Tahiti—The very word itself conjures images of lush green hillsides, calm turquoise lagoons and over-water bungalows. It is easily one of the most exotic and sought-after vacation destinations anywhere in the world, and with good reason. So for those that have this French Polynesian paradise on their travel radar, here is everything you need to know to bring your very own Tahiti adventure to life in the best way possible...
The Society Islands of French Polynesia, of which Tahiti is the largest, were unknown to western civilization until the 1760’s. They are some of the most remote islands in the world, renowned for their beauty and culture, and home to a native population of expert seafaring Polynesians.
What better way to explore everything these islands have to offer than to discover them by boat, at your own pace, on your own schedule, and in the company of those you care about most? Yacht charter companies like The Moorings make this kind of tailor-made travel experience possible by offering private sailing yachts staffed with a professional skipper and all-inclusive Crewed yachts that come with a licensed captain and a personal gourmet chef. You and your loved ones can select the exact yacht and charter option that suits your needs and vacation style.
For North-Americans, a mere 8-hour flight from Los Angeles will transport you to the main island of Tahiti, and a short puddle-jump later you will arrive in Raiatea, where The Moorings marina in French Polynesia is located. Once on board your own private yacht, you embark on a personalized itinerary and are free to explore these wild and exotic islands, each with its own unique flair.
From the starting point of your picture-perfect cruising vacation, there are four main islands within easy reach:
Raiatea is the second largest of the Society Islands, behind Tahiti, and is the administrative center of the region. Famous for its vanilla plantations, it is an excellent place to explore on-land and immerse yourself in local culture.
Taha'a is an underwater paradise, featuring coral gardens unlike anything you've ever laid eyes on. On the northwest side of the island, there is a narrow, shallow channel with a gentle current that will carry you effortlessly across the pristine reef below, which is home to thousands of tropical fish. When you are done gliding through this natural wonder, simply walk back to the beginning to enjoy it over and over again!
Bora Bora is the most well-known Society Island, with its iconic bungalows hovering above the sea and majestic views of Mt. Otemanu clearly visible for miles in any direction. Upon mooring in Point Raititi, you can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters with manta rays, stingrays, and friendly reef sharks. Plus, plan to visit a local pearl farm, where you can dive for a hand-picked oyster shell and take home a precious black pearl of your own.
Huahine is located about 20 miles east of Raiatea. Here, natural beauty reigns supreme, as the island of Huahine is less populated and less-traveled than its Polynesian neighbors. It is a fantastic stop for any Tahiti sailing itinerary with fabulous snorkeling conditions and secluded anchorages ideal for sun-soaked relaxation.
To see a detailed, 7-Day Tahiti sailing itinerary, and to learn more about realizing your own unforgettable yacht charter vacation in the world's most exquisite destinations, visit moorings.com.
