Polynesia / Raiatea Yacht Rental

General Info
Just take into consideration if you will what the name Raiatea stands for (in the Tahitian language it means “bright sky”) and you’ll understand the mystery and the beauty that surrounds the Society Islands in French Polynesia. There’s nothing like it in the world for sailors.

Virtually isolated from the rest of the world by the vastness of the Pacific Ocean, Raiatea is the epitome of island paradise where time simply stands still. Being only smaller than Tahiti, Raiatea is the largest of the Leewards Islands, located between Bora Bora and the aforementioned Tahiti.

Dive into a world of ethereal beauty, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage as you charter a yacht from Raiatea, the beating heart of the French Polynesian archipelago. This verdant island, steeped in ancient lore and encircled by a shimmering lagoon, is the perfect springboard for an unforgettable sailing adventure across this Pacific paradise.

From the helm of your yacht, watch as Raiatea's magnificent landscapes unfold. Navigate the tranquil waters and marvel at the towering peaks, verdant valleys, and ancient marae (sacred sites) that dot the island. Be sure to visit Marae Taputapuatea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and once the religious and cultural epicenter of Polynesia.

Raiatea's lagoon is a haven for marine life. Anchor in the turquoise waters and snorkel or dive among vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish. You might even spot a green sea turtle or blacktip reef shark.

The charm of Raiatea extends beyond its natural wonders. The island's small but lively towns offer a taste of Polynesian life. Explore local markets, where you can sample regional delicacies such as poisson cru, a tangy raw fish salad, or the local Hinano beer.

Your Raiatea yacht charter also opens up the wider wonders of the Society Islands. Sail to the nearby island of Taha'a, known for its lush vanilla plantations and pearl farms. Further afield, the idyllic islands of Bora Bora, Huahine, and Maupiti beckon with their stunning beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and fascinating cultural sites.

Travel & Arrival
Once you have your mind set on traveling here, there's really nothing left than to book a plane ticket with any of the operators flying to Tahiti airport, the closest air terminal to the island. Some of these operators include Air France, Corsair, Air Caledonie International, Hawaiian Airlines and Quantas. There are also smaller, charter flights that fly directly to the island, but they’re obviously more expensive.

The other way to get your gang here is by boat. There are many cruise lines that make regular stops to  Raiatea, mostly in the island’s only port, Uturoa harbor. There are also several public marinas and a privately owned one.

Avant & Apres Sail
Tahitians consider this island as their “Sacred Island” due to the many historical and cultural implications. This archipelago is considered to have been colonized by the ancient Hawaiians which made their first stop onto Raiatea.
Today, the modern tourist can visit the archeological sites (the most famous being Taputapuatea Marae), the pearl farms, the vanilla plantations, the local market and the Uturoa harbor.

The most popular form of accommodation amongst travelers has to be the overwater bungalows, which sit on wooden stilts above the incredibly light blue waters and link via wooden piers to white sandy beaches. There are also luxury hotels, and mid-range pensions and guesthouses.

Food on the island is rather pricy, no matter where you eat it. Since this is a rather isolated location, the shipping costs seem to add to the sale price of every food item. So plan your budget accordingly.

The types of food enthusiasts can enjoy are local and French, international and ethnic. There are also the famous “Les Roulottes” which are really “rolling food trucks”. This is how most of the locals dine, as they can act as restaurants or take-aways.

Shopping may be a western activity, but the locals have adapted perfectly and now provide the crowds with souvenirs and crafts. Out of these, the black pearls and the jewelries made from them seem to be the most prolific.

Events & Actions
Let’s get one thing straight from the start: when you come to Raiatea, you better throw away your watch. Every aspect of life here seems to be slowed down and there’s a general laid back atmosphere wherever you go. That being said, there are also lots of ways to have fun even for the more action-minded people.

On water, scuba diving, sailing (Raiatea is known as the sailing capital of the Leewards and has numerous facilites), snorkeling, surfing, windsurfing, jetskiing and kitesurfing will eat up most of your time. For those who want to relax on water, there are glass-bottom boats, tacle-fishing trips and sunset cruises.

On land, there are numerous 4x4 safaris, hiking and climbing trails just waiting to be discovered by any group brave enough to get out of bed early enough in the morning. Let’s not forget the horseback riding, bicycle riding the camping and the cultural tours that can be used to fill your days here in Raiatea.
 

What are some must-see attractions in and around Raiatea?

Don't miss Marae Taputapuatea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Venture to Taha'a for vanilla plantations and pearl farms, or sail further afield to Bora Bora's iconic lagoon and Maupiti's breathtaking beaches.

What's the best time to sail around Raiatea?

The best sailing conditions in Raiatea are typically during the dry season, from May to October, when temperatures are milder and rainfall is lower.

What facilities are available at the marina?

The Marina Apooiti in Raiatea is fully equipped with facilities including water and electricity supply, Wi-Fi, laundry, and restrooms. There are also restaurants and shops nearby.

What local dishes should I try in Raiatea?

Savor traditional dishes like poisson cru, a marinated raw fish salad, and indulge in locally brewed Hinano beer. Don't forget to try some of the island's fresh tropical fruits.

What marine life can I expect to see around Raiatea?

Raiatea's lagoon is a sanctuary for tropical fish, green sea turtles, blacktip reef sharks, and colourful coral gardens. Keep an eye out for manta rays and dolphins during your voyage.

Are there any notable natural sites to explore?

Mount Temehani is a protected reserve home to the Tiare Apetahi, a flower that grows nowhere else in the world. The island's waterfalls, such as the three cascades at Faaroa Valley, are also worth a visit.

What watersports are popular in Raiatea?

Popular watersports include snorkeling and diving in the lagoon, as well as kayaking down the Faaroa River, the only navigable river in Polynesia.

What cultural experiences are available?

Visit a local marae, learn about pearl cultivation at a pearl farm, or partake in a traditional Polynesian feast, known as a Ma'a Tahiti, to immerse yourself in the culture.

Embrace the spirit of Polynesia as you chart your own course across this enchanting archipelago. From the sacred sites of Raiatea to the sun-kissed beaches of Bora Bora, every island offers a new world to discover. As you navigate the azure waters and anchor in tranquil bays, you'll find that each day on your yacht charter brings a new adventure in paradise. So, raise the sails, feel the Pacific breeze in your hair, and let the wonders of Raiatea and beyond unfold.