105 cruises found
A cruise to Tahiti and its islands is a continuous immersion in French Polynesia: the turquoise lagoons, motus, and coral-garden snorkeling of Moorea and Bora Bora; the sacred, cultural heritage of Raiatea and the Taputapuātea marae; and the wilder, more authentic, timeless pace of life in Huahine and the more distant archipelagos.
The destination naturally combines swimming, Polynesian culture, tropical scenery, and the pleasures of a ship designed to navigate close to the lagoons and islands.
Your search criteria:
Tahiti
Itinerary : San Diego, Hilo, Honolulu, Kahului, Kona, Fanning Islands, Rangiroa, Huahine, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Bahia D opuncha, Papeete, Bahia D opuncha, Papeete, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, San Diego
MS Zaandam
36 d
Inside Stateroom
San Diego
10/14/2027
from
$ 4,873
Itinerary : San Diego, Hilo, Kahului, Honolulu, Kauai, Fanning Islands, Raiatea, Papeete, Bahia D opuncha, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, San Diego
MS Koningsdam
36 d
Inside Stateroom
San Diego
02/19/2028
from
$ 5,086
Itinerary : Papeete, Moorea, Rarotonga, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Papeete
Norwegian Spirit
9 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
09/22/2027
from
$ 1,709
Itinerary : Papeete, Moorea, Rarotonga, Raiatea, Bora Bora, Papeete
Norwegian Spirit
9 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
06/09/2027
from
$ 1,799
Itinerary : Papeete, Makatea (Tuamotu), Mataiva, Anaa, Vairao, Papeete
Aranoa
5 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
05/05/2027
from
$ 1,946
Itinerary : Papeete, Huahine, Raiatea, Motu Mahana, Bora Bora, Moorea, Papeete
12 other departures
Paul Gauguin
8 d
Ocean view Stateroom
Papeete
12/04/2027
from
$ 3,632
Other departures:
29 Aug 2026
07 Nov 2026
22 May 2027
Other departures
Itinerary : Papeete, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, UA HUKA, Tahuata, Hiva oa, Fatu hiva, Rangiroa, Bora Bora, Papeete
7 other departures
Aranui 5
12 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
08/15/2026
from
$ 3,954
Other departures:
29 Aug 2026
26 Sep 2026
10 Oct 2026
Other departures
Itinerary : Papeete, Rurutu Island, Rimatara, Rapa, RAIVAVAE, Raiatea, Papeete
1 other departures
Aranui 5
13 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
10/24/2026
from
$ 4,159
Other departures:
12 Sep 2026
Itinerary : Papeete, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, Hiva oa, Fatu hiva, UA HUKA, Rangiroa, Bora Bora, Papeete
18 other departures
Aranui 5
13 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
03/16/2027
from
$ 4,249
Other departures:
23 Jan 2027
11-27 Feb 2027
03-20 Apr 2027
Other departures
Itinerary : Papeete, Moorea, Tahaa, Raiatea, Huahine, Bora Bora
14 other departures
Silver Whisper
8 d
Suite
Papeete
04/23/2028
from
$ 4,300
Other departures:
18 Oct 2026
13 Dec 2026
07-14 Feb 2027
Other departures
Itinerary : Papeete, Huahine, Motu Mahana, Bora Bora, Moorea, Papeete
22 other departures
Paul Gauguin
8 d
Ocean view Stateroom
Papeete
11/27/2027
from
$ 4,401
Other departures:
05 Sep 2026
03 Oct 2026
14 Nov 2026
Other departures
Itinerary : Papeete, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, Hiva oa, Tahuata, Fatu hiva, UA HUKA, Rangiroa, Bora Bora, Papeete
Aranui 5
14 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
12/13/2027
from
$ 4,545
Itinerary : Papeete, Moorea, Rimatara, Rurutu Island, RAIVAVAE, Rapa, Papeete
5 other departures
Aranoa
13 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
03/06/2027
from
$ 4,630
Other departures:
15 May 2027
19 Jun 2027
07 Aug 2027
Other departures
Itinerary : Papeete, Fakarava, Hiva oa, Tahuata, Fatu hiva, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Papeete
Aranoa
13 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
12/14/2027
from
$ 4,788
Itinerary : Papeete, Moorea, Raiatea, Huahine, Bora Bora, Papeete, Moorea, Raiatea, Huahine, Bora Bora, Papeete
2 other departures
Silver Whisper
8 d
Suite
Papeete
12/13/2027
from
$ 4,800
Other departures:
25 Oct 2026
20 Dec 2027
Itinerary : Papeete, Moorea, Anaa, Amanu, Mangareva, Pitcairn, Mangareva, Papeete
1 other departures
Aranoa
12 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
07/21/2027
from
$ 5,067
Other departures:
08 Sep 2027
Itinerary : Lautoka, Vavau, Rarotonga, Lautoka
Seven Seas Navigator
11 d
Suite
Lautoka
08/15/2027
from
$ 5,524
Itinerary : Papeete, Moorea, Tahaa, Raiatea, Fakarava, Rangiroa, Bora Bora
1 other departures
Silver Whisper
11 d
Suite
Papeete
01/06/2028
from
$ 6,400
Other departures:
03 Oct 2027
Itinerary : Papeete, Fakarava, Rangiroa, Huahine, Bora Bora, Motu Mahana, Moorea, Papeete
7 other departures
Paul Gauguin
11 d
Ocean view Stateroom
Papeete
03/22/2028
from
$ 6,483
Other departures:
19 Jan 2028
26 Apr 2028
14 Jun 2028
Other departures
Itinerary : Papeete, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Fakarava, Fatu hiva, Nuku Hiva, Tahuata, Rangiroa, Huahine, Moorea
Silver Whisper
15 d
Suite
Papeete
11/29/2026
from
$ 6,600
Itinerary : Papeete, Huahine, Aitutaki, Rarotonga, Bora Bora, Motu Mahana, Moorea, Papeete
6 other departures
Paul Gauguin
12 d
Ocean view Stateroom
Papeete
12/18/2027
from
$ 6,708
Other departures:
21 Nov 2026
02 Jan 2027
06 Nov 2027
Other departures
Itinerary : Papeete, Fakarava, Rangiroa, Huahine, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Motu Mahana, Moorea, Papeete
Paul Gauguin
11 d
Ocean view Stateroom
Papeete
12/29/2027
from
$ 6,779
Itinerary : Papeete, Moorea, Raiatea, Fakarava, Rangiroa, Bora Bora, Papeete, Moorea, Raiatea, Fakarava, Rangiroa, Bora Bora, Papeete
Silver Whisper
11 d
Suite
Papeete
12/27/2027
from
$ 6,900
Itinerary : Papeete, Moorea, Raiatea, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Tahuata, Rangiroa, Huahine, Bora Bora
Silver Whisper
15 d
Suite
Papeete
11/15/2026
from
$ 6,900
Itinerary : Papeete, Fakarava, Rangiroa, Huahine, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Motu Mahana, Moorea, Papeete
4 other departures
Paul Gauguin
12 d
Ocean view Stateroom
Papeete
04/15/2028
from
$ 7,134
Other departures:
11 Mar 2028
03 Jun 2028
29 Jul 2028
Other departures
Papeete Market
Opunohu Lookout
Cook Bay
Papeete Market
Opunohu Lookout
Cook Bay
Papeete Market
Opunohu Lookout
Cook Bay
Motu Tapu (Bora Bora)
Taputapuātea marae (Raiatea)
Uturoa (Raiatea)
Motu Tapu (Bora Bora)
Taputapuātea marae (Raiatea)
Uturoa (Raiatea)
Motu Tapu (Bora Bora)
Taputapuātea marae (Raiatea)
Uturoa (Raiatea)
Fare
Maeva
Faie
Fare
Maeva
Faie
Fare
Maeva
Faie
Weather & swimming
Southern Hemisphere summer. Tropical heat (30 °C+), high humidity, and brief but intense showers.
Expert advice
The scenery is lush and green. Fares are lower and sites are less crowded, but keep an eye on the weather because rainfall is more frequent in January.
Weather & swimming
The sweet spot: a calm transition period with less wind and often glassy seas.
Expert advice
A favorite among experienced travelers, offering excellent weather and value. The calm lagoons are ideal for snorkeling and paddleboarding directly from the ship.
Weather & swimming
Southern Hemisphere winter. Blue skies, mild temperatures (24-28 °C), and refreshing trade winds.
Expert advice
The ideal time for diving thanks to maximum visibility. Don't miss the Heiva festival in July for a fully immersive cultural experience.
Weather & swimming
Mild and dry, with ideal weather and exceptional marine life.
Expert advice
This is the prime time to see humpback whales (peak season is September/October). Book your excursions 12 months ahead for this highly sought-after period.
| Season | Weather & swimming | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
January to March and December | Southern Hemisphere summer. Tropical heat (30 °C+), high humidity, and brief but intense showers. | The scenery is lush and green. Fares are lower and sites are less crowded, but keep an eye on the weather because rainfall is more frequent in January. |
April | The sweet spot: a calm transition period with less wind and often glassy seas. | A favorite among experienced travelers, offering excellent weather and value. The calm lagoons are ideal for snorkeling and paddleboarding directly from the ship. |
May to July Southern Hemisphere winter. Blue skies, mild temperatures (24-28 °C), and refreshing trade winds. The ideal time for diving thanks to maximum visibility. Don't miss the Heiva festival in July for a fully immersive cultural experience. | ||
August to November Mild and dry, with ideal weather and exceptional marine life. This is the prime time to see humpback whales (peak season is September/October). Book your excursions 12 months ahead for this highly sought-after period. | ||
Sailing in Polynesia means entering a world where sacred traditions meet the serenity of the lagoons. To make the most of stops in Moorea, Bora Bora, and wilder islands such as Huahine, here are iconic places selected for different interests:
In Bora Bora
Enjoy the exclusive experience of a traditional picnic with your feet in the water on Motu Tapu, a pristine white-sand islet facing majestic Mount Otemanu.
In Huahine
Enjoy the white-sand beach at the end of the village of Fare, an unspoiled spot ideal for safe swimming in clear waters.
In Moorea
Dive into the heart of the lagoon for a memorable encounter with stingrays and small blacktip reef sharks that inhabit these crystal-clear waters.
In Bora Bora
Enjoy the exclusive experience of a traditional picnic with your feet in the water on Motu Tapu, a pristine white-sand islet facing majestic Mount Otemanu.
In Huahine
Enjoy the white-sand beach at the end of the village of Fare, an unspoiled spot ideal for safe swimming in clear waters.
In Moorea
Dive into the heart of the lagoon for a memorable encounter with stingrays and small blacktip reef sharks that inhabit these crystal-clear waters.
In Tahiti
Immerse yourself in the daily bustle of Papeete Market, the island's beating heart, where local crafts, black pearls, and tiare flower crowns come together.
In Raiatea
Explore the Taputapuātea marae, a UNESCO-listed sacred site and a center of ancient Polynesian culture.
In Huahine
Visit the Fare Pote'e museum on stilts in Maeva to learn how early Polynesians lived and see traditional stone fish traps.
In Tahiti
Immerse yourself in the daily bustle of Papeete Market, the island's beating heart, where local crafts, black pearls, and tiare flower crowns come together.
In Raiatea
Explore the Taputapuātea marae, a UNESCO-listed sacred site and a center of ancient Polynesian culture.
In Huahine
Visit the Fare Pote'e museum on stilts in Maeva to learn how early Polynesians lived and see traditional stone fish traps.
In Moorea
Head to Opunohu Lookout to capture the legendary panoramic view over Cook Bay and Opunohu Bay.
In Bora Bora
The coral gardens and shades of turquoise surrounding the motus make for spectacular photos from every angle.
In Tahiti
From the ship, see the striking contrast between the steep volcanic mountains covered with lush vegetation and the deep blue of the ocean.
In Moorea
Head to Opunohu Lookout to capture the legendary panoramic view over Cook Bay and Opunohu Bay.
In Bora Bora
The coral gardens and shades of turquoise surrounding the motus make for spectacular photos from every angle.
In Tahiti
From the ship, see the striking contrast between the steep volcanic mountains covered with lush vegetation and the deep blue of the ocean.
Swimming in lagoons with rays, sharks, and tropical fish
Travelers often name lagoon excursions as a highlight of a Tahiti and French Polynesia cruise. In Bora Bora, Moorea, and around the motus, they especially remember the clear water, coral gardens, stingrays, small blacktip reef sharks, and the feeling of being immersed in the Polynesian landscape.
Spending a day on a motu enjoying the beach, lagoon, and a local lunch
Travelers often praise the motus for their simple, wonderfully secluded atmosphere, with pale sand, shallow water, and meals served right on the beach. These easygoing days combine swimming, snorkeling, Polynesian raw fish in coconut milk, and relaxation with views of Bora Bora or Moorea's dramatic peaks.
Discovering local life through markets, villages, and Polynesian heritage sites
Many travelers also enjoy experiencing everyday Polynesia at Papeete Market, along Huahine's waterfront, at small harbor-side spots, or at Raiatea's cultural sites. These ports of call appeal for their leisurely pace, conversations with residents, local products, pearls, monoi oil, fruit, fish, and specialties such as Polynesian raw fish in coconut milk.
Strolling through Papeete Market past tropical displays and tiare flowers
In Tahiti, travelers often enjoy Papeete Market because it offers an immediate glimpse of local life from early morning. Stalls filled with tropical fruit, fish, monoi oil, pareos, tiare flowers, and fresh flower crowns create a lively, unpretentious, distinctly Polynesian atmosphere.
Have lunch at Snack Mahana, Moorea's must-try lagoon stop
In Moorea, travelers often praise Snack Mahana for its casual, straightforward style and genuine island atmosphere. Guests particularly mention the Polynesian raw fish, grilled mahi-mahi, fresh fruit juices, and the feel of a local snack bar rather than a hotel restaurant.
Swimming in Taha'a's coral garden, drifting with the lagoon current
Between Raiatea and Taha'a, travelers often cite the coral garden as a more focused snorkeling experience than simply swimming in the lagoon. The route runs through shallow water, with a gentle current carrying snorkelers past coral, tropical fish, and motus.
Located in the Society Islands, Tahiti is often considered the beating heart of French Polynesia. The largest island in French Polynesia blends modern life with tradition and offers a wealth of captivating experiences for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Papeete, Tahiti’s lively capital, is the ideal jumping-off point for exploring the island and the other jewels of French Polynesia. This cosmopolitan city is known for its colorful market, where visitors can find local products such as exotic fruit, pareos, and mother-of-pearl jewelry. You can also dive into the island’s history and culture at the Pearl Museum and the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands, home to fascinating collections of Polynesian artifacts.
Tahiti is famed for its beautiful beaches, ranging from stretches of volcanic black sand to pristine white-sand shores—perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. Pointe Vénus Beach, with its black sand and calm waters, is ideal for swimming and picnicking. For white sand, Taharuu Beach in Papara is a popular spot for surfing and relaxing.
Tahiti’s interior is every bit as spectacular as its coasts. The island’s green mountains—including Mount Orohena, the highest peak in French Polynesia—offer outstanding hiking. Trails wind through lush tropical forests and deep valleys to impressive waterfalls such as the Faarumai Falls. A 4x4 excursion into the Papenoo Valley reveals breathtaking scenery, rushing rivers, and crystal-clear natural pools.
Tahitian culture is rich and vibrant, steeped in ancestral traditions. Visitors can attend Tahitian dance performances, known as ’ori Tahiti, which tell ancient stories through graceful, rhythmic movement. Polynesian music—often with ukuleles and percussion—accompanies these shows, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Tahitian cooking delights the senses. Sample traditional dishes like poisson cru à la tahitienne, marinated in coconut milk and lime, or poulet fafa, cooked with taro leaves. In the evenings, Papeete’s “roulottes” (food trucks) set up on Place Vaiete, offering a unique, convivial culinary experience with a wide variety of dishes. Local markets brim with fresh tropical fruit, coconuts, and pastries.
Cruises to Tahiti generally include calls in other Society Islands, each offering unique, memorable experiences.
Close to Tahiti, Moorea captivates with its natural beauty. Its heart-shaped bays—Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay—are framed by dramatic mountains and lush forests. Pineapple plantations, pearl farms, and tropical gardens add to the island’s charm. Moorea is also renowned for exceptional surf breaks and hiking trails that lead to spectacular viewpoints. Visitors can join cultural excursions—Tahitian dance demonstrations and local craft workshops—for a full immersion in Polynesian culture.
Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Pacific,” Bora Bora is a paradise of turquoise lagoon, motus (islets), and Mount Otemanu rising majestically at the island’s center. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, with coral gardens and exceptional marine life, including manta rays. Beyond water sports, popular activities include guided hikes to Otemanu’s summit and cultural visits in local villages to learn more about Polynesian traditions.
Raiatea is rich in history and culture. The Taputapuātea marae—a sacred site on the UNESCO World Heritage List—attests to its cultural importance in Polynesia. Considered the cradle of Polynesian civilization, this archaeological complex offers visitors a fascinating window into ancient history and traditions. Raiatea also boasts diverse landscapes, from verdant mountains to crystalline lagoons. Sailors find ideal conditions for cruising, especially toward its sister island Taha’a, famed for vanilla plantations. Raiatea’s winding rivers are perfect for kayaking through tropical jungle, offering a unique perspective on the local ecosystem.
Known as the “garden of Polynesia,” Huahine is a preserved island where nature reigns, loved for secluded beaches, protected lagoons, and luxuriant vegetation. The island consists of two main parts—Huahine Nui (greater Huahine) and Huahine Iti (little Huahine)—linked by a natural bridge. Explore ancient archaeological sites, including marae and traditional fish traps, which showcase the ingenuity and way of life of early Polynesians. Huahine is also known for its pearl farms and fields of sweet melons. Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular, with chances to observe stingrays and sharks in their natural habitat.
Papeete is Tahiti’s emblematic port, with numerous cruises departing Papeete that include calls in the other Society Islands, the Austral Islands, the Tuamotu Islands, the Marquesas, and the Gambier Islands.
Cruises to Tahiti can also depart the United States, with cruises from San Diego combining Hawaii and French Polynesia. There are also cruises from Los Angeles offering compelling itineraries that combine Hawaii and Tahiti, as well as cruises from Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital.
There are also cruises from Auckland in New Zealand and cruises from Sydney in Australia, which reveal the treasures of the South Pacific—such as New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Tonga, Fiji, Samoa, and Niue—before reaching Tahiti and the other islands of French Polynesia.
Aranui, a Polynesia specialist, offers authentic cruises from Papeete aboard its hybrid vessel, the Aranui 5, which combines freight service with passenger cruising. These itineraries let guests explore the splendor of the Polynesian islands while enjoying the comforts of a refined ship and the warmth of a Polynesian crew.
A benchmark for cruising in Polynesia, Paul Gauguin features varied itineraries with calls in Papeete, Huahine, Taha’a, Bora Bora, and Moorea. The luxurious ship Le Paul Gauguin, with five-star French-speaking service and refined cuisine by Ducasse Conseils, offers an immersive exploration of Tahiti and her islands.
Oceania Cruises offers luxury voyages with itineraries that combine multiple Pacific destinations, including Tahiti and her islands. Guests can enjoy “the finest cuisine at sea,” developed by renowned chefs such as Jacques Pépin, aboard spacious, comfortable ships.
Princess Cruises delivers a premium experience, notably with itineraries that combine Tahiti and Hawaii. Cruisers can savor delicious cuisine, enjoy Broadway-inspired productions, and take part in immersive activities such as lei-making workshops, hula lessons, and Hawaiian folk shows through the exclusive Aloha Spirit program.
The best time for a cruise to Tahiti runs from May to October, during the dry season (also called the cool season). During this period, the climate is drier and temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 21°C to 29°C, with less rainfall and lower humidity—ideal for enjoying outdoor activities without frequent showers or the intense heat of the wet season.
Many itineraries from Papeete let you explore the Society Islands and other archipelagos of French Polynesia, such as the Marquesas (Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa, etc.) and the Tuamotus (Rangiroa, Fakarava, etc.). These voyages usually last 8 to 15 days.
You can also opt for cruises that combine Hawaii and French Polynesia, departing from Honolulu, Los Angeles, or San Diego, or for cruises from Auckland or Sydney that mix calls in South Pacific islands (such as Fiji and Samoa) with French Polynesia. These combined cruises last about 20 days. The longest combined routes—sailing from New Zealand or Australia to French Polynesia, Hawaii, and the U.S. West Coast (or the reverse)—take about a month.
Booking your Tahiti cruise early helps you secure the best prices and a wide choice of staterooms, including interior rooms, ocean-view cabins with windows or portholes, balcony or veranda cabins, and comfortable suites. This is especially true in high season (May to October), when demand is strong thanks to optimal weather.
Bring lightweight, breathable clothing for the tropical climate—shorts, T-shirts, and swimwear. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are essential for sun protection. Don’t forget a light rain jacket, as evenings at sea can sometimes be cool, and bring your snorkeling gear for exploring the reefs. Comfortable walking shoes are also a good idea for hikes.
Cruises that explore Tahiti and other islands of French Polynesia start at around $2,500 per person for itineraries of about 7 nights. Longer cruises of 10 to 14 nights can reach up to $10,000 per person. These prices do not include flights and vary depending on the cruise line, stateroom category, and included services.
During a Tahiti cruise, visit the Faarumai waterfalls, go snorkeling or diving to admire the coral reefs, and browse Papeete’s market for local crafts. Relax on dream beaches such as La Plage Vaiava and taste Tahitian specialties like poulet fafa. Then set off to discover other Society Islands—Moorea, Bora Bora, Raiatea, and Huahine.
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