French Polynesia is a dream destination for sailors, offering stunning turquoise waters, lush tropical islands, and warm Polynesian hospitality. Whether you're crossing the Pacific or island-hopping through the archipelago, finding accommodations with direct mooring or docking access can elevate your experience.
For those looking for the best of both worlds—luxurious stays and convenient yacht access—French Polynesia offers stunning private villas and high-end resorts with docking facilities. Here’s everything you need to know about where to stay when arriving by boat. Ask us about finding you a luxury villa with mooring in Tahiti and the islands of French Polynesia!
Best Islands for Yacht-Friendly Villas and Resorts
Not all islands in French Polynesia offer private docks or mooring, so choosing the right destination is key. These islands have the best accommodations for sailors looking for convenient docking:
1. Tahiti – The Gateway to Paradise
As the main entry point into French Polynesia, Tahiti is a practical and beautiful stop for sailors. While many boats anchor in the marina at Papeete, there are waterfront villas available in areas like Punaauia and Arue that offer direct ocean access.
2. Moorea – A Short Sail from Tahiti
Just a short ferry or sail from Tahiti, Moorea is a haven for sailors. The island has stunning lagoons with calm anchorages, and several waterfront properties provide easy access for mooring or tendering.
3. Bora Bora – Luxury on the Lagoon
Bora Bora is known for its iconic overwater bungalows and pristine waters. While private villas with docks are rare, many resorts offer docking access for guests. The lagoon is an ideal anchorage, and some properties provide mooring buoys for private yachts.
4. Raiatea & Taha’a – The Nautical Hub
Raiatea, home to the largest charter fleet in French Polynesia, is one of the best places to find villa rentals with private docks. Nearby Taha’a, known as the "Vanilla Island," offers secluded waterfront properties where you can moor your yacht steps from your accommodation.
5. Huahine – Untouched Beauty
If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Huahine offers peaceful anchorages and a selection of private waterfront homes where you can stay while keeping your boat close.
Luxury Resorts with Docking & Mooring Facilities
If you prefer the amenities of a resort while sailing through French Polynesia, these high-end properties offer mooring or docking options:
📍 The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
Location: Bora Bora
Docking: The resort has a main dock that accommodates tenders, making it an excellent choice for yacht travelers.
Why Stay Here: Enjoy five-star service, overwater villas, and stunning lagoon views.
📍 Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
Location: Bora Bora
Docking: Offers yacht and sailboat access with docking facilities.
Why Stay Here: A world-class resort with luxurious overwater bungalows, spa services, and gourmet dining.
📍 Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts
Location: Bora Bora
Docking: The resort features a private dock for guests arriving by boat.
Why Stay Here: Ideal for those who want a mix of Polynesian charm and modern luxury.
📍 Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts
Location: Taha’a
Docking: While the resort doesn’t have a dedicated marina, guests can anchor nearby and arrange tender service.
Why Stay Here: A secluded, romantic escape with incredible snorkeling and world-class dining.
📍 The Brando Resort
Location: Tetiaroa
Docking: Primarily accessed by private plane, but arrangements can be made for yacht arrivals.
Why Stay Here: An exclusive eco-luxury retreat on a private island, perfect for those seeking privacy.
📍 Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa
Location: Rangiroa
Docking: Provides docking facilities for guests arriving by yacht.
Why Stay Here: Located on a stunning atoll with easy access to some of the world’s best diving.
What to Look for in a Luxury Villa with Mooring in Tahiti and the islands of French Polynesia
If you prefer a private villa over a resort, consider these key factors when booking:
✔ Depth & Shelter – Ensure the dock or mooring can accommodate your vessel’s draft and is protected from strong winds and swells.
✔ Marina Proximity – If you need provisioning, repairs, or fuel, staying near a marina (such as in Raiatea or Tahiti) is ideal.
✔ Waterfront Amenities – Look for properties that offer paddleboards, kayaks, or direct snorkeling access. ✔ Privacy & Scenery – A secluded villa with panoramic ocean views provides the perfect retreat after a day on the water.
Arriving in French Polynesia by Boat: Entry & Immigration Procedures
If you’re sailing into French Polynesia, you’ll need to follow specific immigration and customs procedures to ensure a smooth entry.
Pre-Arrival Requirements
✅ Online Declaration - Before departure, all foreign pleasure vessels must complete an online "Declaration of Entry and Exit of Pleasure Craft" form. This system streamlines entry, exit, and inter-island travel processes. Once submitted, you’ll receive an "Attestation-de-depot," which must be printed and presented to authorities upon arrival.
✅ Port Reservations - Some ports, including Papeete (Tahiti), Afareaitu (Moorea), and Uturoa (Raiatea), require vessels to secure anchorage or marina bookings at least 48 hours in advance. Reservations can be made through the official port reservation website, and for yachts under 20 meters, confirmations should be sent to the Directorate of Maritime Affairs (DPAM) via email at escales.dpam@administration.gov.pf.
Designated Ports of Entry
You must make landfall at an official Port of Entry to complete customs, immigration, and biosecurity checks. These include:
Marquesas Islands – Taiohae (Nuku Hiva), Hakahau (Ua Pou), Atuona (Hiva Oa)
Society Islands – Papeete (Tahiti), Afareaitu (Moorea), Uturoa (Raiatea), Fare (Huahine), Vaitape (Bora Bora)
Tuamotu-Gambier Islands – Tiputa (Rangiroa), Rikitea (Mangareva)
Austral Islands – Mataura (Tubuai), Moerai (Rurutu), Raivavae (Rairua)
Upon arrival, the vessel’s captain must report to the local Gendarmerie (police station) with all crew passports and the Attestation-de-depot. Customs authorities will inspect the vessel and its declared goods, including firearms, alcohol, and other restricted items.
Visa & Immigration Requirements Short Stays (Up to 90 Days)
EU Citizens: Can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Non-EU Citizens: Many nationalities, including U.S. citizens, can stay for up to 90 days visa-free. However, individual requirements vary by nationality.
Long Stays (Beyond 90 Days)
EU Citizens: Can extend their stay without a visa but must follow local regulations.
Non-EU Citizens: Must apply for a long-stay visa before arrival through a French consulate or embassy in their home country. The application process takes several weeks, so early planning is essential.
Proof of Funds & Repatriation
Some visitors may be required to provide proof of sufficient funds or show a return or onward travel ticket. In some cases, authorities may require a bond deposit to ensure compliance with immigration laws.
Domestic Cruising & Inter-Island Travel
Updating Movements – Once cleared into French Polynesia, you must use the online declaration system to update your movements when sailing between islands.
Crew Changes – Any changes in crew must be reported through the online system and to the nearest immigration office or Gendarmerie.
Departure Procedures
Before leaving French Polynesia:
Update the "Declaration of Entry and Exit of Pleasure Craft" with departure details.
Visit customs and immigration for final clearance and ensure all fees are settled.
By adhering to these regulations, sailors can enjoy a stress-free and immersive journey through French Polynesia.
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