Tahiti Sailing Itinerary
A Tahiti sailing itinerary typically includes easy passages within the protected waters behind the beautiful coral reefs that encircle the islands, allowing for relaxed sailing in one of the most exotic cruising grounds in the world.
Snorkeling and scuba diving on the reefs, swimming and sunbathing on white-sand beaches, enjoying the delights of luxury resorts, shopping, and fine restaurants, and spending quiet evenings aboard your yacht in picturesque anchorages are all part of what makes bareboat Tahiti sailing so appealing. Relatively short passages between the islands (see Tahiti maps) integrate open-ocean sailing. The longest passage to windward is about 18 nautical miles. The open-water passages downwind from Huahine to Tahaa and from Tahaa to Bora-Bora are simply spectacular, South Pacific sailing at its very best.
Choose Itinerary
Tahiti Yacht Charter – 7 Day
Day 1
Apu Bay
Tucked into the south end of Tahaa, Apu Bay provides excellent protection except in south winds. The mountains on Raiatea and Tahaa are magnificent. The scenery is picture-perfect South Pacific and a key reason why yachting in Apu Bay is so popular.
Mooring
Moorings are available at the Taravana Yacht Club (free of charge to diners at the restaurant). Anchoring is not recommended in the north end of the bay due to excessive water depths and potentially gusty winds funneling down from the mountains.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available.
Things to do
A great meal at the French restaurant at the Taravana Yacht Club and then relaxing over cocktails is a splendid way to relax on the first day of your charter. Take a stroll and admire the scenery.
Facilities
Water and garbage disposal are available with permission from the yacht club manager.
Day 2
Pt. Raititi
The lagoon widens north of Pt. Raititi with Povai Bay to the east along the shore of Bora-Bora. The scenery is truly spectacular, which accounts for the several hotels and restaurants in the vicinity and why Pt. Raititi Bora-Bora yachting is so popular. To the west is the small island of Topua, the only remaining vestiges of the massive volcano that formed Bora-Bora.
Mooring
Moorings are available for diners at the Bloody Mary restaurant in Povai Bay. Anchor west of the beacon marking the north end of the reef near Pt. Raititi. Another great anchorage for spending the night is close to the west shore of Topua at the south end of the island in Topua Bay. Also in the bay are day anchorages with easy access to the beach and the reef.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available at Hotel Bora-Bora for boaters who avail themselves of the excellent food and drink at the hotel’s restaurant and bar.
Things to do
There are several excellent beaches accessible by dinghy for snorkeling on the reef. Scuba diving excursions are available. A leisurely stroll ashore takes you to a number of shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
Facilities
No facilities for yachts are available.
Day 3
Bora-Bora Yacht Club
Yachting in Bora-Bora waters is a journey through paradise. For centuries the fabled island has drawn sailors and inspired the imaginations of travelers throughout the world. A highlight of Bora-Bora cruising is a visit to the Bora-Bora Yacht Club located north of Vaitape Village, the main town on the island. It’s a favorite spot for globe trotting cruisers, and you’re sure to meet some interesting people as you sip a cool drink at the yacht club bar.
Mooring
Moorings are available free of charge when dining at the yacht club restaurant.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available.
Things to do
The yacht club has a restaurant and bar, world famous among long-distance cruisers. You can also access the Internet free of charge if you’re dining at the restaurant. Vaitape Village isn’t far off, with its various shops and restaurants. Car rentals in the village are available for island tours.
Facilities
Water is available at the yacht club dock.
Bora-Bora
The very name Bora-Bora conjures images of a far-off South Pacific paradise. The island has long been a favorite of sailors, and it still is. A single barrier reef encircles the two islands that make up Bora-Bora. The black basalt rock face of Mt. Otemanu rises 2,362 feet above an azure sea, with impressive Mt. Pahia nearby. Both dominate the heights and provide breathtaking views from the anchorages in the lagoon, one of the key attractions because of its superlative snorkeling and swimming. The smaller island, Topua, is all that’s left of the ancient volcano of Bora-Bora. Secure anchorages, white-sand beaches, restaurants, shops, art galleries, luxury resorts, and island tours are among the pleasures of a visit to Bora-Bora.
Day 4
Haamene Bay
Tahaa is a beautiful, mountainous island known for its many vanilla plantations ensconced in valleys. It is very similar in nature to Huahine in terms of agriculture and the laid-back ambience. Haamene Bay cruising brings you to the largest protected body of water on the island.
Mooring
Moorings are available at the Hibiscus Restaurant. Anchor at the head of the bay for the best protection and scenery.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available at the Hibiscus Restaurant.
Things to do
Dinner at the Hibiscus Restaurant is a pleasant way to pass an early evening. At the head of the bay is a scenic hiking trail through the dense tropical forest over Mt. Taira to the head of Hurepiti Bay.
Facilities
No facilities for yachts are available.
Tahaa
The fragrant scent of vanilla fills the air on Tahaa, just north of Raiatea and encircled by the same barrier reef. In fact, 80 percent of all the vanilla in French Polynesia is grown in the mountain valleys of Tahaa, earning it the nickname of the Vanilla Island. Plantation tours are an interesting sojourn ashore. Black pearls, one of the prizes of the region, are grown on aquatic farms, some of which are open to the public. Local artisans craft fine jewelry featuring the pearls, and the intricate and beautiful bracelets, necklaces, and rings are for sale in shops throughout the Tahitian Leewards. Tahaa is home to a sea turtle preserve, where visitors can observe the creatures in a park setting. The island has many fjord-like inlets both scenic and well protected for anchoring, and the snorkeling on the reef is superb. White-sand beaches are ideal for swimming and picnicking.
Day 5
Faaroa Bay
Cruising in Faaroa Bay Raiatea waters brings you over the north end of the island of Raiatea, then southeast along the eastern coast. The channel is well marked. To starboard, opposite the Passe Irihu ou Maire, is Faaroa Bay, a fjord-like indentation deep into the shoreline. Steep mountains rise on either side, lush with tropical vegetation and tall palms. Beyond is the valley of Mt. Tefaatuaiti.
Mooring
Moorings are recommended. There are 15 available.
Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available.
Things to do
Aside from its stunning beauty, the main attraction of the bay is the opportunity to explore the Aopomau River by dinghy. In no other place in French Polynesia can you take a river trip! As you head up the river, jungle fronts both shores, interspersed with the cultivated lands of working plantations. The mountains are ever present, looming above like watchful sentinels. At an elevation of approximately 3,400 feet above sea level, Mt. Tefaatuaiti is the tallest peak in the Tahitian Leeward Islands.
Facilities
No facilities for yachts are available.
Raiatea
The second largest island in French Polynesia (Tahiti is the largest) and the largest of the Tahitian Leewards, Raiatea was known as the Sacred Island. In many ways, it’s still the cultural heart of Tahiti because of its rich history. It was once an important port on the ancient Polynesian routes through the islands, covering an enormous triangle stretching from Hawaii, Samoa, New Zealand, to present-day French Polynesia. The many fascinating archaeological and historic sites are well worth visiting on an island tour. They provide a glimpse into Polynesian culture that must be experienced firsthand. Of particular interest is the site of Taputapuatea Marae, the most significant in the islands. Horseback riding and hiking in the mountainous interior of the island are a splendid way to sightsee in a pristine tropical setting.
Day 6
Opoa Bay
Opoa Bay and its surrounding lands are steeped in history. The lagoon was once a major staging area for long-distance Polynesian voyages that led to the settlement of New Zealand and the establishment of the Maori. The sea was integral to Polynesian culture, and thus it is no surprise that the Polynesians would build a major religious center at Opoa because of the area’s great importance as a port. Faaroa Bay in particular was a key location due to its protection from most wind directions. Today, a small village is on the shores of the bay, and there are vanilla plantations inland. Opoa Bay Raiatea yachting is a must during your cruise of the Tahitian Leeward Islands.
Mooring
No moorings are available. Anchor off the village. The anchorage is open to the prevailing easterlies. Make sure the anchor is well set, and watch for the Pearl farm buoys.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available for a short time only.
Things to do
Ashore in Opoa is the archaeological site of Taputapuatea Marae, restored in 1994. Work continues to preserve the marae, which is being tentatively considered for inclusion as a World Heritage Site. The great stone altar is the centerpiece, but there are many other interesting points of interest, such as stone figures called Tikis. The size of the complex indicates its importance. It dates back to earlier than 1000 A.D. and was a place of sacrifices to the gods and gatherings of the best seamen in Polynesia who passed on their knowledge to students.
Facilities
No facilities for yachts are available.
Raiatea
The second largest island in French Polynesia (Tahiti is the largest) and the largest of the Tahitian Leewards, Raiatea was known as the Sacred Island. In many ways, it’s still the cultural heart of Tahiti because of its rich history. It was once an important port on the ancient Polynesian routes through the islands, covering an enormous triangle stretching from Hawaii, Samoa, New Zealand, to present-day French Polynesia. The many fascinating archaeological and historic sites are well worth visiting on an island tour. They provide a glimpse into Polynesian culture that must be experienced firsthand. Of particular interest is the site of Taputapuatea Marae, the most significant in the islands. Horseback riding and hiking in the mountainous interior of the island are a splendid way to sightsee in a pristine tropical setting.
Tahiti Yacht Charter – 10 Day Itinerary
Day 1
Apu Bay
Tucked into the south end of Tahaa, Apu Bay provides excellent protection except in south winds. The mountains on Raiatea and Tahaa are magnificent. The scenery is picture-perfect South Pacific and a key reason why yachting in Apu Bay is so popular.
Mooring
Moorings are available at the Taravana Yacht Club (free of charge to diners at the restaurant). Anchoring is not recommended in the north end of the bay due to excessive water depths and potentially gusty winds funneling down from the mountains.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available.
Things to do
A great meal at the French restaurant at the Taravana Yacht Club and then relaxing over cocktails is a splendid way to relax on the first day of your charter. Take a stroll and admire the scenery.
Facilities
Water and garbage disposal are available with permission from the yacht club manager.
Day 2
Bora-Bora Yacht Club
Yachting in Bora-Bora waters is a journey through paradise. For centuries the fabled island has drawn sailors and inspired the imaginations of travelers throughout the world. A highlight of Bora-Bora cruising is a visit to the Bora-Bora Yacht Club located north of Vaitape Village, the main town on the island. It’s a favorite spot for globe trotting cruisers, and you’re sure to meet some interesting people as you sip a cool drink at the yacht club bar.
Mooring
Moorings are available free of charge when dining at the yacht club restaurant.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available.
Things to do
The yacht club has a restaurant and bar, world famous among long-distance cruisers. You can also access the Internet free of charge if you’re dining at the restaurant. Vaitape Village isn’t far off, with its various shops and restaurants. Car rentals in the village are available for island tours.
Facilities
Water is available at the yacht club dock.
Bora-Bora
The very name Bora-Bora conjures images of a far-off South Pacific paradise. The island has long been a favorite of sailors, and it still is. A single barrier reef encircles the two islands that make up Bora-Bora. The black basalt rock face of Mt. Otemanu rises 2,362 feet above an azure sea, with impressive Mt. Pahia nearby. Both dominate the heights and provide breathtaking views from the anchorages in the lagoon, one of the key attractions because of its superlative snorkeling and swimming. The smaller island, Topua, is all that’s left of the ancient volcano of Bora-Bora. Secure anchorages, white-sand beaches, restaurants, shops, art galleries, luxury resorts, and island tours are among the pleasures of a visit to Bora-Bora.
Day 3
Taurere
Sandy islands (motus) dot the barrier reef of Bora-Bora, at the far edge of the lagoon. The last land along the reef on the southeast side of the island is Motu Piti Aau and Taurere, a beautiful place to anchor for the night. Looking northwest toward the lush green mountains presents a fabulous view. Taurere Bora-Bora yachting is a pure delight, a memorable part of any cruise in these waters.
Mooring
No moorings are available. The anchorage is well protected and beautiful.
Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available.
Things to do
On the way to Taurere, plan to anchor for lunch at Motu Tape and go ashore to visit the Lagoonarium, where you can swim with fish, sharks, and rays without any worries. It’s a great experience for kids and adults alike. If you desire dinner at one of the resorts there, you can anchor for the night off Motu Tape. At Taurere, take the dinghy around Pt. Faaroone and anchor south of the motu in sand. There’s a stunningly beautiful coral garden for snorkeling. You can also take the dinghy into the many inlets of the nearby motus. Stroll to the ocean-side to enjoy the beach, collect shells, and swim.
Facilities
No facilities for yachts are available.
Day 4
Pt. Raititi
The lagoon widens north of Pt. Raititi with Povai Bay to the east along the shore of Bora-Bora. The scenery is truly spectacular, which accounts for the several hotels and restaurants in the vicinity and why Pt. Raititi Bora-Bora yachting is so popular. To the west is the small island of Topua, the only remaining vestiges of the massive volcano that formed Bora-Bora.
Mooring
Moorings are available for diners at the Bloody Mary restaurant in Povai Bay. Anchor west of the beacon marking the north end of the reef near Pt. Raititi. Another great anchorage for spending the night is close to the west shore of Topua at the south end of the island in Topua Bay. Also in the bay are day anchorages with easy access to the beach and the reef.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available at Hotel Bora-Bora for boaters who avail themselves of the excellent food and drink at the hotel’s restaurant and bar.
Things to do
There are several excellent beaches accessible by dinghy for snorkeling on the reef. Scuba diving excursions are available. A leisurely stroll ashore takes you to a number of shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
Facilities
No facilities for yachts are available.
Day 5
Faaroa Bay
Cruising in Faaroa Bay Raiatea waters brings you over the north end of the island of Raiatea, then southeast along the eastern coast. The channel is well marked. To starboard, opposite the Passe Irihu ou Maire, is Faaroa Bay, a fjord-like indentation deep into the shoreline. Steep mountains rise on either side, lush with tropical vegetation and tall palms. Beyond is the valley of Mt. Tefaatuaiti.
Mooring
Moorings are recommended. There are 15 available.
Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available.
Things to do
Aside from its stunning beauty, the main attraction of the bay is the opportunity to explore the Aopomau River by dinghy. In no other place in French Polynesia can you take a river trip! As you head up the river, jungle fronts both shores, interspersed with the cultivated lands of working plantations. The mountains are ever present, looming above like watchful sentinels. At an elevation of approximately 3,400 feet above sea level, Mt. Tefaatuaiti is the tallest peak in the Tahitian Leeward Islands.
Facilities
No facilities for yachts are available.
Raiatea
The second largest island in French Polynesia (Tahiti is the largest) and the largest of the Tahitian Leewards, Raiatea was known as the Sacred Island. In many ways, it’s still the cultural heart of Tahiti because of its rich history. It was once an important port on the ancient Polynesian routes through the islands, covering an enormous triangle stretching from Hawaii, Samoa, New Zealand, to present-day French Polynesia. The many fascinating archaeological and historic sites are well worth visiting on an island tour. They provide a glimpse into Polynesian culture that must be experienced firsthand. Of particular interest is the site of Taputapuatea Marae, the most significant in the islands. Horseback riding and hiking in the mountainous interior of the island are a splendid way to sightsee in a pristine tropical setting.
Day 6
Opoa Bay
Opoa Bay and its surrounding lands are steeped in history. The lagoon was once a major staging area for long-distance Polynesian voyages that led to the settlement of New Zealand and the establishment of the Maori. The sea was integral to Polynesian culture, and thus it is no surprise that the Polynesians would build a major religious center at Opoa because of the area’s great importance as a port. Faaroa Bay in particular was a key location due to its protection from most wind directions. Today, a small village is on the shores of the bay, and there are vanilla plantations inland. Opoa Bay Raiatea yachting is a must during your cruise of the Tahitian Leeward Islands.
Mooring
No moorings are available. Anchor off the village. The anchorage is open to the prevailing easterlies. Make sure the anchor is well set, and watch for the Pearl farm buoys.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available for a short time only.
Things to do
Ashore in Opoa is the archaeological site of Taputapuatea Marae, restored in 1994. Work continues to preserve the marae, which is being tentatively considered for inclusion as a World Heritage Site. The great stone altar is the centerpiece, but there are many other interesting points of interest, such as stone figures called Tikis. The size of the complex indicates its importance. It dates back to earlier than 1000 A.D. and was a place of sacrifices to the gods and gatherings of the best seamen in Polynesia who passed on their knowledge to students.
Facilities
No facilities for yachts are available.
Raiatea
The second largest island in French Polynesia (Tahiti is the largest) and the largest of the Tahitian Leewards, Raiatea was known as the Sacred Island. In many ways, it’s still the cultural heart of Tahiti because of its rich history. It was once an important port on the ancient Polynesian routes through the islands, covering an enormous triangle stretching from Hawaii, Samoa, New Zealand, to present-day French Polynesia. The many fascinating archaeological and historic sites are well worth visiting on an island tour. They provide a glimpse into Polynesian culture that must be experienced firsthand. Of particular interest is the site of Taputapuatea Marae, the most significant in the islands. Horseback riding and hiking in the mountainous interior of the island are a splendid way to sightsee in a pristine tropical setting.
Day 7
Fare Village
When you go cruising in Fare Village waters, you encounter the delights of the largest settlement on Huahine. The village has a variety of restaurants, shops, and several small hotels. When the inter-island freighters dock at the wharf, much of the population turns out for a party. The scene is evocative of life in the Tahitian Leeward Islands, where the sea is still the lifeline, as it has been for millennia in these waters. Huahine is a large, agricultural island, with plantations nestled in the valleys and lowlands. Its interior is mountainous. Maroe Bay on the east side and Port Bourayne on the west side nearly cut Huahine in two. The small passage between them does indeed separate Huahine into two islands.
Mooring
No moorings are available. Anchor off the west end of Fare Village, just inside the pass through the reef. There’s good protection from the prevailing easterly winds.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available.
Things to do
Going ashore to see the island by rented car takes you on quiet country roads weaving through the valleys and hills. Vanilla plantations spread out from the roadside and climb the hills. Horseback riding is another option and a great way to see the interior. Spending some time at the Huahine Shack sipping a cool drink is a must for cruisers.
Facilities
Water is available at the commercial dock. Car rentals are available.
Huahine
Locally known as the Garden Island for its lush tropical forests and agricultural land used to grow crops such as vanilla, copra, and even watermelons, Huahine is actually two mountainous islands spanned by a short bridge. The larger one is called Huahine-Nui, meaning big island, and, appropriately, the smaller one is called Huahine-Iti, meaning little island. Like Raiatea and Tahaa, it is much less travelled than Bora-Bora, arguably as big a tourist draw as Tahiti. Miles of pristine white-sand beaches, secure anchorages, and wonderful snorkeling are major appeals of this laid-back South Pacific treasure.
Day 8
Bay d'Avea
Bay d’Avea yachting takes you to the end of the western passage behind Huahine’s barrier reef. A pleasant anchorage with ample swinging room, there are also a number of attractions at the nearby hotels.
Mooring
No moorings are available. There are two preferred anchoring locations in the bay. At the east end of the bay near Pt. Tiva you will find good holding and easy dinghy access to the beach. The other anchorage is near the entrance to the bay in front of the Mauari hotel and restaurant.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available at the Relais Mahana restaurant.
Things to do
The Mauari restaurant is said to be the best on Huahine. Watersports equipment is available for rent, as are motor scooters and bicycles for island tours. The Relais Mahana hotel and restaurant also serves delicious food. Car rentals are available for island tours.
Facilities
No facilities for yachts are available.
Day 9
Haamene Bay
Tahaa is a beautiful, mountainous island known for its many vanilla plantations ensconced in valleys. It is very similar in nature to Huahine in terms of agriculture and the laid-back ambience. Haamene Bay cruising brings you to the largest protected body of water on the island.
Mooring
Moorings are available at the Hibiscus Restaurant. Anchor at the head of the bay for the best protection and scenery.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available at the Hibiscus Restaurant.
Things to do
Dinner at the Hibiscus Restaurant is a pleasant way to pass an early evening. At the head of the bay is a scenic hiking trail through the dense tropical forest over Mt. Taira to the head of Hurepiti Bay.
Facilities
No facilities for yachts are available.
Tahaa
The fragrant scent of vanilla fills the air on Tahaa, just north of Raiatea and encircled by the same barrier reef. In fact, 80 percent of all the vanilla in French Polynesia is grown in the mountain valleys of Tahaa, earning it the nickname of the Vanilla Island. Plantation tours are an interesting sojourn ashore. Black pearls, one of the prizes of the region, are grown on aquatic farms, some of which are open to the public. Local artisans craft fine jewelry featuring the pearls, and the intricate and beautiful bracelets, necklaces, and rings are for sale in shops throughout the Tahitian Leewards. Tahaa is home to a sea turtle preserve, where visitors can observe the creatures in a park setting. The island has many fjord-like inlets both scenic and well protected for anchoring, and the snorkeling on the reef is superb. White-sand beaches are ideal for swimming and picnicking.
Day 10
Apu Bay
Tucked into the south end of Tahaa, Apu Bay provides excellent protection except in south winds. The mountains on Raiatea and Tahaa are magnificent. The scenery is picture-perfect South Pacific and a key reason why yachting in Apu Bay is so popular.
Mooring
Moorings are available at the Taravana Yacht Club (free of charge to diners at the restaurant). Anchoring is not recommended in the north end of the bay due to excessive water depths and potentially gusty winds funneling down from the mountains.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available.
Things to do
A great meal at the French restaurant at the Taravana Yacht Club and then relaxing over cocktails is a splendid way to relax on the first day of your charter. Take a stroll and admire the scenery.
Facilities
Water and garbage disposal are available with permission from the yacht club manager.
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