Want to sail through turquoise waters and heavenly scenery in the heart of French Polynesia and create unforgettable memories? The Leeward Islands are made for you. Stretching over more than 400 nautical miles in the westernmost part of French Polynesia, the Society Islands include the Windward Islands (southeast) and the Leeward Islands (northwest). The latter are mainly made up of 5 mountainous islands of volcanic origin surrounded by a navigable lagoon forming exceptional natural warm shelters, and 4 atolls. You will immediately fall under the spell of the romanticism of the islands, the calm and solitude of the excursions, as well as the isolation and feeling of serenity experienced in the face of the beauty and expanse of the tropical landscapes.
An ideal destination for diving and sailing enthusiasts, a sailboat charter in French Polynesia is the best way to explore the islands from every angle.
Why go on a cruise to the Leeward Islands?
- Because you have to give yourself a chance to realize your dreams
- Because nature dominates and the tropical flora and fauna have many surprises in store for you
- To admire a spectacular shade of blue
- To take the time to observe the richness of the seabed
- To enjoy the incomparable hospitality of the Polynesians
- To discover Polynesian culture and traditions
The 5 main islands of the Leeward Islands to explore without moderation
Raiatea, the sacred island of the Maori
Rent a catamaran in French Polynesia and explore the island of Raiatea, which is still largely wild. It is dominated by Mount Toomaru, covered with inaccessible jungle that plunges into the azure waters of the lagoon. But Raiatea is best known for being the cradle of Maori culture for over a thousand years. Even today, come and admire the Taputapuatea marae, a sacred site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017.
Tahaa, the cradle of Polynesian vanilla
Made up of 8 small villages, the island of Tahaa shares the same lagoon as its twin Raiatea, and its great depth means you can take a boat trip all the way around it. Tahaa is primarily famous for its intensive vanilla production, accounting for 80% of total Polynesian production. In addition, the coral reefs on the west coast are exceptional and well worth a snorkeling session: multicolored fish, reef sharks, leopard rays… get your masks and snorkels!
Bora Bora and its 50 shades of blue
Emerging from the water 7 million years ago, the "pearl of the Pacific" is the most visited mythical island of Polynesia. It is overlooked by Mount Otemanu, 727 meters high, which is surrounded by a ring of motu. Bora Bora is constantly bathed in the blazing sun and offers a multitude of heavenly fine sandy beaches hauled in by the side of the boat's wake, with crystal clear waters inviting you to relax and take long swims. à In the east of the island, don't miss the mini-cruise in the "motu" channel thanks to a yacht charter in Bora-Bora.
Huahine, the tranquil island
Still untouched by mass tourism, discover the town of Huahine thanks to a sailboat charter in Tahiti. It is a small island that lives to the rhythm of the comings and goings of the cargo ships that provide inter-island supplies. What is there to see? Its archaeological remains, its pearl oyster farm, its vanilla plantations and its lush underwater life. It also offers exceptional and isolated anchorages in Haavai and Port Bourayne bays.
Maupiti, the youngest
The smallest and most remote of the Leeward Islands, Maupiti is no less splendid. Strongly windswept, this small island is only accessible in favorable weather conditions. Rent a sailboat in Polynesia to discover this island surrounded by an emerald green lagoon. North of Maupiti, you can anchor your boat in the heart of a chain of motu covered with coconut trees. The island offers white sandy beaches as far as the eye can see, a succession of bays and schools of manta rays can even be observed by divers. For hiking enthusiasts, a beacon-marked trail leads to the summit of Mount Teurafaatiu (380 meters). Once at the top, enjoy an exceptional 360° view of the island.
During your cruise in the Leeward Islands, rent a catamaran in Tahiti and take the time to sail between the atolls (Manuae, Maupihaa, Motu One and Tupai), an extraordinary sight: islands in the shape of a ring made up of coral reefs around a lagoon.
In order to fully enjoy your cruise in Polynesia, it is strongly advised to plan your trip from June to September, during the dry season. 10 to 18 days of charter are ideal for discovering the 5 main islands.
Get ready… for an imminent departure to paradise!
Good to know
| Number of boats available | 115 |
|---|---|
| Types of service | Skipper, Hostess, Sailor, Chef (meals not included) |
| Average price per week | $19,522 |
| Minimum weekly price | $2,627 |
| Maximum price per week | $237,350 |