Yacht charter French Polynesia

Why choose a yacht charter in Tahiti?

The islands of French Polynesia are exceptional. It is a faraway and exotic destination, with breathtaking scenery. Here are 3 reasons to visit French Polynesia:

• Your honeymoon: French Polynesia is made for couples in search of a lost paradise, idyllic and tranquil, and for marine explorers, who will dive into the coral reefs of the lagoons.
• A complete change of scenery by boat: a cruise in Polynesia invites you to take short trips or long crossings between the islands in azure blue waters, while discovering a spectacular biodiversity during the voyage.
• Lush nature: Radiant sunshine, fine sandy beaches and turquoise blue lagoons are the main secrets of French Polynesia's success with travelers from all over the world. There is marine wildlife there like nowhere else. You will encounter various species of rays, sharks, turtles and other marine animals.

This destination is particularly known for its many resort hotels, but nothing beats discovering Polynesia on a sailboat charter.  

Services offered for your yacht charter in Polynesia?

Before embarking on your adventure, it is important to choose the type of cruise that best suits your expectations. These are the main services we offer:

• Bareboat yacht charter: this option allows you to rent a boat for a fixed period, usually a week or more. You are then free to sail as you please and discover the wonders of French Polynesia in complete autonomy.
• Yacht charter with skipper: if you don't have the necessary skills to pilot a catamaran or if you prefer to concentrate on discovering the landscape and relaxing, this option is for you. The skipper takes care of navigation and safety at the side of the boat and can also advise you on the best places to visit.
• All-inclusive cabin cruise: You share a luxurious sailboat with other travelers, benefiting from a full crew that manages navigation and meals. Sailing itineraries in Polynesia are carefully designed for an intimate yet social trip. On the practical side, there is no need to organize your days. This all-inclusive concept remains customizable and offers a perfect balance between adventure and comfort.
• Additional services: Many rental companies offer additional services to enhance your stay, such as the provision of diving and fishing equipment or the possibility of booking a chef on board to prepare delicious meals for you.

Types of boats to rent in French Polynesia

Depending on your budget and your sailing plans, different types of boats are available to you:

• Monohull sailboat charter: this is the most affordable option and is best suited to experienced sailors! The size of this type of boat will make it easier for you to access coves and anchorages. The sensations of sailing are also unique to monohulls with heeling over.
• Catamaran charter: for those looking for comfort and space. The catamaran offers greater stability as well as more living space on board. It is the ideal option if your budget allows and if you want to have a relaxing vacation.
• Yacht charter: This option is ideal for those who want to enjoy the comfort of a stay on land while sailing in peace.

Where to sail in French Polynesia?

French Polynesia is made up of five archipelagos comprising a total of 118 islands: the Society Islands (the Windward Islands and the Leeward Islands), the Tuamotu Archipelago, the Gambier Islands, the Austral Islands and the Marquesas Islands. Here are the islands not to be missed during your yacht charter in Tahiti.

The Leeward Islands

This is a really practical area for short trips and, above all, for taking the time to discover several islands in French Polynesia. For people who like to party and go to bars and restaurants, we recommend Bora Bora. For those looking for quiet, natural places, head for Huahine, more authentic and less touristy.

• Raiatea: Cradle of Polynesian culture, Raiatea was the first inhabited island. Boasting a magnificent archaeological site, the Taputapuatea marae is even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can discover the Faaroa River at the side of the boat or in a kayak, letting yourself be guided along the water to encounter cultural wonders! Scuba diving will allow you to admire the only wreck in French Polynesia since 1900: the Nordby (Lat: -16.736 Lng: -151.4276).
• Taha'a: The vanilla island, which accounts for three-quarters of vanilla production in Polynesia, will allow you to visit a vanilla plantation. Eight villages are spread across this calm and relaxing island, surrounded by a crystal blue lagoon deep enough to be able to circumnavigate the island in a catamaran.
• Bora Bora: Renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the world, the translucent lagoon of Bora Bora welcomes thousands of divers every year, who come to mast rake its rich and lively underwater life. It is in fact the best diving spot in Polynesia. Matira, one of the most beautiful beaches in French Polynesia, is ideal for lazing around. For hikers, Mount Pahia, rising to 661 meters, offers a breathtaking view of the island and its surroundings from its summit.
• Huahine: This is made up of two islands connected by a deck: Huahine Nui to the north and Huahine Iti to the south. Between diving, horse riding, hiking on Mount Tapu, archaeological and historical sites... Huahine is sure to charm you!
• Maupiti: This small picturesque island is a true haven of peace, protected from mass tourism and offering unspoiled nature. You will be amazed by its calm and authenticity. Take a trip out to sea to observe manta rays in its transparent lagoon. The island is further away from the others, about 45 nautical miles west of Raiatea.

The Windward Islands

• Tahiti: This is the largest of the islands of French Polynesia, the best known and the most popular with tourists. Start by visiting the capital, Papeete, in the north of the island: stroll through the "Mapuru a Paraita" market and let yourself be transported by the authenticity of the place. As for hiking, you will see numerous peaks, waterfalls, valleys and mountains including Aorai (2066 meters) and Orohena (2241 meters). As for the sea, Tahiti the wave Teahupoo is exclusively for experienced surfers.
• Moorea: the Butterfly Island is an exceptional playground for water sports enthusiasts: snorkeling, swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, etc. The sparkling water of the famous Cook's and Opunohu bays also offer an extraordinary spectacle.

How much does a yacht charter cost in Tahiti?

The table below gives you an idea of the average prices for a catamaran charter in French Polynesia, for a period of one week. Note that these prices are a dead reckoning and may vary depending on several factors (season, model and size of the boat). For more information on the prices of a sailboat charter in French Polynesia, don't hesitate to contact our team of advisors!

When to sail in French Polynesia?

Although French Polynesia enjoys a great deal of sunshine all year round, we recommend that you go during the dry season, between June and September. It is also between these months that the whale season is on! If you choose to rent a boat during this period, you will enjoy temperatures of around 30°C and you can swim in warm water, between 26°C and 29°C.

In general, sailing is relatively easy in French Polynesia, which is under the influence of the southeast trade wind with an average force of 15 to 20 knots. The Maraamu is also a wind of Polynesia, stronger (25 to 35 knots) which can blow between the months of June to August. In these conditions, the sea can be rough and the passages from Bora Bora to Taha'a are not recommended.

Here is an average of the temperatures encountered in recent years in French Polynesia:

Useful information for your yacht charter in French Polynesia

What language is spoken in Polynesia?

French and Tahitian are the two official languages and are spoken fluently in French Polynesia.

What currency is used in Polynesia?

The local currency is the Pacific franc (XPF). You can change money and get cash at the exchange office at Faa'a airport and at cash machines.

How do I get to Polynesia?

Flights are available from France, departing from Paris to Tahiti-Faaa International Airport, near Papette (to the west, to be precise).

How do I finalize the booking of my boat in Polynesia?

Once we have received your charter request, an advisor will contact you by telephone to discuss your sailing plans. They will then send you a list of suggested boats by email. Once you have found a boat, you can pay a deposit via your customer account to confirm the charter and reserve the boat.