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.
	Maupiti ★ 4.9 Maupiti Stunning scenery characterizes the anchorage, featuring white sand and turquoise water. Safe holding in sandy depths supports anchoring, though a large swell can affect conditions. Manta rays frequently pass by, offering memorable wildlife experiences for visitors.
	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.
	Ha'apiti Bay ★ 4.8 Mo'orea Crystal clear waters and sandy bottoms are notable features of Ha'apiti Bay. Visitors enjoyed abundant marine life, stunning views, and a serene setting, while some experienced strong currents and waves, particularly near the pass. Space for multiple boats allows for increased privacy.
	Cook's Bay (Pao Pao Bay), Mo'orea ★ 4.7 Mo'orea Anchoring in Cook's Bay presents challenges due to depth and swirling winds. Holding is generally reliable in mud, with options for provisioning nearby. Visitors appreciate the beautiful surroundings and access to local amenities, despite some trash disposal issues.
	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.
	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.
	Vai'are South Anchorage ★ 4.3 Mo'orea Anchorage features significant current and depth variations, requiring ample space between vessels. It is noted for sandy areas conducive to anchoring. Visitors can enjoy views of Tahiti and wildlife while cautioning against potential hazards from nearby ferry traffic.

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Marinas

	Opunohu Marina ★ 4.6 Mo'orea Management has improved conditions recently, providing extra mooring support. Basic facilities are noted, but cleanliness and safety are emphasized. Visitors highlight attentive staff facilitating smooth stays, although concerns about pests and limited water availability are present.
	Marina de Papeete ★ 4.4 Tahiti Centrally located, Marina de Papeete offers clean facilities and friendly staff. Noise from nearby venues can be disruptive, particularly during weekends. Some amenities, such as lounge seating and laundry facilities, are lacking, but 24-hour security is noted as a positive feature.
	Marina Taina ★ 4.2 Tahiti Safety and security are frequently highlighted, with helpful staff available for assistance. Access to provisioning services is convenient, and while prices are reasonable during low season, some visitors report issues with swell conditions affecting the marina's stability.
	Apooiti Marina ★ 4.2 Raiatea Apooiti Marina offers a sheltered anchorage with essential services. Limited dining options are available nearby, and dinghy access to the main town provides more provisions. Reviewers appreciated the cleanliness and helpful staff, although securing a berth may be challenging due to charter boat presence.

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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.
	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.
	Fa’aroa Moorings ★ 4.3 Raiatea Moorings are available in a peaceful bay. Four mooring balls were counted, with two in perfect condition. The area offers good access by dinghy to local attractions.

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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 Security concerns have been reported, including thefts and attempted breaches. Some reviewers noted the discomfort from ferry wakes and coral growth at the dock. The location's convenience is highlighted, but caution regarding security and boat conditions is advised.
	Fetuna Town Quay ★ 2.3 Raiatea The facility is not operational as of 16 May 2026, with previous mentions of inactivity on 4 August 2025. Access to services and amenities ashore is limited, and trash facilities were reported locked without clear access.

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 offers haul-out and repair services. Fiberglass repairs were reported as professional, with staff organized and helpful. Visitors noted availability of shower facilities and the efficient administration of work schedules.
	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 The shop is known for its knowledgeable staff and extensive inventory, offering assistance with problem diagnosis and installations. Reviews highlight their responsiveness and ability to order items not in stock, enhancing customer experience. Visitors appreciated the competent service and practical solutions provided.
	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: