The Kingdom of Tonga is an archipelago of over 170 islands relatively unchanged from its Western discovery in the 17th century. A culturally authentic destination with a relaxing pace of life and an unspoilt, genuine feel about everything, there is plenty to experience here. Only a fraction of the reefs have been explored, offering divers plenty to discover. Underwater visibility is astounding, allowing clear views of Tonga's undulating seascape; hard coral gardens, towering pinnacles, schools of open water pelagic species and gaping caverns. Humpback Whales travel from the Antarctic and arrive in Tonga to mate and give birth in the warm and sheltered waters, affording visitors the unique opportunity to view mothers and calves in close proximity (Jul-Oct). Tonga is one of the few places in the world where it is possible to snorkel with these magnificent mammals.