Yacht charter in Taravao

Where do yachts depart from in Taravao?

Most charters in Taravao depart from Tahiti Nautic Center Marina in Baie Phaëton. The marina is on the south side of the isthmus linking Tahiti Nui and Tahiti Iti, and it is the clearest verified departure point for this port.

Baie de Phaëton is also used as a sheltered anchorage. Local sources describe it as a quiet bay and a strong refuge on Tahiti’s south coast, which makes it a practical staging point for charter handovers and short cruises.

• Tahiti Nautic Center Marina, Baie Phaëton
• Port Phaeton / Baie de Phaëton anchorage area

What day-trip routes can you sail from Taravao?

Day trips from Taravao can explore the south coast of Tahiti and the Taiarapu peninsula. The most natural routing is along the lagoon-facing side of Tahiti Iti toward the Teahupoo area, with stops chosen according to weather and local sea state.

More ambitious days may include passages within the lagoon toward nearby sheltered anchorages on the peninsula. The key advantage of Taravao is access to the quieter southeast side of Tahiti rather than the busier north coast.

When is the best sailing season for Taravao?

The best sailing window in French Polynesia is usually during the drier season from May to October. These months are generally preferred for more settled conditions and easier cruising.

November to April is the wetter season, with a higher chance of squalls and less predictable weather. In Taravao, local bay shelter helps, but charterers should still plan conservatively around conditions.

What licence or skipper rules apply in French Polynesia?

For chartering in French Polynesia, the skipper rules depend on the boat and the type of navigation. French regulations state that a permit is required for powered craft above 6 hp, while sailboats and very small engines are treated differently.

Foreign and French boaters using French-registered motor boats in Polynesian waters must hold the appropriate French Polynesian or equivalent permit for the planned navigation. If a skipper is not licensed for the boat, booking with a professional skipper is the simplest option.

How do you get to Taravao for a charter?

The nearest major airport is Tahiti Faa’a International Airport near Papeete. Taravao is roughly 58 km from the airport by road, and transfer times are about an hour by car or taxi depending on traffic.

That makes Taravao a workable transfer for guests arriving through Tahiti’s main international gateway. It is farther from Papeete than some north-coast bases, but it gives faster access to the southeast peninsula and Port Phaeton.