Sailing French Polynesia: Your Ultimate South Pacific Adventure
If you have ever dreamed of sailing across lagoons so clear they look airbrushed, anchoring off tiny motu islets, and ending the day with a swim in warm water as Mount Otemanu glows pink at sunset, this is your place. A French Polynesia sailing vacation is not just a French Polynesia trip, it is a full sensory reset, turquoise horizons, fragrant gardenias, drumbeats at night, and the kind of stargazing you rarely get on land.
Neptune’s Daughter plans sailboat vacations, private boat charter experiences, and the best itineraries around the world. In French Polynesia, we do it with extra care because the rewards are huge, and so are the logistics. Whether you want a yacht charter French Polynesia adventure in the Society Islands, or a more ambitious route that blends in the Tuamotus, we will match you with the right boat, crew, and route for your style of sailing French Polynesia.
Why Choose a Sailing Vacation in French Polynesia?
The World’s Most Beautiful Lagoons
Bora Bora is iconic for a reason, but the real magic is that many islands deliver that same electric-blue water. The lagoons here are calm, warm, and luminous, and they make every anchorage feel like a postcard.
Overwater Freedom
A French Polynesia sailing charter gives you a moving waterfront home. Wake up in a quiet bay, dinghy to a bakery or a local snack stand, snorkel right off the boat, then reposition for the best sunset. No packing and unpacking, no strict “tour” timetable, just your own rhythm.
Polynesian Culture (Mana)
“Mana” is often described as spiritual life force, and you feel it in the welcome, the music, the dance, the food, and the respect for land and sea. Visiting marae (ancient temple sites) on Raiatea or Huahine adds a deeper layer to any French Polynesia holiday.
Marine Life Wonderland
Coral gardens, rays, turtles, reef fish in every color, plus seasonal whale encounters. You can drift snorkel in Taha’a, swim with rays in Bora Bora, and dive legendary passes in the Tuamotus if you build the trip around it.
Getting There and Practical Info
Flights
Most travelers route through Tahiti (Pape'ete, PPT). There are nonstop options from Los Angeles on Air Tahiti Nui, with a flight time of under 8 hours. French Bee also operates nonstop service from San Francisco on select days, with schedules varying seasonally. Air Tahiti and Air Moana are offering local flight services throughout the day.
Visas
For U.S. passport holders visiting as tourists, a visa is generally not required for stays up to 90 days within a 6-month period (standard tourist conditions apply, including an onward or return ticket).
Currency
French Polynesia uses the Pacific Franc (CFP franc), currency code XPF. Credit cards are common in more developed areas, but cash is still useful for markets, small shops, and remote stops.
Packing
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a rash guard, polarized sunglasses, a dry bag, water shoes (coral and sharp rocks happen), light layers for evenings, a compact rain shell (especially in wetter months), and motion sickness meds if anyone is sensitive. For charters, we also recommend a soft duffel (not hard suitcases).
Read more here for packing tips.
Top Sailing Destinations in French Polynesia
The Society Islands (Leeward)
Bora Bora
The “Pearl of the Pacific” is your lagoon fantasy made real, vibrant blues, manta rays, and Mount Otemanu towering above it all. It is a must for first-timers and for anyone wanting that classic Sailing Tahiti Experience (Tahiti is the gateway, but Bora Bora is the headline). If you want a “mix of wild and luxe,” Bora Bora is the sweet spot.
Raiatea
Often considered the sailing capital of the region, Raiatea is a major base for yacht charter French Polynesia itineraries. It is also culturally significant, with important marae and a strong sense of Polynesian history. Many charters start here because it makes the Leewards efficient and easy to link.
Taha'a
The “Vanilla Island” shares a lagoon with Raiatea, and it is famous for coral gardens, pearl farms, and relaxed anchorages. This is where your french polynesia sailing trip slows down in the best way, snorkel, float, repeat, then dinghy in for a low-key dinner or arrange a motu picnic.
Huahine
“Garden Island” energy, greener, quieter, and often described as more “authentic.” Huahine is where you find ancient marae sites, fewer crowds, and anchorages that feel like you discovered them yourself.
The Society Islands Windward)
Tahiti
Tahiti is the gateway island, and it is worth more than a quick airport transfer. Give yourself time for markets, waterfalls, and black sand beaches, plus excellent pre-charter provisioning options.
Moorea
A short hop from Tahiti, Moorea is dramatic and jagged, with Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay delivering some of the most photogenic anchor views in the South Pacific. It is ideal for a first or last “slow day,” with hiking, 4x4 inland adventures, and a very easy pace.
The Tuamotu Atolls (For Adventurers)
Rangiroa and Fakarava
Flat coral rings with passes that funnel ocean life, and some of the most famous diving in the world. These atolls are a different kind of beauty, stark, remote, and intensely oceanic. The main consideration is that reef passes and currents require serious planning and conservative decision-making, especially if you are combining them with a sailing itinerary.
Best Time to Sail in French Polynesia
Dry Season (May to October)
This is peak season, with drier weather and pleasant temperatures around 74 to 85°F (23 to 30°C) in the Society Islands (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora). Expect steadier breezes, lower humidity, and excellent visibility for lagoon time. Water temperature is 80 to 84°F (27 to 29°C).
Wet Season (November to April)
Warmer, more humid, with a higher chance of rain squalls. It is still very doable, often with fewer crowds and sometimes better pricing, but itinerary flexibility matters more. Air tempratures ranging from 75 to 90°F (24 to 32°C) and water tempratures are 82 to 85°F (28 to 29°C)
Whale Season (July through November)
Humpbacks migrate through the region during these months, and it can be a highlight to plan around, especially if your group loves wildlife. Many travelers aim for late July through September to combine prime sailing conditions with strong whale odds.
Beyond the Boat: French Polynesia Activities and Experiences
Water-Based Fun
Drift snorkel coral gardens in Taha’a, swim with sharks and rays in Bora Bora, paddleboard across mirror-flat lagoons, and (for experts) surf world-class reef breaks with local guidance and the right conditions.
Land Excursions
Do a 4x4 safari into Moorea or Tahiti’s interior, visit vanilla plantations and pearl farms on Taha’a, and hike to waterfalls (bring good shoes, it can be muddy).
Dining
Try poisson cru (raw fish in coconut milk) at local snack stands, arrange a private beach BBQ (motu picnic), or dinghy to resort restaurants for a special night out.
Cultural Connection
Visit marae sites on Huahine and Raiatea, and catch traditional dance performances when available. If you love festivals, consider planning around Heiva i Tahiti, one of the most important cultural events, typically held in July (dates vary by year).
French Polynesia Sailing & Yacht Charter Options
Bareboat Charters
Ideal if you are an experienced skipper and want full freedom. If you are specifically looking for a bareboat charter French Polynesia experience, we will help you pick the right base, route, and boat layout for lagoon life (and make sure you are set up for safe reef navigation).
Cabin Charters
Great for couples, solo travelers, or friends who want the charter vibe without booking an entire yacht. You get your own cabin and shared social spaces, and the itinerary is professionally run.
Why Choose Neptune’s Daughter for Your South Pacific Expedition?
French Polynesia is extraordinary, and it rewards smart planning. Neptune’s Daughter brings:
Expert Matching
Vetted operators (cleanliness, safety standards, and real-world reliability).
Itinerary Design
Balance iconic stops with quieter anchorages.
Trip Logistics
support, flights, pre and post accommodations, transfers, provisioning guidance.
On-trip support mindset
So you feel looked after, not just “booked and done”.
Start Planning Your Fench Polynesia Trip
Schedule your free 30-minute consultation and we’ll design a bespoke plan: route, yacht selection, provisioning, excursions, and travel logistics.
Itineraries & Inspiration:
Pro Tips: Cost, booking window & insurance:
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Typical ranges: Bareboat charters - mostly catamaran, prices range from $4500 in the low season (November-April) and $15,000 in high season. Cabin charter prices range from $1800 per person to $2800 in a cabin on a fully crewed catamaran with up to 12 guests.
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When to book: Book 9 to 12 months ahead, especially for catamarans in peak season and for summer travel (July and August) when demand spikes.
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Provisioning: Alcohol is expensive, and selection can be limited on smaller islands. A common pro move is buying duty-free upon arrival at PPT, then provisioning the rest locally with our guidance
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Insurance & Protection: We recommend comprehensive travel insurance (medical, evacuation, trip interruption) and optional refundable terms where available. Visit our Travel Insurance page to browse plans and purchase a plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
01
Can we sail at night?
Generally, no. French Polynesia is a daylight-navigation destination, especially around reefs and lagoon entrances. Even experienced crews usually plan hops and arrivals with generous daylight buffers. Having said that, some cabin cruises will sail overnight with its professional crew, so that the guests could enjoy maximum daytime for excursions.
02
What is the difference between the “Leeward” and “Windward” Society Islands?
The Leewards (like Bora Bora, Raiatea, Taha’a, Huahine) are the classic charter playground with many lagoon-focused routes. The Windwards (Tahiti and Moorea) are closer to the main international gateway and are great for add-on exploration, shorter sails, and dramatic scenery
03
How do we navigate the coral reefs and passes?
With conservative routing, daylight-only approaches, updated charts, local waypoints, and a “when in doubt, wait it out” mentality. Passes can have strong current, and conditions change with tide, swell, and wind, so timing matters, slack water is often the goal when transiting reef passes.
04
Can we anchor anywhere in the lagoons?
Not everywhere. Some areas are protected, some are too shallow, and some have coral you must avoid. Many popular spots use moorings, or have preferred sand patches. We plan anchorages with holding, depth, wind angle, and reef safety in mind.
05
Is it possible to dive in the Tuamotus while on a sailing charter?
Yes, but it depends on your itinerary, experience level, and the boat’s routing plan. Many travelers combine a Society Islands sailing route with a separate Tuamotus dive add-on (by short flight), which can be more efficient and comfortable.
06
Are there sharks in the water, and is it safe to swim?
Yes, you will see sharks, mostly reef sharks, and in many places it is considered safe to swim when you follow local guidance (avoid spearfishing activity, don’t swim at dusk with bait in the water, respect wildlife, and follow crew briefings).
07
Do we need to speak French?
Not required. French and Tahitian are widely spoken, and English is common in tourism and charter settings. A few French phrases go a long way, especially in markets and smaller towns.
08
Can we surf during our sailing trip?
Yes, for experienced surfers who understand reef breaks and safety protocols. Conditions are technical, and local knowledge matters, so we recommend arranging sessions with reputable local guides.
09
What is the “Heiva” festival and should we plan around it?
Heiva i Tahiti is a major cultural festival featuring dance, music, and competitions, typically held in July. If culture is a big goal for your French Polynesia vacation, planning around Heiva can be incredible, just book earlier because it can increase demand for flights and accommodations.
10
What license is required in order to charter in French Polynesia?
An International Sailing License such as NauticEd SLC is required to have for chartering in French Polynesia. Consult us if you need to obtain one.