Current Weather in Huahine25°C • 11 kn • ELive Forecast
Sailing Itinerary
7-day Tahiti sailing itinerary: Raiatea, Huahine, Tahaa, Bora Bora & Maupiti
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Explore your sailing route. Click on any location to see each stop. You can find detailed information on each day of the itinerary below with insider tips, recommended restaurants, drone spots, activities, and more.
Complete Itinerary
Detailed day-by-day guide with insider tips, ratings, and everything you need to know.
Raiatea to Huahine
A short island-hop delivers you to Huahine’s tranquil lagoons. Anchor near Fare or Bourayne Bay, then explore Maeva’s marae, the sacred eels at Faie, and snorkel clear-water coves.
Mooring Information
Enter Huahine by daylight via the well-marked pass serving Fare; keep a sharp lookout for coral heads once inside the lagoon.
Mooring buoys are often available off Fare; if full, anchor on sand in 5–15 m with good scope and avoid coral patches.
Bourayne Bay and Avea Bay offer excellent overnight shelter from the trade winds and good holding in sand.
Use the public quay at Fare for dinghy access to the market and shops; reduce wake near the waterfront.
Monitor VHF 16 for hailing; local updates may be relayed by tour operators and harbor users.
Arrive early in peak season to secure space and to navigate bommies with the sun overhead.
Top Restaurants
Huahine Yacht Club in Fare for sunset drinks and fresh fish right on the lagoon.
Chez Tara by Avea Bay for traditional Sunday ‘ma’a Tahiti’ and beachside dining.
Le Mahana on Huahine Iti for relaxed island cuisine and lagoon views.
Casual roulottes (food trucks) in Fare serve plates of poisson cru and grilled specialties.
Beachfront cafes around Fare offer pastries and good coffee for early starts.
Activities
Join a guided island tour covering marae sites, vanilla tastings, and scenic viewpoints.
Snorkel from the dinghy along the edges of Avea Bay where coral gardens host colorful reef fish.
Paddle a SUP in the calm waters off Fare and along the coastline to hidden beaches.
Visit a small local distillery for fruit liqueur tastings and island-made products.
Take a sunset dinghy cruise along the lagoon’s inside reef for golden-hour photography.
Water Sports
Snorkeling is excellent in Avea and Bourayne bays; choose spots with sandy entries to avoid coral contact.
Scuba diving trips can be arranged locally for outer reef sites with turtles and reef sharks.
Stand-up paddleboarding around Fare’s lagoon offers sheltered, beginner-friendly conditions.
Sea kayaking lets you explore between motus and along the mangrove-fringed shorelines.
Light-tackle lagoon fishing is possible—observe local regulations and protected zones.
Drone Spots
Fare Bay for contrasts of turquoise shallows and deep-blue channels.
Maeva village and its fish traps from above, taking care not to fly over people or sacred areas.
Avea Bay’s sand and coral mosaic provides stunning color gradients at low sun angles.
The bridge area near Faie offers dramatic views of the stream and surrounding lagoon.
Ridges near Mount Taitaa reveal both lagoon and ocean; respect no-fly rules near the airport.
Must See
Maeva’s archaeological marae and ancient fish traps provide a window into Huahine’s Polynesian heritage.
Feed or observe the revered blue-eyed eels in Faie, a unique cultural highlight.
Avea Bay’s pale sand and clear water make it a favorite for swimming and snorkeling.
Hike or drive to a viewpoint near Mount Tavaiura for lagoon panoramas across Huahine Nui and Iti.
Stroll Fare’s waterfront and visit the morning market for fruit, fish, and local crafts.
Services
Fare has small supermarkets, a bakery, ATMs, and a produce market within dinghy range.
Fuel and limited water are typically available near the main quay—confirm hours locally.
Local dive centers can arrange reef and pass dives when conditions allow.
Island tours and 4WD excursions can be booked ashore in Fare.
Basic medical clinic and pharmacy services are available on the island.
Hazards
Coral heads (bommies) are scattered throughout the lagoon—approach anchorages slowly.
Pass currents can be strong in swell; time entries for good light and fair conditions.
Unlit fish traps and stakes may be present; avoid night navigation.
Gusts funnel through bays during mara’amu (SE trade winds); set plenty of scope.
Avoid anchoring on coral; choose sand patches to protect reefs and ensure good holding.
Tips
Provision fresh produce early at Fare’s morning market; many shops close early on Sundays.
Navigate lagoon shallows with the sun high for best bommie visibility and assign a bow lookout.
Use only reef-safe sunscreen and avoid standing on coral while snorkeling.
Carry cash for small vendors and roadside stands; card acceptance is limited.
If swell builds from the west, shift to more enclosed anchorages like Bourayne Bay.
Huahine to Tahaa
Sail to Tahaa’s tranquil lagoon for a day of vanilla, pearls, and coral gardens. Anchor in Apu or Haamene Bay and plan a drift-snorkel near Motu Tautau.
Mooring Information
Anchor on sand in Apu Bay or Haamene Bay with good protection from the prevailing SE trades.
A few privately maintained moorings may exist near businesses; always verify condition and seek permission.
Depths commonly range 6–15 m; use a sand patch and avoid bommies when setting.
Dinghy landings are straightforward at village quays; reduce speed near pearl-farm lines.
Monitor VHF 16; cell coverage is generally reliable around populated bays.
Arrive mid-day to scout clear routes through coral heads with optimal sun angle.
Top Restaurants
Waterside eateries in Haamene Bay serve fresh lagoon fish and island-style plates.
Simple snack bars in Patio village are good for casual lunches.
Arrange a motu barbecue with a local host for a memorable meal on the beach.
Look for small bakeries for morning baguettes and pastries.
Some pension restaurants open to non-guests with reservations—call ahead.
Activities
Drift-snorkel the Coral Garden with the current—wear fins and keep hands off coral.
Arrange a motu picnic and snorkel session with a local guide.
Take a short hike on interior trails for lagoon and reef vistas.
Paddle a SUP along the shoreline of Haamene Bay to spot rays in the shallows.
Join an educational tour at a pearl farm and shop for farm-direct pearls.
Water Sports
Snorkeling is superb in the Coral Garden’s shallow channels—go at mid-tide for visibility.
Kayaking and SUP are ideal in Tahaa’s calm, protected bays.
Scuba diving on the outer reef can be arranged through nearby dive operators.
Light-wind sailing inside the lagoon rewards careful route planning among coral heads.
Catch-and-release lagoon fishing is possible; respect local restrictions and no-take areas.
Drone Spots
Motu Tautau’s Coral Garden displays striking turquoise channels from above.
Apu Bay’s pearl lines create graphic patterns against the lagoon’s blues.
Haamene Bay curves beautifully, with lush hills meeting the water.
Western motus at golden hour frame Bora Bora’s silhouette on the horizon.
Note airspace limits near Raiatea’s airport across the channel; avoid flying anywhere near flight paths.
Must See
Guided visits to vanilla plantations reveal cultivation and curing methods unique to Tahaa.
Lagoon pearl farms offer insights into grafting and the creation of Tahitian black pearls.
The Coral Garden near Motu Tautau features vibrant fish and shallow, clear water.
Scenic views toward Bora Bora from Tahaa’s western motus at sunset.
The village of Haamene is a pleasant stop for a stroll, supplies, and a waterfront drink.
Services
Small groceries and bakeries are found in Haamene and Patio for light provisioning.
Pearl and vanilla farm boutiques sell locally produced goods and gifts.
Mobile coverage is typically good; Wi‑Fi may be available at some cafes.
Basic waste disposal may be available at village quays—ask locally.
For fuel and larger supermarkets, plan a stop at Uturoa on neighboring Raiatea.
Hazards
Pearl-farm longlines and floats can be hard to spot at distance—keep a good lookout.
Shallow coral heads border many motus; favor well-lit conditions for transits.
Tidal flow in narrow cuts of the Coral Garden can be swift—enter only if confident.
Squalls can roll off the highlands; check anchor set and swing room.
Night navigation inside the lagoon is not recommended due to unlit hazards.
Tips
Book vanilla and pearl farm tours in advance and bring cash for small purchases.
Wear protective booties for shallow-water drifts to avoid cuts on coral rubble.
Secure the dinghy well before starting the drift and plan an exit point down-current.
Do not anchor on or near coral gardens; use sand patches or approved moorings only.
If trades freshen, Haamene Bay offers deep protection for a comfortable night.
Tahaa to Bora Bora
Make the famed hop to Bora Bora and settle into the lagoon. Choose moorings off Vaitape or sandy anchorages near Toopua and Matira for easy access to beaches and tours.
Mooring Information
Authorized mooring fields lie off Vaitape and near popular lagoon restaurants; verify fees and buoy condition.
Anchor on clean sand in 6–12 m around Toopua or near Matira where permitted; avoid sea-grass and coral.
Use the public quay at Vaitape for dinghy access, fuel, and provisioning; observe no‑wake zones.
Arrive with good light to identify sand patches and avoid shallow shelves and bommies.
Local operators monitor VHF 16; expect busy traffic with tour boats and tenders.
Top Restaurants
Bloody Mary’s for a quintessential island grill experience and lively atmosphere.
St. James in Vaitape for refined lagoon-view dining and fresh seafood.
Bora Bora Yacht Club for waterside meals and sunset cocktails.
La Villa Mahana for intimate, reservation-only fine dining.
Casual roulottes in Vaitape serve good-value local plates in the evening.
Activities
Join a snorkel tour to see blacktip reef sharks and rays in shallow, clear sand flats.
Take a 4WD island tour to WWII lookouts and Otemanu viewpoints.
Cycle or e‑bike the coastal road and stop at local boutiques and craft stalls.
Book a motu picnic and spend the afternoon swimming a quiet sandspit.
Enjoy a sunset cruise around the inner lagoon for panoramic views.
Water Sports
Snorkel Anau and coral gardens in calm weather for manta and reef fish sightings.
Try jetskiing with a guided lagoon circuit—observe speed limits and wildlife distances.
Stand‑up paddleboard over shallow sandbars near Matira in the morning calm.
Kayak around Toopua’s sheltered side and tuck into small coves.
Certified divers can book outer-reef and pass dives when swell and currents cooperate.
Drone Spots
Mount Otemanu’s jagged profile from a respectful offshore position.
Matira’s sandspit and gradient of blues at mid-tide.
Toopua motu’s shallow lagoons and coral heads at low sun.
Aerials of sailboats on sand patches—avoid flying over resorts and crowded beaches.
Respect the no‑fly zone around Bora Bora Airport (Motu Mute) and local regulations.
Must See
Matira Beach is Bora Bora’s most famous strand, with easy swimming and sunsets.
Views of Mount Otemanu dominate the lagoon and make for unforgettable photos.
The Lagoonarium experience offers close encounters with rays and reef life in clear water.
Anau’s manta ray cleaning area (east side) is a highlight with the right conditions and guidance.
Sunset around Toopua motu paints the lagoon with warm light and long reflections.
Services
Vaitape offers fuel, water (check availability), supermarkets, ATMs, and a pharmacy.
Waste disposal is available near the main quay; confirm rules for sorting and fees.
Tour desks and car/buggy rentals can be arranged in town.
Diving and watersports centers operate daily, weather permitting.
Laundry services and basic marine spares are available in Vaitape.
Hazards
Lagoon channels can be busy with tour boats—maintain a proper lookout.
Shallow sandbars and coral heads border many anchor zones; approach slowly.
Strong sun and reflection increase exposure; ensure hydration and sun protection.
Outer-reef conditions can change quickly with swell; consult forecasts before diving.
Respect private zones around overwater bungalows and marked swim areas.
Tips
Pre-book popular lagoon tours and restaurants in high season.
Expect mooring fees in prime areas; carry cash for attendants.
Observe wildlife etiquette—no touching or feeding rays and sharks.
Plan reef swims for the morning when wind and boat traffic are lighter.
If wind shifts westerly, move to more protected anchorages to avoid swell wrap.
Bora Bora to Maupiti (weather-dependent)
Only attempt Maupiti’s pass in settled conditions with good light and slack tide. If conditions allow, anchor near Tereia Beach for a day of pristine lagoon time and low-key island life.
Mooring Information
Enter Maupiti via Passe Onoiau only in calm seas, with sun overhead and preferably at slack water.
Once inside, anchor on sand in 5–10 m near Tereia Beach or along the lee of motus; there are few, if any, public moorings.
Space is limited; set ample scope and verify swing room relative to coral heads.
Use a stern anchor if needed to keep clear of bommies in tight anchorages.
No formal marina exists; dinghy ashore at the beach and avoid disturbing reef shallows.
Top Restaurants
Simple snack bars in Vaiea serve plates of grilled fish and poisson cru.
Beachside pensions sometimes offer dinner to non-guests with advance booking.
Pick up fresh fruit and coconuts from small roadside stands when available.
Pack a motu picnic for lunch and enjoy a barefoot meal on the sand.
Fresh baguettes can often be found in the morning at the village shop—go early.
Activities
Snorkel clear gardens along the inner reef rim in calm conditions.
Kayak the turquoise shallows off Tereia for a relaxed afternoon paddle.
Beachcomb and picnic on the motu, packing out all trash to keep the beach pristine.
Cycle or walk the perimeter road to scenic viewpoints and small chapels.
Join a guided swim with mantas when visibility and current are favorable.
Water Sports
Stand‑up paddleboard the sandbar flats early for glassy water.
Snorkel near motu drop-offs where coral is healthiest; avoid contact with the reef.
Strong swimmers can drift near the pass only with a guide and in settled conditions.
Freediving and scuba are possible with local operators, weather-permitting.
Kitesurfing may be possible on the flats in stable trade winds—check local guidance.
Drone Spots
The Tereia sandbar’s pale blues and sweeping shoals are ideal for aerials.
Mount Teurafaatiu’s summit offers dramatic top‑down shots of the atoll.
The pass area can be spectacular from altitude—do not overfly boats or the surf zone.
Motu shorelines with palm shadows at late afternoon light produce striking patterns.
Keep drones well away from birds and respect residents’ privacy on this quiet island.
Must See
Tereia Beach’s powdery sand and knee-deep sandbars are postcard-perfect.
Walk across the shallow sandbar to Motu Auira at low tide for a Robinson Crusoe feel.
Hike Mount Teurafaatiu for a panoramic look over the atoll and ocean passes.
Seek out the lagoon’s manta ray cleaning stations with a local guide.
Stroll the sleepy village of Vaiea for a glimpse of everyday island life.
Services
There is no marina; expect beach dinghy landings and limited infrastructure.
Grocery choice is very limited—carry essentials and drinking water.
No fuel dock or repair services; plan to refuel back in Bora Bora or Raiatea.
Cell coverage can be patchy; download charts and forecasts in advance.
Waste facilities are minimal—store trash onboard until a proper disposal point.
Hazards
Passe Onoiau can develop dangerous standing waves and strong outflow—attempt only in safe conditions.
Coral heads crowd anchor zones; scout with polarized lenses and a bow lookout.
Swell from the west or south can make anchorages uncomfortable—be ready to relocate.
Currents near the pass can exceed safe swimming speeds—use guides and safety gear.
Night navigation is unsafe due to unlit hazards and narrow channels.
Tips
If the pass shows breakers or strong outflow, do not attempt entry—return to Bora Bora.
Plan both an entry and an exit window based on tide and forecast before committing.
Stock up on fuel and provisions in Bora Bora; services are minimal on Maupiti.
Bring cash for simple eateries and crafts; there are no ATMs.
Sunday is quiet; expect closures and plan meals and activities accordingly.
Maupiti to Bora Bora
Return to Bora Bora for a second look at the lagoon, focusing on new anchorages and experiences. Consider Toopua’s sand patches or the Matira area for an easy swim and shore access.
Mooring Information
Re-enter Bora Bora in daylight and favor marked channels around coral heads.
Anchor on sand near Toopua’s northern edge for good protection and clear water.
Matira’s anchorage offers beach access; confirm permitted zones and depths.
Expect more tour traffic in the afternoon—set an anchor alarm and add chafe protection.
Dinghy to Vaitape for supplies and services; secure the dinghy well at public docks.
Top Restaurants
Waterfront grills around Matira for casual lunches after a swim.
Bora Bora Yacht Club for sundowners and a hearty sailor’s menu.
St. James in Vaitape for refined cuisine and a good wine list.
Roulottes near the quay for budget-friendly local favorites.
Ice cream and juice bars in town are perfect for a hot afternoon.
Activities
Book a manta-focused dive or snorkel if conditions cleared since your last visit.
Rent e‑bikes to explore less-visited stretches of the coastal road.
Arrange a lagoon photoshoot at golden hour, focusing on shallow sandbar hues.
Try a guided stand‑up paddle session over clear turtle grass flats.
Enjoy a casual beach day with easy swims and paddle sessions near the boat.
Water Sports
Snorkel shallow gardens off Toopua where visibility is often excellent.
Kayak to small coves and sand tongues along the motu.
Practice SUP pivot turns and step-backs in sheltered water behind the reef.
Strong paddlers can circumnavigate Toopua in light winds—bring hydration.
Consider a parasail session over the lagoon if wind is light and steady.
Drone Spots
Toopua’s sand patches produce eye‑catching abstract frames from above.
Matira’s crescent beach photographs best with morning light on the water.
Boats over bright sand show dramatic shadows at midday—fly high and respectful.
Avoid overflying resorts or private bungalows; keep a wide buffer.
Check wind aloft—gusts can be stronger than at sea level around Otemanu.
Must See
Circle Toopua to find quiet swim spots with views back to Otemanu.
Visit additional coral gardens on the east side in calm weather.
Spend a lazy afternoon at Matira Beach with a lagoon stroll to the sandspit.
Catch sunset from your cockpit with Otemanu framed to the north.
Browse local artisan stalls in Vaitape for black pearls and carved tikis.
Services
Fuel, water (when available), and ice are typically found at Vaitape—check hours.
Two mid-sized supermarkets in town handle most provisioning needs.
Waste disposal and recycling points operate near the main quay—ask for guidance.
Several dive centers can pick up from public docks.
ATMs, pharmacy, and basic medical services are in Vaitape.
Hazards
Frequent wakes from tour boats can rock dinghies—use long painters and fenders.
Shallow coral shelves fringe Matira’s anchorage—verify depths from the bow.
Watch for swimmers and snorkelers near popular sandbars.
Sudden squalls can shift wind direction—recheck anchor and swinging room.
Night currents through channels can set the dinghy—secure it high and dry.
Tips
Use a stern light and anchor light at dusk—twilight boat traffic can be brisk.
Refuel and restock today if you plan a non-stop run toward Tahaa tomorrow.
Confirm any mooring fees in advance to avoid evening relocations.
Keep snorkel gear ready; wildlife encounters often pop up near the boat.
Mind right-of-way with fast tour boats in marked channels.
Bora Bora to Tahaa
Sail back toward Tahaa for a final lagoon day. Revisit coral gardens, enjoy calm-water paddling, and pick up last-minute vanilla or pearls.
Mooring Information
Target a different bay such as Tapuamu or Tautau area to vary your experience.
Anchor on sand in 6–12 m with bommie-clear swing room; many spots are well-protected.
If using a privately maintained mooring, inspect the line and eye before committing.
Use village quays for short dinghy stops; leave space for local boats.
Plan a short hop tomorrow to Raiatea for checkout and refueling.
Top Restaurants
Low-key lagoon-front restaurants in Tapuamu for fresh fish and island curries.
Haamene Bay eateries for grilled catch and fruit-forward desserts.
Patio village snacks for simple plates and cold drinks.
Arrange a motu dinner with a local host for a relaxed final night in the lagoon.
Look for bakeries opening early for baguettes and croissants.
Activities
Drift-snorkel short sections of the garden to minimize coral contact and fin wash.
SUP a calm shoreline circuit before the afternoon breeze sets in.
Arrange a low-key motu BBQ with grilled fish and local fruits.
Practice dinghy navigation between bommies using a bow lookout and waypoints.
Capture golden-hour photography of palm-lined beaches and lagoon flats.
Water Sports
Snorkeling and shallow freediving in garden channels with buddy supervision.
Kayak exploration along motu edges with stops at sandy pockets.
Casual lagoon sailing in lighter morning winds to reposition anchorages.
Try a gentle downwinder SUP if wind and fetch are aligned and safe.
Short, sheltered swims from the boat to nearby sand patches for beginner comfort.
Drone Spots
Tautau area’s pastel channels at mid-tide for texture-rich aerials.
Tapuamu Bay’s curves and reef edge at sunrise.
Top-down shots of your boat on a sand circle—avoid overflying other yachts.
Motu shorelines where palm shadows sweep over shallow sand.
Mind airport-related airspace to the south across Raiatea—maintain wide buffers.
Must See
Return to the Coral Garden at a different tide for a fresh look at fish behavior.
Visit another vanilla farm to compare curing styles and flavors.
Stop by a pearl farm shop to learn about grading and luster.
Seek out a sunset viewpoint on the western motus facing Bora Bora.
Enjoy a quiet beach stroll on a small motu with gentle lagoon surf.
Services
Light provisioning in Patio/Haamene; larger shops are across on Raiatea in Uturoa.
Local craft shops sell vanilla products and small souvenirs.
Tour operators offer boat transfers for motu picnics and snorkel sessions.
Limited waste disposal—plan to offload in Raiatea.
Good mobile coverage for weather checks and onward planning.
Hazards
Complex bommie fields require slow speeds and polarized lenses.
Pearl farm lines can foul props—give wide berth and keep a bow lookout.
Afternoon chop builds over longer fetches—secure dinghy and gear.
Sudden rain squalls can reduce visibility; pause movement in narrow channels.
Avoid anchoring near coral garden swim zones and marked protected areas.
Tips
Buy vanilla now to avoid last-day rush; vacuum-packed pods travel best.
Keep a shallow-draft route track on your plotter to reuse safe paths among bommies.
Bring a small reef hook only for sandy patches—never attach to coral.
If the trades freshen, move deeper into a bay to reduce fetch and roll.
Confirm opening hours for farm visits and village shops before heading ashore.
Tahaa to Raiatea
Close the loop on Raiatea. Visit the UNESCO-listed Taputapuatea marae or take a dinghy up the Faaroa River, then refuel and complete return formalities in Uturoa.
Mooring Information
Enter Raiatea’s lagoon by a marked pass such as Teavapiti in daylight and fair conditions.
Uturoa offers quays for short stays and fueling; confirm berthing before approach.
For a quieter night, anchor on sand in well-protected bays along the east or south coasts.
If visiting Taputapuatea, anchor off the reef in settled weather and land the dinghy with care.
Use VHF 16 to coordinate at busy quays and give way to ferries and supply ships.
Top Restaurants
Waterfront cafes in Uturoa for a final lagoon-view meal.
Local roulottes near the quay for quick, tasty plates after refueling.
Bakeries around town for fresh baguettes and snacks for the flight home.
Island grills serving sashimi and poisson cru from the day’s catch.
Coffee bars in Uturoa for an early-start espresso and pastry.
Activities
Take a guided cultural tour of Taputapuatea to understand its significance and protocols.
Dinghy slowly up the Faaroa River, watching for birds and overhanging vegetation.
Snorkel a pass in settled weather for schooling fish and healthy coral.
Complete refueling, water top-up, and waste disposal before returning the boat.
Shop for vanilla, monoi oil, and local crafts in Uturoa.
Water Sports
Snorkel the inner reef gardens near well-marked areas with sandy entries.
Scuba diving can be arranged at pass sites around Raiatea/Tahaa when currents align.
SUP the calm backwaters near river mouths during slack tide.
Short coastal paddles offer a peaceful cooldown after the week’s sailing.
Swim from the stern at anchor in clear, sheltered bays.
Drone Spots
Aerials of the reef pass patterns and lagoon colors near Teavapiti.
Top-down views of boats on sand patches along Raiatea’s eastern fringing reef.
Avoid flying over Taputapuatea marae—respect the site’s cultural significance.
Faaroa River curves show lush, green canopies; fly only where permitted and safe.
Harbor scenes in Uturoa at sunrise capture working waterfront life.
Must See
Taputapuatea marae, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the spiritual heart of Polynesia.
The Faaroa River is the only navigable river in French Polynesia—explore by dinghy.
Uturoa’s market offers last-minute gifts, vanilla, and produce.
Coastal viewpoints reveal Bora Bora and Tahaa from select headlands.
Historic marae sites dot the shoreline—observe signage and respect closures.
Services
Uturoa provides fuel, water, supermarkets, ATMs, pharmacy, and a produce market.
Marine services include basic repairs, chandlery items, and haul-out facilities nearby.
Waste and recycling points are available—check local separation rules.
Taxis and ferries operate from the main quay for onward connections.
Good mobile signal and Wi‑Fi hotspots assist with travel logistics.
Hazards
Pass currents at Teavapiti can be brisk; enter in good light and moderate conditions.
Commercial traffic and ferry wakes in Uturoa require caution and fendering.
Reef and bommie fields close to channels—stay within marks and use updated charts.
Afternoon sea breezes can raise short chop; secure dinghy and deck gear.
Avoid night passages—many hazards are unlit or hard to identify.
Tips
Time arrival to Uturoa to match fuel dock hours and avoid ferry peak times.
Carry modest clothing for marae visits and follow posted cultural protocols.
Keep speed to a minimum in the Faaroa River to protect banks and wildlife.
Settle onboard accounts and return gear clean and dry to speed checkout.
Save some local currency for final dock fees or small purchases.
7-day Tahiti sailing itinerary: Raiatea, Huahine, Tahaa, Bora Bora & Maupiti
Chart a one-week voyage through the Leeward Islands, beginning and ending on Raiatea. This itinerary blends short-to-moderate passages with generous time in lagoons and anchorages, linking Huahine’s cultural heartlands, Tahaa’s vanilla and pearl farms, Bora Bora’s world-famous lagoon, and Maupiti’s pristine atoll. Expect superb snorkeling and diving, scenic hikes and 4WD tours, motu picnics, and authentic island dining. The passage into Maupiti is strictly weather-dependent—enter only with settled seas, good light, and slack tide, or substitute extra time in Bora Bora. Sailors should use updated charts, avoid anchoring on coral, carry reef-safe sunscreen, and respect sacred sites and marine life. With steady trade winds and clear water, May–October offers the best combination of conditions and visibility for this route.
