French Polynesia is made up of more than a hundred islands spread across the South Pacific, and a small ship is one of the easiest ways to see several of them in one trip. You unpack once, wake up in a new lagoon most mornings and spend your days snorkeling, swimming and exploring villages. It suits honeymooners, couples and anyone who wants the islands without hopping between resorts by plane.
When to go
Tahiti cruises sail year-round from Papeete, so there is no wrong time to go. The main difference between the seasons is rain and humidity.
| When | What to expect | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| May to October | The drier, slightly cooler season with steady trade winds and lower humidity. | Snorkeling, hiking, the most settled weather |
| November to April | The warmer, wetter season. Showers are often short, and the water is at its warmest. | Warm lagoons, quieter islands, holiday trips |
| July | The Heiva festival brings dance, music and traditional sports to Tahiti and the islands. | Culture lovers |
Which islands will you see?
- Society Islands: Tahiti, Moorea, Huahine, Raiatea, Taha’a and Bora Bora. These are the classic 7-night voyages, with jagged green peaks, overwater bungalows and calm lagoons.
- Tuamotus: Low coral atolls such as Rangiroa and Fakarava, known for drift snorkeling and diving with sharks, rays and huge schools of fish.
- Marquesas: Remote, dramatic islands far to the northeast, with steep valleys, ancient stone sites and Polynesian culture. Usually on longer voyages of around 14 nights.
- Cook Islands: Aitutaki and Rarotonga, added on some 10- and 11-night sailings. Aitutaki’s lagoon is one of the most photographed in the Pacific.
Why a small ship?
Many ports in French Polynesia are small harbors and lagoons. Smaller ships can anchor close to shore, use tenders to reach the beach and spend longer in each island. Paul Gauguin Cruises sails one ship, the m/s Paul Gauguin, in these waters year-round, with drinks and gratuities included in the fare and a watersports marina for kayaking and paddleboarding. Windstar Cruises also offers Tahiti voyages on small ships.
Getting there
Most cruises start and end in Papeete, on Tahiti. Air Tahiti Nui flies non-stop from Los Angeles, and the flight takes around eight hours. Many flights arrive late at night or early in the morning, so plan a hotel night before your cruise. Our advisors can arrange flights, transfers and a pre-cruise stay with your booking.
Packing and travel documents
- Light, breathable clothing, swimwear and a cover-up. Evenings on small ships are usually casual and relaxed.
- Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. The sun is strong, even on cloudy days.
- Water shoes for coral beaches and boat landings, plus your own snorkel mask if you prefer a perfect fit.
- A light rain jacket for showers, especially from November to April.
- A valid passport is required. French Polynesia sets its own entry rules, so check current requirements before you travel. See our US passport page.
French Polynesia uses the CFP franc. Cards are accepted in most hotels and larger shops, but some cash is useful for markets and small vendors.
See current sailings on our Hawaii, Tahiti and South Pacific cruises page, or request a quote and an advisor will plan your Tahiti cruise from start to finish.
