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Best Catamaran Sailing Itineraries in French Polynesia

Private catamaran charter sailing cruise in Tuamotu

French Polynesia is one of the most spectacular sailing destinations in the world. A private catamaran charter is the perfect way to explore the turquoise lagoons, volcanic islands and remote atolls of the Society Islands and the Tuamotu archipelago.


Discover the Best Catamaran Sailing Itineraries in the Society Islands


3 to 5 Night Short Cruises


Short cruises of less than 7 nights are usually organized within the same island group in order to keep sailing times short and comfortable.

These itineraries allow guests to fully enjoy the lagoons, snorkeling spots and cultural discoveries of each island without spending too much time sailing between distant islands.

Below are three examples of short catamaran cruise itineraries in French Polynesia.



Option 1 : Tahiti – Moorea

Check-in: Tahiti


Day 1 – Tahiti Lagoon
Guests board the catamaran in Tahiti and begin the cruise exploring the lagoon and nearby snorkeling spots.


Day 2 to 5 – Moorea

After a short sail across the channel, the cruise continues in Moorea. The island offers crystal-clear lagoons, coral gardens and beautiful anchorages surrounded by mountains.
Guests can enjoy snorkeling, paddle boarding and lagoon exploration.


Check-out: Moorea


Most guests return to Tahiti by ferry, which is usually more comfortable than sailing back against the wind and swell.

Option 2 : Raiatea – Tahaa – Raiatea


Check-in: Uturoa (Raiatea)

Day 1 – 2 Raiatea
The cruise begins in Uturoa, the main town of Raiatea. The first part of the itinerary explores some of the most beautiful sites of the island, including the famous Faaroa River. This unique river in French Polynesia can be explored by dinghy or paddle and offers a landscape that feels almost like the Amazon.

Guests can also discover the sacred Marae Taputapuatea, the largest and most important archaeological site in French Polynesia and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The lagoon of Raiatea also offers beautiful white sand motus and several excellent snorkeling spots.

Day 3 – 5 : Tahaa
The second part of the cruise takes place around Tahaa, Raiatea’s sister island which shares the same lagoon. Guests can visit the famous Tahaa vanilla plantations, local rum distilleries and pearl farms, while enjoying some of the most beautiful coral gardens in the region.

Check-out: Raiatea


Option 3 : Bora Bora lagoon

Bora Bora lagoon cruises are among the most requested short catamaran charters in French Polynesia.

Check-in : Vaitape (Bora Bora)

Day 1 – 2 Bora Bora Lagoon
Guests board the catamaran in Bora Bora and begin the cruise exploring one of the most famous lagoons in the world. The island’s turquoise waters and dramatic volcanic peaks create one of the most spectacular sailing environments in French Polynesia.

Day 3 to 5 – Motu, Coral Gardens and Marine Life
The cruise continues around Bora Bora’s lagoon with stops at beautiful white sand motu and some of the best snorkeling spots in the region. Guests can swim in crystal-clear water and discover vibrant coral gardens filled with tropical fish.

Our crew will guide guests to several exceptional snorkeling locations where encounters with marine life are very common. It is possible to see manta rays, blacktip reef sharks and leopard rays in their natural environment, making these snorkeling experiences truly unforgettable.

Between snorkeling sessions, guests can relax on secluded beaches, enjoy paddle boarding, or simply admire the breathtaking scenery of Bora Bora’s lagoon.

Check-out: Bora Bora

Sailing in the turquoise lagoon of Moorea during a short private catamaran cruise in French Polynesia.


Family paddle boarding in the lagoon between Tahiti and Moorea during a catamaran cruise




7 to 8 Night Catamaran Cruise in the Leeward islands

Raiatea – Taha’a – Bora Bora (Leeward Islands)

This itinerary is one of the most popular catamaran cruises in French Polynesia. The Leeward Islands offer ideal sailing distances, protected lagoons and some of the most spectacular snorkeling spots in the South Pacific.

Check-in: Raiatea

Day 1 to 3 – Raiatea
Raiatea is considered the cultural heart of Polynesia. During the first days of the cruise, guests can explore the island’s lagoon, visit sacred Polynesian sites such as Marae Taputapuatea (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and discover the lush landscapes surrounding the famous Faaroa River.

Snorkeling in the lagoon reveals colorful coral gardens and abundant marine life.

Day 4 to 5 – Taha’a
Tahaa shares the same lagoon as Raiatea and is famous for its vanilla plantations. Guests can visit local vanilla farms, pearl farms and small rum distilleries while enjoying some of the most beautiful coral gardens in the region.

Snorkeling in Tahaa’s lagoon offers crystal-clear water, vibrant reef fish and peaceful white sand motu.

Day 6 to 8 – Bora Bora
The final part of the cruise takes place in Bora Bora, often considered the most beautiful lagoon in the world. Sailing around Mount Otemanu, guests can explore turquoise waters, white sand motu and exceptional snorkeling sites.

Encounters with manta rays, blacktip reef sharks and leopard rays are common in Bora Bora’s lagoon, making this part of the itinerary truly unforgettable.

Check-out: Bora Bora

This itinerary is one of the most popular sailing routes in French Polynesia and was among the most requested and booked catamaran charters in 2025. It offers the perfect balance between sailing, snorkeling and cultural discoveries.

Catamaran anchored in the isolated turquoise lagoon of Raiatea during a private sailing cruise.
A catamaran anchored in the calm lagoon between Raiatea and Tahaa during a 7–8 night sailing cruise in the Leeward Islands.

10 to 12 Night Catamaran Cruise in the Leeward islands

Huahine – Raiatea – Taha’a – Bora Bora (Leeward islands)

This 10 to 12 nights catamaran charter is one of the best ways to explore the Leeward Islands of French Polynesia. The itinerary includes Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa and Bora Bora, offering a perfect balance between sailing, lagoon exploration and cultural discoveries.

Check-in: Huahine

Day 1 to 3 – Huahine
The cruise begins in Huahine, one of the most authentic islands of French Polynesia. Guests can explore quiet lagoons, traditional villages and beautiful anchorages surrounded by lush mountains.

Day 4 to 6 – Raiatea
The cruise continues to Raiatea, considered the cultural heart of Polynesia. Guests can explore the lagoon, visit sacred Polynesian sites and enjoy excellent snorkeling.

Day 7 to 9 – Tahaa
Tahaa shares the same lagoon as Raiatea and is famous for its vanilla plantations and peaceful motus. It offers some of the most beautiful turquoise waters in the Leeward Islands.

Day 10 to 12 – Bora Bora
The cruise finishes in Bora Bora where guests can enjoy one of the most famous lagoons in the world, surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.

Check-out: Bora Bora

This itinerary is one of the most requested catamaran charters in French Polynesia and offers the perfect combination of sailing, lagoon exploration and iconic islands.

Aerial view of catamarans anchored in the turquoise lagoon of Huahine in the Leeward Islands of French Polynesia.
Aerial view of catamarans anchored in the turquoise lagoon of Huahine in the Leeward Islands of French Polynesia.


15 Nights Catamaran Cruise in the Society Islands

Tahiti – Moorea – Huahine – Raiatea – Tahaa – Bora Bora

This 15 night catamaran cruise covers the main islands of the Society Islands and offers one of the most complete sailing experiences in French Polynesia. From Tahiti and Moorea to Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa and Bora Bora, this itinerary combines spectacular lagoons, cultural discoveries and unforgettable sailing. It also includes a beautiful overnight crossing of around 15 hours between Moorea and Huahine, allowing guests to enjoy sunset at sea, a sky full of stars and true sailing under the trade winds.

Check-in: Papeete, Tahiti

Day 1 – Tahiti to Moorea
Guests board the catamaran in Papeete before sailing to Moorea, with around 5 hours of navigation. This first crossing already offers spectacular views of the lagoon and mountains.

Day 2 to 3 – Moorea
The cruise continues with the discovery of Moorea’s lagoon, famous for its crystal-clear waters and marine life. This area is well known for turtle encounters and, during the whale season from August to October, for the nearby whale sanctuary where humpback whales can often be observed.

Night of Day 3 – Overnight sailing to Huahine
During the third night, the catamaran sails under the stars towards Huahine. Guests can enjoy a magnificent sunset far from the lights of the main islands and experience a peaceful night navigation carried by the trade winds.

Day 4 to 6 – Huahine
Huahine offers a more authentic and peaceful atmosphere, with beautiful anchorages, lush landscapes and a rich Polynesian culture.

Day 7 to 9 – Raiatea
Raiatea is considered the cultural heart of Polynesia. This part of the itinerary also offers the opportunity to discover the extreme south of the island, including the unforgettable Motu Nao Nao with its white sand beaches and beautiful coral gardens.

Day 10 to 12 – Tahaa
Tahaa, Raiatea’s sister island, is famous for its vanilla plantations, pearl farms, coral gardens and peaceful turquoise lagoon.

Day 13 to 15 – Bora Bora
The cruise ends in Bora Bora, where guests can enjoy one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world, surrounded by white sand motu and breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu.

Check-out: Bora Bora

This 15 night itinerary is one of the most complete catamaran cruises in French Polynesia and offers the perfect balance between sailing, lagoon exploration, wildlife encounters and iconic islands.


Discover the Best Catamaran Sailing Itineraries in the Tuamotu Archipelago

Tuamotu Catamaran Cruises

Minimum Duration: 5 Nights

The Tuamotu archipelago offers a completely different sailing experience from the Society Islands. These remote coral atolls are famous for their crystal-clear lagoons, incredible marine life and world-class snorkeling and diving.

Due to the distances between the islands, the minimum duration for a catamaran cruise around a single atoll such as Fakarava or Rangiroa is usually 5 nights. For inter-island cruises between several Tuamotu atolls, we recommend a minimum of 10 days in order to fully enjoy the navigation and explore the lagoons.

Below are some examples of Tuamotu catamaran cruise itineraries depending on the duration of your stay.


5 to 7 Night Cruise – Fakarava

Fakarava Lagoon Exploration

Fakarava is one of the most spectacular atolls in the Tuamotu archipelago and a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Its crystal-clear lagoon, remote motu and extraordinary marine life make it one of the best destinations in French Polynesia for snorkeling and diving.

This itinerary focuses on exploring the northern and southern parts of the lagoon while enjoying peaceful anchorages and exceptional underwater life.

Check-in: Fakarava North

Day 1 to 2 – Fakarava North
The cruise begins in the northern part of Fakarava, where guests can explore the lagoon and nearby motu. This area offers beautiful anchorages, turquoise water and excellent snorkeling spots.

Day 3 to 7 – Fakarava South
The catamaran sails toward the famous South Pass (Tumakohua Pass), one of the most spectacular snorkeling and diving sites in the Tuamotu Islands. Guests can discover an incredible concentration of marine life including reef sharks, colorful fish and pristine coral formations.

Day 7 – Return to Fakarava North

Check-out: Fakarava North

Catamaran sailing in the crystal-clear lagoon of Fakarava atoll in the Tuamotu Islands, French Polynesia
Exploring the remote turquoise lagoon of Fakarava atoll during a private catamaran cruise in the Tuamotu Islands.
Snorkeling in the pristine lagoon of Fakarava atoll, a UNESCO biosphere reserve in the Tuamotu Islands

5 to 7 Night Cruise – Rangiroa

Rangiroa Lagoon Expedition

Rangiroa is one of the largest atolls in the world and one of the most spectacular destinations in the Tuamotu archipelago. Its immense lagoon, crystal-clear waters and exceptional marine life make it a paradise for snorkeling and diving.

One of the highlights of Rangiroa is the famous Tiputa Pass, known for its strong currents and incredible biodiversity. This pass is also home to a resident family of dolphins that often interact with divers and snorkelers, creating unforgettable wildlife encounters.

This itinerary focuses on exploring the different areas of Rangiroa’s lagoon while enjoying peaceful anchorages, remote motu and some of the best snorkeling spots in the Tuamotu Islands.

Check-in: Rangiroa

Day 1 to 2 – Tiputa Pass
The cruise begins near the famous Tiputa Pass, one of the most spectacular passes in the Tuamotu Islands. This site is well known for its incredible marine life and the resident family of dolphins that often interact with divers and snorkelers. Guests can observe dolphins playing in the currents and enjoy some of the most vibrant underwater life in French Polynesia.

Day 3 to 4 – Avatoru and the Green Lagoon
The itinerary continues toward Avatoru where guests can explore the famous Green Lagoon. This unique natural lagoon offers shallow turquoise water, beautiful coral formations and excellent snorkeling in a peaceful environment.

Day 5 to 7 – Reef Island and the Blue Lagoon
The final part of the cruise explores the spectacular Reef Island and the famous Blue Lagoon. One of the great advantages of exploring Rangiroa by catamaran is the ability to reach these popular sites after 4 pm, when most excursion boats have already left.

Guests can then enjoy these incredible locations in complete tranquility, experiencing a unique moment in one of the most beautiful and preserved environments of the Tuamotu Islands.

Day 7 – Return to Tiputa Pass

Check-out: Rangiroa

Catamaran anchored in the turquoise lagoon of Rangiroa atoll in the Tuamotu Islands
Catamaran anchored in the turquoise lagoon of Rangiroa atoll in the Tuamotu Islands

snorkeling and diving with dolphins in Tiputa pass

10 to 15 Night Tuamotu Inter-Island Catamaran Cruise

This extended Tuamotu itinerary offers the opportunity to discover several atolls of the archipelago while enjoying longer sailing passages between remote islands. Starting in Fakarava, the cruise explores pristine lagoons, coral passes and remote motu before sailing toward Rangiroa.

These cruises provide a more complete vision of the Tuamotu archipelago, far from the main tourist routes and surrounded by some of the most spectacular marine environments in French Polynesia.

Check-in: Fakarava

Day 1 to 4 – Fakarava
The cruise begins in Fakarava, a UNESCO biosphere reserve known for its exceptional marine biodiversity. Guests can explore both the northern lagoon and the famous South Pass, one of the most spectacular snorkeling sites in the Tuamotu Islands.

Day 5 to 6 – Toau Atoll
The catamaran sails to the nearby atoll of Toau. This remote and rarely visited lagoon offers peaceful anchorages, crystal-clear water and exceptional snorkeling far from the usual tourist routes.

Day 6 – Overnight Sailing to Rangiroa
During the night, the catamaran sails under the stars toward Rangiroa, one of the largest atolls in the world.

Day 7 to 10 – Rangiroa
Guests can explore Rangiroa’s immense lagoon, visit the famous Tiputa Pass known for its resident dolphins, and discover the Blue Lagoon and other beautiful motu.

Optional extension for 15 night cruises:

Day 11 to 14 – Tikehau
For longer cruises, the itinerary continues toward the beautiful atoll of Tikehau, famous for its pink sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoon and exceptional marine life.

Day 15 – Check-out: Tikehau

Catamaran anchored in the turquoise lagoon of the Tuamotu Islands during a multi-atoll sailing cruise
Exploring the turquoise lagoons of the Tuamotu atolls during a 10 to 15 night catamaran cruise.
Catamaran and sailing yacht at anchor during sunset in the Tuamotu Islands lagoon

Discover French Polynesia by Catamaran

A private catamaran charter is one of the most incredible ways to explore French Polynesia. From the dramatic mountains of Moorea to the turquoise lagoon of Bora Bora and the untouched atolls of the Tuamotu Islands, each itinerary offers unforgettable sailing experiences.

Our team at Tahiti Charter can help you design the perfect private catamaran cruise itinerary in French Polynesia, whether you wish to sail in Tahiti and Moorea, explore the Leeward Islands such as Raiatea, Tahaa and Bora Bora, or discover the remote atolls of the Tuamotu archipelago.

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