10 Nights - Sample Itinerary
Day 1 & 2: TAHITIArrive at Marina Taina and visit the city of Papeete. Choose from many local artifacts as well as Polynesian black pearls and French fashions. There are also good restaurants, local markets, art galleries and a folklore centre. A visit to the Gauguin park and museum is highly recommended.
Day 3 & 4: TAHITI – MOOREA
Moorea has often been linked to James Michener’s mythical island of Bali Hai. The two spectacular anchorages of Oponuhu Bay and Cook Bay represent the sailor’s idea of Polynesia. Diving spots are numerous. Take a 4x4 Safari to the Belvedere look out, the ancient Marae (Tahitian temples), the plantation of Opuhi and the waterfall of Afareiatu. Horseback riding on the beach at Rupe Rupe ranch or in the mountains at Haapiti is available. “Dolphin Quest” at the Beach Comber Park Royal Hotel is a unique experience. Visit the tropical aquarium centre and pearl farm and later sample one of the island’s impressive restaurants.
Day 5: MOOREA – TETIAROA
Tetiaroa, locally known as Marlon Brando Island, is historically a resort for the Tahitian chiefs of the Pomare royal family. Anchor for the day and enjoy the brilliant white beaches and nature reserve. Access to the lagoon is via a waterjet powered boat directly across the reef – an exciting rollercoaster ride.
Day 6 & 7: TETIAROA – HUAHINE
Huahine is the first of the leeward island group, which form an ideal cruising area. Huahine is very rural and is made up of two mountainous islands, Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti, connected by a narrow isthmus. There good anchorages with excellent diving at the south reef of Pointe Oe. Visit the village of Maeva for its local Market. An island safari tour, vanilla plantation visit, horse riding or bicycle tour are all highly recommended. Visit Hani Iti hotel with its incredible shell display.
Day 8 & 9: HUAHINE – RAIATEA
Raiatea and Tahaa lie within the same hourglass-shaped coral reef. Both islands are lush and fertile, and their ideal sailing and fishing conditions offer magnificent cruising. Other recommended attractions here include wreck diving and shark feeding at Tiva. Visit pearl farms and the sea museum. Other recommended activities include deep sea fishing, helicopter and sea plane tours, safari 4x4 on the volcano roads, and visits to the vanilla, pineapple and bamboo plantations.
Day 10: RAIATEA – BORA BORA
Bora Bora is at the centre of the multicolored lagoon surrounded by offshore motu islets inside a protective necklace of coral. The diving here is excellent; for the more adventurous try Mori Mori shark feeding! Other popular attractions on the island include snorkeling with manta rays, windsurfing, game fishing, cycling, boutique shopping, helicopter and sea plane tours. Enjoy a stunning sunset over a cocktail at Hotel Bora Bora and explore the island’s many good restaurants.
