In French Polynesia, a new way of observing whales is emerging thanks to the Hono Tai project, led by the Oceania association. Inspired by the well-known Monoï Route, this initiative encourages people to discover whales from land, starting with a circuit around the island of Moorea, with plans to expand to other islands.
Goals? Raise awareness about the richness of local marine life, promote more responsible tourism, and strengthen the protection of the marine mammals that make our waters so famous.
Where to Watch Whales from Land?
As part of our commitment to sustainable and educational tourism, whale observation panels are gradually being installed in several partner hotels across the islands, in collaboration with the Oceania association.
These stations offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn more about whales while watching them in their natural habitat without disturbing them.
You can enjoy these observation sessions at the following locations:
Manava Beach Resort & Spa – Moorea
Dedicated sessions for hotel guests take place on the hotel’s pontoon from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM on the following dates:
- August 6
- August 20
- September 3
- September 17
- October 1er
- October 15
- October 29
Cook’s Bay Hotel – Moorea
Observation sessions are reserved for hotel guests on the following dates:
- August 13
- August 27
- September 10
- September 24
- October 8
- October 22
Hilton Tahiti – Papeete
Scheduled observation sessions will take place on:
- August 14
- August 28
- September 11
- September 25
- October 9
- October 23
If You Choose to Go Out to Sea: Key Rules to Follow
While land-based observation is strongly encouraged, some travelers may prefer to head out to sea. In that case, it’s essential to follow existing regulations to protect the whales and ensure everyone’s safety:
- Whale watching is strictly prohibited in lagoons, bays, and passes
- Never trap a whale between the reef and the shoreline
- Respect minimum distance guidelines :
- Recreational boaters: stay at least 300 meters away from whales
- Authorized tour operators: maintain a minimum distance of 100 meters
- Entering the water within 15 meters of a whale is strictly prohibited
A whale can weigh up to 40 tons. For your safety, and theirs, keep your distance.
These rules help minimize human impact on these ocean giants, preserving a rare and respectful experience that only Tahiti and Its Islands can offer.
If you intend to photograph or film whales for commercial or marketing purposes, you must obtain prior authorization from the Environmental Directorate of French Polynesia.
In Case of Emergency or Violation
Violations – Department of the Environment (DIREN)
B.P. 4562 – 98713 Papeete
Phone: +689 40 47 66 66
Fax: +689 40 41 92 52
Email: secretariat.diren@administration.gov.pf
Hours: 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM (Friday : 7:30 AM – 2:30 PM)
Website: www.service-public.pf/diren
Strandings – Ocean Guardians Network (RGO)
Phone: +689 89 57 14 30
Email: rgopolynesie@gmail.com
Website: www.asso-oceania.com/echouage