The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Yacht Charter in French Polynesia ⛵🏝️
Set sail through crystal-clear waters, explore remote islands, and experience Polynesian paradise with this step-by-step guide to planning the perfect yacht charter in French Polynesia.
Why Choose a Yacht Charter in French Polynesia?
French Polynesia is home to over 100 islands, each offering unique landscapes, culture, and sailing conditions. It is is a dream sailing destination, offering turquoise lagoons, secluded beaches, and breathtaking volcanic landscapes
Unlike crowded tourist resorts, a yacht charter gives you the freedom explore multiple islands at your own pace.
🌊 Top Benefits of a Yacht Charter:
✔️ Private & all-inclusive experience tailored to your preferences..
✔️ Seamless island hopping between paradise locations. Access to remote islands & reefs.
✔️ Personalized itinerary tailored to your interests.
✔️ Unique cultural encounters & local experiences.
📍 Best sailing regions: The Society Islands, Tuamotu Atolls, Marquesas Islands.
Top Destinations to Visit by Yacht
🏝️ Bora Bora – The Jewel of the Pacific
- Famous for its overwater bungalows and turquoise lagoons.
- Best activities: Snorkeling with manta rays, dining at waterfront restaurants, exploring Matira Beach.
- Anchoring Tip: The calm waters of the lagoon offer excellent overnight anchorage.
🏝️ Tahiti – The Perfect Starting Point
- Home to the main airport (PPT) and bustling markets.
- Best activities: Black sand beaches, waterfalls, and lively Papeete nightlife.
- Anchoring Tip: Marina Taina is the best spot for provisioning before sailing to other islands.
🏝️ Moorea – A Paradise for Adventure Seekers
- Just a short sail from Tahiti, known for lush mountains and shark diving.
- Best activities: Hiking, dolphin watching, and exploring Opunohu Bay.
- Anchoring Tip: Cook’s Bay is a favorite anchorage with stunning views.
🏝️ Tuamotu Archipelago – The Diver’s Dream
- A group of remote atolls known for unreal coral reefs and crystal-clear waters.
- Best activities: Drift diving, pearl farms, and deserted beach picnics.
- Anchoring Tip: Fakarava is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, perfect for nature lovers.
🏝️ Marquesas Islands – Untouched Beauty
- Wild, rugged landscapes, rich culture, and incredible hiking.
- Best activities: Exploring ancient Polynesian ruins, horseback riding, and meeting local artisans.
- Anchoring Tip: Nuku Hiva is a top choice for provisioning and cultural experiences.
Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Yacht Charter
Before you book, it’s important to choose the right type of charter that suits your needs, experience level, and travel style.
⛵ 1. Crewed vs. Bareboat Charter
- Crewed Yacht Charter: Includes a skipper and chef for a stress-free experience.
- Bareboat Charter: Ideal for experienced sailors who want to captain their own vessel.
📌 Not sure which option is best? Read our guide: Crewed vs. Bareboat: Which Yacht Charter is Right for You?
⛵ 2. Catamaran vs. Monohull
- Catamarans are more stable, spacious, and ideal for families or groups.
- Monohulls offer a more traditional sailing experience, great for experienced sailors.
🚤 Recommended Boats: Lavazzi 40 , Lagoon 41, Plan Lucas 50.
Step 2: Plan the Perfect Itinerary
Your itinerary will depend on the duration of your charter and the type of experience you’re looking for.
🏝 Recommended Sailing Routes
📆 7-Day Itinerary: Society Islands (Best for First-Timers)
- Day 1: Depart from Tahiti → Sail to Moorea (snorkeling & hiking).
- Day 2: Moorea → Huahine (quiet lagoons & cultural sites).
- Day 3: Huahine → Raiatea (sacred Polynesian history).
- Day 4: Raiatea → Taha’a (vanilla plantations & coral gardens).
- Day 5: Taha’a → Bora Bora (famous lagoon & luxury resorts).
- Day 6: Explore Bora Bora → Relax at Matira Beach.
- Day 7: Return to Tahiti.
📆 10-Day Itinerary: Tuamotu Atolls (Best for Diving & Remote Exploration)
- Day 1-2: Sail from Tahiti to Rangiroa (world-class diving).
- Day 3-5: Explore Fakarava (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve).
- Day 6-8: Visit Tikehau (pink sand beaches & manta rays).
- Day 9-10: Relax in secluded motus & return to Tahiti.
📌 Looking for a customized experience? Contact us to plan your ideal yacht adventure.
Step 3: Best Time to Charter a Yacht in French Polynesia
French Polynesia is a year-round sailing destination, but certain months offer better conditions.
🌞 Best Time to Sail: April – October (Dry Season)
✔️ Steady trade winds (15-20 knots).
✔️ Pleasant temperatures (25-30°C).
✔️ Low humidity & little rain.
🌧️ Rainy Season: November – March
✔️ Fewer tourists & lower prices.
✔️ Warmer water for snorkeling.
✔️ Possibility of tropical storms.
📌 Want to know more? Read our guide: Best Time to Visit French Polynesia for Sailing.
Step 4: Essential Packing List for Your Yacht Trip
Packing for a yacht charter is different from packing for a hotel stay. Space is limited, so bring only essentials!
🎒 Must-Have Items: ✔️ Lightweight, breathable clothing.
✔️ Reef-safe sunscreen & sunglasses.
✔️ Waterproof dry bag for valuables.
✔️ Snorkeling gear (some charters provide it).
✔️ Motion sickness remedies (if needed).
Step 5: Booking Your Yacht Charter
When booking a yacht charter in French Polynesia, consider the following:
✔️ Book at least 6 months in advance (especially for high season).
✔️ Choose a reputable charter company with high customer ratings.
✔️ Review your contract for cancellation policies, inclusions, and security deposits.
🛥️ Tahiti Charter offers:
✔️ Fully crewed & bareboat charters.
✔️ Custom itineraries tailored to your preferences.
✔️ Exclusive access to remote lagoons & private anchorages.
📌 Ready to sail? Request a free quote now!
Final Tips for an Unforgettable Yacht Charter
🌊 Respect the marine environment – Avoid anchoring on coral and use eco-friendly sunscreen.
🏝 Plan provisioning ahead – Some islands have limited grocery options.
📞 Stay connected – WiFi is limited, but local SIM cards are available in Tahiti.
