Excerpts from Trip Reports about Sailing in the French Polynesia. Table of Contents

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1 Excerpts from Trip Reports about Sailing in the French Polynesia Table of Contents From TripAdvisor... 4 Re: Moorings Sailboat Charter Tahiti... 4 Re: Moorings Sailboat Charter Tahiti... 6 Re: Moorings Sailboat Charter Tahiti... 6 Re: Weather - Moorea and Bora Bora, July/August... 7 Tahiti vs. Bora Bora vs. Moorea... 7 Re: Tahiti vs. Bora Bora vs. Moorea... 7 Re: Tahiti vs. Bora Bora vs. Moorea... 8 Re: Food costs... 8 Re: Food costs... 9 Re: Food costs... 9 Re: Food costs... 9 Re: Food costs ferry to bora bora re: ferry to bora bora re: ferry to bora bora Re: papeete airport to the ferry terminal for moorea Re: papeete airport to the ferry terminal for moorea Re: Huahine Moorea or Huahine??? Re: Moorea or Huahine??? Re: Moorea or Huahine??? Re: Moorea or Huahine??? Aussies/Kiwis best way to pay in Tahiti? Re: Aussies/Kiwis best way to pay in Tahiti? Re: Tahiti or Fiji? Re: Anyone used GoWay Travel? Re: Anyone used GoWay Travel?... 15

2 Re: Anyone used GoWay Travel? Re: Sailing in the Tuamotus and/or Marquesas Re: Tahiti for honeymoon? Re: Tahiti for honeymoon? Re: Tahiti for honeymoon? Re: Tahiti for honeymoon? Re: where to go in polynesia? Re: where to go in polynesia? Re: where to go in polynesia? Re: Bare boat charter around FP Re: Bare boat charter around FP Planning stages - what islands? Re: Planning stages - what islands? Re: Snorkeling Equipment Re: Snorkeling Equipment Re: Snorkeling Equipment Re: Snorkeling Equipment Bareboat chartering/sailing Raiatea/Tahaa/Huahine/Bora Bora Re: Bareboat chartering/sailing Raiatea/Tahaa/Huahine/Bora Bora Anyone recently bareboat sailboat out of Rangiroa or Bora Bo Re: Anyone recently bareboat sailboat out of Rangiroa or Bora Bo Dream Yacht Charters Which island to choose? Re: Which island to choose? Moorings vs Sunsail vs Tahiti Yacht Charters-Current"BestOf" Re: Moorings vs Sunsail vs Tahiti Yacht Charters-Current"BestOf" Best public accessible snorkel spots on Bora Bora Re: Best public accessible snorkel spots on Bora Bora Re: Best public accessible snorkel spots on Bora Bora Re: Bora Bora vs Moorea Re: Leeward islands catamaran Tuomotu atolls vs Huahine... 27

3 Re: Tuomotu atolls vs Huahine Re: Tuomotu atolls vs Huahine Re: Tuomotu atolls vs Huahine Trip report-sailing Society Islands Re: Trip report-sailing Society Islands From YouTube Reports Sailing in the Society Islands The Moorings - Tahiti Icelantic (Episode 1-7+) From cruisersforum.com Suggestions on itinerary in the S. Pacific For 6 Nights Day Sailing in Taha a From TTOL Travel Talk OnLine Tahiti and French Polynesia Sailing Trip Report Tahiti Sailing Report and Pics Trip Report: Tahiti vs. The BVI From Noonsite.com Bora Bora a great stop Tide Information In South Pacific... 42

4 From TripAdvisor Re: Moorings Sailboat Charter Tahiti Tahiti_Society_Islands.html#save Aug 09, 2007, 2:09 PM Wow, this sounds like a request for a long overdue trip report. I will try to capture our itenerary and the hightlights. First let me say that we had 2 very experienced sailors on board, 4 with a moderate amount of experience, and 2 who decided there was enough experience on board to allow the others the thrill of working the sails. We also had a number of good cooks & bartenders amongst us! Day 1: The women shopped for provisions in Utoroa, quite an adventure in it self. It would help to know some French! Men spent time getting to know the boat with Sunsail personel. Set sail for TaHaa with the goal of the crew becoming comfortable with the boat before we set out on the Pacific. Anchored on east side of Tahaa just north of Passe Toahotu. Beautiful swimming and our first introduction to the Southern Cross, the Milky Way and the rest of the Tahitian night sky. The number of stars and the definition of the Milky Way was unbelievable. Day 2: Sailed/motored around Tahaa. The water on the north of the island is incredible. We spent so much time swimming and snorkeling here that we decided to stay in the lagoon and head out for Bora Bora on the next day. Apparently there is an amazing drift snorkel in this area but we did not make it back to experience it first hand. Anchored in Baie Apu and had the pleasure of meeting Maui of the Terravana Yacht Club. He is a gorgeous young local man who is manging the club (quite well) The food and drinks were delicious and he couldn/t have been more accomodating. Beautiful sunset Day 3: Out of the lagoon and into the Pacific heading for Bora Bora. Watching the waves that were almost irredescent aqua crash on the reef was beautiful. The sail was smooth and uneventful but the profile of Bora Bora made us very anxious to get to our destination. We entered the pass and the lagoon did not dissapoint! Rum Punch and a swim in the Bora Bora lagoon was definitely in order. We then headed to the north east side of the lagoon near Motu Omea for our next anchorage. This was our favorite anchorage. The water was undescribly beautiful and it was very private. This was our first skinny dip of the trip, but not the last! We were soon seeking private anchorages to satisfy our desire to experience the lagoons au natural! Day 4: Headed to Vaitape for provisioning then back to the boat to head for the southwest tip of the island for our next anchorage, but first we stopped at Bloody Mary's for lunch. Here the men were on a mission to buy masculine pareos as Maui (from Terravano Yacht Club) had one on in the morning and it made quite an impression on us ladies! There was nice snorkeling near the anchorage and another fabulous sunset. That night we had a whole grilled Tenderloin served by our husbands in their new pareos! Then the DRUMS began. The villages were practicing for the June festival. It was amazing to be out on the water hearing those drums!

5 Day 5: Back to TaHaa. We anchored in Baie Hurepti and dined at Chez Loise's that night. We had made arrangements in advance and Lousie picked us up to transport us to the restaurant. She is a hoot, an actress and an entertainer. We laughed alot and the food was very good (Tahitian seafood served family style). It was quite an experience. I recommend it if you are a fun loving group ready for an adventure and a fun night out but not if you want romance and fine cuisine. Day 6: 3 of us did a jeep tour with Alaine of Baie Hurapeti (I can't remeber the name of his outfit) of the"vanilla Island". It was very interesting and beautiful if you are into island ecology and flora. We had hoped to sail to Huahie this afternoon but, darn, we ran out of time and instead had to have a late lunch at the Terravano Yacht Club. Then off to first night anchorage so that we could go through Passe Toahotu and have an early run to Huahine. Day 7: Early start to a long and somewhat frustrating day though we did wake up to a complete double rainbow over the entire island of TaHaa. The winds and seas were not right for a sail so this was our only day of motoring. We beat our way accross to Huahine. This was our only "keep your eyes on the horizon" day. We arrive in Fare around noon needidng to reprovision very badly (low on water and beer) only to find out that it was Tahitian Independence Day and everything was closed. We ate lunch at alittle road side joint and headed back to the cat with low spirits. In hind site the folks at Sunsail should have warned us about this holiday but... We anchored in Baie d'avea because we had read so much about the beauty of this anchorage. It was a bit gllomy out as were our spirits and then the dingy engine did not work so my husband and I kayaked over to a little resort on the shore and asked if they would pick us up on our boat for dinner. They obliged (it took awhile to find someone who spoke English to explaing our situation). We had a delicious dinner and it lifted our spirits. Somehow it was not as beautful as we expected but after the day we had had we may have just not been able too see it. Day 8: We were up early and headed back up to Fare to provision and do a little shopping. Then we headed out to Raiatea and experience the sail of a life time. We had the cat up to 14 knots and were "sledding" accross the waves. It was like a 2 hour amusement park ride!! I have never had so much white knuckled fun on a boat before. Our two very experienced captains kept the helm that day and what a day it was!! We sadly entered the Raitea lagoon and searched out a secluded spot for one last skinny dip before returning to the Sunsail base harbor for our last night on the boat. One last fun night of wining and dining. Day 9: We are up early and passed the boat inspection by the Sunsail personel. Then off to Bora Bora for 4 days in the lap of luxury at the OWBs of the Bora Bora Pearl. I am glad we ended our trip this way because inspite of a wonderful time we were all a little boat weary. A few notes about Bora Bora: 1) We did Patrick's Motu picinic tour. At first I thought this was pointless because we had just spent 8 days on the water in our own boat, but the tour was amazing. Patricks knowlegde and love of the island

6 was fascinating. The shark feeding, ray feeding and snorkeling were exhilarating. The motu picnic was unbelievable. It is a must do if you visit Bora Bora. 2) We had our best dinner out during our stay in Bora Bora. It was at a retaurant called Patio and though it did not have a shuttle it was worth every cent of the cab fare and the meal was more affordable than at the restaurants served by the complimentary shuttles. I have not been over on this board for awhile. It was lucky that I happened to see your post as we found it hard to gather first hand experience from the boat charter group. It is a wonderful adventure that I highly recommend for anyone who loves being out on the water. Re: Moorings Sailboat Charter Tahiti Aug 09, 2007, 5:27 PM Okay, that sounds truly amazing...i'm so glad my question prompted you to write your trip report! It was so worth doing. Did you sail around Raiatea much? Sounds like you spent time around Tahaa, Bora Bora and Huanine. The Moorings crewed charter (we are not experienced enough to go it alone!) seems to have a "recommended route" that takes you around Tahaa and Raiatea after spending two nights in the Bora Bora Lagoon. Bora Bora, being the stuff of postcards, is something we'd really like to see, but the other places are less familiar to me. Tahaa sounds gorgeous. We love the clear water and white palm fringed beaches. Were you restricted as to where you could travel? We would combine this sailing voyage with a land-based stay. We're considering Rangiroa Atoll as a contrast to the more moutainous, larger islands. We are, by the way, a family of 5. Mom and Dad and three teenagers. We have sailed in the British Virgin Islands recently on a week long charter. So much of French Polynesia seems geared toward honeymooners and other romantic adventures, that we're looking for a way to see it as a family that gives us a real Polynesian experience. How was the Bora Bora Pearl? Was the snorkeling good there? Travel Agents seem to be steering us toward LeMeridien if we should want to go to Bora Bora. Re: Moorings Sailboat Charter Tahiti Aug 09, 2007, 6:37 PM A crewed charter would be a wonderful family vacation. We did not spend alot of time around Raiatea, only departing and returning to the Sunsail base. Tahaa was beautiful and I am sure the captain will be know exactly where to find the drift snorkel and other spots your family could enjoy. I can't give a fair apprasal of Huahine for the reasons mentioned in my previous post. I can tell you that this is where we saw the most incredible sailing and power yachts (ie helicopter pads on deck!) so there must have been something there that attracted the yachting crew.

7 You are correct that most of the places we visited seemed more geared to honeymooners. I don't know where these young ones get the money to take such an expensive honeymoon but it is a very romantic spot. We felt a bit out of place at the BBP because we were forty something vs in our twenties, but I think we could teach these young folks how to have a little fun! I don't know anything about the LeMeridian but I would recommend staying on the mainland if you choose Bora Bora because you have better access to more affordable dining. The prices in the resort restaurant could get hefty if Dad is footing the entire bill. (I thought the Hotel Bora was very well located) I say book that trip for a most memorable family vacation. Those times with your children become more and more difficult to acheive as they become responsible adults! Re: Weather - Moorea and Bora Bora, July/August Weather_Moorea_and_Bora_Bora_July_August-Tahiti_Society_Islands.html Jan 23, 2008, 10:06 AM Perfect... historical weather: sunny regards, Tahiti vs. Bora Bora vs. Moorea Tahiti_Society_Islands.html May 03, 2005, 5:06 PM We are traveling on our honeymoon for 10 nights. We'll likely arrive in Papeete from LA in the early morning after an overnight flight. We are wondering if we should spend any time in Tahiti or just go on to Moorea and spend more nights in Moorea and Bora Bora. Our initial thought was to do 2 nights in Tahiti and 4 nights in each of Bora Bora and Moorea. The thought was that day 1 in Tahiti may be lost since we'll be exhausted, and that way we can spend day 2 in Tahiti shopping or whatever and then travel to Moorea on day 3 in the morning. We could also fly to Moorea in the early evening of day 2 as well so we get an extra night in Moorea. What do others think? We like the idea of spending a little time in Tahiti for the nightlife and shopping. We were also told to end in Bora Bora on a high note, not in Tahiti. I'd love to hear other's perspectives. Re: Tahiti vs. Bora Bora vs. Moorea May 04, 2005, 4:37 AM Sounds to me like you have it figured out! If you are into nightlife and shopping, Papeete is the place to do it. Bora Bora and Moorea have very little of either. Not that there is a problem with

8 that...especially on your honeymoon. Usually, there are no night-time inter-island flights, so you may have to switch "early evening" to afternoon. Better yet, go inter-island in the morning, as you mentioned, and take advantage of a beach day. If it's not too late, check on an afternoon flight from LAX. We flew on Air Tahiti Nui out of LA at 1:00 P.M. That would put you into a Papeete hotel about 8:00 P.M. or so. Of course, that would mean a very early flight from DC. You are right on Bora Bora being the "high note." Tahiti is more urban than all of the other islands in the area. Bora Bora is what postcards are made of. Moorea has some of the most stunning mountain scenery I've every seen. So, if you are into urban/city life, spend more time in Tahiti. Into seclusion and unspoiled beauty? Spend more time in Bora Bora and Moorea. That's my take on it. Re: Tahiti vs. Bora Bora vs. Moorea May 04, 2005, 12:36 PM dcnmove, I'm a vet of 7 tahitian trips, 95% of my time was spent on Bora Bora. This was back in the early 80's and it was no problem affording it. now is a different story. Bora Bora, despite the disgusting fact of 400 overwater bungalows now blighting the lagoon, is still the most beautiful island there is. Moorea is second. Tahiti, once out of Papeete is a dramatic island as well, with 7,000ft mountain tops. Nigtlife should be the last priority on a tropic honeymoon vacation. All my trips but one were stag (with my brother and a mutual long time buddy) after each and every incredible day of beach, water, food, drink, and generally loving life doing nothing, a night in the restaurant and bar listening to the hotel band was more than enough. You also sleep like a baby providing you're not there at the hottest most humid times (Dec-Mar) If airline connections have not changed, literally every flight I took but one out of Tahiti, leaves in the morning. So I think 2 nights on Tahiti is fine. I stayed on Tahiti for up to a week. However this was at the exceptional hotel Taharaa, which I've been told no longer exists. it had a great location, with a nice pool, incredible view of Moorea, and sunsets, and a long curving black sand beach below the cliff it was situated on. The best part of all was it was a good 10 miles out of Papeete. If I may add as well, personally I always like to arrive in the south pacific pre-dawn. Most flights do. Then you have the whole first day ahead of you. Cheers, Pub Re: Food costs Tahiti_Society_Islands.html Oct 17, 2006, 12:58 PM Hi darlenelucy: Meals can be expensive depending on where you eat... A meal plan at most hotels including breakfast and dinner is about $100 per person/per day. Although most people just get the breakfast plan so they don't have to leave the hotel in the morning and then go out for dinner. There are many affordable restaurants in Moorea and Bora Bora outside the resorts. Just venture out! Five star restaurants are expensive but there are alternatives on both islands.

9 Here are a few samples in Bora Bora: thetahititraveler.com/islandguide/ And Moorea: thetahititraveler.com/islandguide/ Sunny regards, Shully Re: Food costs Oct 17, 2006, 9:48 PM Yes, it depends where you eat at, but there are VERY few options on Moorea and Bora Bora as far as cheap places to eat. Just to give you an idea, a burger (even at a fast food place) will run you about $5 USD. If you want fries, add another $5. Most restaurants will have some items in the $20 range and most items in the $30 range. A more casual place will have items in the $15 range. What we did as far as breakfast, was just go for croissants every morning at the nearby little market. They were about $1.50 each. I'm not sure where you're staying and if you'll be near one though. The cheapest places to eat are in Papeete! Re: Food costs Oct 21, 2006, 8:25 AM Buying the croissants for breakfast or bringing cereal will keep the cost down a lot. I actually was expecting higher prices and was pleasantly surprised perhaps because we are not big drinkers or into expensive food. Breakfast was $12.00 every day and consisted of croissants and juice. Lunch was $40 almost everday. For that amount we ate at a variety of places including resorts and pizza joints and had everything from hamburgers to pizza to chicken sandwiches and salad..we brought our own soda cans. Noone ever said a word. Dinner was $65-$92...most expensive was at Bloody Mary's w/ drinks. Of course Villa Mahana was the most at $201 but even that is not bad when we were warned of upwards of a $400 dinner. All in all we spent slightly over what we usually do in Connecticut for a nice dinner. The most important thing was that we were expecting this and prepared ourselves and our wallet for it. All in all we had $100 extra on our last day and were shocked and our credit card bill was manageable, just know what you can spend and find things that work within that budget. Re: Food costs Oct 22, 2006, 9:48 AM Our average dinner was (approximately $ for two), our most expensive was the Wednesday night Hotel Bora Bora buffet and show. The buffet has all kinds of fish, lobster, prawns, shrimp, beef, pork, chicken, veggies, fruits, salads and awesome desserts. The buffet is served right on the beach on a candle lit table and the show that follows is fantastic. This was my favorite meal of the

10 whole trip. This is a MUST do in Bora Bora. Our bill with meal and drinks was We ate at the Villa and spent for dinner and drinks. I had the discovery menu. It was 2 appetizers, Ahi tuna and Risotto; 2 main courses, filet mignon and Mahi Mahi and two desserts coconut ice cream and bananas flambé. The discovery menu was The main courses come with vegetables and potatoes or pasta. Dave ordered a green salad and the filet mignon. We are not wine drinkers and I think wine brings up the price of dinner. We usually drank a beer a piece and water or soda. Of course we were charged almost 900 for water at Alfredos. Les Tipaniers was one of our least expensive meals and it was very good. Dave had Lasagna and I had a pasta dish with eggplant, zucchini and broccoli. The total meal was You can spend more than our average, but it is hard to get a decent dinner for less than Lunch you can easily do for 2500 for two. We actually spent only 1000 for two pannninis (sandwiches) and fresh pineapple juice at the little pizza place a few minutes from the Sheraton in Moorea. We did not eat lunch in Bora Bora. We got the breakfast buffet as part of our package and ate around 9:30AM. It was so big we really only needed to snack until dinner. Dinner was usually around 7PM. You can pick up snacks at the grocery for lunch. The breakfast buffets are $30 per person and if they are not part of your package that is a lot. But it is very good. We did not have the buffet in Moorea and spent an average of $25.00 for breakfast for two and $25.00 for lunch for two so it was a little less to not get the buffet. There were days we only ate breakfast bars for breakfast (we had excursions and no real time to eat) and then had a bigger lunch. So, if you want to eat nice and not really worry about the money (and please don t its vacation) then I think an average food budget per day is $ $ Re: Food costs Nov 19, 2006, 3:23 PM When you coming from the States, you almost have to be schocked by the price index. And they uses much less salt on the prepared dished while many packaged foods are coming from the States, too. Even if the price is high at hotel, you will enjoy only when they are good. Sorry, we did not find this. The prices at the hotel i.e. entree starts from $30 US and the appetizers are slightly less. Even the night food venders at the Ferry Parking at night ranged from $10 US and up, they were rather good. They know how to cook tender the Aussie Beef and tasty. Anywhere you go they will serve French buget(spelling right?) bread with meals. In the deli section at the grocery stores, they make several different sandwiches with this bread, they are excellent. There is no specials for lunch and dinner offered when we were there. Be prepared to eat fish mainly tunas, bonitos, sword fish etc. and some shrimp. We have spoken to many local people including the intern at the local TV station, the local foods are served only at their homes and they do not have any French Polynesian restaurant.

11 If you are die hard Texan, there is on Mexican restaurnant(we did not try) in Papeete in case you get home sick which I doubt. Rule of thumb, $10 a meal per person with or without drink, much like in the City(Manhattan, NY). Most foods are brought in from elsewhere including the Noni (you might recall some people selling through the multi level, they do have a factory on the island) It still worth going there - great nature, plestine white sand beach, and emerald green ocean would certainly make you forget the price difference until you see the credit card bills at home. ferry to bora bora Tahiti_Society_Islands.html Jan 30, 2008, 2:36 PM How much is it to take the ferry from Tahiti to Bora Bora? I just realized that we are to provide our own transportation to Bora Bora once we get to Tahiti. Thank you very much for your input. re: ferry to bora bora Jan 30, 2008, 2:53 PM Everyone takes an airplane from Papeete to Bora Bora via Air Tahiti, the local regional carrier. papeete airport to the ferry terminal for moorea Papeete_airport_to_the_ferry_terminal_for_moorea-Papeete_Tahiti_Society_Islands.html re: ferry to bora bora Dec 12, 2013, 7:02 PM we are travelling to moorea this Saturday, we need to know how to get from the airport to the ferry. we arrive in papeete at 6am Sunday morning, what is the cost and do we need to pre book? Re: papeete airport to the ferry terminal for moorea Dec 12, 2013, 7:14 PM After you clear Customs walk thru the glass doors and walk straight ahead to the line of taxis. The cost should be cfp. No you don't need to pre book.

12 Re: papeete airport to the ferry terminal for moorea Dec 13, 2013, 9:46 AM A taxi is the best/fastest/cheapest way for two people from Tahiti airport to ferry, as the transport vans are more expensive. On Moorea, it is the opposite, and a transport van will be cheaper transport from the ferry to your hotel than a taxi. Re: Huahine Dec 09, 2013, 8:37 PM Generally, if you're looking for baguettes, the cost is, I believe, government-set and quite low. Somewhere in the neighborhood of XPF (so maybe cents in USD); if you wanted the kind of sliced white sandwich bread we buy in the US, it was difficult to find and much more expensive. The two times we looked, it was running more like $6-8 USD per loaf. A small 16 oz bottle of water ran around $1 USD, with soda pricing at a similar rate. We only looked at French wines (there were some US and Chilean imports, that were heart-stopping expensive compared to prices in the US because of import taxes). Bottles started at around $10-12 USD for a Bordeaux that we thought was quite good. Wine prices definitely ranged upwards from that--$12-45 USD/bottle was typical. We never paid any attention whatsoever to the vegetables; fruit prices were highly dependent on whether the fruit in question was local or imported. Imported grapes, the one time we bought them (18 months ago--it stuck in my head because it was so outlandish, but I had a picky child to feed) was $16 USD per pound. Whole watermelons were also quite pricey XPF. There will be locals selling fruits and fresh fish on the road into/thru/out of Fare; people will also sometimes have a little table with their own produce for sale at the foot of their driveways. Beer... for Hinano, on Moorea in March 2013, we were paying 360 XPF for the big glass bottles and 240 XPF for the cans. Tahiti Punch ran XPF/carton. Since we've always stayed at resorts, we never priced the meat. Moorea or Huahine??? Tahiti_Society_Islands.html Nov 21, 2013, 6:47 PM My wife and I are contemplating a multi-island French Polynesia vacation. We have decided on Bora- Bora and Tahiti as destinations. Please advise a third island (Huahine or Moorea). Our main interests are snorkeling, hiking, photography, and sightseeing. Re: Moorea or Huahine??? Nov 21, 2013, 10:38 PM

13 How many days are you staying? I'm by no means an expert--visiting for our third time in March, but based on my experience I wouldn't stay more than two or three days on Tahiti. I loved Moorea and would definitely recommend that you spend visit there. Do you have a guidebook? Tahiti and French Polynesia Guide by Jan Prince is very helpful! Re: Moorea or Huahine??? Nov 22, 2013, 12:35 PM My wife and I went to Huahine in June, and have been to Moorea twice. Huahine is very beautiful, and not commercialized like Moorea and Bora Bora, so it's nice to see what FP was like 30-yrs ago. One of the best excursions we have gone on in French Polynesia was on Huahine - a lagoon tour of the island, lunch on a motu, and shark feeding with Huahine Nautique. However, if you've never been to Moorea, I'd recommend going there. There are many places to hike, great snorkeling, and more eating options. I've spent a couple days on Tahiti, and wouldn't recommend spending more than one day - the hot spots are the public market, and the roulettes for dinner in Papeete, which you could do before your departing flight back to the US if taking a red-eye. Re: Moorea or Huahine??? Nov 22, 2013, 4:36 PM Both Huahine and Moorea are very picturesque, a photographer's dream. You can easily visit Moorea from Tahiti (30 min on an inexpensive ferry), so maybe you should spend an extra night in Tahiti to visit Moorea and then spend your remaining nights in Huahine. Better still, don't stay in Tahiti at all, base yourself in Moorea (as it's easily accessible from Tahiti after your arrival) and then visit Huahine. Although I quite like Tahiti, many people find it's just a commercial centre and not particularly the tropical paradise they imagined. Moorea is close by, yet a world away. Huahine or Moorea - it's a tough choice. Aussies/Kiwis best way to pay in Tahiti? Aussies_Kiwis_best_way_to_pay_in_Tahiti-Papeete_Tahiti_Society_Islands.html Nov 12, 2013, 12:02 AM We will be staying in Tahiti (Intercontinental Resort) 4 nights pre-cruise before embarking on a 10 night Princess Cruise. Just wondering how much currency and what type to bring and the best way to pay during holiday. Breakfast is included in our hotel rate. Have been thinking we will use XPF for markets/snacks etc, Visa to pay for hotel extras (assuming we can charge meals/drinks to room?) and cash passport loaded with USD to pay for cruise extras (excursions/gratuities). Any thoughts/suggestions would be much appreciated. Re: Aussies/Kiwis best way to pay in Tahiti? Nov 14, 2013, 4:44 AM

14 I got about $200 AUD in XPF when we went. U can also exchange AUD at the hotel. It just depends what you will do. We prebooked our excursions or we purchased them through our resort. Just like OZ certain places have minimums for cards. So it's good to have cash on hand. Also clear your credit cards for Tahiti and I assume NZ. Re: Tahiti or Fiji? Nov 12, 2013, 3:04 PM We combined NZ and Likuliku (Fiji) and it was awesome. We did a lot of high adventure stuff in NZ including hiking the Milford Track and then just did nothing but swim, dive and snorkel at Likuliku. Very good combo. BUT I personally prefer Tahiti to Fiji and while I go back every chance I get to Tahiti, I'm not jonesing to return to Fiji. Of course the fact that Tahiti has no time change for us and is a relatively short flight makes it appealing from Hawaii, but I also prefer the lodgings, people, culture, and food in Tahiti and frankly I think the snorkeling and diving in many places in FP is as good as Fiji if not better, although to be fair, I have a lot more experience with FP. Re the planet...i thought the diving and snorkeling was very good in Fiji but not as good as Indonesia or the Red Sea. Re: Anyone used GoWay Travel? Tahiti_Society_Islands.html Nov 10, 2011, 5:12 PM GoWay Travel is a large tour operator that not only books Tahiti but worldwide destinations such as Africa, Middle East, Asia, Australia, Europe & Latin America. You may wish to consider using a certified Specialist for Tahiti. One can be found on the official Tahiti Tourism website at: tahiti-tourisme.com/planner/travelspecialist Happy planning :) sunny regards, shully shully santa barbara,ca Destination Expert for French Polynesia, Cook Islands, Tahiti

15 Re: Anyone used GoWay Travel? Nov 13, 2011, 9:19 PM Goway has great rates but shully (the poster above is by far the most knowledgeable and helpful travel agent you can ask for. And believe me, when booking a tahiti vacation for the first time, you'll need that. I recommend contacting her. Re: Anyone used GoWay Travel? Nov 14, 2011, 4:17 PM Hi Dogeye, Goway has some great deals out there if you can vacay on the dates they have available at those special rates. Just be sure to read the fine print and understand what your package consists of. Because their advertised specials vary as to what's included (and vary by destination), you'll need to be sure to read every detail of what's included, and don't assume anything. Obviously, if round trip international airfare from/to the US mainland is one of your requirements, be sure it's in the fine print. One thing to pay attention to is if transfers are included. Transfers can consist of airfare to a more remote island, boats to a nearby island or vans/buses to and from your hotel and the airport. It can be costly to discover after you have made your purchase that transfers are not included (not to mention it might make you panic). :) So just be sure to read the inclusions carefully, and ask as many questions as you need to be satisfied with what you're purchasing. Re: Sailing in the Tuamotus and/or Marquesas Sailing_in_the_Tuamotus_and_or_Marquesas-Tahiti_Society_Islands.html Aug 08, 2010, 10:04 PM Ia Ora Na Barbara, you mean bare boat charter or incl. crew? Regarding Tuamotu's you should pick those atolls that have a pass to get access into the lagoon for mooring as you can not anchor outside the lagoon due to the enormous depths (atoll reefs go straight down like an abyss) You may want to check: or

16 Re: Tahiti for honeymoon? Tahiti_Society_Islands.html# Oct 18, 2012, 7:03 PM Hi Savvas: Happy to give you my thoughts and an overview of development in these islands. Not all the islands in Tahiti are taken up by tourism and honeymooners. The Society Islands include: Moorea, Bora Bora, Tahaa, Huahine, Raiatea, Maupiti. The most traveled and developed are Moorea & Bora Bora. Moorea is incredibly picturesque & Bora Bora is known for it's legendary lagoon. Raiatea is the jumping off point for those on sailing adventures and is home to the only navigable river in these islands. Huahine is where the 'people' live..and is home to 90% of the archeological sites in the Society Islands. Huahine has a couple small resort properties, pretty beaches, soft rolling green hills, and many family run pensions. Maupiti is undiscovered-undeveloped and has only a few family run pensions and a lovely lagoon. Tahaa has no tourist development On the island itself (save pensions) and there are two resort properties offshore. This island is known as the Vanilla island (aptly named for its many vanilla bean plantations). The Tuamotus include: Rangiroa, Manihi, Tikehau, and Fakarava. The Tuamotus are flat ringed atolls. The main draw to visitors is the diving and unspoiled azure blue aqua lagoons. The villages in these islands are authentic and the people are friendly. Rangiroa has a couple of small resort like properties (the Kia Ora has just undergone a complete multi million dollar renovation). Rangiroa is home to World Class diving, the famous Blue Lagoon, and is a drift snorkelers paradise. The Pink Sandy beaches of Tikehau are truly unspoiled. Diving and snorkeling are also great here, and the Bird Island tour is a nature lovers paradise. The small Pearl resort is also on Tikehau along with a small new boutique property called Ninamu. Otherwise there are many small hotel/pensions, but otherwise undeveloped by tourism. Diving & snorkeling are the main draw on Fakarava which is Completely undeveloped save a small hotel and, again, pensions. Manihi (the Pearl resort there is closing) will only have pensions in the coming months. The Marquesas: There are twelve islands however only six are inhabited and two are generally visited by tourists...these are Hiva Oa & Nuku Hiva. These islands have no protective reefs and are windswept with cliffs and mountains. No large resorts are in this area and visitors here seek the history and culture. I have really only scratched the surface in this post as there are many other islands included in this incredible chain. Many are uninhabited, undeveloped and take long to get to. So, I have included the most familiar above. Anyway, I suggest you may wish to visit the Lonely Planet website and their Thorn Tree forum for more info on 'off the beaten track' travel. Jan Prince's Tahiti Guide also offers a wealth of information on these islands. Moon Handbook is also available. Also, the Search function here on TA, at the top of this page,

17 will offer many posts and resort and/or pension reviews. Just type in your query... The official Tahiti Tourism website has tons of info as well. Hope this helps some! Feel free to ask any specific island/resort questions here too as many of us travel to Tahiti and her islands regularly. Also, recent travelers frequently post their trip reports here on the forum, so have a read back :):) Enjoy paradise...it is waiting for you...and I promise, it is unspoiled. sunny regards, shully Re: Tahiti for honeymoon? Oct 22, 2012, 3:58 PM I can't give the detailed information shully does, but my wife and I just got back from Moorea and Rangiroa. Moorea was wonderful, but definitely over-developed and touristy for our taste. Rangiroa, on the other hand, was absolutely phenomenal. I would highly recommend it for off the beaten path travel. We snorkeled a ton, and heard the diving is world-class. Best of luck. Re: Tahiti for honeymoon? Oct 23, 2012, 7:45 AM Savvas said, "I like seeing a country for what it is, not what it has become." What does that mean? Moorea and Bora Bora are touristy. Very touristy, Moorea marginally less so. From Europe/UK you have to go through Los Angeles. Fly to New Orleans? Sure. You'll still have to go through LA. Re: Tahiti for honeymoon? Oct 24, 2012, 5:37 AM This will be my last contribution to your planning, Savvas. Of course you could fly to New Orleans and then drive to LA and then go to Tahiti. That's not a well-planned trip in my view - driving from New Orleans to LA is basically a trip in itself - it's a long, long way and would take a week if you wanted to see stuff on the way, such as Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. The time of year is also important here - don't do this in the winter. If you go to Bora Bora or Moorea you will always be surrounded by tourists, mainly Americans, because this is a tourist zone and a major honeymoon destination. Atolls like Tikehau and Rangiroa are less touristy because they have only one major hotel each. There really isn't any cultural/traditional life here, apart from the tacky Polynesian shows put on at the hotels.

18 I'm not a diver so I can't really advise here but I assume you have thoroughly researched this and your claim that FP has the best diving in the world. I have a hunch that the diving in places like Tikehau would be better than Bora Bora and Moorea. As for costs, well, economy flights from the UK would be in the region of to Tahiti return each and you can reckon on about per day per couple for hotels including all meals and drinks etc. There are cheaper, pension-type places as well. I really can't offer much more help than this. Re: where to go in polynesia? Papeete_Tahiti_Society_Islands.html# Nov 22, 2012, 10:17 AM Welcome to TripAdvisor, Sandetc. Take a look at a big map of the Pacific and everything falls into place - Fiji is an independent nation; the Cook Islands are a dependency of New Zealand; French Polynesia (that is Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora) is a department of France. They are separated by thousands of miles of ocean. So choose which place you fancy visiting and I'd recommend you stick to that one country. You won't find many 'moderate' places to stay in French Polynesia, especially not in Bora Bora, which is one of the most highly developed and expensive beach destinations in the world. Fiji has a lot more options and a multitude of islands while Aitutaki in the Cooks is a stunning place and less developed than Bora Bora which it resembles in some ways. For people who ask for moderate hotels, great beaches and diving I always recommend the same place - the Sandy Beach Resort in the Ha'apai group as well as Vavau. Both of these are part of the nation state of Tonga. Re: where to go in polynesia? Nov 30, 2012, 9:26 AM Moorea is very close to Tahiti, and cheaper than Bora Bora. So people often combine it with a trip to Bora Bora. We just got back from BB, and I'm glad we went but I don't think we'll be going back. Too many people, and way overpriced IMO. We also went to Huahine, which I would def look into. It was just a beautiful, lush island. We plan on going back to FP at least 2 more times. I'd like to do a Raiatea+Maupiti trip and then a trip to the atolls. One tip about FP, is the there certain are airpasses that you can purchase for island hopping. Check these out on Air Tahiti domestic site. I would then focus on one group of islands. And pick 2. Someday I'd also like to go to the Marquesas. And of course the Cook Islands. I don't really desire to go to Fiji because it is farther, and doesn't really have the amazing lagoons of FP and the Cook islands. Not trying to steer you away from if your heart is set. I just think FP is more romantic and beautifiul.

19 Another thing to consider is staying on island for 3-4 nights and then sailing on a catamarran for a couple of nights, and getting dropped off on another for another 3-4 nights. A friend of mine sailed around Raiatea/Tahaa and just loved that. Good luck, and happy planning! Re: where to go in polynesia? Nov 30, 2012, 10:25 AM I would check the Moorea forum. One traveller just posted a Novel about it :) so you should find helpful info there. It depends on what time your flight comes in to Tahiti as to whether or not you can fly out. If it's an overnight flight and you get in the early AM, you can easily catch a flight out 2hrs or so later. If you get to PPT in evening, you might have to stay overnight in Tahiti. I would work with a travel agent, it really makes things easier. They send you a packet with vouchers and you just have to show up. Also, some of them get free upgrades :) Our TA booked us a regular OWB and we got upgraded for free to premium OWB, so that helped save a bit. I'm not a diver (yet) so I can't really say. But I've read good things about Raiatea and diving. My advice is to take your time planning and don't rush. Do lots of research. And have fun! Re: Bare boat charter around FP Tahiti_Society_Islands.html Dec 16, 2011, 10:34 AM Hi hi, You may wish to contact The Moorings or Tahiti Yacht Charters for more info and itineraries, sailing conditions, year round weather, tides & swell etc.. Most sailors visit the Society Islands ie: beginning in Raiatea (home to yacht charters), then on to Tahaa, Huahine, Bora Bora & sometimes Moorea. Moorings suggested 7 & 10 day itineraries: moorings.com/vacation-options/ itinerary Tahiti yacht charter: lots of info on the destination. sunny regards & smooth sailing, shully Re: Bare boat charter around FP Dec 26, 2011, 8:55 PM Hi

20 After pricing things out we found that it is less expensive to purchase sailing in Tahiti "by the cabin" on a 60 foot cat holding 8 passengers. The bonus to this is a captain that knows the area and a cook, yea no dishes or cleanup for me! We are leaving on thursday and will report back in a few weeks. Planning stages - what islands? Tahiti_Society_Islands.html# Feb 13, 2012, 9:05 AM My husband and I are planning to take a trip for our 10th anniversary next summer (2013) to Tahiti. I have no idea what islands we should visit. I'm thinking Bora Bora and Moorea. Are there others we should see? We'd be traveling from the east coast of the US and probably staying 2 weeks (including travel). we're in our mid-late 30's. We both like to snorkel. My husband likes to be able to explore new places. Not really into huge crowds. We also dont really need someplace super luxurious. Although it looks like most of the hotels are pretty fancy (which is fine). But if there is someplace that is also nice, but more laid back we would be good candidates for that. DH loves to sail (as do I). Maybe there is an opportunity to stay at a hotel for 1/2 the trip and do a small sailboat cruise for the other 1/2? Just thinking out loud! Thanks for any input! Re: Planning stages - what islands? Feb 13, 2012, 10:05 AM Riatea is where you can rent sailboats Do 5 nights Moorea followed by a bareboat where you go to Tahaa, Huehine & Bora Bora & then back to Riatea... nice! Re: Snorkeling Equipment Tahiti_Society_Islands.html# Apr 21, 2008, 11:48 AM It really depends how much you want and like to use fins. I have fins and have only brought them with me on two of my four trips, and only used them about an hour each time. I simply prefer not to use them. I do just fine with my water shoes. Unless you want to stray far distances from where you start or will be snorkeling in an area with a strong current, you really won't need them. I am not an exceptionally strong swimmer, and I have no problem at all.

21 Most people I've seen snorkeling there do not wear fins. But I know there are some people out there that prefer using them. With you...my thinking is if you don't already have some, they obviously aren't something that you like to use...so don't bother. In my opinion they take up more room in your luggage than they're worth. Re: Snorkeling Equipment Apr 21, 2008, 11:53 AM Sheraton Moorea does not provide fins. But you really don't need them in the lagoon, as there is no current. Re: Snorkeling Equipment Apr 21, 2008, 12:15 PM I rarely use fins either. The reef walker shoes are usually fine around the resorts as the waters are calm inside the lagoon for the most part. I only use fins if out on a snorkel trip excursion where they are always provided by the tour operator. sunny regards, shully Re: Snorkeling Equipment Apr 22, 2008, 2:28 AM Regarding fins: We have snorkeled and scuba dived, much of the caribbean, tonga, the great barrier reef and the coral sea, and tahiti ( 3 soon to be 4th trip). Also, we snorkel a lot living here on kauai, some diving, and have snorkeled the Big Island, and Maui as well. Strongly recommend fins for any serious snorkeling, and of course, diving. The added power that you will have is a major safety factor for experienced divers, and snorkelers. Might not need it, but if you do, and current becomes a problem, you will be happy you were prepared. Unless we are SCUBA diving, where we bring our divebags, we do not lug our fins with us on snorkel only trips. We rent them. Or, they have been furnished by the bareboat sailing company that we charter/skipper. Mask and snorkel. 100% agree, pick up a good mask and snorkel and make sure it fits properly. And the mouth piece is the right size for you mouth. Suggest that you go to a professional dive shop, and get quality gear. A leaky, ill fitting mask, will definitely deminish your snorkeling enjoyment, big time. In fact, it will ruin it.

22 I see you are from the land of oz. While sailing and snorkeling the whitsunday Is., we even wore our tropical wt. wet suits, as well as gloves, masks and snorkels. no problem with stingers for us. Other folks were not as fortunate. The two 2 week Whitsunday sailing trips were prior to our liveabord SCUBA dive trips on the Spirit of Freedom. First visit 2005, 4 days, great barrier reef and coral sea, and last Oct. 3 days on the great barrier reef only. Also, snorkeled fabulous Makay Reef ( GBR ) off Cape Trib. Wow! Anyway, we all have our different ideas on ocean safety, and that is fine. Your vacation, your choice. Denny Bareboat chartering/sailing Raiatea/Tahaa/Huahine/Bora Bora Bareboat_chartering_sailing_Raiatea_Tahaa_Huahine_Bora_Bora-Society_Islands.html Sep 08, 2010, 6:08 PM My husband and I are sailing next month pick up yacht Raiatea and drop off Bora Bora, seven nights. Thinking of ordering provisions and doing part ourselves in Raiatea, any tips? Hope to have dinner a couple of nightson islands as well, any ideas/must do places? Re: Bareboat chartering/sailing Raiatea/Tahaa/Huahine/Bora Bora Sep 09, 2010, 4:17 PM You'd prob pick up your yacht at the Raiatea Yachtclub in Apootii, NW side of the island. All boats, big and small, get their provisions from the Champion supermarket in the main town Uturoa (only 10 minutes away from Apooiti). They'll prob offer you to get provisions for you but it's better and cheaper do to it yourself. You can moor in the main port in Uturoa right in front of the supermarket. There's also a small veggie and fruit market as well as couple of snacks and resto's. Best to stock up here too before heading north to Taha'a which only has small shops with limited choice, more expensive and away from the moorings (so you'd need a car). In Taha'a you'll have the Hibiscus Yachtclub (small pension famille as well)in the Haamene bay which has a restaurant and other services for yachties. A very good resto is Taha'a Maitai just further down inward at the end of the bay but you'd need resa as it is very popular with locals. In Huahine in Fare (moorings right in the bay) you have "Super Fare Nui" good supermarket at the waterfront as well as a lovely small restaurant the New Te Marara. Anyone recently bareboat sailboat out of Rangiroa or Bora Bo Anyone_recently_bareboat_sailboat_out_of_Rangiroa_or_Bora_Bo-Society_Islands.html Sep 08, 2011, 2:26 PM