Rent a boat in French Polynesia

Boat Rental in French Polynesia

Welcome to French Polynesia, a stunning region located in the middle of the vast Pacific Ocean. It is made up of five different groups of islands: the Society Islands, Tuamotus, Marquesas Islands, Gambier Islands, and Austral Islands. One of the remarkable features of this enchanting destination is that it is home to the Marae Taputapuātea, a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you love boating and sailing, this is the perfect place for you! With its beautiful scenery, diverse sea life, and warm weather, French Polynesia is an amazing destination for water adventures. From exploring clear lagoons to finding hidden spots, renting a boat here will give you an unforgettable experience. Get ready to set sail and discover the wonders of French Polynesia, where every island has something special to offer on the open waters.

Here are some beautiful places in French Polynesia where you can easily rent a boat and enjoy a wonderful sailing experience:

Boat rental in Raiatea

Boat rental in Bora Bora

How much does it cost?

If you’re considering renting a boat in French Polynesia, the price will differ depending on the time of year, the number of passengers on board, and the size and type of boat you choose. Of course, additional amenities or services could also affect the price, such as having a skipper on board. Below are the average prices of a private charter in French Polynesia by boat type.

Sailboat: Set sail in style for just $650 per day.

Motorboat: Enjoy a smooth ride on the waves for $1,140 per day.

RIB: Zoom along the coast on a RIB for only $480 per day.

Catamaran: Explore French Polynesia’s waters in comfort for $1,290 per day.

Yacht: Sail like a VIP on a yacht for $4,542 per day or $31,794 per week.

What does this include?

When you rent a boat with Nautal, you can expect a fully equipped vessel with all the necessary safety gear, navigation equipment, and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable sailing experience. Our boats are well-maintained and regularly serviced to ensure the highest standards of safety and reliability.

Best port or dock to keep your boat

Papeete Marina (Port de Plaisance de Papeete) - Tahiti: The main port in Tahiti, offering water, gas, and electricity hookups, with limited wifi and restaurant facilities available nearby. The marina provides approximately 50 berths, suitable for boats up to 120 feet in length.

Uturoa Marina - Raiatea: This marina offers water, gas, electricity, and wifi access, along with a few dining options close by. The marina provides around 80 berths, accommodating boats up to 100 feet in size.

Vaitape Harbor - Bora Bora: This port offers essential facilities such as water, gas, and electricity hookups. While wifi and restaurant options might be available nearby, they can be limited compared to larger cities. The harbor typically provides around 20 berths, suitable for boats up to 80 feet in length.

Where to sail in French Polynesia?

• Bora Bora Lagoon: Sail through the crystal-clear waters of Bora Bora's lagoon, surrounded by iconic overwater bungalows and picturesque Mount Otemanu.
• Raiatea and Taha'a Islands: Explore the "Sacred Island" of Raiatea and the vanilla-scented paradise of Taha'a, known for their vibrant coral reefs and lush landscapes.
• Maupiti Atoll: Discover the unspoiled beauty of Maupiti, a hidden gem with turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and excellent snorkeling spots.
• Huahine Island: Enjoy the tranquility of Huahine's dual islands, offering secluded anchorages and a glimpse into Polynesian history and culture.
• Fakarava Atoll: Venture to Fakarava, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, to witness a diverse marine ecosystem, including vibrant coral gardens and rare fish species.
• Rimatara Island: Visit Rimatara, an untouched island with idyllic anchorages, perfect for those seeking a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience.
• Tikehau Atoll: Set sail to Tikehau, known as the "Pink Sand Island," and be enchanted by its tranquil lagoon teeming with marine life.

What can you see and do in French Polynesia?

• Snorkel in Bora Bora's Coral Gardens: Dive into the vibrant underwater world of Bora Bora's Coral Gardens, where you can encounter an array of colorful fish and coral formations.
• Hike to the Fautaua Waterfall in Tahiti: Embark on a rewarding trek through lush foliage to witness the majestic 985-foot Fautaua Waterfall cascading down the mountainside.
• Visit the Vanilla Plantations in Taha'a: Explore the "Vanilla Island" of Taha'a and learn about the cultivation of vanilla in fragrant plantations.
• Discover the Black Pearls of Manihi: Learn about the process of cultivating the famous Tahitian black pearls on the picturesque atoll of Manihi.
• Witness Humpback Whales in Moorea: During the whale-watching season (July to October), embark on a boat tour in Moorea to witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.
• Kayak in the Lagoons of Raiatea: Explore the scenic lagoons of Raiatea by kayak, discovering hidden islets and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.

Rent a boat with or without a skipper

Many of our boat charters in French Polynesia come with the option of sailing with a skipper and/or crew. Although this may come at an extra cost, having a skipper on board can, no doubt, provide you with an even more enjoyable experience! Your skipper can adapt the sailing route so that your voyage best suits the desires of you and the rest of your party.

Additionally, setting sail with a skipper will make your voyage even more comfortable! The skipper will take care of all the technical aspects of sailing, so all you need to do is sit back and relax.

If you would like to take charge of your boat charter in French Polynesia, then bareboat charters are the way to go. Enjoy a bareboat charter if you have a license and set sail at your own pace. You need a valid boating license to enjoy a boat this way, so check with the boat owner beforehand to see if your license is valid.

When is the best time of year to rent a boat?

The best time to visit and rent a boat in French Polynesia is during the high season, which spans from May to October. During this period, French Polynesia experiences its dry season and enjoys warm and pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s°F to the mid-80s°F. This is the perfect time to explore the stunning turquoise waters, discover hidden coves, and indulge in various water activities while soaking up the tropical ambiance of the islands.

In the months just outside of the high season, for example, April and November, the average temperatures range from the low 70s°F to the high 80s°F. The weather during these shoulder months remains comfortable and inviting, making it a fantastic time to enjoy boat rentals without the peak tourist crowds of the high season.

What type of boat is best for a French Polynesia boat charter?

Before choosing the right vessel for your boat rental in French Polynesia, you first have to think about the duration of your holiday. If you’re only going to sail for a few days, it is best to opt for a daily charter such as a motorboat or a RIB. With the speed of these vessels, you’ll be able to see everything on your wish list in no time. If you’re planning a longer charter of a week or more you should choose a vessel that includes amenities you’ll need during your stay. Catamarans and yachts have the space and accommodations on board to ensure a comfortable stay on the water. For a more luxurious holiday, you might consider a gulet, and for an authentic sailing experience a sailboat.

If you’re unsure about whether or not a vessel suits your needs, feel free to contact the boat owners to get a better sense of what is included on board. With our large fleet, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect boat for your French Polynesia boat charter!

Frequently Asked Questions about French Polynesia

What is the daily cost to rent a boat in French Polynesia?

The average price of renting a boat in French Polynesia is approximately $990 per day. Prices typically range from $195 and $7,310 per day.

Can you rent a boat with a skipper in French Polynesia?

It is possible to rent a boat with skipper in French Polynesia. On Nautal, there are 5 boats in French Polynesia that offer skipper services. However, please note that this comes at an additional cost, averaging $238 per day.

What types of boats are available for rent in French Polynesia?

In French Polynesia, you can rent various types of boats, such as Motorboat, Sailboat or Catamaran.

What is included in the price of a boat rental in French Polynesia?

The price of a boat rental in French Polynesia usually includes amenities such as Bimini, GPS, VHF , and more.

What is the maximum capacity of a boat in French Polynesia?

The maximum capacity for boats in French Polynesia is 13 persons. Note that if you rent a boat with a skipper, they are included in the total number of people.

Good to know