There is nowhere else in the world quite as remote and exotic as the islands of French Polynesia. Five archipelagos lying smack in the middle of the South Pacific Ocean thousands of miles from any real population center, their cruising grounds really are the ultimate tropical idyll.
Planning a cruise here, however, is something of a balancing act — not only are there thousands of islands to explore, but each group offers something different. Adding to this, the best charter yachts only really incorporate these cruising grounds as part of a round-the-world tour, so catching them en route at the right time and in the right place requires some planning.
[See more: Adventure at Sea: Three Cruises for Thrill Seekers]
One highly sought-after superyacht cruising the South Pacific this summer is the hybrid catamaran Seawolf X. Combining a spirit of adventure with sustainable elegance, her hybrid-electric credentials, solar panels and diesel generators, as well as artificial intelligence software used to enhance performance and guests’ experience, allow her to access and explore some of the most protected marine conservation areas in the world, including the stunning marine reserves in French Polynesia.
The Society Islands and Tuamotu Islands are the two principal cruising grounds for superyachts. From Tahiti and the atolls of Bora Bora to the islands of Raiatea, Taha’a and Huahine, the Society Islands offer both natural and cultural hotspots, while the Tuamotu Islands are world-renowned for scuba diving. Combining these two archipelagos in one itinerary is ideal. Due to prevailing winds, it’s best to meet Seawolf X in Fakarava in the Tuamotus, sailing or cruising downwind to the Society Islands, going with wind and wave rather than vice versa.
Spend a few days in Fakarava acclimating to life on board Seawolf X, exploring the yacht’s many amenities, including a garage full of toys. Jump on a Seabob or make use of the yacht’s scuba diving equipment for your first taste of the incredible underwater life here. Cruise from Fakarava’s North Pass to the Unesco-classified biosphere reserve of Toau.
The wide and shallow lagoon here is perfect for more swimming, snorkeling and diving, before a long crossing to Apataki. One of the largest of the Tuamotu Islands, Apataki is home to the largest grey reef shark population in the area. If sharks aren’t your thing, the pearl farms on shore are open to visitors. Back on the water, the next atoll, Rangiroa, is one of the largest in the world. Comprising 110 miles of 240 tiny islets completely encircling a deep lagoon, this is one of the best dive spots on the itinerary.
Cruise overnight through open waters to the Society Islands, passing through the Te Ava Nui Pass and into the famous blue lagoon of Bora Bora. Surrounded by lush green mountains, the densely vegetated landscape spills down to foothills covered with frangipani and hibiscus. The beaches are equally stunning, in particular Matira Beach to the south of the island. Take the tender ashore to the beach for a traditional Polynesian dinner baked in a firepit dug into the sand. The sandy-bottomed lagoon remains shallow right out to the coral reef — dreamy for an early evening swim.
From Bora Bora, it’s just a short sail back through the Te Ava Nui Pass and through the Pai Pai Pass to the lagoon that surrounds the islands of Taha’a and Raiatea. Make the most of these islands with a hike up Mount Tapioi; visit the sacred temple of Marae Taputapuatea and kayak up the Faaroa River to view tropical flora and fauna. Back on board, cruise through the lagoon and on through the Iriru Pass to Huahine. Absorb some culture ashore, perhaps crowned with a special farewell ceremony and an evening of Tahitian dance around a campfire, before cruising to your last port of call — the fabled island of Tahiti.
Sleeping up to 12 guests in five cabins and with a crew of nine, the brand-new 140.6-ft (42.83-m) Seawolf X is available to charter in the South Pacific throughout the summer season. From $400,000 per week plus expenses, cecilwright.com
Itinerary at a glance
Days 1 & 2: Fakarava North to South Pass 34 nautical miles
Day 3: Fakarava North Pass to Toau 12 nautical miles
Day 4: Toau to Apataki 70 nautical miles
Days 5, 6 & 7: Apataki to Rangiroa 70 nautical miles
Days 8, 9 & 10: Rangiroa overnight to Bora Bora 240 nautical miles
Days 11 & 12: Bora Bora to Taha’a 16 nautical miles
Day 13: Taha’a to Raiatea 15 nautical miles
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Day 14: Raiatea to Huahine 25 nautical miles
Days 15 & 16: Huahine to Tahiti 88 nautical miles
