Few areas of the world are as alluring as the South Pacific, especially the jaw-dropping islands and atolls that comprise French Polynesia. Forget the hassle of vendors and overcrowding, these culture rich islands remain pristine and largely untouched, making it easy to step off the beaten tourist track and experience the true native beauty of this region.
Fakarava & Toau
After touching down in the North Pass of Fakarava, via a flight from Tahiti, and then stepping aboard your yacht, you’ll cruise south to fully explore this atoll, which is home to the second largest lagoon in the Tuamotu Atolls. The rectangular reef encloses such a rich ecosystem that it has been designated by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve and is a natural habitat for many rare species of birds, plants, and crustaceans.
Get your bearings on day one and drink in the splendor before taking the time to enjoy the beautiful water ecosystems in the reserves. Snorkeling, kite boarding, and diving are just some of the options in these clear waters. After you emerge from the salt, be sure to picnic on one of the private pink beaches. While you’re relaxing, we’ll be entertaining the children with an island treasure hunt! Head onto land where you can visit the ancient Catholic church before you relax on board with a cocktail at sunset.
While heading back north, cruise past some of these islets on the yacht’s tender to explore some uncharted destinations. Toau is known for its marine life, snorkeling, and coconut crab especially! This islet has a very small human population so the seclusion usually found in the breathtaking Toau lagoon provides a truly serene escape.
Rangiroa & Bora Bora
Home to one of the largest coral ring lagoons in the world, Rangiroa is an island that boasts plenty of attractions, whether you’re getting a spa treatment at the Kia Ora resort or viewing bottlenose dolphins in the lagoon.
From here, you can easily fly to Bora Bora in the morning and enjoy unique spa treatments at the Four Seasons resort. Then why not start hunting for the perfect Tahitian black pearls in one of the amazing pearl shops of the island? From there, spend the day on the most beautiful lagoon in the world. Almost any water or land activity is possible—but a dive with the manta rays is highly recommended. Or, you could go horseback riding along beautiful white sandy beaches, take a helicopter ride above the mythical island, or visit a Marquesan art gallery. To finish the day, have a special dinner on a private islet as traditional Tahitian musicians and fire dancers perform in front of you.
Raiatea & Taha’a
Located just two to three hours away from Bora Bora via your private yacht, the islands of Raiatea and Taha’a lie in the same lagoon, a unique phenomenon that helps making visiting both distinct islands a snap. Take a 4WD safari to visit the plantations and lush vegetation of Taha’a, also known as the Vanilla Island, and then in Raiatea, get to know ancient Polynesian culture by visiting the largest marae of the country—a sacred site that features a number of archeological stone structures and was once considered the central temple and religious center of Eastern Polynesia.
Huahine & Mo’orea
A wonderful stopover on your way to Mo’orea, Huahine is comprised of the southern Huahine-Iti and northern Huahine-Nui islands. This is an ideal spot for a cultural and fun day (a must-do is a traditional Polynesian picnic with local musicians and traditional games!) or its breathtaking beauty also encourages lounging on the yacht’s vast trampoline and just take it easy.
Your last stop, Mo’orea is known as Tahiti’s sister island, and as well for its top spas and fine dining, you can also enjoy the island’s 18-hole, Jack Nicklaus designed golf course or alternatively, visit the dolphins at the Mo’orea Dolphin Centre for an interactive session in the water. Or, if you visit between August and October, spend time whale watching and maybe swimming or diving with the incredible humpbacks as they pass through. To complete your journey, you can either cruise or fly back to Tahiti; either way, you are sure to be stocked with stories for a a lifetime.
