WHALE SONG PILGRIMAGE
with Francesca & Deva

August 16-23, 2026

Getting to Mo'orea

Traveling to Mo'orea is simple and convenient. There are direct flights from SFO & LAX to Papeete, Tahiti (PPT), followed by a scenic ferry ride to the heart-shaped island of Mo'orea.

If your flight arrives in the evening, you will need to stay overnight in Papeete and take the ferry the next day. There are plenty of accommodation options in this charming capital city.

We will spend our first night on Mo’orea at the iconic Sofitel Kia Ora Resort as a gentle landing.

For the rest of our stay, we will be on the more “locals” side of the island with its rustic charm and native vibes in a gorgeous waterfront villa on the Atiha Bay.

Francesca is a certified underwater guide with over 500 dives and extensive experience leading groups to swim with humpback whales in the pristine waters of French Polynesia. Her deep connection with oceanic wildlife, combined with her focus on safety and support in open water, makes her an exceptional guide for adventurous, confident swimmers drawn to the wonders of the natural world.

Francesca’s journey began as an English as a second language teacher before she transitioned into tourism. Her first role was at the Sofitel, where she discovered her love for hospitality and the ocean. She later joined a boat crew as a translator, which sparked her passion for leading wildlife tours and inspired her current career. Her expertise and love for the sea promise an unforgettable experience on this transformative journey.

Cedric – Your Captain
Cedric is an accomplished captain with decades of experience navigating challenging lagoons and open seas. Born and raised on the island of Mauritius, Cedric grew up surrounded by the ocean, developing his skills and love for the water from a young age. Thirty years ago, he relocated to French Polynesia, where he became a professional rower in traditional Hawaiian and Polynesian canoes ("holopuni" and "va'a").

In recent years, Cedric has brought his extensive maritime knowledge to whale swimming tours in Moorea. His expertise, steady leadership, and passion for Polynesian culture and marine life ensure a safe and enriching experience for all participants.

Deva Munay — Your Sound & Mindfulness Guide
Deva is devoted to the sacred art of remembrance. For over 25 years, she has been guiding others back to their true nature through sound, ritual, and deep presence.

Based at the Sacred Sound & Wonder Temple in Big Sur, California, Deva holds a degree in Sound Healing and Therapy from the Globe Institute of Sound & Consciousness and is known for her rare collection of Alchemy Crystal Singing Bowls. Her work has taken her across continents—from the temples of India, the jungles of Peru, praying in the pyramids of Egypt, and to the crystalline waters of French Polynesia—following the call of spirit and vibration.

Deva is a co-producer and artist on Overlapping Halos: The Poetry of Hafiz and Lifting the Sky: Dawn to Dreams, with her third album, Moonrise, coming in late 2025, produced by Jeff Bhasker. She is also a beloved faculty member at Esalen Institute.

The Whale Song Pilgrimage is an extension of her deepest calling: to create spaces where the wild, the sacred, and the human heart meet—guided by the ancient wisdom of the whales and the transformative power of sound.

Whale Song Pilgrimage Packing List
Recommended items to support your comfort, joy, and well-being:

For the Water:

• Mask and snorkel

• Fins

• Full or half wetsuit (a 3/2 is ideal if you get cold easily)

• Light cap for boat days and sun hat

• Wind and rain jacket

• Neoprene booties, hat, and gloves for extra warmth and comfort

• If you are susceptible to seasickness, taking ginger or Dramamine beforehand is a good precaution. There is also a seasickness medicine called Mercalm that is available at local pharmacies on the island, which people have found effective.

Clothing:

• Lightweight sundresses or easy summer layers

• Yoga pants or comfortable pants for movement and lounging

• Light to mid-weight sweater or wrap for cool mornings/evenings

• Swimsuits (2 to 5 is ideal; it’s nice to have a dry suit to lounge in!)

• Sleepwear

• Undergarments

• Jacket - evenings and early mornings can be chilly

Footwear:

• Sandals/flip-flops

• Water shoes (optional)

• Hiking/walking shoes

Self-Care & Toiletries:

• Reef-safe sunscreen

• Moisturizer and face serum

• Body oil or lotion

• Hydrosol or facial mist

• Lavender essential oil (great for soothing sunburn or bug bites)

• Natural bug repellent (e.g., DoTerra or citronella-based)

• Shampoo and conditioner

• Hair ties (especially for longer hair)

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Deodorant

• Razor, if needed

• Menstrual products, if applicable

Electronics:

• Phone charger

• Electrical adapters, most places have standard European style 220V plugs.

• You generally won’t need a voltage converter, but double-check your specific items

• Underwater camera (optional)

Wellness & Snacks:

• Hydration packets or electrolyte tabs (e.g., Nuun)

• Trail mix, energy bars, or favorite snacks for boat days

• Refillable water bottle

• Journal and pen

• Any personal supplements or medications

• Motion well-ness medication

Optional Extras:

• Waterproof phone case

• Small dry bag

• Favorite book

• Eye mask/earplugs

• Light shawl or scarf

• Travel-sized laundry detergent (for rinsing suits/clothes)

🐳 Why Whales? Why Moorea?

Every year, humpback whales migrate to the warm, protected waters of Moorea — a sacred birthing ground. Their presence is both cosmic and deeply embodied.

Whales are sonic beings. Their songs carry codes of remembrance, ancestral wisdom, and deep emotional healing. In the waters of Moorea, we meet them in reverence, and allow their presence to awaken our own soul song.

Words & Phrases to Know
I invite you to embody the Polynesian spirit of mālama—to care for and preserve—and carry these words with you as we enter this sacred relationship with place, people, and ocean.

• Ia’Orana (ee-your-rah-nah) – Hello / Good morning

• Nana (nah-nah) – Goodbye

• Māuruuru (mah-uh-roo-ruu) – Thank you!

  • if you add roa (row ah) at the end, it means ‘thank you very much’

• Manuia (mah-nwee-yah) – Cheers!

• Poisson Cru (pwuh-son-crew) – Traditional Polynesian ceviche with coconut milk

• Roulotte (who-luht) – Food truck

• Mai Tai (may tay) – “What’s up?” / “All good” – and a tropical cocktail

• Marae (mah-rah-ay) – Sacred temples of the native people

• Motu (mow-too) – Small island formed from coral

• Moana – Ocean

• Ra – Sun

• Fenua – Land / Earth

• Tohora’a – Whale

• I’a – Fish

• Re’are’a – Dolphin

• Honū – Turtle

I know that some of you haven’t swum in the open ocean before—please know that you will be in good hands. This is an incredible experience, and with a little time practicing with your fins, mask, and snorkel (even in a pool!) before the pilgrimage, you’ll be well-prepared.

Many people on last year’s trip had their very first experience in the open ocean on the first day of the pilgrimage, and they adapted beautifully. There’s something deeply natural about returning to the womb of the great mother—it’s instinctive, and she holds us in ways beyond words.

Sample Itinerary, subject to minor tweaks based on weather and group flow:

(Note: Those arriving late at night will need to land a day early in Tahiti and stay overnight to catch the ferry the next day.)
Day 1 (Sunday, August 16th): Arrival on the island of Mo’orea

Noon: Arrive on the beautiful island of Mo’orea via ferry

• Enjoy a welcome drink at the Sofitel

• 2:00 pm Group Introductions

  • time to ensure everyone has the proper gear for whale swimming, and a time for Q&A

• Afternoon lagoon snorkel

• 6:30 pm Welcome Dinner at the resort

Day 2 (Monday, August 17th): Transfer to Mo’orea Blue Villa

• Morning snorkel or massage (optional, massage subject to additional fee)

• Buffet brunch/breakfast at the Sofitel

• Say goodbye to the Sofitel at noon

• 1/2 tour of the island

• Settle into our villa for the remainder of our stay

• Dinner at our villa

Day 3 (Tuesday, August 18th): First Whale Swim & Evening Sound Meditation

• Morning Whale Swim/Snorkel, guided by Francesca

• Guided tour of Mo’orea’s breathtaking beaches and lush landscapes.

• A sound ceremony to connect to the waters

• Meals: Breakfast and Lunch are included at the retreat house.

  • We suggest eating a simple breakfast before the whale swim and bringing snacks for the boat.

Dinner at a local restaurant

Day 4 (Wednesday, August 19th): Morning Whale Swim & Yoga

• Morning swim with the Humpback Whales, guided by Francesca.

• Afternoon hike or island activity to connect.

• Meals: Breakfast and Lunch are included at the retreat house.

  • We suggest eating a simple breakfast before the whale swim and bringing snacks for the boat.

• Dinner at a local restaurant

Day 5 (Thursday, August 20th): Full-Day Whale Swim & Lagoon Tour

• Full-day adventure: swim with whales (conditions permitting), explore the lagoon, and visit the coral garden.

• Enjoy a delicious lunch at Coco Beach (food and drink not included).

• Wrap up the day with a magical swim among turtles, sharks, and stingrays in their natural habitat.
  

Day 6 (Friday, August 21st): Morning Whale Swim

Morning swim with the whales to deepen your connection to these magnificent beings.

• Afternoon movement practice, journaling, and integration circle or island exploration

• Meals: Lunch and dinner are included at the retreat house.

  • We suggest eating a simple breakfast before the whale swim and bringing snacks for the boat.

Day 7 (Saturday, August 22nd): Integration Circle & Traditional Dance Show at the Sofitel

• Morning hike through Moorea’s scenic trails.

• Afternoon dance or art workshop.

• Lunch at a local street food truck (cost: $15-$20 USD).

• Dinner at the Sofitel with a traditional dance show

Day 8 (Sunday, August 23rd): Gratitude Practice & Departure

• Gather for a nourishing farewell breakfast at the villa

• Give thanks for our beautiful week together!

• Departures begin at 11 am

Registration and Payment Details

$5400 for a solo room at the villa (the room at the Sofitel will be a double or triple room for one night)

$5200 each for a shared room

A non-refundable deposit of $1000 is required to hold your space.

Please fill out the registration form if you are interested in joining us in 2026!

Check the Ferry Schedule Here for the Full Availability:

https://www.terevau.pf/en/schedules/

https://www.aremitiexpress.com/en/home/#changer-de-semaine

https://www.vaearai.com/en/home/

Our Villa