About Us
Entering our 34th season of adventure tours in the South Pacific!
The hallmarks of Friendly Islands Kayak trips include a healthy balance between relaxation and adventure; cultural diversity; tropical paddling; superb snorkelling; friendly locals; and experienced guides.
We offer 9 different multi-day tour packages in the Vava'u and Ha'apai island groups of Tonga for everyone from novice to experienced paddlers including camping and resort based trips. The two island groups differ in many ways. Returning guests say they gain a different tour experience and a deeper appreciation of Tongan culture and tradition. We also offer day trips in Vava'u on demand.
If you've already visited Tonga, consider the Yasawa Islands of Fiji as your kayak destination this year. Though the paddling and snorkelling experiences may be similar to those in Tonga, the Melanesian and Polynesian cultures have unique enchanting differences.
Journey with us on a South Pacific adventure and spend your evenings on deserted beaches beneath waving palms bathed by warm South Pacific breezes.
Our Mission
"To promote fun, safe adventure activities within an atmosphere of harmony and unity, specifically between the indigenous people, their natural environment and their guests."
Our growing company continues to provide a friendly, professional service to travellers seeking adventure and contact with different cultures in a pristine, tropical environment.
Guiding, instructing and organizing trips is only part of our job. We are also actively committed to protecting Tonga and Fiji's unique culture and pristine environments and to sharing these special aspects in a safe, responsible manner.
Reservations are advised, as we restrict group size to a maximum of twelve. We welcome participants of all ages and abilities, families, groups and any pre-trip questions.
Our Staff
Doug and Sharon Spence, Directors
Originally from Vancouver Island, Canada, the travel itch led Sharon and Doug to explore the South Pacific by sea kayak in 1989. Captivated by Tonga's natural beauty and friendly natives, the couple was inspired to establish a sea kayak business in situ. Together with their two Chinese adopted daughters, they spend southern hemisphere winters in the tropical Kingdom and summers in New Zealand's South Island with occasional visits with extended family in Victoria, British Columbia in-between.
'Epeli and Valeti Lavaki, Directors
Natives of Vava'u, Tonga, 'Epeli and Valeti have been company shareholders since its inception in 1991. 'Epeli's charisma, sense of humour, and intimate knowledge of his homeland never fail to win his guests' hearts. Valeti manages the Company's Tonga office in her typically calm, reliable way, ever ready to assist.
Glenis Miller, Reservations Consultant
When Sharon's on tour, capable Glenis continues FIKCo's friendly customer service helping our guests fulfill their dreams of a kayak adventure in a tropical paradise.
'Ioane Fifita, Senior Guide
'Ioane's playfulness and infectious laugh are great value on tour. Beneath his mischievous exterior is an intelligent, resourceful young man who is always ready to assist his guests. In fact, his nickname, 'Io means "yes"!
Siaosi Taufa, Junior Guide
George grew up in a small outer island village in Vava'u where he learned diverse practical skills on both land and sea. His seamanship and local knowledge are great assets on our kayak tours.
Ofa Loketi
26 May 1982 - 20 February 2018 Rest in Peace
Ofa was a stellar guide and man of integrity with many talents, in particular his contribution to Tonga's rugby and eco-tourism. Many from around the world will miss Ofa's friendly, cheerful manner and wit. Ofa atu.
Testimonials
"I still often enjoy remembering my trip with you (Sharon). It was in fact in August 1997. I am so pleased that Sharon and Doug Spence are still running The Friendly Islands Kayak Company and have obviously grown from when I had my fun time with you.
Everything was so well organised and allowed for planned variations if contingencies occurred. Also your special attention to your clients. Thank you again for such a wonderful memory and would gladly come again if I was able to get away."
-Reece