Tahiti Yacht Charters
A Tahiti yacht charter vacation offers one of the world’s most idyllic settings amongst a vast scattering of paradise islands lapped by warm, turquoise waters. One of the largest islands in the breathtaking French Polynesia cruising grounds, Tahiti is as rich in culture, landscapes, and welcoming locals as it is in pristine beaches and underwater life, making renting a yacht here simply bliss.
Comprising five spectacular archipelagos, the French Polynesia charter routes cover more than two million square miles of the South Pacific Ocean and include islands such as Bora Bora, Mo'orea, Huahine, Taha'a, Raiatea, Manihi, Tikehau, Rangiroa, and Fakarava.
Tahiti makes up one of the Society Islands and is not only considered the main island in French Polynesia but is also the most cosmopolitan, with rich cultural links to its French motherland. It is the perfectly hedonistic retreat in which to relax and enjoy the local cuisine, natural lagoons, coral reefs, and the bustling city of Papeete.
- Scenic beaches and lagoons
Tahiti is awash with a wealth of beautiful secluded beaches of sands ranging from volcanic black to platinum white, overhung with palms and kissed by clear turquoise waters teeming with life. - Swim with humpbacks
Don’t miss the chance of a lifetime to get up-close-and-personal with nature’s majestic megafauna. Tahiti plays host to these beautiful creatures from August to October when they come to give birth to their young in the island's tranquil waters. - Hikes and waterfalls
Boasting a range of high peaks and dense jungle, the hiking trails amongst Tahiti’s verdant landscape are not for the faint-hearted, but the views and beautiful cascading waterfalls found within its tropical jungle interior make it all well worth the effort. - World-class surf breaks
For adrenaline-fuelled shredding, Tahiti boasts some of the world’s most famous surf breaks, with surf competitions taking place annually at the end of August. - Effortless island-hopping
For those keen on exploration, Tahiti is within a champagne cork’s pop from an array of tropical islands such as Mo'orea, Bora bora and Rangiroa, all offering a utopian paradise of snorkeling, swimming and hiking.
As the capital of Tahiti, Papeete is the main hub for motor yacht charters and a vibrant introduction to island life. Visitors can explore the bustling port, lively markets, and elegant boutiques while enjoying fine dining in restaurants that showcase local and French-inspired cuisine. Papeete also offers easy access to Marina Taina and Port de Papeete, making it a convenient starting point for any Tahiti yacht charter.
The smaller, less developed peninsula of Tahiti Iti offers secluded anchorages and a more intimate experience for charter guests. Its rugged coastline, hidden coves, and quiet villages provide an authentic glimpse of traditional Tahitian life, making it perfect for those who want to escape the more populated areas of the island.
Located on the northeastern tip of Tahiti, Pointe Venus is renowned for its dramatic lighthouse, black sand beaches, and spectacular sunsets. This anchorage is a highlight for photographers and nature lovers, as it combines history, scenery, and calm waters suitable for swimming and relaxation.
A perennial favorite for honeymoon yacht charters, the slow-paced Bora Bora, to the north of Tahiti, offers up a paradisiac tableau like nowhere else on earth. Encircled by beautiful tropical reefs, Bora Bora's waters are a haven for a myriad of colorful fish and other marine fauna. The island itself is steeped in forest and soaring peaks, akin to Tahiti, with a raft of resorts capitalizing on the island's rich abundance of natural beauty and sun-drenched beaches.
A little closer to home, the neighboring island of Mo'orea offers another fine example of French Polynesia's unparalleled beauty. Only 20 kilometers away from Tahiti, this island gem is the perfect retreat for total relaxation and pure bliss on a South Pacific yacht charter. From its tropical gardens to its coral-built protestant temple, Mo'orea is also renowned for its world-class diving, where you'll experience inquisitive dolphins, schools of rays, and other tropical species.
If you are a keen diver, the vast array of coral-ringed atolls of the Tuamotus are the perfect choice. Spanning an immense stretch of indigo-blue ocean, this archipelago yields an unusual bounty of blue lagoons, pristine reefs, and World War II wrecks teeming with life.
A Tahiti luxury yacht charter vacation offers a mesmerizing selection of attractions to see and do. Here are YachtCharterFleet's top picks of some of the most outstanding:
- Faarumai Waterfall – a trek into lush tropical jungle on the island’s north eastern flank will bring you out into a dappled clearing, home to the beautiful cascading Faarumai Waterfall, culminating in a tranquil lagoon at its base.
- Teahupoʻo – located on Tahiti’s southwest coast, this bay is renowned for its world-beating surf breaks, and the site of the annual Billabong Pro Tahiti surf competition, part of the World Championship Tour. With waves reaching heights of up to seven meters, this is the perfect hangout for thrill-seekers.
- 'Ārahurahu Marae – set at the foot of a cliff surrounded by jungle, 'Ārahurahu Marae is a sacred three-story marae structure of black stone that was built as an ancient temple or meeting place for rituals, which has since been restored and is still in use today.
- Mount Aorai – a volcanic peak covered in lush green forest with sublime views across the South Pacific.
- Tahiti Lagoon Paradise – a beautiful turquoise lagoon where you’ll encounter whales, turtles, tropical fish, and World War II underwater relics.
Tahiti yacht charters attract a wide range of visitors thanks to the island’s mix of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and easy access from the main island of Tahiti. Family yacht charters appreciate the calm, turquoise lagoons and sheltered bays, perfect for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming safely with children.
Couples are drawn to the romance of secluded anchorages and volcanic landscapes, ideal for honeymooners or those seeking a private escape. Groups of friends often choose Tahiti as a base to explore the island’s vibrant towns, lush interiors, and nearby islets like Mo’orea for adventure and relaxation alike.
The island is also a favorite for high-net-worth individuals seeking a luxury retreat in the South Pacific. Tahiti’s combination of exclusive resorts, private beaches, and seamless access for some of the world's largest yachts for charter appeals to those looking for privacy and indulgence.
With direct international flights into Papeete, Tahiti offers an accessible yet exotic destination for those wanting a memorable luxury yacht charter experience.
Tahiti is steeped in a rich cultural legacy that blends indigenous Polynesian traditions with French colonial influence. From the first settlers who arrived from South East Asia over 4,000 years ago to European explorers in the 18th century, the island’s history is reflected in its ancient marae temples, colonial architecture, and vibrant local customs.
Visiting the island as part of a Tahiti yacht charter itinerary offers a unique way to explore these cultural treasures, from sacred ceremonial sites like ʻĀrahurahu Marae to bustling local markets in Papeete.
The art of dance and music remains central to Tahitian life. Traditional performances, ranging from energetic drum dances to graceful ceremonial movements, tell stories of love, nature, and community. Guests aboard luxury charters can experience these performances firsthand at cultural festivals or private shows, offering an immersive introduction to the island’s heritage.
Tahiti’s artistry extends beyond performance, with weaving, tattooing, wood carving, and other crafts reflecting the islanders’ connection to nature and spirituality. A luxury yacht charter in Tahiti allows visitors to witness these enduring traditions up close, whether exploring artisan workshops onshore or learning about Polynesian culture through curated excursions, making every voyage both enriching and unforgettable.
Tahiti caters to a wide spectrum of yachting experiences, from relaxed family adventures to indulgent, high-end luxury escapes with full crews. With calm lagoons, short island-hopping distances, and steady trade winds, the island and its surrounding islands are one of the South Pacific’s most accessible and versatile charter destinations.
Whether it’s a first-time luxury yacht charter in Tahiti or an exclusive retreat for seasoned adventurers, this region provides the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and tropical tranquility. Guests can explore secluded bays, coral reefs, and volcanic landscapes while enjoying the privacy and service of a fully crewed charter yacht.
Motor yacht charters are an exceptional way to experience the very best of Tahiti and the surrounding Society Islands. Offering the ultimate combination of comfort, privacy, and mobility, a luxury motor yacht charter in Tahiti allows you to glide effortlessly between the island’s remote bays, turquoise lagoons, and coral-fringed anchorages.
Guests can explore secluded beaches accessible only by sea, or enjoy panoramic views of volcanic peaks rising dramatically from the ocean.
With spacious decks, onboard spas, and gourmet dining prepared by private chefs, a crewed motor yacht in Tahiti delivers five-star luxury with every detail handled to perfection.
Whether you are a seasoned yachtsman or a first-time charterer, a luxury sailing yacht can offer an unforgettable vacation with family and friends. This option is ideal for those who enjoy an adrenalin-fuelled sailing adventure coupled with top-class luxury and pristine service.
Catamarans are also a prime choice in Tahiti, offering excellent stability, huge amounts of space and they are perfect for navigating the shallow waters and providing easy access to the beautiful lagoons that are found here.
Understandably, Tahiti is a desirable option for luxury yacht charters; however, it's important to highlight the limited availability for crewed yachts around this remote region. Ideally, you should speak to a yacht charter broker well in advance of your trip, who will be able to advise you of any charter yachts venturing to Tahiti and French Polynesia in the upcoming months prior to your intended dates.
Although there is generally not a wide selection of yachts readily available to charter in Tahiti, for convenience, we have listed the estimated average costs for motor yacht and sailing yacht charters around this tropical region.
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For motor yacht rentals in Tahiti, prices can go from $45,000 to $826,483 per week, plus expenses
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To hire a luxury sailing yacht in Tahiti, prices range between $56,000 to $254,136 weekly, plus expenses
Taxes and service fees are set at 5% of the gross charter rate, to be collected before each charter.
A destination that boasts a balmy year-round climate, Tahiti averages temperatures of around 28-31 degrees. Although the most popular times to embark on a private superyacht vacation are usually during the peak summer months, there are many different elements to take into consideration before you go.
Tahiti has two distinct seasons: a wet and a dry season. The months between May and September offer the most favorable conditions for yacht charters as they are generally drier and the winds tend to be more predictable. This period is also known as the Austral winter in the southern hemisphere.
The months ranging from November through April mark the wet season, with an average high temperature of 35 degrees and an average low of 29 degrees.
Most yacht charters begin in Papeete, a port city on Tahiti, where guests on family yacht charters can embark on their superyacht at one of the island's main Pacific hubs, Marina Taina or Papeete Port. This is a great starting point for those wanting to explore the island in greater detail.
One of the largest urban centers in the South Pacific, Papeete itself is a gracious and elegant tropical city with tall palm trees and an abundance of flowers hugging the city. Bustling with life, this is a truly remarkable place to start your venture around the French Polynesian hotspot, and what's more, you will find that you are within walking distance of excellent dining and shopping facilities.
Tahiti yacht charter itineraries
Tahiti is French Polynesia's main yachting hub and boasts three well-equipped marinas:
- Marina Taina – Situated on Tahiti’s north-western coast in Punaauia, just 10 minutes from Faa’a International Airport, Marina Taina is the island’s premier superyacht facility and a hub for international charters across French Polynesia. It offers stern-to berthing for superyachts up to 80 m (262 ft) with depths ranging between 4 and 15 meters, along with 24-hour security, customs and immigration services, provisioning, and fueling facilities.
- Marina de Papeete – Located in the vibrant heart of downtown Papeete, this picturesque city marina is best suited for charter yachts under 20 m LOA, offering direct access to the capital’s lively markets, boutiques, and cafés. Marina de Papeete provides modern amenities, including shore power, water, Wi-Fi, waste disposal, and round-the-clock security. Its central location means charter guests can easily enjoy a stroll along the waterfront promenade or indulge in local dining before or after their voyage.
- Port de Papeete – As Tahiti’s main commercial and cruise port, Port de Papeete is well-equipped to accommodate larger superyachts with substantial crew complements. The port provides deep-water berths with depths up to 10 meters, customs and immigration clearance, bunkering, and provisioning support. Due to its central location, it serves as a practical choice for Tahiti yacht charters requiring logistics and technical services while remaining close to the island’s cultural and shopping districts.
For nights not spent in a marina, there are a few idyllic anchorages to be found in secluded coves and sheltered bays around this spectacular island. Technically, there are two main anchorages in Tahiti;
- Airport Anchorage: A scenic and calm anchorage boasting blue, inviting waters and picture-perfect scenery that invites you into a sense of peaceful serenity
- Marina Taina Anchorage: A beautiful anchorage that offers remarkable views of the island of Moorea in the far distance. Waters are crystalline and provide a pretty and quiet place to anchor down for tranquil nights under the stars.
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Avoid mainstream tourists around popular hotspots by arriving either first thing in the morning or late afternoon when they all head back to their resorts.
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French Polynesia is an overseas territory of France, and French is the official language. However, Tahitian is widely spoken, particularly in the outer islands, as well as in other dialects. Not many people speak English outside of tourist establishments.
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Tipping is not expected or standard practice in the country. That said, you can certainly tip for good service, and in those situations, 10% is the unspoken benchmark.
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ATMs are easy to find in Tahiti, but if you were to explore any other islands around this region, it does become more difficult, so we do advise you to plan your cash well.
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From June to August, the south-easterly mara’amu winds blow across the islands. This varies in strength and duration depending on which island group you are visiting, and occasionally it can be quite strong, lasting for a few days.
If you are keen to explore Tahiti on a private yacht charter, YachtCharterFleet strongly advises booking with your yacht charter broker at least three to six months in advance.
By doing so, you will increase the likelihood of securing your preferred dates, and you will have a greater selection of yachts on offer to choose from. This also ensures your broker has enough time to craft a personalized itinerary and secure a berth at a popular marina.
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