dropping shelf instead of a very shallow motu reef we see in many other Polynesian islands. These conditions make it one of the best locations in the world to experience a close yet respectful connection with these gentle giants.
What You Can Expect When Swimming with Whales in Rurutu
Over the years, we’ve observed a wide range of humpback whale behaviors in Rurutu, each encounter offering a new glimpse into their lives.
A young calf emerges from underneath her mother. Matt Reichel.
Mother and Calf Connections
One of the most touching sights is the bond between mother whales and their calves. These newborns, measuring 10-15 feet long, stay close to their mothers for nourishment and protection. In Rurutu’s lagoons, you’ll often see calves practicing swimming or surfacing for air while their mothers rest nearby. These moments are peaceful and unhurried, offering extended opportunities to simply observe.
A playful whale makes a close approach. Matt Reichel.
Playful Whales
Young and curious whales, especially juveniles, often show a playful side. They may roll onto their backs, swim upside down, or even approach swimmers, appearing to invite interaction. Occasionally, they gently nudge swimmers with their pectoral fins or create playful splashes with their tails. While thrilling, these moments require calmness and careful guidance to ensure the safety of both humans and whales.
Breaching and Surface Activity
The waters around Rurutu frequently come alive with dramatic surface behaviors. Whales breach—leaping completely out of the water—or slap their tails and fins against the surface, creating massive splashes and booming echoes across the water. These displays are thought to be forms of communication, courtship, or playful energy.
An escort swoops in to get in between a swimmer and a mom-calf pair. Matt Reichel.
Male Escort Dynamics
Male humpbacks often compete for the attention of females in a fascinating behavior known as the escort system. A dominant male will accompany a female, often with a calf, while other males attempt to replace him. These competitions can be subtle or dramatic, involving breaches, tail-slapping, and even underwater acrobatics.
A diver carefully swims above a singing whale to hear his song. Matt Reichel.
Whale Songs
One of the most magical experiences is hearing the haunting melodies of male humpbacks. Their songs echo through the water, creating an unforgettable sensory experience, even if you never see the singing whale itself.
Respecting the Whales and Their Space
While swimming with humpback whales in Rurutu is an extraordinary experience, it requires patience, respect, and care. Interactions happen on the whales’ terms. Boats maintain a minimum distance of 100 meters, and swimmers are guided to stay calm, move as a tight group, and wait for the whales to approach if they choose. Chasing or overwhelming the whales is strictly avoided.
This approach ensures the whales remain comfortable and unthreatened, often leading to more meaningful encounters. Over the years, we’ve learned that the most rewarding experiences come from waiting quietly and letting the whales’ curiosity guide the interaction.
Why Rurutu Stands Out in the Austral Islands
Rurutu, part of the remote Austral Islands, is a special place for both whales and visitors. Its crystal-clear waters, unique geography, and small-scale tourism make it one of the best destinations for humpback whale swimming. Unlike more crowded locations, Rurutu offers a sense of intimacy and connection with the ocean and its inhabitants.
For over seven years, we’ve guided visitors through unforgettable moments with these incredible creatures. From mothers and calves gliding through calm lagoons to energetic displays of breaching and tail-slapping, each encounter feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Beyond the whales, Rurutu’s quiet beauty and warm community make it an unforgettable destination in its own right.
Plan Your Visit to Swim with Whales in Rurutu
If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming with humpback whales, Rurutu is the perfect place to turn that dream into reality. Whether it’s observing a calf learning to swim, hearing the ethereal song of a male whale, or witnessing a playful juvenile roll and dive, every moment is unforgettable.
Join us during migration season for an experience that blends adventure, respect for nature, and the unique beauty of the Austral Islands. Rurutu is not just a place to visit—it’s a place to connect deeply with the ocean and its most majestic creatures.
