A Tahiti yacht charter with The Moorings offers a rare opportunity to explore one of the most visually striking sailing destinations in the world.
Set in the heart of the South Pacific, Tahiti lies roughly midway between South America and Australia and is defined by dramatic volcanic peaks, clear lagoons, and coral reefs that teem with marine life. Sailing here feels immersive from the first day, with warm water, steady trade winds, and scenery that changes constantly as you move between islands.
A private yacht charter in Tahiti allows you to explore the Society Islands at your own pace. Bora Bora, Raiatea, Tahaa, and Huahine each offer a distinct atmosphere, yet all share the same turquoise waters, palm lined motu, and welcoming Polynesian culture. Encircling barrier reefs protect calm lagoons that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, while passes through the reef open into open ocean sailing that feels exhilarating and scenic rather than challenging.
Encounters with sea turtles, rays, reef sharks, dolphins, and hundreds of fish species are common, making this region one of the world’s most rewarding snorkeling and scuba diving destinations. Beyond the water, a Tahiti yacht charter introduces you to archaeological sites, lush interior landscapes, island villages, luxury resorts, and a food scene that blends Polynesian tradition with refined French influence.
Although Bora-Bora, Raiatea, Tahaa, and Huahine sit close together, each island offers a different perspective on Tahiti’s culture and landscape. Bora Bora is known for its iconic lagoon, overwater bungalows, and dramatic Mount Otemanu rising from the center of the island. It feels glamorous yet grounded, with anchorages that allow you to enjoy the scenery without crowds.
Raiatea is considered the spiritual heart of Polynesia and is rich in history. Ancient marae, including Taputapuatea, offer insight into early Polynesian navigation and culture. Tahaa, often called the Vanilla Island, feels quieter and more rural, with fragrant plantations, coral gardens, and relaxed anchorages that invite lingering afternoons in the water. Huahine blends lush rainforest with traditional village life and archaeological sites, offering a sense of Tahiti as it once was.
Together, these islands create a cruising ground that balances luxury, nature, and cultural depth. For many sailors, the Tahitian Leewards feel like a destination that reveals something new each day, whether that is a hidden bay, a reef alive with color, or a moment of quiet ashore.
Whether you are planning a seven, ten, or fourteen day sailing vacation, Tahiti offers itineraries that flow naturally between islands without long or stressful passages. Routes typically begin in Raiatea and loop through the Leeward Islands, with time to explore Bora Bora, Tahaa, Huahine, and in longer itineraries, more remote locations like Maupiti.
Each itinerary blends sailing, lagoon exploration, cultural visits, and time ashore, allowing you to shape the pace of your trip while still experiencing the highlights of the region.
Sail through Tahiti’s stunning islands, exploring turquoise waters, secluded motu, and vibrant coral reefs. From Bora Bora’s beauty to Taha’a’s vanilla shores, experience a tropical paradise filled with culture and adventure.
Explore the Leeward Islands of Tahiti over 10 days, visiting lush rainforests, crystal-clear lagoons, and white-sand beaches. Discover Bora Bora, Huahine, and Tahaa while enjoying vibrant reefs and Polynesian culture.
Embark on a two-week adventure through French Polynesia’s Leeward Islands, including Bora Bora, Huahine, and Maupiti. Enjoy pristine lagoons, dramatic mountains, and a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
At The Moorings, we recognize that every traveler approaches sailing differently. Whether you want complete independence or a fully hosted experience, there is a Tahiti charter option to suit your style.
For the seasoned mariner, a bareboat yacht charter grants you the ultimate command. The helm is yours, and the Society Islands unfold entirely to your pace and preference. This is freedom without compromise
Whether you choose from a spacious catamaran or classic monohull, you’ll be in complete control of your bareboat charter and take responsibility for planning your itinerary and provisioning.
Have you always wanted to experience a yacht charter but don’t have any sailing experience? A skippered yacht charter means you’ll be joined by one of our professional, experienced skippers who will do all the sailing for you. All you have to do is relax and enjoy your hassle-free yacht charter vacation in Tahiti. For the most exclusive experience, a fully crewed charter offers complete ease. With a dedicated captain and chef onboard, every detail is handled for you, from navigation to meals and daily housekeeping.
Stretch out on a spacious catamaran designed for effortless island cruising. With generous deck space, calm passages, and room to truly unwind, it is the ideal way to explore Tahiti’s lagoons and the wider Society Islands in comfort and style.
The Moorings is honored to receive recognition for its fleet and vacation planning services. Awards include TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards 2025, 2024 and 2023, and The British Yachting Awards 2023.
Book Your Tahiti Yacht Charter
Glide through Tahiti’s clear lagoons, explore vibrant coral reefs, and linger in timeless destinations like Bora Bora. With the Society Islands unfolding around you, each day moves at a gentler pace. You’ve earned a holiday without compromise. Ready to experience the South Pacific not just by yacht, but by The yacht?
The skipper, Quentin, and the chef, Nadia, were outstanding. They made the experience exciting, educational, comfortable, and fun. Without Quentin and Nadia the experience would have been good, but not the over-the-top outstanding adventure that it was.
Friendly staff – very helpful, accommodating, great review on charter area and prompt answers to questions pre-trip
Tahiti Yacht Charter FAQs
What is the best route to sail in Tahiti?
Our Tahiti Charter Itinerary is thoughtfully curated, to give you the best possible experience. You will set sail from stunning Raiatea and then begin your exploration of the Leeward Islands, up to Bora Bora and looping back around – stopping at some of the worlds most spectacular coves, beaches and dining spots along the way. For more information on this, check out our Tahiti Chart Briefing, Cruising Guides or Contact a Holiday Planner.
When is the best time to sail in Tahiti?
To get the most out of your Tahiti yacht charter, you’ll want to explore this exotic destination between April/May and September/October.
If you’re keen to explore Tahiti outside of these months, Tahiti has two seasons. A warm yet wet season between November and April, with a cooler, drier season between May and September with the driest months being June and August.
How easy is it to island hop in Tahiti
While the Society Islands are all relatively close, it takes approximately 8 hours of sailing to get from Raiatea to Bora Bora, for example. The longest passage to windward is about 18 nautical miles.
How many days in Tahiti is enough
We recommend a 7 day minimum for sailing around Tahiti and the Society Islands, and we recommend at least 1 day exploring the island of Tahiti.
What are the best things to do in Tahiti?
Moor up on the stunning island of Raiatea and spend your day hiking around the luscious green trails of Mount Temehani.
Relax, unwind and soak up the sun on one of Tahiti’s sensational beaches, such as Lafayette Beach which has soft black sand and makes the perfect backdrop for photos.
Uncover the hidden natural treasures of Tahiti, including Queen’s Cave which is only accessible by boat or on foot.
Visit Taha’a for world-class snorkeling opportunities. Experience the magic of Taurere Bay’s coral garden where you’ll come face to face with beautiful and exotic marine life. Love spending time in Tahiti’s crystal clear waters? Check out our water sports options.
Unleash your adventurous side and go surfing in Teahupoo, renowned for its incredible waves and very popular with locals.
Take a look at our carefully crafted Tahiti Itineraries to find out more about what you can expect to get up to during your relaxing Tahiti yacht charter.
How much does a yacht charter in Tahiti cost?
The cost of a Yacht Charter in Tahiti varies depending on the length of your stay, the number of passengers and the time of year you set sail. Don’t forget that when doing a crewed charter, you will also be paying to keep the crew aboard the yacht.
Based on 2 people sharing, a 1-week Sailing vacation can cost between $3,000 and $9,000. To check closer prices for your ideal dates, check our build a quote section, or contact us.
What are the sailing conditions like in Tahiti?
Sailing conditions are one of the reasons Tahiti remains so appealing for both first time charter guests and experienced sailors. A charter yacht in Tahiti benefits from consistent easterly trade winds that typically average between 15 and 20 knots, providing reliable sailing without feeling overpowering. Inside the barrier reefs, waters are calm and protected, making daily passages relaxed and comfortable.
Tidal range is minimal at less than one foot, and currents are generally weak except in narrow reef passes, which are clearly marked and well charted. Open water passages between islands add variety to the sailing experience, with longer downwind legs that feel scenic and rewarding rather than demanding. Year round temperatures range from approximately 78°F to 80°F, keeping conditions warm both day and night.
Because of these factors, a Tahiti yacht charter is accessible to sailors with basic coastal navigation skills, while still offering enough variety to keep seasoned sailors engaged. The balance of protected sailing and open ocean passages is one of the defining features of this cruising area.