As you probably already know, I have spent over three years sailing between the islands of French Polynesia and I actually left a piece of my heart there. I was so enchanted by the country that I love going back.
In October 2024 I will be leading three groups on a sailing trip among the Society Islands and one group between the Tuamotu atolls. Autumn is my favorite time to visit Polynesia as there are lots of whales around and I can tell you that swimming with whales is by far the best experience I have ever had!
When do we leave?
In 2024 I am organising four cruises to Polynesia:
- 25 September – 4 October: TIKEHAU, MAKATEA, HUAHINE, TAHAA, RAIATEA (full)
- 7 October – 13 October: HUAHINE, RAIATEA, TAHAA, BORA BORA (one cabin free)
- 16 October – October: HUAHINE, RAIATEA, TAHAA, BORA BORA (6 vacancies)
- 24 October – 30 October: BORA BORA, TAHAA, RAIATEA (full)
The boat
We will sail on a 44-foot catamaran from 2010. A multihull is without doubt the best choice for exploring Polynesian waters. The catamaran is a Belize Fountaine Pajot, has four double cabins and two bathrooms. We will have at our disposal: 1 wingfoil, 1 sup, 1 va’a (Polynesian canoe), 2 spear guns.
Navigation area
We will sail between the Leeward Islands of the Society Islands. I chose this area because the sailing is easy and the distances between the islands short, but also because it is an area that offers many opportunities for interesting activities both at sea and on land.
And after the cruise?
Once disembarked, everyone can organise themselves as they wish, as everyone has different desires and time availability also varies greatly. Here are my recommendations based on how much time you have before your return flight:
1 day: return to Tahiti and visit the market in Papeete to buy souvenirs; if you have time, you can take a tour of the island or at least reach the beach at Venus Point.
2-4 days: return to Tahiti and visit Moorea (from Tahiti to Moorea can be reached by a fast catamaran that takes about half an hour). Moorea is a wonderful island where you can rent electric bikes and explore the island, or simply relax on the beach and participate in the obligatory Happy Hour at the Hilton at sunset. There are many options for walking along well-marked trails, and there are also several affordable accommodations.
If you have five days or more, I highly recommend visiting an atoll, e.g. Fakarava or Rangiroa. If you want to stay in the Society Islands, Maupiti is also very beautiful.
However, I remain at your disposal for further advice. If you want to visit several islands, I recommend buying an Air Tahiti Multi-island Pass, which allows multiple flights within French Polynesia. You can find them on the Air Tahiti website. To organise pre- or post-cruise days, you can ask the payment agency for help (see below).
Cost
The cost for seven days cruising (six nights) is €1,960 per person and includes catamaran hire, skipper, hostess, all meals, fuel, sports equipment, organisation and guide (me). The only additional cost will be for alcoholic beverages. In some places you might do some excursions (e.g. hire a bicycle or join an off-road excursion, swim with whales, etc.). These costs are not included, nor are any drinks/dinners on land.
Flight
The relevant airport in French Polynesia is Papeete in Tahiti (PPT). You can book your flight via the agency or even on your own. Prices vary between €1500 and €2000 per person, with flights leaving from Paris via San Francisco or Los Angeles. French Bee is the cheapest option, while Air Tahiti or Air France are slightly more expensive but include meals and luggage. ESTA for the US is required for travel.
Payment
To pay for your booking, contact the Ideja turizem travel agency. They have their office in Sesana (SLO), but they also speak English. Contact: info@ideja-turizem.si, tel. 00396 – 05 – 730 50 50.