Discover the planes to get around French Polynesia
If you are looking to move quickly between the islands of French Polynesia, the most convenient option is to fly. The following airlines offer flights to various islands of French Polynesia:
- Air Tahiti – This airline is the largest in the region and serves more than 40 destinations in French Polynesia. Arrival cities include Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea and other islands in the Marquesas, Tuamotus and Gambier archipelagos.
- Air France – Air France offers direct flights from Paris to Papeete, the capital of Tahiti. You can then take domestic flights to visit other islands in French Polynesia.
Plane flight tips
– Be sure to book your ticket early enough to get the best prices, especially if you are traveling during peak tourist season.
– It is important to note that some islands in French Polynesia do not have airports, but it is possible to reach them by boat.
Explore the islands by boat
If you’re looking to explore the islands of French Polynesia at your own pace, a boat is the most convenient way to do it. There are several options depending on your budget and the islands you want to visit.
- Private yachts – If you are looking for a luxury experience, private yachts are a good option. They can be chartered for day trips or for longer cruises.
- Cruises – There are many cruise lines that serve French Polynesia, including Paul Gauguin Cruises and Windstar Cruises. These cruises offer a variety of itineraries with stops in different islands of French Polynesia.
- Ferries – Ferries are the cheapest way to travel between certain islands. They connect Tahiti to Moorea and other islands like Raiatea, Bora Bora and Huahine.
Tips for boat trips
– Be sure to prepare your itinerary well in advance to avoid unexpected transport problems.
– If you suffer from seasickness, be sure to take medication before boarding.
– Some boat connections can be affected by weather conditions, so be sure to check the forecast before you go.
Discover the islands by car or scooter
If you want to explore an island in French Polynesia at your own pace, you have several options for getting around the island.
- car rental – You can rent a car for the day or for several days from one of the many car rental providers on the islands. This option is handy if you want to explore an island independently.
- scooter rental – For shorter distances, scooter rental is a popular option. This will allow you to travel the roads and paths of the island at your leisure.
Tips for renting a car or scooter
– Make sure you have a valid driver’s license and understand local driving regulations.
– The roads are generally narrow and winding, so drive carefully and pay attention to the signs.
– Be sure to take extra safety measures, such as wearing helmets if you rent a scooter.
Where to hire transportation in French Polynesia
It is easy to find car, scooter and boat rental providers in the main towns of French Polynesia. Airports and ports are often the best places to hire transportation.
Traveler Quotes
– “Taking the ferry to Bora Bora was an amazing experience. The crystal clear waters and green mountains were breathtaking views from the deck.” – Marie-France
– “We enjoyed exploring the winding roads of Huahine by scooter. We saw hidden beaches and beautiful landscapes that we would never have seen otherwise.” – Tom, United States
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Is it expensive to rent a car or scooter in French Polynesia?
Car and scooter rental can be a little more expensive than in other destinations, but it depends on the model and the duration of the rental. Prices usually start at around 50 euros per day for a car and 20 euros for a scooter.
Is it easy to get around in French Polynesia?
It’s easy to travel between islands by plane or boat, but renting transportation on an individual island can be a little more difficult as there aren’t always many rental options.
Do you need special skills to pilot a boat in French Polynesia?
If you want to rent a boat, you must have a valid driver’s license and sea driving experience. Boat regulations vary depending on the size and horsepower of the boat, so be sure to check local rules before you go.