Tonga’s whale watching boom raises conservation concerns

However, the growth of whale watching tourism has sparked concerns regarding the potential exploitation of these magnificent creatures. Videos circulating on social media, verified by the ABC, depict foreign-owned whale-watching firms allegedly violating regulations by allowing tourists to touch and dive with the whales, despite diving being prohibited.

Local skipper Vili Vaipulu, who runs his own whale-watching business, expressed frustration, stating that such practices create confusion for tourists and make it difficult for local skippers to enforce the rules. “They simply cannot stop their diving,” he said. He also noted that tourists sometimes lose money when they are told diving is not allowed after being promised it in advertising.

Lemoto Faka’osi, director of the Ministry of Tourism Vava’u, confirmed that multiple operators have received warnings for regulatory breaches. The Elim Hotel, for example, had its license suspended for six weeks and its fleet reduced after guests posted videos of themselves diving with whales. Elim’s manager, Lepolo Foliaki, acknowledged the rule violations, stating, “There is no point hiding it, I will tell the truth: they broke the rules.”

Approximately 2,000 humpback whales visit Tongan waters annually. While restrictions were initially implemented in 2006, limiting licenses to 13, the number has risen to 25 in Vava’u, with most companies being foreign-owned. Tourist numbers have also doubled since 2006, reaching 20,018 by 2019.

Marine experts warn that even permitted swimming with whales can negatively impact their behavior and sustainability. Auckland University of Technology research found that mothers can spend up to three times longer underwater when tourists are present. Lorenzo Fiori, who conducted the research in 2019, noted low levels of compliance with Tongan regulations.

Locally based operators, including Alistair Coldrick, have challenged the government in court, alleging a failure to adhere to its own regulations regarding license issuance. Mr. Vaipulu worries that overcrowding is pushing whales further out to sea, and he expresses concern about the long-term viability of the industry.