A complete yacht charter guide that has everything you need to know about your next sailing holidays in French Polynesia. Discover a place unspoiled by tourists and seemingly reserved just for you, where barrier reefs offer protection from a hectic world. Want to know more? Keep reading…
Let’s get started.
French Polynesia, encompassing Tahiti, Bora Bora, and the Society Islands, generally experiences its driest conditions from May through October, which corresponds to the local winter. Gentle southeast trade winds of 10–20 knots prevail, delivering comfortable sailing across the region’s stunning lagoons and atolls. November to April brings a warmer, more humid climate with a higher chance of rain and occasional tropical depressions. Cruising in the dry season typically ensures clearer waters for snorkeling and reduced risk of unpredictable storms, allowing for a more tranquil exploration of these South Pacific gems.
What are the sailing qualification and license requirements to charter a yacht or catamaran in French Polynesia? Though not heavily policed in terms of a specific French Polynesian sailing license, many charter companies recommend holding an ICC, RYA, or ASA qualification to simplify insurance and demonstrate adequate expertise. In practice, a robust sailing resume outlining reef navigation, mooring, and coastal cruising experience can be sufficient if you are confident in your skills. Tahiti, Bora Bora, and the Society Islands present picturesque lagoon sailing and moderate trade winds, though hidden coral heads (known as “bommies”) and swiftly changing weather conditions demand alert seamanship. If you are new to these waters, a crewed or skippered charter allows carefree exploration of this South Pacific paradise.
In French Polynesia’s islands—Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea—you’ll encounter a laid-back ambiance steeped in Polynesian traditions like pareo weaving, Ori Tahiti dancing, and fire knife performances. Local cuisine spotlights poisson cru (marinated raw fish in coconut milk), breadfruit, and tropical fruits like papaya and pineapple. French influences appear in fresh baguettes and pastries sold at waterfront bakeries. Tattoo artistry holds profound cultural significance here; visiting local tattoo artists can provide deeper cultural insight. Immersing yourself in these customs and flavors elevates your French Polynesia sailing vacation well beyond the postcard-perfect beaches.
All visiting yachts must clear customs and immigration in official entry ports like Papeete (Tahiti). Certain atolls and lagoons, especially those designated as protected areas, restrict anchoring to preserve fragile coral habitats, providing mooring buoys for visiting vessels. Keep your vessel registration, proof of insurance, and crew manifest readily accessible for inspections by local officials. Aligning with these guidelines supports conservation efforts while granting a tranquil, regulation-friendly journey among French Polynesia’s turquoise havens.
Sailing Holidays in French Polynesia...at a glance
A Yacht charter in French Polynesia is known as the definition of paradise and we couldn't agree more. Within a remote group of islands, the Society Islands, you will find Tahiti, the idyllic Bora Bora, as well as Raiatea - known as the Windward and Leeward Islands. White, sandy beaches, pristine, turquoise lagoons and exciting aquatic wildlife await you and the hospitality of the locals is definitely going to make you want to return to this sailing region again and again.
Ponder the source of towering waterfalls and marvel at the sacred site of ancient temples. On a Tahiti yacht charter you can start from Raiatea and set sail to the Bora Bora, as well as Tupuai, Maupiti, Tahaa, Huahine, Moorea and Tahiti.
French Polynesia is essentially a year-round destination, however, we recommend visiting this region from March to October. The prevailing SE winds are generally light averaging 10-15 knots; it is only in July and August that you will find stronger winds of 20-30 knots and swells of 3-4 ft., which calls for more experienced sailors on board. You can expect a warm and dry climate and the temperature usually ranges between 25 - 35 degrees Celsius.
Most yacht charters in this region start from Raiatea on the island of Tahiti. You can fly to the international airport in Papeete and then catch a connecting flight to Raiatea (Uturoa Airport) with Air Tahiti.
Transfer Time: 25 mins
Day 1: Raiatea Marina – Motu Taoru (6 NM)
Depart from Raiatea Marina and enjoy a short sail to Motu Taoru, a peaceful islet just off the eastern reef. Begin your journey with a swim in the coral-rich lagoon and a sunset view of the island's mountainous interior.
Day 2: Motu Taoru – Ha’amene Bay, Taha’a (5 NM)
Sail north to Ha’amene Bay on Taha’a, known for its deep anchorage and lush, vanilla-scented hills. Moor near the village and enjoy the authentic Polynesian atmosphere or take a short hike ashore.
Day 3: Ha’amene Bay – Motu Tautau (14 NM)
Cruise around Taha’a to Motu Tautau, located just across from the renowned Le Taha’a Resort. Anchor in crystal-clear shallows and snorkel the coral garden known for vibrant marine life and gentle currents.
Day 4: Motu Tautau – Motu To’opua, Bora Bora (25 NM)
Make the crossing to Bora Bora and anchor off Motu To’opua, with postcard views of Mount Otemanu rising from the lagoon. This spot offers a perfect blend of seclusion and proximity to Bora Bora’s luxury resorts.
Day 5: Motu To’opua – Bora Bora Lagoon (6 NM)
Sail around to explore Bora Bora’s famous inner lagoon, anchoring near the main island for beach time, snorkelling, or a dinner ashore. Discover coral gardens, rays, and the island’s signature overwater bungalows.
Day 6: Bora Bora – Apu Bay, Taha’a (30 NM)
Begin your return leg with a sail back to Taha’a, anchoring in Apu Bay on the island’s western side. Known for its rum distillery and relaxed charm, this is a perfect place to enjoy one final tranquil evening.
Day 7: Apu Bay – Raiatea Marina (6 NM)
Cruise the short final leg back to Raiatea, passing through calm lagoon waters. Disembark with memories of turquoise anchorages, fragrant islands, and the gentle rhythm of Polynesian paradise.
Day 1: Apu Bay, Taha’a (3 NM)
Set sail with a short warm-up leg from your base in Taha’a to the nearby and tranquil anchorage of Apu Bay. Surrounded by vanilla plantations and gentle hills, it’s the ideal place to settle into island time.
Day 2: Apu Bay – Bora Bora Yacht Club (23 NM)
Cross the deep blue channel to reach Bora Bora, anchoring just outside the prestigious Bora Bora Yacht Club. Enjoy upscale dining, access to town, and postcard views of Mount Otemanu.
Day 3: Bora Bora Yacht Club – Taurere (8 NM)
Sail along the inner lagoon of Bora Bora to Taurere, a quiet and sheltered anchorage with coral gardens nearby. It’s a peaceful alternative to the busier parts of the island, perfect for snorkelling and unwinding.
Day 4: Taurere – Point Raititi, Bora Bora (10 NM)
Cruise to the far southern reaches of Bora Bora's lagoon near Point Raititi. Anchor near untouched motus with sweeping views of the reef and enjoy one of the most secluded settings on the island.
Day 5: Bora Bora – Faaroa Bay, Raiatea (37 NM)
Make an early departure for a longer open-water passage back to Raiatea, arriving in Faaroa Bay — the only navigable river in French Polynesia. Explore the lush jungle river by dinghy or hike into the verdant interior.
Day 6: Faaroa Bay – Opoa Bay (5 NM)
Sail south within Raiatea’s protected lagoon to Opoa Bay, home to the revered Taputapuatea Marae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Anchor near the reef and take a guided tour through this sacred cultural landmark.
Day 7: Raiatea – Fare Village, Huahine (21 NM)
Set a northeasterly course to Huahine and anchor near Fare Village, the main settlement on the island. Enjoy a relaxed village atmosphere, island-style cafés, and the famous Huahine fish traps visible from the shore.
Day 8: Fare – Baie d’Avea (9 NM)
Sail down Huahine’s west coast to Baie d’Avea, one of the most beautiful anchorages in the Society Islands. The bay’s shallow turquoise waters and white-sand beaches are ideal for paddleboarding and snorkelling.
Day 9: Baie d’Avea – Haamene Bay, Taha’a (35 NM)
Make your way back across the lagoon to Haamene Bay on Taha’a, a deep inlet with excellent shelter and nearby vanilla plantations. Visit a pearl farm or enjoy one final dinner in a traditional Polynesian setting.
Day 10: Haamene Bay – Uturoa, Raiatea (Check-out)
Sail a short leg back to Uturoa on Raiatea for check-out and disembarkation. Depart with unforgettable memories of vibrant lagoons, rich Polynesian culture, and the gentle rhythm of sailing in paradise.
It depends. For example, the most important ones are the type of boat you will choose and whether you require a professional crew on board (e.g. skipper, hostess or cook). So, as you can see, there are many factors that can shape a price for a boat rental.
Check our full guide about yacht charter cost and how you can save much money in your next sailing holidays.
Sailing destinations nearby
Sailing holidays in Seychelles
Sailing holidays in Madagascar
