Nested in the cool Pacific waters, Polynesian settlers found a string of emerald islands, fruitful and fertile, carpeted with lush rain forests and vibrant life. Scattered over a vast, 2.5 million square kilometers area in the South Pacific, French Polynesia is made up of several series of islands, atolls, and archipelagoes, independently surrounded by lagoons and barrier reefs that create unique eco-systems and divine respites for the traveler weary of the usual getaway.
Our journey begins in Papeete, the capital city of the largest island of Tahiti and gateway to your South Pacific adventure. During our day in Moorea, often linked to the mythical island of Bali Hai, you’ll discover spectacular bays and world-class diving. The island’s volcanic peaks, reflected in the waters of Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay, rise like a shark’s jaw from the island’s base.
We’ll end 2025 with a bang as you spend the last two days of the year on Bora Bora. Few islands are more striking or more famous, centered in a multicolored lagoon, surrounded by offshore “motu” islets inside a protective coral necklace. A partially paved road circles the island, passing colorful villages, archeological sites, and small town charm. Our two-day stay lets you explore and enjoy this spectacular setting at your leisure before heading onboard to celebrate the end of the year!
You’ll wake up in 2026 on the island of Raiatea, the most sacred island in the South Pacific and the second-largest Tahitian island, boasting lush valleys, green-carpeted mountains, numerous waterfalls, and pineapple and vanilla plantations. Its deep lagoon hides fascinating under-water scenery, rich with tropical creatures and submerged mountains.
The lush forests, untamed landscapes, and quaint villages of Huahine beckon next and you’ll understand why it’s the best-kept secret in Polynesia. Her two islands are separated by a stunning lagoon, while white-sand beaches and magnificent bays create a landscape that has barely changed in centuries.
Further afield, the endless jade-green lagoon surrounding Rangiroa creates a dramatic view towards the world’s second-largest atoll, hosting abundant sea life. This unique series of tiny inlets provide a wealth of water and land based activities in one of the world’s most unusual settings.
Finally, seemingly untouched Fakarava boasts some of the world’s best diving and feels like Mother Nature’s ultimate sanctuary. This virtually deserted and protected coral atoll is a natural reserve for many rare species.
After all that you’ll have a restful day at sea to enjoy all Riviera has to offer as we sail the glorious South Pacific back to Papeete!
