ABOUT MOUNU...
Mounu Island is a 6.5-acre eco-resort in Tonga’s Vava’u archipelago, surrounded by white sandy beaches and coconut palms. Built by Allan and Lyn Bowe with the help of local tradesmen in 1996, it offers a peaceful retreat with a focus on sustainability and preserving the natural environment. The Bowe family pioneered whale swimming tours in Tonga. They bring 30 years' experience of living here, employing and collaborating with the local people, and taking guests to swim with humpback whales,
Visitors can be as adventurous as they like with action packed days or laze in the sun watching the world go by.
With ongoing environmental projects including advocacy for the protection of the Whales, Mounu Island provides a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation in a pristine, natural setting. Allan and Lyn's daughter Kirsty Bowe continues her parents' legacy.
How to find Mounu Island
Mounu Island is a secluded, remote paradise located in the stunning Vava’u archipelago of Tonga.
Its exclusivity and natural beauty make it the perfect escape, but reaching this hidden gem requires planning. Whether flying from nearby islands or internationally, there are several routes to explore.
You can fly via New Zealand to land in Nuku’alofa, the capital of Tonga and then transfer to Vava'u, or fly directly into Vava’u from Nadi, Fiji:
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Fiji Airways offers routes from Nadi to Nuku’alofa or directly into Vava’u.
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Air New Zealand flies from Auckland to Nuku’alofa
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Qantas flies from Sydney to Nuku’alofa.
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For domestic connections, Lulutai Airlines offers flights between Tonga’s islands Contact them at info@lulutai-airlines.to or reach out to Discover Tonga at support@discovertonga.org, who can assist with booking your domestic tickets.
ALL GUESTS TO TRAVEL WITH FULL TRAVEL INSURANCE
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Are children allowed on Mounu Island?Yes, families with children are welcome with prior arrangement with management. However, please be mindful that the island’s tranquil atmosphere is best suited for couples and those seeking a peaceful getaway.
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What is included in my booking?Your booking includes accommodation in a private, Tongan-style fale, A guided snorkel tour of the back reef and bonfire on the beach are complimentary (weather permitting) Meal plan packages are available, transfers, beverages, souvenir/gifts and excursions can be charged separately and paid upon departure.
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What is the cancellation policy?A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your reservation. This deposit can be transferred to other available dates within the same price bracket, depending on notice given. Full payment is due upon arrival.
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What should I pack for my stay?We recommend packing light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal items you may need, as the island is remote with limited access to stores. An adequate supply of personal medications is essential. A headtorch for walking back to your fale in the evenings. Bring your own mask, snorkel and fins - the will fit your face and feet better then borrowed ones.
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Do I need travel insurance?ALL GUESTS TO TRAVEL WITH FULL TRAVEL INSURANCE. Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all guests. This should cover any potential flight delays, cancellations, medical emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances.
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Can I hire the entire island for a private event or group stay?Yes, Mounu Island is available for private hire. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a friend's getaway, a meditation retreat or another special event, you can reserve the entire island for your exclusive use. We offer complete privacy and personalized service for your group. Contact us directly for availability, pricing, and tailored arrangements to make your stay unforgettable.
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What is the best time of year to visit Mounu Island?The whale-watching season runs from July to October, making it the most popular time to visit. However, the island is beautiful year-round, with pleasant tropical weather during most months.
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Is Wi-Fi available on the island?Wi-Fi is available on the island, but please note that the connection can be intermittent due to its remote location. We encourage guests to embrace the tranquility and disconnect from technology during their stay.
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Important Booking ConditionsA 25% deposit is required to confirm your reservation. This is non-refundable but transferable to available dates within the same price bracket (depending on notice given). Full payment is due upon arrival. Additional activities, excursions, beverages, activities or handicraft purchases can be settled upon departure. Payments can be made via bank transfer (including bank fees) or by credit card with a 5% surcharge.
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Is there medical assistance on the island?There is no medical facility on the island. The nearest hospital is located in Neiafu (pronounced “knee ah foo”), the township in Vava'u. Medical services are limited. We recommend guests carry a first aid kit and ensure their travel insurance includes medical evacuation coverage in case of emergencies.
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What types of activities are available on the island?Guests enjoy activities like whale watching (seasonal), snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and kite surfing. Private excursions like diving, sailing, fishing, visiting the local bird colonies, visiting one of the local villages or attending church and or other special places are also arranged upon request.
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Can I pay by credit card?Yes, we accept credit card payments, but please note there is a 5% surcharge. Bank transfers are also accepted, and any fees must be covered by the guest.
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Are there dining options on the island?Yes, Mounu Island has an on-site restaurant offering fresh, locally sourced meals. Meal plans are available for guests. Special dietary requirements can be catered for if requested in advance.
HISTORY OF MOUNU ISLAND
1993
The Birth of Humpback Whale Encounters
Allan and Lyn brought their 70ft charter boat to Tonga in 1992 and fell in love with the Country, its people and the whales. Allan swam several times with the whales that year, fearful at first that turning into fasination and awe which he wanted to share with others.
They returned in 1993, Lyn running the Bounty Bar in Vava'u and Allan obtaining the first license to swim with the whales.
Trips would depart at 10am and be back by 2pm. Allan invited scientists from around the world in the first few years so he could learn more about the whales. Over the years and with camera development observations of in water behaviour of the whales has helped the scientists have a better understanding of the whales.
Allan advocated for the local artists in Tonga to make smaller handicrafts that tourists could take home. The sleepy township of Vava'u is now recognised as one the best places in the world to swim with the whales. A close encounter of a special kind.
Allan worked hard to develop the whale watch regulations, whale swim guide training and encouraged/mentored the young local girls and guys to have a newfound respect for the whales.
1996
Mounu Island as we know it...
Allan and his wife Lyn took their dream one step further when they built Mounu Island - a secluded eco-resort nestled in the Vava'u archipelago. The island became so much more than a resort; it was a place of refuge in order to relearn from nature and from oneself.
Lyn's passion is visable in the gardens and paths that meander through the Island.
Allan's passion for conservation came alive in leading projects such as rat eradication on Mananita, volcanic mount surveys, reef surveys and the conservation of turtles to ensure this haven was to be enjoyed by future generations.
The loved Vava'u, the people of Vava'u, the whales and were proud to call Mounu their home
2006-2024
Sustainable Whale Watching & Protection advocates
As license numbers have increased in Vava'u so has our team's determination to ensure we act responsibly both on the water with the boat and in the water as guests in their domain.
Our skippers and guides are licensed and knowledgeable. They will ensure your day is safe and educational and that you come away with a newfound respect for the whales and the environment.
It is a privilege to be able to swim with whales and when done in sustainable way we can ensure the whales will remain in their long-time breeding grounds.
It is important to understand that it is not guaranteed that we swim every day.
Understanding whale behaviour and following the regulations is paramount. At no time do we put stress upon the whales. Weather and sea conditions also play a major role - not every day is flat calm and although we do look for whales in sheltered areas some days you could be swimming in open ocean in choppy conditions.
That being said to get the most out of your experience it is worth putting some time into being swim fit and confident using your mask, snorkel and fins.
**WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR** KIRSTY INTERVIEW