Whale-watching firms in Tonga break diving rules to attract tourists
Multiple whale-watching operators in Tonga are breaking regulations. They let tourists dive with humpback whales. But diving with them is prohibited.
Foreign-owned whale-watching companies in Tonga are breaking rules. They let tourists touch and dive with humpback whales.
Diving is strictly prohibited. Videos on social media show operators advertising free-diving tours.
These tours break Tongan law. The Tongan government confirmed multiple operators were warned.
One firm had its license suspended for six weeks. Guests posted footage of illegal diving.
Local skippers say false advertising confuses tourists. It makes their job harder.
The industry draws about 20,000 tourists annually. It generates about $12 million in revenue.
Marine experts warn that even permitted swimming can disturb whales. Whales are disturbed during feeding and nursing.
Research shows mothers stay underwater three times longer when tourists are nearby. Whale-watching rules started in 2006.
The government capped licenses at 13 then. The number has grown to 25 licensed operators.
- 20,000
- Annual tourists
- $12 million
- Annual revenue
- 25
- Licensed operators now
- 13
- Licensed operators in 2006
Why it mattersBreaches of diving rules threaten whale populations and behavior. This could damage the industry. The industry depends on whale health.
AustraliaAustralian tourists visiting Tonga to swim with whales should know diving is illegal, and operators promoting it are breaking regulations.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
