Society Islands

The Society Islands are the most visited and best-serviced cruising ground in French Polynesia, comprising fourteen islands and atolls divided into two groups: the Windward Islands to the east, centred on Tahiti and Mo'orea, and the Leeward Islands to the west, which include Huahine, Raiatea, Taha'a, Bora Bora and Maupiti. The islands are of volcanic origin and are characterised by dramatic mountain interiors descending to reef-fringed lagoons. Raiatea serves as the principal charter and provisioning base for the Leeward group. The archipelago lies within the cyclone belt, and the period from May to October offers the most settled sailing conditions.

Between July and October, humpback whales migrate into the waters of the Society Islands to breed and calve. The archipelago supports an established network of tour operators offering whale-watching and in-water snorkelling encounters. These trips run throughout the season from multiple bases across the group.

Tahiti's Museum of Tahiti and the Islands provides a broad and well-curated introduction to the natural history and cultural heritage of French Polynesia, covering Polynesian migration, traditional society and material culture.

Mo'orea's Rotui Juice Factory in Cooks Bay offers a self-guided tour of the production facility, where visitors can see fruit juices, rum and other beverages being made before sampling them.

Huahine carries a higher concentration of ancient marae (ceremonial stone platforms) than any other island in the Society group. The Motu Tresor shell museum holds a private collection of marine shells and sea life specimens. Distillerie Huahine Passione produces fruit liqueurs from local produce, with tastings available at the small family-run operation.

Raiatea is regarded as the spiritual heartland of Polynesia, and the Marae Taputapuatea on its southeastern coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of significance across the wider Polynesian world. Raiatea Pearls is a working pearl farm offering free tours with detailed explanations of the cultivation process. Gérald's Mystery House is a private attraction built by a retired French engineer around principles of optical illusion and gravity.

Taha'a is known throughout French Polynesia for its vanilla production. The Tahitian Vanilla Farm and Processing Facility is a co-operative that processes vanilla from growers across the island, offering free tours in English and French that cover both cultivation and processing. Fare Vanira is a working plantation where guided tours take visitors through the crop. Champon Pearl Farm is a family-run operation offering free tours where the grafting process is sometimes demonstrated. The Rhumerie Mana'o and Va'eva'e produces rum, gin and pastis from locally grown sugar cane, with tours and tastings available throughout the week. Coral Gardens is a shallow snorkelling site where a gentle current carries swimmers over spectacular sand and coral bommies.

Bora Bora's lagoon is one of the most celebrated in French Polynesia. Manta rays gather at cleaning stations around the motus, and black tip and lemon sharks are commonly encountered near the pass. The Ohue and Pahia summits hikes are strenuous with ropes on the steeper sections, and a near-360-degree view across the lagoon and surrounding islands at the top. The road around the island is around 32 kilometres and is well suited to cycling; bike rental shops are clustered at the northern end of Vaitape.

Maupiti's manta ray cleaning station sees mantas gathering daily in the mornings. The Mount Teurafaatui hike reaches 372 metres with ropes on the steeper sections, and the road around the island is approximately eight kilometres.

The Society Islands are well charted and the main reef passes are marked and navigable in good light. Lagoon channels within the Leeward group are clearly indicated, though coral heads are present in several anchorage areas and careful pilotage remains necessary throughout. The tidal range is modest, typically around half a metre, but tidal flow through passes can be significant and passage is best timed accordingly.

Bora Bora enforces strict mooring and anchoring rules to protect its lagoon ecosystem and manage boat traffic. Vessels over 10 meters long or staying 24+ hours must use designated paid mooring fields, with limited short-term anchoring exceptions. Check with local authorities for up-to-date rules.

Maupiti, at the western end of the Leeward group, is an exception to the generally straightforward navigation of the archipelago. Its single pass is narrow, with a minimum depth of around four metres due to coral heads. The pass faces south and is exposed to prevailing swell; conditions need to be assessed carefully before entering.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Maupihaa anchorage ★ 5.0 Clear waters with good holding in sand are reported. Visitors experienced vibrant marine life and welcomed the local community’s hospitality, often bringing supplies. Many enjoy the diving opportunities and peaceful atmosphere, highlighting it as a standout anchorage.
	Maupihaa South ★ 5.0 A beautiful anchorage with notable protection from South winds and numerous bommies. Visitors report excellent holding conditions and pleasant scenery, alongside opportunities to interact with local wildlife, including a dog named Meela, and fresh coconuts offered by locals.
	Baie d'Avea ★ 4.9 Huahine Mooring balls are available and recommended, as anchoring is restricted to specific areas due to coral risks. Visitors report strong local support and amenities near the bay, plus the area can experience significant winds. Caution is advised while swimming due to current conditions.
	South Sand Flats (Hiiumoo) ★ 4.9 Huahine Calm conditions prevail at this anchorage, with a reliable sandy bottom and generally good holding for anchors. Local interactions enhance the experience, with fruit and lobster vendors visiting regularly. Depths range from 2 to 7 meters with no major navigational hazards noted.
	Maupiti ★ 4.8 Maupiti Anchoring in Maupiti offers excellent holding on a wide sandy shelf, with depths generally between 6 and 10 meters. Visitors often enjoy observing manta rays near the cleaning station, adding to the anchorage's appeal. Be cautious of larger swells affecting conditions periodically.
	Ha'apiti Bay ★ 4.8 Mo'orea Anchoring experiences at Ha'apiti Bay include stunning views with abundant marine life and excellent holding. Visitors report strong currents during large swells and the necessity for caution when swimming. The sandy bottom and spacious area accommodate multiple vessels.
	Cook's Bay (Pao Pao Bay), Mo'orea ★ 4.7 Mo'orea Depth is a significant factor in Cook's Bay, with anchoring typically in 20 meters or more. Holding is generally excellent in mud, although wind conditions may vary. Nearby facilities include a well-stocked supermarket and restaurants, enhancing the anchorage experience.
	Opunohu less deep anchorage ★ 4.7 Mo'orea The anchorage offers excellent holding and protection from most winds. Visitors mentioned calm conditions and less water activity compared to nearby locations. Caution is advised regarding wind acceleration and muddy sea ground when anchoring.
	Tahiti Airport Anchorage ★ 4.4 Tahiti Clear waters, excellent holding conditions, and scenic views characterize the anchorage experience. Access to both marinas is straightforward via a 2.5 nm dinghy ride, although it can become crowded during peak times. Snorkeling options are available nearby, enhancing the overall appeal.
	The pool ★ 4.4 Raiatea Depths around 2 to 2.5 meters are present at the mooring site. Anchoring here is discouraged due to local regulations despite the presence of other boats. Snorkeling opportunities appear favorable but private land restrictions exist.

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Marinas

	Opunohu Marina ★ 4.5 Mo'orea Mooring at this marina is secure, with managers actively ensuring boats are safe during adverse weather. Basic facilities are currently undergoing improvements, and staff attentiveness was highlighted positively by visitors. Waste disposal and laundry services are in place, enhancing convenience.
	Marina de Papeete ★ 4.4 Tahiti Access to the marina is convenient, with its central location near markets and essential services. The staff is frequently noted as friendly and helpful. While security is emphasized, there are some concerns regarding noise and maintenance issues.
	Apooiti Marina ★ 4.3 Raiatea Apooiti Marina is recognized for its sheltered conditions and availability of basic amenities, including water, electricity, and showers. Charter boats contribute to limited docking spots, but provisions are accessible within walking distance. Visitors expressed positive sentiments about the marina's cleanliness and staff interactions.
	Marina Taina ★ 4.0 Tahiti The marina provides a safe and secure environment, supported by helpful staff. Key conveniences include easy access to provisioning and local dining options. However, concerns exist regarding swell conditions affecting the experience.

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Moorings

	Point Toamaro ★ 4.7 Taha'a The mooring buoys ensure excellent protection from winds. Visitors enjoy calm waters suitable for paddle boarding and swimming. Nearby pearl and vanilla farm tours enhance the overall experience of the beautifully sheltered area.
	Motu Fareone (aka Taurere) Moorings ★ 4.6 Bora Bora Clear water and beautiful scenery attract visitors to this anchorage. Multiple reviews mention a peaceful environment with good distance between mooring buoys. However, jet skis and tour boats can create challenges during the day.
	Baie d'Avea ★ 4.5 Huahine Mooring buoys appear well maintained, but there are concerns about some lines being chaffed and the positioning of certain moorings. Visitors report a calm, beautiful bay experience with friendly services available nearby. Several anchors and moorings coexist without overcrowding.
	Fa’aroa Moorings ★ 4.4 Raiatea Three identifiable mooring buoys are available, with two in good condition. The area provides peaceful access to nearby attractions, including a botanical garden. Visitors note that buoy visibility may vary, impacting navigation in the bay.
	Avea Bay Outer Moorings ★ 4.4 Huahine Moorings are generally in good condition, providing clear water and a sheltered environment. Visitors appreciate the access to amenities, though currents can affect heading. Limited snorkeling opportunities were noted by some, alongside the presence of nearby restaurants.

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Harbours

	Vaitape, Ferry and Boat Point ★ 3.7 Bora Bora Depth at high tide is 3 meters. Charter boats frequently use the dock, while loud music from a nearby establishment can disrupt overnight stays. Visitors may face aggressive enforcement regarding dock time limits, with advice suggesting a one-hour maximum stay.
	Papeete Public Quay ★ 3.0 Tahiti Conditions can vary. Some visitors reported concerns over security incidents while others noted traffic noise and strong surge. Coral growth was observed on the east dock, potentially affecting mooring choices.

Boat services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Boatyards

	Chantier Naval Raiatea Carenage Services ★ 5.0 Raiatea Raiatea Carenage Services is operational and specializes in various boat repairs. Services include fiberglass and epoxy repairs, hull work, and mechanical maintenance. Visitors reported organized processes and helpful staff, though oversight of work was necessary.
	C. N. I. Chantier Naval des Iles sous le Vent ★ 5.0 Raiatea Excellent service has been reported for various boat services, including haul-outs and repairs. The team is noted for being professional, friendly, and efficient. Visitors mentioned fair pricing and the need for advance booking, especially for stock availability.
	Technimarine ★ 4.3 Tahiti Service includes haul-out and general maintenance. Positive aspects noted include effective communication, professional workmanship, and allowing owners to be present during repairs. High costs were mentioned, and there were issues reported with some specific mechanic work.

Chandlers

	Ocean 2000 (new Location) ★ 5.0 Tahiti A new chandlery offers a wide range of inventory, with assistance available for delivery. It is noted for being well stocked and helpful. Visitors have indicated that products vary in price depending on size and type.
	Nautisport ★ 5.0 Tahiti The chandler offers a range of marine and fishing supplies, including diving equipment and accessories. Visitors appreciate the friendly staff and good selection available. Tax refund services are also provided, requiring relevant documentation.
	Marine Supplies ★ 5.0 Tahiti Service capabilities reflect a highly qualified team that provides problem diagnosis, replacement arrangements, and installation support. Visitors report a variety of products available, with technicians providing helpful solutions in a knowledgeable and efficient manner.
	Sin Tung Hing ★ 5.0 Tahiti A wide range of well-known quality products is available. Staff are noted for being friendly and helpful, with support for Yanmar spare parts and fishing gear. Many products are well stocked, indicating good operational capacity.
	VBP Screws and bolts ★ 5.0 Tahiti The shop offers a wide selection of fasteners. Staff assist quickly in locating items, such as stainless steel nuts and washers. Visitors can expect efficiency and knowledgeable service.

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Useful yacht clearance links:

Yacht clearance reviews

The following lists summarize noforeignland user reviews for clearing in at ports of entry and when using clearance agents in French Polynesia: