Leisure Time Places

Tempting Tahiti Cruises

Sail the uncrowded waters of Tahiti and the surrounding islands.

Cruising is different in and around Tahiti. Cruises here happen on small yet luxurious ships, upon turquoise blue water, amidst beautiful unspoiled islands that are beckoning you to come and enjoy their friendly people and breathtaking beaches.

The islands of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora and the other tiny isles of French Polynesia make for great cruising, with just small distances between each island. The lagoons are calm and the sights are incredible!

Cruise Lines
Two of the larger cruise lines, Princess and the luxurious Radisson Seven Seas, offer cruises around the Tahitian islands, though not aboard ships that are the same size as your average cruise ship.

These "explorer ships" have the ability to dock at smaller ports of call and navigate the narrow waters between the islands.

The majority of Tahitian cruises are run by smaller companies who call the Tahitian Islands home. Ships are smaller too, accommodating an intimate group of travelers with numbers varying according to the size of the yacht.

Small boats can easily sail the waters of the South Pacific and have the ability to visit the stunning smaller islands, where guests can enjoy true Polynesian culture, away from the more densely populated tourist areas.

What You'll See and Do
Of course, the most favorite activities in and around Tahiti involve the water. Cruise ship passengers will be given the opportunity to disembark from their home away from home and enjoy any number of water activities.

Snorkeling and scuba diving are the most popular but guests can also enjoy jet skiing, waterskiing, windsurfing, parasailing, canoeing or kayaking, or even shark feeding.

Other shore excursions will include the chance to get to know more about the culture of French Polynesia. Once you've left the ship, you may want to explore the islands by jeep, taking in not only the natural beauty but also the rich history of these islands.

There's so much to see in the interior of the islands as well as the coast. Stop at small villages and visit with friendly Polynesian residents or go shopping in and around these same small towns.

Without a doubt, you'll want to go pearl shopping! Tahiti is home to some of the most beautiful pearls in the world. They're sold throughout the islands, on cruise ships, in resorts, and at small shops in tiny villages.

Hikers can trek through the interior's rugged terrain and into the mountains, for a great view of the islands and the water surrounding them.

You'll want to enjoy the many cultural and historical sights of Tahiti and listen to music performed by native musicians in concerts or at special events such as annual festivals.

What Should I Bring?
The climate of Tahiti is just about as close to perfect as you can find anywhere on earth! No matter what time of year you choose to cruise, remember that the average yearly temperature is a comfortable 80 degrees. The water stays at about the same temperature. How wonderful!

The lifestyle for those aboard Tahiti cruises lends itself to casual, comfortable clothing. Bring lots of shorts, tee shirts, and swimsuits for the daytime hours.

Dinner may call for casual shirts and slacks for men and sundresses for the women. Pack loose fitting, natural fabrics if possible.


Posted by Pat on Wednesday, August 17, 2005