Board your yacht in Papeete, Tahiti, and be welcomed with refreshing cocktails and a sense of adventure. As soon as you’re settled in, the yacht will weigh anchor and cross the channel to Mo’orea, where emerald peaks soar above the purest turquoise waters. Drop anchor in Cook’s Bay, and in the afternoon snorkel with the stingrays and spot juvenile blacktip sharks in the shallows.
A full day in Mo’orea follows when you explore the inner lagoon and the island’s lush interior, go paddleboarding in the quiet anchorage or relax on deck while dolphins play in the distance. Humpback whales are typically present here from mid-July through mid-November, with the peak season around August and September, and having a private tour guide to see them is suggested.
The next morning, set sail for Huahine, some 90 nautical miles away. Arriving mid-afternoon, you’ll be struck by the island’s unspoiled charm. Known as the “Garden Island”, Huahine is dotted with ancient Marae temples (open-air meeting grounds) and vanilla plantations and surrounded by secluded coves. Anchor near Fare Village to explore ashore, or swim from the yacht into waters full of marine life and so clear that coral heads appear close enough to touch.
Two full days allow you to experience the island at an easy pace. By tender visit Avea Bay, a perfect crescent of sand where you can swim and snorkel in calm waters or perhaps visit a pearl farm. Another day could be spent cycling quiet island roads, wandering through archaeological ruins, or simply enjoying the stillness of a hidden anchorage.
From Huahine, a short sail brings you to Raiatea, considered the sacred heart of Polynesia. Head to shore for a stroll through the botanical gardens and then take an outrigger boat to visit Marae Taputapuatea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the centre of Polynesian navigation and culture. Later, go by tender up the Faaroa River, the only navigable river in French Polynesia, where dense, lush jungle lines the riverbanks.
The following morning you cross the lagoon to Taha’a. Known as the “Vanilla Island”, Taha’a is tranquil and fragrant. Visit a vanilla plantation, explore a pearl farm, or drift-snorkel through the Coral Garden, where a gentle current carries you through a living aquarium of brilliant coral and tropical fish. With two nights here, there is time to truly relax, perhaps anchoring off a sandy islet for a barbecue on the beach or indulging in water sports from the yacht’s swim platform.
Finally, sail toward Bora Bora, the jewel of the South Pacific. As you pass through Teavanui Pass, the sight of Mount Otemanu rising above the vast lagoon is unforgettable. Anchor with sweeping views of the mountain and spend the afternoon snorkelling, kayaking, or simply floating in warm, clear waters.
Your last full day is dedicated to Bora Bora’s lagoon, where you can swim with rays and reef sharks and explore tiny palm-fringed islets. Explore the coral gardens bursting with marine life, including turtles. Throughout your trip through French Polynesia, you’ll see small, low-lying islets or motus that have formed on the fringes of coral atolls or lagoons. They are quiet, scenic stops for swimming, snorkelling or a possible beach picnic.
As evening falls, dine on deck and enjoy your last evening onboard under the stars, with Mount Otemanu silhouetted against the night sky.
The best time for a yacht charter in French Polynesia is during the dry season, from May to October, when you'll find comfortable temperatures and consistent trade winds ideal for sailing. The peak season is in June, July, and August. Because of the distances involved, we’d suggest a one-way charter from Tahiti to Bora Bora and take it at a more leisurely pace over at least 10 days, although just seven nights would be possible.
French Polynesia is a highly sought-after tourist destination, particularly Bora Bora and Tahiti which are known for luxury resorts and a high influx of visitors. Other islands, such as Huahine and Raiatea offer a more laid-back experience with fewer tourists and more local interaction. But what better way to visit this popular destination than on a private yacht with a knowledgeable Captain.
Please get in touch to discuss the range of yachts available, which ranges from small catamarans to superyachts. We look forward to helping you plan this tropical adventure.
