FAQs

🏝️About Sea Change

  • A: Sea Change is a solar-powered, eco-friendly resort surrounded by white sand beaches and coral reefs. We focus on sustainability, comfort, and connection with nature.

  • A: We welcome guests aged 12 and over. Our retreat is ideal for adults, couples, and small groups seeking peace and nature.

  • A: We operate seasonally — from mid-July to early October when the humpback whales are here.

🏡Accommodation & Facilities

  • A:

    • Wooden Bungalow Fales – private bathroom with hot shower and flush toilet, sleeps up to 4.

    • Glamping Tent Fales – stylish canvas tents with private bathroom including a hot shower and composting toilets, sleeps 1–2.

  • A: Due to the remote setting, the resort is not wheelchair accessible.

  • A: Do not bring high-wattage appliances as we are fully solar-powered.

    • Each fale has a small solar charging unit suitable for phones.

    • Laptops and larger devices can be charged in the bar/dining area.

    • AC power is 230v/50hz with AUS/NZ plugs.

    • Do not bring voltage converters, but plug adaptors are fine.

    • We also provide most USB charging port types.

  • A: Yes – unlimited WiFi is available in the bar and dining area only (it does not extend to your fale), for NZ $50/person/stay. WiFi is available from 7am–9pm.

  • A: Smoking is not permitted in or near fales, or our bar/dining area. Please use outdoor areas away from others, and discard butts carefully.

  • A: Open daily 7:00am–9:00pm. Bar/dining closes at 9pm, and internet is turned off then to conserve power.

    • Breakfast: 7–9am

    • Lunch: 12:30pm (on the whale boat if scheduled)

    • Dinner: 7pm

🍽️Meals & Dietary Needs

  • A: The non-optional meal plan (NZD180 pp/day) includes:

    • Continental breakfast

    • Lunch (resort or whale boat)

    • Two-course dinner with a daily choice of vegetarian or meat option

  • A: No. Only vegetarian and meat-based options are offered. Guests with additional dietary needs or intolerances should note that Sea Change is likely not suitable. We cannot prepare special meals based on individual preferences (i.e., no garlic).

💳 Booking, Rates & Policies

  • A: (All prices in NZD)

    • Bungalow Fale: NZD 430/night

    • Tent Fale: NZD 380/night

  • A: Bookings are confirmed with full payment of our deposit and a signed Pre-Booking Declaration Form (health and diet details included).

  • A: All payments are non-refundable – no exceptions. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.

✈️ Getting to Sea Change

  • A:

    1. Fly to Tonga (Fuaʻamotu International Airport, Tongatapu).

    2. Take a domestic flight to Ha’apai via Lulutai Airlines (40 min).

    3. We’ll meet you for your 20-min boat transfer to Uoleva Island.
      Note: We are not a travel agent and cannot arrange your flights to Ha’apai.

  • A: Notify us via WhatsApp or email. We monitor schedules and adjust transfers when possible. You can also check the status of your Lulutai flight on their website under “Manage My Booking”.

  • A: Use waterproof bags, wear shorts/swimwear and sandals. Expect to step into ankle-deep water from the transfer boat. Be prepared for rain or splash.

🐋 Whale Swimming & Island Activities

  • A: mid-July–early October.

  • A:

    • ~5-hour tour with lunch

    • Max 4 swimmers per guide

    • Surface snorkeling only (no diving/free diving, by law)

    • Certified guides/skippers, fully equipped 7m RIB boats

  • A: You can bring your own snorkel gear, or use ours free of charge.

  • A:

    • Snorkeling & kayaking

    • Fishing charters (seasonal)

    • Deserted island day trips

    • Paddleboarding

    • Walks around Uoleva (10 km, 3–4 hrs)

  • A: While we do everything possible to give our guests the opportunity to swim with humpback whales, we cannot guarantee an encounter. These incredible animals are completely wild and their behaviour—and willingness to interact—depends on many natural factors such as weather, sea conditions, and the whales’ own comfort levels.  Our experienced skippers and guides are highly trained in locating whales and ensuring interactions are respectful, safe, and in line with Tonga’s regulations. Even on days when swimming isn’t possible, guests often enjoy unforgettable surface viewing experiences, including breaching, tail slaps, and whale songs heard through the hydrophone.  We promise to provide the best possible experience with the whales while always putting their wellbeing first.

🌿 Nature & Sustainability

  • A: Sea Change is fully off-grid, powered by solar energy and rainwater collection.

  • A: Hermit crabs, reef fish, seabirds, whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and more.

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❤️ Health, Safety & Conduct

  • A: Ha’apai has limited medical services, but a small health clinic with general doctors is available. Consult your doctor before travel.

  • A:

    • Follow guide/skipper instructions (failure may result in removal without refund).

    • No diving/free diving with whales.

    • Stay quiet in the water for better encounters.

    • Respect staff and guests – disruptive behavior may result in removal without refund.

  • A: Yes — medical, evacuation, and cancellation coverage is strongly recommended, remembering there are no refunds.

  • A: Yes — all guests must sign a liability waiver and the Pre-Booking Declaration.

📞 Contact Us

  • Email: info@seachangetonga.com