Monthly Archives: September 2011

Swimming with whales in Tonga

Posted on September 29, 2011 by Doug Hoffman

This going to be the first of many posts about this season in Tonga.  I feel so fortunate to have swam with so many whales.  I would like to thank the Naia and Whale Discoveries for all their efforts. This … Continue reading →

Posted in Decor, Gallery, Island scenic, marine, photography workshops, Travel, whales | Tagged | Leave a comment

Diving with Sharks in Fiji

Posted on September 28, 2011 by Doug Hoffman

I have been diving with Aqua Trek in Pacific Harbor Fiji, the last two days.  The currents have been very strong about 3 knots.  Today we had a group complete their open water dive certification and on their first dive … Continue reading →

Posted in marine, photography workshops, Travel | 1 Comment

rainy days

Posted on September 22, 2011 by Doug Hoffman

When planning a vacation I hope for great weather but expect some rain.  This year we have had our share of rainy days, wind, and big waves.  That being said we have had some stellar days!  This years season is … Continue reading →

Posted in photography workshops, Travel | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Sunlight is bathing this baby whale

Posted on September 15, 2011 by Doug Hoffman

While diving the outside wall at Molokini Crater in Maui, this whale swam by to say hello.    The encounter was brief but it had great impact. The mom was below at a depth of about 40 feet.   I loved how … Continue reading →

Posted in Decor, marine, photography workshops, Travel, whales | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Toku Island in Tonga – Where the Humpback Whales Play

Posted on September 14, 2011 by Doug Hoffman

A few years ago I heard about Toku Island from local a fishermen in Vavau’ Tonga.  We were returning from a day of whale watching and saw the Dave the fisherman offloading fish.  When I asked about where he was … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | 2 Comments

Sharks of Fiji

Posted on September 13, 2011 by Doug Hoffman

In 2007, I was in Tonga, on a humpback whale trip with underwater photographers Mark Strickland and Tim Rock.  During the week we had dinner a few times with Mike Neumann, the owner of Beqa Adventure Divers in Pacific Harbor … Continue reading →

Posted in photography workshops, Travel, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

The Naia’ Liveaboard – What a wonderful expereince

Posted on September 12, 2011 by Doug Hoffman

I got off the Naia’ yesterday having enjoyed a 10 day Naia cruise in Ha’apai Tonga.  I will miss the the entire Naia crew consisting of  Sam, Brigitte, Mo, Suli, Joji, Sereana, Koroi, Peni, & Peni, Jogn, Richard, and Esava.  … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Tonga

Posted on September 11, 2011 by Doug Hoffman

Wow.  I just got off the Naia liveabaord in Tonga.  We had some great whale encounters regardless of raging wind and big seas.  The crew was great and the guests were a lot of fun.    Today I am going to … Continue reading →

Posted in photography workshops, Travel, whales | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Tradtional Sailing Canoe referred to as a Vaka

Posted on September 11, 2011 by Doug Hoffman

This Vaka or traditional sailing canoe is heading for its night anchorage.  The boat has 12-14 crew and is 75 feet long.  It uses no motor and follows the navigation techniques used by the old time sailors of a time … Continue reading →

Posted in Island scenic, marine, photography workshops, Travel | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Local Style

Posted on September 10, 2011 by Doug Hoffman

Their are hundreds of small islands in Tonga, and many of the people use local boats like this to go to town and do shopping.  Its really amazing how many people and supplies that they put in thee little boats.

Posted in Decor, Island scenic, photography workshops, Travel | Tagged , | Leave a comment