Mounu Island: Frequently Asked Questions

  • Mounu has moved to an an all-inclusive model. New bookings will include round-trip transfers from Vava’u Airport, accommodations, all meals and non-alcoholic beverage, 5 days of whale swimming (or water adventure during non-whale season), certified and experienced whale guides and a boat + skipper. Airfare to Vava’u, alcoholic beverages, souvenirs, additional excursions and staff tips will be paid separately upon departure.

  • A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your reservation. This deposit can be transferred to other available dates within the same price bracket, depending on notice given. Full payment is due 30 days prior to check-in.

  • ALL GUESTS MUST TRAVEL WITH FULL TRAVEL INSURANCE. Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all guests. This should cover any potential flight delays, cancellations, medical emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances.

  • Guests enjoy activities like whale watching (seasonal), snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and kite surfing. Private excursions like diving, sailing, fishing, visiting the local bird colonies, visiting one of the local villages or attending church and or other special places are also arranged upon request for an additional cost.

  • Mounu Island has an on-site restaurant offering fresh, locally sourced meals. Three meals per day are included in the price as well as select soft drinks. Special dietary requirements can be catered for if requested in advance.

  • Here is a recommended packing list:

    • Light, breathable clothing

    • A windjacket/waterproof jacket

    • Swimsuits

    • A wetsuit (2-3mm is great!)

    • Sunscreen (reef friendly)

    • Insect repellent

    • Personal items and medication as the island is remote with limited access to stores

    • A head torch or flashlight for walking back to your fale in the evenings

    • A dive/snorkel mask, snorkel and fins. We recommend to purchase these in advance and try them out to make sure they fit you properly.

    • Sunglasses

    • Sun hat

    • Beach Towel (for the boat)

    • Camera, batteries, memory cards and chargers

    • Electric outlet adaptor

  • Wi-Fi is available on the island, but please note that the connection can be intermittent due to its remote location. We encourage guests to embrace the tranquility and disconnect from technology during their stay.

  • Families with children are welcome! Please be mindful that we do try to keep a tranquil atmosphere and want to be considerate to all guests.

    We require children to be over the age of 12 to swim with whales. Special exceptions can be made after a swimming test performed by the guides and at the sole discretion of the guides and management.

    If you have kids under the age of 12, you need to book all spaces on the boat for you and your family.

  • The whale-watching season runs from July to October, making it the most popular time to visit. However, the island is beautiful year-round, with pleasant tropical weather during most months and a variety of activities to do year round!

  • There is no free diving or scuba diving requirement to swim with the whales. We require our guests who choose to swim with the whales to be comfortable swimming in the open ocean and competent at snorkeling.

  • There are no medical facility on the island. The nearest hospital is located in Neiafu, the township in Vava'u. Medical services are limited. We recommend guests carry a first aid kit and ensure their travel insurance includes medical evacuation coverage in case of emergencies.

  • Yes, Mounu Island is available for private hire. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a friend's getaway, a meditation retreat or another special event, you can reserve the entire island for your exclusive use. We offer complete privacy and personalized service for your group. Contact us directly for availability, pricing, and tailored arrangements to make your stay unforgettable.

  • Allan and Lyn Bowe motored into  Tonga in 1992 and was drawn to the islands for their untouched beauty and a community rich in heritage and sharing.   He found himself in awe of the environment and the huge Humpback Whales that migrate every year to the warm water of Vava'u and Tonga. He had the courage to jump in the water with the whales, so beginning a relationship he wanted to share with the world. He established the first Swim with the Whales business in 1993.

    What started as wonder with these gentle giants grew into a deep passion for sharing their magic with the world.

  • It is important to understand that it is not guaranteed that you will go out every day AND that you will see whales every day.

    Understanding whale behavior and following the regulations is paramount.  At no time do we put stress upon the whales.  Weather and sea conditions also play a major role - not every day is flat calm and although we do look for whales in sheltered areas some days you could be swimming in open ocean in choppy conditions. 

    That being said to get the most out of your experience it is worth putting some time into being swim fit and confident using your mask, snorkel and fins.