By Pauline Leyssieux 
By Pauline Leyssieux
October 12, 2022
In brief
When to go? Between June and October, i.e. during the dry season.
Why go to Rangiroa? Rangiroa is the second largest atoll in the world and without doubt one of the most beautiful. A yacht charter in Rangiroa is a sign of getting away from it all and switching off to the rhythm of the turquoise waters and white sandy beaches.
The most beautiful anchorages: to the west, at the "Blue Lagoon" or to the east, opposite the Kia Ora.
Map of Rangiroa (Google Maps)
Summary
- Practical information for your yacht charter in Rangiroa
- What to do in Rangiroa?
- What are the weather conditions?
Rangiroa is a true corner of paradise. Less well known than Tahiti or Bora Bora, this atoll nevertheless offers breathtaking scenery! The second largest atoll in the world, discover the famous "Blue Lagoon" and all the other treasures of the island, which will charm you with its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and motus. Diving and snorkeling will also be on the program!
View of Rangiroa with the help of a drone (YouTube video)
1. Practical information for your yacht charter in Rangiroa
A yacht charter in the Tuamotu Archipelago: with or without a skipper?
| With a skipper | Without a skipper |
|---|---|
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Average rates according to the season and the size of the boat
The average prices for a week's yacht charter in the Tuamotu Archipelago are shown in the table below. Please note that these prices are a dead reckoning and may vary depending on several factors (season, model or size of the boat).
For more information on the prices of a yacht charter in Rangiroa, please don't hesitate to contact our team and our advisors!
| Type of boat | High Season June to September | Mid Season April, May and October | Low Season November to February |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catamaran (between 35 and 40 feet) | 6,500 USD | 6,000 USD | 5,000 USD |
| Catamaran (between 40 and 45 feet) | 10,500 USD | 9,000 USD | 8,000 USD |
| Catamaran (between 45 and 50 feet) | 17,000 USD | 14,000 USD | 13,000 USD |
2. What to do in Rangiroa?
The unmissable sights during your stay in the Tuamotu Islands
If you opt for a yacht charter in French Polynesia, we recommend that you go northeast of the island of Raiatea and the island of Tahaa, to Rangiroa. If you'd like to discover several atolls, then Rangiroa is the place for you! To help you make the most of your visit to this island, here are the must-sees:
- The "Blue Lagoon": A true natural open-air swimming pool, its turquoise color is unanimous. Let yourself be tempted by a swim or a paddle session. Be careful of the blacktip reef sharks, though, they're not far away!
- Tiputa Pass: If you are patient and a little lucky, we recommend anchoring your boat here to watch the dolphins jumping just a few meters from your boat! They are actually playing in the pass current. One thing to bear in mind: the anchorage can be rather difficult to hold depending on the wind, but don't panic, you can also enjoy this spectacle from the Ohotu viewpoint.
- The motus of Sables Roses: Located to the southeast of the atoll, discover these unique pink beaches!
- Ile aux Récifs: Rangiroa's true pearl, dive to discover coral and yellow potatoes. You may also find sea urchins, turtles and pencil urchins! The price is USD75 per person.
- Motu Nuhi Nuhi: Also known as "the aquarium", this islet in the Tuamotu archipelago is ideal if you want to go snorkeling.
Some facts about Rangiroa
- Rangiroa can also be pronounced "Ra'iroa".
- It is a one-hour flight from Tahiti.
- It is part of the Tuamotu archipelago, made up of more than 75 atolls.
- Rangiroa is the second largest atoll in the world and the largest in Polynesia: it is so big that it could almost contain the whole of the island of Tahiti.
- Rangiroa is an atoll, which means that it is an ancient volcano that is now underwater: only the motus (sandbanks) are visible at the surface of the water.
- The island lives thanks to tourism and the pearl culture. You can also visit farms and bring back a pearl as a souvenir of your cruise!
- Dive into the Shark Cave to swim with them and discover the lemon butterflyfish.
- Rangiroa has a vineyard, the only one in Polynesia!
- In the local restaurants, try the coconut bread, a real delight.
3. What are the weather conditions?
The best time for your yacht charter in Rangiroa is between June and October, during the dry season. If you go earlier, between November and May, it will be the rainy season, which is less pleasant for sailing.
By renting a boat during the dry season, you can enjoy an average temperature of 30°C. at this time of year, the water is relatively warm, with average temperatures of between 26°C and 29°C.
In general, navigation in Polynesia is relatively easy. The winds are not very strong: the Alizé has an average force of 15 to 20 knots and the Maraamu is , it is true, stronger with an average force of 25 to 35 knots. In the presence of the Maraamu, favor small crossings.
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 |