In the late 1960s, whale biologist Roger Payne did something unusual. He dumped a microphone into the sea, hoping to listen in on the underwater noises whales were making. It worked better than anyone had imagined and Payne captured a remarkable array of creaks, groans, and moans produced by humpbacks and other whales. Recordings of the whale songs were soon selling out at music stores, and people around the world were debating the meaning of the haunting melodies. 

Longitude 80 invites you to a very special concert in the waters of the only Polynesian Kingdom left in the world, a Pacific nation that has never been colonised: Tonga. Here, Humpback whales that feed in the  Antarctic during the Southern Hemisphere summer, come to Tonga to mate, give birth, and nurse their calves during the Southern hemisphere winter. Enjoy swimming while watching whales frolick in shimmering turquoise waters. You’ll be based in an ecologically friendly and authentic luxury resort that boasts seclusion, beach front views and is just an hour flight from the main island of Tongatapu. Strict guidelines in Tonga ensure the protection of the whales and while you can’t scuba dive around them, you can swim or snorkel within 30 metres. Even from this distance, you can see the whales glide through the water and hear the haunting songs of males while females take care of their calf.

While the focus of this dream journey is on one of the largest animals in the world, you can also expect to be immersed in one of the friendliest cultures in the world. Where time stands still on a Sunday so everyone can attend church to vibrant markets and some epic fishing spots. Whether your passion is snorkelling, kayaking or sailing, Tonga offers it. It is truly paradise, the perfect luxury stop on the long journey of life. Just ask the whales!