Tahiti

Explore French Polynesia
Islands that evoke a beautiful state of mind

French Polynesia, often referred to as “Tahiti and her Islands”, wears a particular atmosphere blending French sophistication with the local joyful and party-like spirit. The native people combine the XXI century way of life with ancestral rhythms of the sun and the sea.
At first glimpse, the 118 islands of French Polynesia seem to inspire as little activity as possible – lounging on the beach, taking a dip in warm, turquoise water and napping in an overwater bungalow – but this archetypal island paradise presents plenty of adventures to entice you away from more sedentary pursuits. The archipelago of the Society Islands has historically been appreciated by charterers, visiting such incredibly iconic places as Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea or Taha’a. They offer the most comprehensive array of activities, both on land and in the water.

Climate

Tahiti and her islands are located South of the equator, halfway between California and Australia. The climate is moderate tropical, warm and humid with two distinct seasons. The average temperature is around 27°C. The waters in the lagoon average 26°C in the winter and 29°C in summer. Summer is from November through April, with a warmer and more humid climate. Winter is from May through October, when the climate is slightly cooler and drier. The dry and windy season lasts from March to November, when the temperatures are cooled by the regular southeast trade winds called Mara’amu. April, June September are very good months, with July and August being the tourist peak months. The rainier months are January and February, with brief heavy rains but still warm temperatures.

Underwater

Because of its exceptional biodiversity, scientists consider the Polynesian Sea zone to be the “richest aquarium on earth”. The crystal-clear waters of Tahiti and its islands are home to more than 1,000 species of fish shared between the lagoon, the reef and the ocean. Schools of damselfish, mullet and soldierfish frolic in the coral lace-work as striped convict surgeonfish and frowning Picasso triggerfish pass by.

Culture

Tahitians describe their laid-back culture as ‘aita pea pea,’ an expression meaning ‘not to worry’ in English. The bustling Papeete Municipal Market, the vibrant nightlife of Tahiti’s capital, and the young people practicing their hip-hop skills on the street are the noisiest things visitors are likely to encounter during their stay on this tranquil, yet friendly island – commonly the start and finish of your superyacht Charter.

History

The first people to set eyes on Tahiti and French Polynesia’s other isolated islands migrated from Southeast Asia roughly 4,000 years ago. Most of today’s South Pacific residents are descendants of these sailors who navigated the Pacific Ocean’s challenging waters aboard wooden canoes stitched with natural fibers.

DAY ONE – Papeete

Fly into Papeete to join the yacht anchored in the lagoon and freshen up. Step on board and let the crew introduce you to your new home for the next seven days, with a welcome greeting by the local dancers.
After settling in, let the crew guide you through the island towards the local markets: your first authentic taste of the island’s vibrant spirit. At most resorts throughout the islands, a Tama’ara’a or Tahitian Feast is held at least once a week. This involves cooking in a ahima’a (an oven that has been dug into the ground). Food is wrapped in banana leaves and the hole is covered with sand making it airtight. Cooking can take up to several hours but is well worth the wait as the food comes out soft, tender and fall off the bone ready for you to indulge in. We will spend the evening in Papeete on board.

DAY TWO – Moorea [1 hour]

In the morning we head out to Moorea. Moorea is one of the most scenically striking islands in French Polynesia. Possessing a relaxed vibe and welcoming spirit, Moorea is just as warm and inviting as the Tahitians lucky enough to call this island home. Let the tender transfer you towards a much-anticipated experience: swim and hand-feed friendly sharks & stingrays. This once in a lifetime moment is one of the most thrilling and memory-making. You will be able to get in the water and swim with the graceful animals, or simply watch from the comfort of the tender. In the afternoon the Crew will take you ashore, driving via Four Wheel Drive to explore around the island. This is a great way to discover volcanic islands such as Moorea. Overnight we travel to Huahine which is 70 nautical miles to the North West.

DAY THREE – Huahine [7 hours]

After cruising through the night, we wake up at Huahine for breakfast. The island is equivalent to the Garden of Eden. Beyond its lush landscapes and bright blooms, Huahine is also a culturally preserved sanctuary with sacred temples. The island feels like you are stepping back in time; this is a much different kind of French Polynesian experience. Undoubtedly, this area will leave you spellbound… In the afternoon lunch is created in shape of a real traditional experience: a Motu Picnic on a private sandy beach, while resting your feet in the clear water and enjoying the delights the island has to offer. Tour the ancient Marae (archeological site), and upon your return gather to feed the sacred blue-eyed eels of Faie Village. You also have the opportunity to snorkel in coral gardens.

DAY FOUR – Raiatea [2.5 hours]

Early this morning, we cruise to Raiatea to visit the many pearl farms located inside the lagoon. The world-renowned iridescent lustre of Mother Nature’s most perfect gem can only be created in Tahiti’s warm lagoon waters.
Commonly known around the world as Black Pearls, each Tahitian Cultured Pearl ranges in size and shape and the colours vary from the darkest black to shimmering shades of green, blue, bronze, aubergine, or even pink. After an afternoon of exploring, we indulge in a delicious meal on board and spend the night over the calm ocean.

DAY FIVE – Taha’a [1 hour]

We continue our journey to Taha’a which is enclosed just like Raiatea by the coral reef. Suitably shaped like a flower, the island is also an immense natural greenhouse for the highly-prized Tahitian vanilla orchid. Thanks to this abundance, the intoxicating and delicious scent of vanilla pervades the air in Taha’a: this island is just as sweet as it sounds. Enjoy a long lunch onboard before getting ready to discover the vanilla plantations and the local produce derived from it. Since the scenery here is especially remarkable, Taha’a is ideal for hiking. Explore these ascending slopes and deep valleys while discovering the diverse flora and fauna along the way. Snorkelling is also a splendid pastime in Taha’a. The island’s underwater paradise is sheltered by a shallow coral garden between Motu Maharare and Motu Tautau, where you can drift snorkel amidst scores of intensely hued tropical fish.

DAY SIX – Bora Bora [2 hours]

This morning, we travel 2 hours to well-known Bora Bora – from the superb comfort of your superyacht sanctuary. Delight in the amazing view of the atoll and the villas facing you over the water. Bora Bora is undoubtedly the most celebrated island in the South Pacific, it is French Polynesia’s leading lady. Romantics from around the world celebrate this island where the lush tropical slopes and valleys of Mount Otemanu blossom with hibiscus, while palm-covered motu circle the illuminated lagoon like a delicate necklace. Enjoy its perfect white sand beaches and dive into azure waters where tropical-colored fish animate the coral gardens and giant manta rays leisurely glide past.

DAY SEVEN – Bora Bora

Wake up in this incomparable landscape, in the middle of the Bora Bora lagoon, and follow the smell of French Crepes for a delicious breakfast on the aft deck. The wonderful thing about Bora Bora is that you can be as active or inactive as you wish to be.
There are so many activities in the world’s most famous lagoon! Since water is a way of life on the island, popular lagoon excursions include snorkeling, diving, cruising, fishing, paddle boarding, kitesurfing, jet skiing, and shark and ray feeding. You can also explore in and around the lagoon with a seabob. After spending the afternoon in the crystal-clear waters, come back on board for sunset cocktails in the jacuzzi. We will enjoy a delicious dinner to recount all of our day adventures around the table.

DAY EIGHT – Bora-Bora to Papeete [2 hours]

On the last day you say goodbye to your amazing crew onboard, and are transferred to the airport for your flight to Papeete, going home with unique memories or continuing your adventure.