The ultimate guide to cruising Tahiti

Explore Tahiti’s breathtakingly beautiful islands, lagoons and villages with Windstar, the small-ship experts who have more than three decades of experience sailing in this pristine paradise.

Tahiti is one of the most underrated island holidays. Flung across an immense stretch of the South Pacific Ocean, the French territory’s 118 islands and atolls are so vast that it would reach from Russia to the UK. So, what better way to explore than on Windstar Cruises in Tahiti?

Here, a fascinating blend of Tahitian and French culture takes centre stage, with residents speaking French and Tahitian, serving French cuisine along with Polynesian specialties and resorts incorporating European refinements with laid-back South Pacific style.

Get around the vast space of Tahiti’s islands on a cruise.

Getting there

Star Breeze sails from Papeete, Tahiti, year-round, offering a private yacht-style experience for up to 312 guests. Stylish outdoor spaces – including sundecks, a pool and the sociable Star Bar – make the most of the balmy South Seas climate, and guests enjoy an exceptional crew-to-guest ratio.

Star Breeze sails seven-night cruises in the Society Islands as well as 10- or 11-night itineraries to the Society and Tuamotu Islands, and 14-night voyages that go to the remote Marquesas.

Explore Tahiti with Windstar Cruises.

Activities onboard the Star Breeze

There’s nothing quite like diving off the back of a private yacht straight into warm, crystal-clear water where there are no other boats for miles around. Star Breeze’s marina is stocked with water toys including personalised snorkelling kits, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, a water trampoline, foam ‘floating carpet’ and a sailboat.

Take advantage of Windstar’s water sports platform.

Fine dining is a given, thanks to Windstar’s partnership with the renowned James Beard Culinary Foundation. There are five dining options, including the new Mediterranean and Asian influenced Basil + Bamboo restaurant, plus The Yacht Club, which serves great coffee and light bites. Room service is available 24/7.

The ship provides a fully equipped gym, free fitness classes, a sauna, a beauty salon, the World Spa, two Jacuzzis and a water sports platform. Onboard lectures add extra insights to shore excursions that showcase the culture, history and abundant natural attractions of this dreamy region.

Find tantalising dishes onboard.

Windstar’s Excursion highlights

Windstar’s exclusive Destination Discovery Event on a private motu is the pinnacle of any stay on Bora Bora. As the sun sets, enjoy a feast prepared by the ship’s chefs while local musicians provide an enchanting soundtrack of traditional Polynesian songs. When night falls, fire dancers present a dazzling display of acrobatic and flame-throwing skills.

In Raiatea, a must for pearl aficionados is a visit to the unbelievably picturesque overwater Anapa Pearl Farm. You’ll observe the intricate grafting process, possibly invest in an exquisite Tahitian black pearl and if too much snorkelling is never enough, plunge into the surrounding lagoon.

Immerse yourself in Polynesian culture on an eco-tour of Huahine’s jungle-clad hills and valleys. You’ll discover quaint villages and ancient marae, learn about medicinal plants, feed blue-eyed eels and take an outrigger trip to a pearl farm and pottery.

Watch local dancers on Bora Bora, and maybe even join in.

Discovering Tahiti’s best ports

You’ll visit between six and 11 different islands, depending on the voyage you choose. So there’s no shortage of adventures to be had, but these are some top picks.

All start and finish at Papeete, where guests typically have one or two days pre- or post-cruise to browse the local market for jewellery (including pearls), colourful artworks and textiles – and just to soak up the atmosphere.

Known as one of the world’s most beautiful islands. Explore the lush Moorea on an exciting 4WD trip, spot dolphins in their natural habitat, take a tour with a professional photographer to improve your skills, or swim and kayak in aquamarine waters straight from the ship’s marina.

Dolphins are spotted on almost every trip. (Image: Mlenny)

Another incredible stop is Raiatea, home to UNESCO World Heritage site Taputapuatea, the rare tiare apetahi flower and the region’s only navigable river. Tours include scuba diving, snorkelling, and river-kayaking.

A stop at Bora Bora is also perfect for discovering the underwater world. Or simply relaxing on its endless white sand beaches and a stunning turquoise lagoon. Bora Bora is one of the most famous of Tahiti’s Society Islands for a reason, and is considered one of the most romantic islands in the world.

Soak in the romance and beauty of Bora Bora. (Image: Getty/ Nevereverro)

For a change of pace, taste your fill of local barbeque delights on Motu Mahaea (Tahaa). This desert-island fantasy is not only perfect for more swimming and snorkelling (once you’ve digested lunch, of course) but its home to working vanilla plantations and sacred sites waiting to be explored.

Fakarava might be lesser known, but a stop in this designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve rewards guests with a glimpse at rare species of marine and birdlife and a diverse underwater ecosystem. Wander the pink beaches on foot or by bike, take a cultural tour or just immerse yourself in its incredible lagoon.

Stop in the designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Fakarava island. (Image: Getty/Mlenny)

For more information or to book, contact the Windstar Australia team on 1300 749 875 or deals.windstar.com.au/windstar.