French Polynesia

The Magnificent Islands of French Polynesia

The islands of Tahiti comprise the Society Islands of the South Pacific.  These magnificent islands were first known to be inhabited by the Polynesian people who migrated from South East Asia.  A succession of European visits in the 17th and 18th century brought the European culture to these sun drenched islands.  The peculiarity of all of them is that they have small islands called "motu"s surrounding the main island.  The waters in between the main island and the motu is shallow providing ample opportunity for fishes and humans to get closer to one another - something that is unique about Tahiti.  Following is a brief description of the main islands of Tahiti.  Tahiti:  This "Island of Love" is the largest in the 118-island Polynesian island archipelago with a land area of 402 sq. miles (1,042 sq. km.).  It is shaped as if it was comprised of two islands: Tahiti Nui (big) and Tahiti Iti (small).  Rugged peaks, natural flora and fauna surrounded by crystalline waters are its characteristics.  Papeete (located in the north west) is a major port-city and can transport travelers around the world by jumbo jets.  Major hotels and resorts are found here.  The marina is also located within a short distance. Moorea:  A short sailing distance north-west from Papeete (11 miles), Moorea is full of natural wonders.  The volcanic peaks are covered with pineapple plantations and (to prevent erosion) also with planted pine trees.  A safari ride on this island will take you to the heart of the Tahitian people and their history.  Jagged peaks, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls and breathtaking bays make a stunning backdrop for your tropical adventure.  Lots of anchorages are available in two of the largest bays here: Cook's and Opunohu bay. Huahine:  Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti are located 90 miles north-west of Moorea, this georgeous island has fantastic anchorages almost all places.  Vanilla beans are cultivated for commercial export as are black pearls.  Also grown on the island-motus are watermelon and cantaloupe.  The island's friendly folks flash a smiling face and a waving hand as they see tourist vehicles pass by.  Because of the long passage between Moorea and Huahine, one often sails at night to reach this destination from the east.  Coconut trees line its white sandy beaches as they do the surrounding motus. Raiatea and Tahaa:   Raiatea is the second largest island of the Society Islands.  It is in close proximity (2 miles) to its neighbor, Tahaa (pronounced Taa 'a), and is a convenient location for starting sailing charters as all the other islands are close by.  Many  These two islands are an excellent resource for the curious traveler wanting to find the roots of the Polynesian culture.  They are also famous for vanilla growing, snorkeling or plain relaxation.  Plenty of anchorages and protected bays surround these islands.  It has a fairly large market and you can get black pearls for a lesser price.  Taxis are available (fare between US $10-$30 depending upon distance) easily, but buses are not as frequently available as in Papeete. Bora Bora (Pora Pora):  The remarkable island of Bora Bora is truly a nature's wonder.  Here, not only you will find the best of the best hotels & resorts including the "overwater bungalow" types that are a specialty of Tahiti, but also spot the ocean-facing houses of the "rich and the famous".  Its surrounding "motu"s provide an ideal setting for several activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, beach relaxation, water-skiing, swimming and para-sailing.  A beautiful necklace of coral and "motu"s surround this magical spot on earth.  Must see: the lagoonarium (natural aquarium) for shark feeding, manta-ray feeding and enjoyable observation/feeding of the spectacularly colored fishes.  Must do:  coconut de-husking and enjoying fresh coconut water on a remote private motu. Rangiroa:  About 200 miles northeast of Tahiti lies the Tuamotu archipelago, composed of the largest collection of coral atolls in the world.  The waters of the Rangiroa motu in this archipelago are a dream for the most avid scuba diver.  The underwater scenery is breath-taking and simply amazing (sharks and colored fishes abound its reef).  Three major diving clubs exist on Rangiroa.  Cabin crewed charters are a Boatz 'n Yachtz' specialty as is the knowledge of this islands' exclusive hotels.