As the primary island of French Polynesia, Tahiti was first populated around 1200AD by the Maohi seafaring people. Today, a unique cultural and ethnic blend prevails as the indigenous people have been joined by English, French and Chinese immigrants over the last two centuries.
Split between mountainous rocky islands and lower atolls, which are in fact sunken volcanic peaks, the geography of Tahiti is as stunning as it is diverse. With superyacht marinas and French Polynesia’s main international airport, Tahiti offers a luxury yacht charter experience with plenty of activities for all the family.
Take to the hills and hike the lush jungles of Tahiti’s volcanic landscape, which will transport you to a prehistoric time with enormous ferns and skyscraper waterfalls. If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the rivers running through the Hitiia lava tubes, which extend hundreds of metres and contain rushing waterfalls. If you have a head for heights, take a helicopter tour of the main island to watch the sun rise while you swoop around Mount Orohena, an extinct volcano reaching over 2,200m above sea level, and take in the 300-metre-high Fataua waterfall.
There is a timeless peace to the days you will spend in this beautiful archipelago. Pick a ‘motu’ and head to the still waters of its lagoon within, and allow yourself to forget time and tide. With a natural protection from the ocean’s movement, and barely a neighbour in site, it will feel like like Captain Cook himself could appear on the horizon at any moment. Sundowners on the sun deck, freshly caught fish lunches and massages on board will be the order of the day.
If you fancy a break from the more remote anchorages, head to French Polynesia’s capital Papeete for a mix of French Riviera-meets-South Pacific. The superyacht marina is a stone’s throw from a number of shops selling chic local souvenirs such as the Tahiti’s black pearl necklaces, and enjoy one of the regular Tahitian cultural shows at Vaiete Square. As evening draws, head out for some fine French cuisine at one of the many fantastic restaurants the island has to offer.
Whether you plan to hit the surf or simply watch from a safe distance in a tender, the colossal waves at world-renowned surf break Teahupo’o are a thing to behold; it is the site of the annual Billabong Pro Tahiti surf competition in August and a World Championship Tour spot. This is Bucket List territory for only the most skilled of surfers, as the razor-sharp reef looms just 1.5 metres below the surface. Proceed with ultimate caution if you want to try and tackle the surf yourself; only experts need apply!
