Discovering French Polynesia With Captain Tom Francis of ULTIMATE LADY

A French Polynesia yacht charter is an escape to paradise on Earth. We get further insight from Captain Tom Francis on board ULTIMATE LADY.

Tom Francis' relationship with ULTIMATE LADY started in 1996 at the time of her build. Working on the project as a boat builder, he then became First Mate when she launched in 1998. It's in 2002 that he would become her Captain. 

ULTIMATE LADY, 28M/91' is a Craig Loomes deigned Wavepiercer available for charter with Fraser. Based in French Polynesia, her top speed of 32 knots allows for a packed itinerary able to show guests the region far and wide. Captain Tom Francis and his crew of 5 are on board to make this a memorable trip and share their knowledge and passion about the area. 

Captain Tom Francis has been cruising around every archipelago in French Polynesia since 2009. He has made it his speciality to know about those off the beaten track areas and is proud to Captain the most traveled charter yacht in French Polynesia. 

"French Polynesia serves up paradise as the apetiser…. Wait until you see the main course! Truly a magnificent cruising ground that caters to so many interests and activities. Adventure sports addicts are well catered to with the world's best scuba diving in the Tuamotus.  Serious wave riders, kite surfers, spear fishermen, sports fishermen and people who simply enjoy relaxing in a incredibly scenic anchorage will find their happiness too.  Each archipelago offers a very different outlook," shares Captain Tom Francis. 

ULTIMATE LADY is the ideal yacht to charter in this region thanks to her ability to cruise skinny water and access some of the best anchorages. She is also the most fuel efficient vessel in the world in her class.

Interested in discovering French Polynesia? The best time of year to charter depends on the region and activities of interest, but as a general rule March, April and May are some of the most enjoyable months. Captain Tom Francis recommends at least 10 days to "ensure a thorough and relaxed itinerary" although he is almost certain you will want to come again as "once is not enough!"



The most requested activities on charter on ULTIMATE LADY are snorkeling with rays and sharks, scuba diving in Rangiroa to  meet the dolphins as well as the South Pass Fakarava to witness the wall of sharks. Other main attractions include traditional Tahitian dance shows, hiking in Nuku Hiva and Fat Hiva , e-biking the papenoo Valley or embarking on the vanilla tour on Tahaa. 

Captain Tom Francis' highlights? Maupiti in the Society Islands. "Maupiti is Bora Bora’s little unknown sister. No resorts or major tourism. Simply beautiful anchorage. Great for kite surfing, fishing, hiking, beach exploring."

Finally, "Nuku Hiva a step back in time to a mythical land, where the children still ride horses to school. Life is wild and simple here and simply refreshing to experience."

To find out more about chartering in French Polynesia, click here. 

To find out more about ULTIMATE LADY, click here.

Photos courtesy of  the Tahitian Tourism Office.