The Best Snorkel & Scuba Dive Tours in Tongatapu & Nuku’alofa

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Deep Blue Diving

Join a long-established dive, snorkel and whale swim operator in Nuku’alofa for a scuba diving or snorkelling expedition in tropical waters. Deep Blue Diving operates dive and snorkel tours from Tongatapu on one of the largest dive boats available on the islands, the MV Kiunia, which runs at a relaxed and comfortable pace with plenty of room to get divers and snorkelers ready.

There’s also a toilet on board! Although not used as often, Deep Blue also has a smaller aluminium boat used for some trips if appropriate.

Note that scuba diving and snorkelling tours are only available between November and June (in other words, outside of the whale season).

Scuba Diving with Deep Blue

Deep Blue Diving offers two-tank recreational dives with all equipment supplied, including wetsuits, tanks and BCDs (though it’s always best to bring your own if you have it).

The team provides outer and inner reef dives with lunch and refreshments throughout the day. Expect varied lunch options such as curry or chicken nuggets to keep you fuelled between dives.

Although PADI-affiliated, Deep Blue focuses solely on recreational diving and does not currently offer certification courses.

Learn more about dive sites in the 10 Best Dive Sites in Tonga.

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Snorkelling with Deep Blue

Outside of the whale season, Deep Blue offers snorkelling tours to the breathtaking ‘Atata Island within Tongatapu’s inner reef.

Although the island and surrounding reef have suffered some tsunami damage in recent years, marine life is protected as part of the ‘Atata Special Management Area (SMA) allowing life to regenerate so that it’s still one of the best places to snorkel in Tongatapu.

The flexible half-day tours stop at multiple reefs, giving you plenty of time to explore different underwater landscapes.

Deep Blue provides all the gear you’ll need for snorkelling, including snorkel, masks, fins and a wetsuit, as well as snacks and a cooked lunch.

Learn more about snorkelling hotspots in the 5 Best Places to Snorkel in Tongatapu.

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Pangaimotu Island Day Trip

Catch the Pangaimotu Island boat from Faua Wharf for a day of sand, sea and sun! Also known as King’s Island, Pangaimotu Island is your quintessential tropical island where you can spend the day snorkelling at the reef, walking on the beach and finding yourself a shady spot to relax under a coconut tree (watch your head).

This family-run operation keeps things simple and laid-back, giving you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. You can walk around the entire island in about 45 minutes, and snorkelling is excellent, especially at the shipwreck, near the pearl farm and at the reef on the southwest side at mid to high tide (ask the locals when you arrive if you’re unsure of the best spots).

Snorkelling gear is available but limited, so we recommend bringing your own. The island provides basic facilities including clean bathrooms and shaded areas, plus the option to purchase beers and drinks. Remember to bring your own food, water and any other supplies you’ll need for the day.

The boat operates on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Departures are at 11 am on Wednesdays and Saturdays, while Sunday departures are flexible between 10 am and 12 pm. Return times are flexible throughout the day – just listen for the bell signalling departure.

If you’d like to visit on other days of the week, you can book in advance through the Tonga Tourism Authority at the Visitor Information Fale, provided minimum numbers are met.