Guide to cruising to Tahiti
Quick insights
- Tahiti is the largest island in the Windward group of the Society Islands in French Polynesia, and is a beautiful place to cruise, with a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture.
- Cruises to Tahiti and its surrounding islands are best enjoyed during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is warm and the seas are relatively calm.
- A seven-day Tahiti cruise is a popular choice, providing time to explore the islands and soak up the sun.
Embark on a journey of discovery as you set sail for Tahiti! Note that when we refer to cruising to Tahiti, this is generally not the only island you will hit—you may also be visiting the surrounding Society Islands, which include Moorea, Majao, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Tahaa and Huahine.
This cruise will take you through the tropical paradise in the heart of the South Pacific. Grab your sunscreen and flip flops, because we’re planning a cruise!
Best time to cruise to Tahiti
The ideal time to cruise to Tahiti and the Society Islands is during the dry season, from May to October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it a preferable time to explore the island’s picturesque beaches and clear blue waters. This timeframe also coincides with several cultural festivals, such as the Heiva I Tahiti festival in July. The Heiva I Tahiti festival features traditional crafts, dance, singing and sports competitions.
How many days for a Tahiti cruise?
A week-long Tahiti cruise is a popular choice for those looking to explore Tahiti as well as the Society Islands. This allows for a leisurely pace, with plenty of time to soak up the sun, explore the local culture and take part in water-based activities such as snorkeling and diving. If you’re taking a longer cruise, you could journey beyond the Society Islands into other areas of French Polynesia.
Discovering Tahiti: Geography, history and culture
Tahiti is the largest island of the Windward group of Society Islands located in the South Pacific. It’s known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with lush mountains, turquoise lagoons and white-sand beaches. The island's history is rich and diverse, with influences from Polynesian, French and Chinese cultures:
- Polynesian traditions are deeply embedded in the local lifestyle, evident in the communal 'ahi ma'a feasts and vibrant Heiva celebrations. 'Ahi ma'a feasts involve cooking a variety of foods in an earth oven using heated rocks, which brings communities together for a shared meal; the Heiva celebrations, on the other hand, are annual cultural festivals that showcase traditional Polynesian music, dance and sports.
- French influence is noticeable in the language, cuisine and administrative systems.
- Chinese culture is seen in the diverse culinary landscape and various temples scattered across the islands, adding to the multicultural atmosphere.
Navigating the waters: Sea conditions around Tahiti
The seas around Tahiti are generally calm, especially during the dry season. However, as with any sea voyage, conditions can vary, so it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip.
Packing for your Tahiti cruise
When packing for your Tahiti cruise, consider the tropical climate and casual island lifestyle. Here are some essentials to include in your suitcase:
- Lightweight clothing: Tropical climate calls for light, breathable clothing, like shorts, t-shirts and sundresses, to stay comfortable while exploring.
- Swimwear: With gorgeous beaches and tranquil lagoons, you may want to spend plenty of time in the water. Don't forget your swimsuit for those beach days and snorkeling adventures.
- Sun protection: The sun during this cruise can be intense. Pack plenty of sunscreen, along with a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun's rays.
- Comfortable footwear: Whether you're exploring a local market or hiking up a mountain, comfortable shoes are a must for all activities.
- Evening attire: While Tahiti is casual during the day, evenings can be a bit more formal, especially if you're dining at a nice restaurant or attending a cultural event. Pack a formal outfit for those occasions.
- Travel documents: Travelers to Tahiti must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their planned departure. For U.S. citizens, a visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Citizens from other countries should verify visa requirements based on their nationality.
- Money: The currency used in Tahiti is the French Communities of the Pacific Franc (CFP Franc). It's recommended to check the current exchange rate before traveling.
- Credit cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger shops. Local currency is useful for smaller purchases, local markets or in more remote areas where electronic payments might not be as readily accepted.
An ideal Tahiti cruise itinerary
A good Tahiti cruise itinerary might start in Papeete, the capital city in Tahiti, which is known for its markets and colonial architecture. From there, you can head to the islands of Moorea and Bora Bora.
Moorea is celebrated for its dramatic volcanic peaks and lush landscapes, perfect for hiking and nature photography. Bora Bora is renowned for its luxurious overwater bungalows and coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling and relaxation.
If you’re taking a longer cruise, you could journey beyond the Society Islands into other areas of French Polynesia.
The bottom line
A cruise to Tahiti and its surrounding islands offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and culture of French Polynesia. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first cruise, this guide provides the information you may need to plan your Tahiti cruise.
