South Pacific
Yacht Charters

The South Pacific is an expansive cruising area made up of French Polynesia, Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Solomons, Cook Islands, Samoa, Wells Fortuna, and Kirabati amongst other island groups, all dotted across the South Pacific Ocean between vast expanses of water. 

The area is so vast that cruising seasons differ throughout the area, however in general a tropical climate prevails with varying degrees of rainfall falling across a series of mainly volcanic islands and coral reefs, surrounded by crystal clear beautiful waters in multiple shades of blue and green.

Diving and snorkeling are outstanding throughout the South Pacific. And, there are miles of palm tree lined pristine beaches of varying sand colors.  It is the island life, history and cultures built over many centuries that vary and make each cruising area unique and well worth visiting.

French Polynesia Yacht Charters

French Polynesia Yacht Charters

Whether you're looking to sail and relax, enjoy the wonders of nature or immerse yourself in Polynesian culture, there's something for everyone on a yacht charter in Tahiti and the Society Islands (including Bora Bora). Explore all the captivating charms of this special place aboard a luxury yacht charter.

French Polynesia is actually five archipelagoes spread over 1240 miles, halfway between California and Australia, in the middle of the South Pacific.  The Society Islands are the most well known and least remote.  The Society Island windward islands include Tahiti and Moorea.

The Society Islands’ leeward islands include the four main islands of Raiatea, Tahaa, Huahine and Bora Bora. They are just five or six hours sail from each other aboard your private charter yacht. Each island is dominated by tall volcanic hills covered in luscious green undergrowth and surrounded by coral reefs which shelters its lagoon and fine sandy beaches.

Allow us to custom tailor your luxury, crewed South Pacific yacht charter. Our knowledge of South Pacific charter yachts, crews, destinations and cruising itineraries is unparalleled. We personally inspect each yacht, meet the captains, sample the chefs' cuisine and evaluate the service offered by each yacht crew. Contact us today!

View a sample Society Islands yacht charter itinerary.

Weather

Cooled by gentle ocean breezes, the climate for visiting charter yachts is ideal. Being tropical but moderate, the climate features sunny, pleasant days and an average yearly air and water temperature of 80 F. Summer is from November through April, when the climate is slightly warmer and more humid. Winter is from May through October, when the climate is slightly cooler and dryer.

Charter Yacht Sailing Conditions

April to June: Best period of the year, with moderate trade winds blowing from the east at 10 to 15 knots with gusts up to 25 knots. The temperature is around 86 degrees and the sea water about 78 degrees.

July to August: Tahiti winter with cooler temperatures and usually stronger southeasterly winds from 25 to 35 knots with gusts up to 40-45 knots. Day temperatures around 82 degrees, night temperatures falling to 68; sea water around 75 degrees.

September to October: Rather pleasant period with moderate winds from the east 10 to 15 knots. The second half of October may be rainy with the beginning of the rainy season.

November to March: Rainy period with weak winds from the north, northwest at times, otherwise mainly blowing from the east. Hurricanes may occur at this time of the year. Average temperature 85-95 degrees.

Currency

The currency is the French Pacific Franc (XPF) and upon arrival most visitors exchange some money at the airport or at their hotels. Since most credit cards are readily accepted in all tourist areas, it is not necessary to exchange large amounts.

Language

French and Tahitian are the official languages, but English is spoken and understood in tourist areas. Brushing up on a few basic French phrases and learning Tahitian greetings are appreciated.

Travel

The islands are located south of the equator, in the same time zone as Hawaii, and halfway between California and Australia. Papeete's Faa'a Airport (PPT) is under 8 hours by air from Los Angeles (LAX). From North America, nonstop flights depart LAX nearly every day on Air Tahiti Nui, Air France, or Air New Zealand.

Best Buys

Among Tahiti's most popular products are black pearls, tiare and coconut soaps, monoi oil, vanilla beans, shell leis, wood carvings, woven hats and baskets, and the colorful hand dyed pareu fabric worn by the island natives. The Papeete public market is a favorite with visitors. Shops usually open about 7:30am and close at 5:30pm (Noon on Saturdays) but there is always a long lunch hour. Except in hotels, all shops are usually closed on Sundays.

"People really do wear flowers in their hair and play the ukulele, and everyone is nice. I think Bora Bora is now our favorite island. We spent hours in the huge lagoon snorkeling and swimming." 
--Mr. N