Tuamotus

The Tuamotu Archipelago is the largest chain of coral atolls in the world, extending across an area roughly the size of Western Europe with around 80 islands and atolls. Unlike the volcanic islands of the other French Polynesian archipelagos, the Tuamotus rise barely above sea level; the landscape is one of low reef, coconut palms, white sand and water. A handful of uplifted coral islands are exceptions to this, Makatea being the most accessible to visiting yachts. The archipelago lies at the centre of French Polynesia, between the Marquesas to the northeast and the Society Islands to the west. Rangiroa and Fakarava are the most developed and most visited atolls; the majority of the group remains sparsely populated and sees few visiting yachts. The economy is based on pearl farming and copra production.

Pass diving and drift snorkelling are the defining underwater experiences of the Tuamotus. The passes concentrate extraordinary marine life: grey reef sharks, manta rays, dolphins and dense schools of pelagic fish. The south pass at Fakarava is the standout destination, a UNESCO biosphere reserve whose underwater walls support hundreds of resting grey reef sharks. The Wall of Sharks is among the most remarkable shark encounters in the Pacific.

For many sailors arriving from the Marquesas, Raroia is their first Tuamotu atoll and often where cruisers encounter their first passes, bommie-strewn lagoons and the need to float the anchor chain. At the north end of the atoll, the Twin Palms Yacht Club is a popular gathering point for visiting yachts. Raroia is also where Thor Heyerdahl's raft Kon-Tiki came ashore in 1947. A memorial marks the motu, which is also nesting habitat for boobies and the rare Tuamotu sandpiper.

Tahanea is an uninhabited National Park atoll, renowned for crystal-clear water and exceptional marine life. Dive the passes, such as Puapua Pass, where you'll encounter sharks, mantas, eagle rays, and an enormous variety of fish. Head to the south of the atoll where several beaches, including Tahanea Sandy Beach, are popular meeting points for cruisers.

On Fakarava, a Pearl Farm Tour offers a free guided visit to a working pearl operation, with the option of a paid lottery to extract a pearl from a selected oyster.

Polynesian tattooing carries deep cultural significance across French Polynesia, with designs rooted in genealogy, identity and the natural world. Tematakena Tattoo by Moana on Rangiroa is run by an artist from the Marquesas and has drawn strongly positive reviews from visiting sailors.

On Tikehau, you can stock up on fresh produce at the Garden Of Eden, and swim with manta rays at Motu Mauu Manta Cleaning Station.

Makatea is an uplifted coral island rising to cliffs around 80 metres, quite unlike any other atoll in the group. A phosphate mining operation ran here from 1917 to 1966, leaving abandoned infrastructure and deep pits that are now part of guided tours. The Makatea Caves offer swimming in freshwater pools. Tapu runs tours covering the ruins and cliffs, with rock climbing available. Hubert's garden and home nearby welcome visiting sailors on a barter basis. A seasonal copra farm close by offers a glimpse into one of the archipelago's primary industries.

The Tuamotus were historically known as the Dangerous Archipelago and the name retains its relevance. The atolls are low-lying and difficult to see at distance; surf on outer reefs is often heard before the land is visible. Navigation through the group demands constant vigilance, and vessels are lost on these reefs every year.

When entering atolls, currents can be strong, sometimes reaching 9 knots. Pass timing is critical; entry and exit should be made at or near slack water, approached in daylight and ideally with the sun high enough to illuminate coral heads. Tidal prediction tables for the Tuamotus are imprecise and conditions vary; local knowledge from boats already inside the lagoon is among the most reliable sources of pass timing information.

Inside the lagoons, coral heads are numerous and many are uncharted. Eyeball navigation in good light is essential. Anchoring in sand is necessary both to hold securely and to avoid reef damage; floating the anchor chain to keep it clear of coral heads is standard practice. Pearl farm buoys are present in many lagoons and some float just at or below the surface.

Makatea, as an uplifted island rather than an atoll, requires a different approach. There is no lagoon; the island is encircled by cliffs and the landing at Temao on the west coast is the only access point.

Places to stay

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

Anchorages

	Navel / Étoile Of Amanu ★ 5.0 Amanu A serene anchorage featuring solid holding and beautiful sandy areas. Multiple visitors reported enjoyable snorkeling with sightings of mantas and eagle rays. Calm conditions from northeast winds of 10-15 knots were experienced, enhancing the ambiance.
	Tahanea Sandy Beach ★ 5.0 Tahanea The anchorage features sandy bottoms with good holding, recommended for snorkeling near bommies. Conditions remain calm on the east side, with pleasant paddle boarding opportunities in the surrounding area. Visitors highlight the striking scenery and the presence of nurse and black tip sharks.
	Hirifia kite and wing foil spot ★ 5.0 Fakarava Anchoring is favorable in Hirifia, with reports of good holding in sand and no significant hazards. The environment is noted for being peaceful, and several visitors highlight enjoyable activities such as snorkeling and kiting. The overall ambiance is described as a beautiful and serene retreat.
	Tahanea "7" anchorage ★ 5.0 Tahanea Remote and pristine, this anchorage offers interesting underwater geography, with coral formations and diverse marine life noted by visitors. Boat access is possible in depths of around 40 feet, with sufficient sand for secure anchoring in a scenic setting.
	Kauehi - Road ★ 5.0 Kauehi Beautiful and quiet anchorage. Clear sandy bottom and few bommies make for easy navigation. Visitors can enjoy long walks along well-defined tracks, providing a pleasant retreat from the nearby island.
	Eastern Makemo ★ 4.9 Makemo Clear, calm waters provide excellent conditions for anchoring and activities such as snorkeling and kiteboarding. Visitors frequently mention the good holding conditions in sandy patches, making this anchorage an attractive stop for cruisers.
	Copra Shed, Tahanea ★ 4.9 Tahanea A beautiful and calm anchorage features clear waters and great snorkeling opportunities. Holding conditions are favorable with sandy bottoms at depths of 3-4 meters. Visitors enjoy excellent surrounding scenery and protection from winds.
	Hirifa, Fakarava Atoll ★ 4.9 Fakarava Relaxation in Hirifa is enhanced by ample space and beautiful surroundings. Visitors engage in various activities, such as snorkeling and water sports, while experiencing friendly beach dogs. The anchorage is generally sheltered with sand patches suitable for anchoring.
	Tahanea Middle Pass ★ 4.9 Tahanea Anchoring is challenging due to numerous bommies, necessitating chain floating for optimal holding. Visitors report exceptional snorkeling experiences, particularly in the passes, with plenty of fish and black tip sharks. The water clarity enhances diving opportunities near the anchorage.
	Raroia Sand Bar Beach ★ 4.9 Raroia The anchorage offers calm conditions with notable stability during strong winds. Visitors enjoy activities like paddle boarding and snorkeling, with sightings of various shark species. Ensure to check the water depth and avoid close proximity to the beach for better holding.

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Moorings

	Toau southeast moorings ★ 4.9 Toau Moorings are generally well maintained and provide protection from E and SE winds. Visitors enjoy the area for its remote beaches and snorkeling opportunities. Conditions can vary, so checking mooring line integrity before use is advisable.
	North Pass Fakarava ★ 4.8 Fakarava Mooring buoys are well-maintained and offer good holding. Conditions for swimming and snorkeling are favorable, with visibility noted as decent. Multiple reviews indicate that the area features bommies, suggesting caution with anchoring.
	Toau "blind pass" (Anse Amyot) ★ 4.6 Toau Mooring balls are available at Anse Amyot, with several noted for snorkeling opportunities. Visitors reported excellent shelter from winds, though some balls may be submerged. The couple operating the area, Valentine and Gaston, are consistently mentioned for their friendliness and hospitality.
	Fakarava South Pass ★ 4.5 Fakarava Only a few moorings are available, with up to three reported in recent Reviews. Visitors had generally positive experiences with conditions for anchoring. Diving and snorkeling opportunities are highlighted, especially around sandy bottoms.
	Makatea ★ 4.2 Makatea Current mooring availability includes five heavy-duty balls, well-positioned approximately 75m off the reef. Some issues have been reported with wear and tear on mooring lines, especially close to the reef where swell can be challenging. Visitors should verify conditions prior to arrival.

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Harbours

	Old Navy dock / aka “Darse Sud” ★ 4.6 Hao Sheltered anchorage with deep holding options, ideal for different wind directions. Close proximity to town enhances the experience. Facilities for anchoring outside the dock are available to avoid potential issues within the town anchorage.
	KATIU - Berthing Alongside ★ 4.4 Katiu Access to the dock is generally straightforward, with favorable anchoring conditions reported. Visitors have enjoyed community events and vibrant snorkeling experiences. The local environment is welcoming, though caution is advised regarding current conditions when approaching the lagoon.
	Niutahi Pier ★ 3.9 Apataki The dock offers easy access to the town and is popular for supply boats arriving unexpectedly. Visitors highlight friendly locals and decent snorkeling. The generator noise from the town may be bothersome, and careful management of space is necessary due to local fishing activities.

Boat services

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

Boatyards

Apataki Carenage ★ 4.9 Apataki Service at the boatyard is reliable with knowledgeable staff who prioritize care for boats. Reviews highlight the presence of basic facilities, a friendly environment, and the convenience of fresh eggs from on-site chickens. A remote location offers scenic exploration opportunities.

Useful yacht clearance links:

There are currently too few reports on yacht clearance for this part of French Polynesia. If you clear in here, please add any missing clearance markers and a short review to help others.