Guide to French Polynesia

There is nowhere else in the world that epitomises the word ‘tropical’ quite like the islands of the French Polynesia. Renowned for its main island of Tahiti, the French Polynesia is brimmed with glorious aqua lagoons, coral-fringed coastlines and emerald green trees making for an astounding spectacle of sheer magnificence. The laid back ambience of this beautiful archipelago is tangible, enveloping visitors in the warm geniality of each breathtaking island.

Comprising five main island groups, the French Polynesia encompasses the Society Islands, the Tuamotus, the Marquesas, the Australs and the Gambier Archipelago. Each island group is a luminous paradise and guaranteed to exceed every expectation.

Home to hundreds of lush atolls and mysterious coves, this glorious region boasts a radiant tropical beauty, unsurpassed by anywhere else in the world. Enriched by a vivid Polynesian culture, the French Polynesia exudes culinary traditions and cultural influences from the French, Italian and Chinese; the likes of which cannot be found anywhere else.

The Society Islands
Home to the chic seduction of Tahiti and picture perfect land of Bora Bora, the Society Islands is the ultimate archipelago for sumptuous relaxation and unmatched natural wonder. Popular with honeymooners, this region is an undoubted paradise, woven from travellers’ daydreams and perpetual romance. Here you will find azure waters rich with coral life, sugar-white sandy beaches and brilliant golden hues of unforgettable sunsets. Teeming with exquisite hotels and premier spas, this cluster of idyllic islands will soothe all of the senses and invigorate the soul on a Tahiti yacht charter.

Tuamotu Archipelago
Tuamotu, meaning “islands on the ocean’s back”, has been affectionately likened to the backs of surfacing whales and is comprised of fringed white beaches, lush green coconut groves and clusters of coral to form an unimaginable South Seas paradise. Embraced by 78 atolls, the Tuamotu Archipelago is made up of thinly scattered islands brimmed with rich azure waters, coral reefs and deep blue lagoons. Boasting the world’s second largest atoll, this lovely island collection produces the famed luminous black pearls and lures in snorkellers and scuba divers from afar who revel in the perfect translucent waters and enjoy guaranteed visibility of over 150 feet.

The Marquesas
Reputed as ‘the Mysterious Islands’, the Marquesas are composed of twelve volcanic islands which are veiled in a moody mist of cloud. Rich with lush vegetation, the islands here are swathed with aromas of ylang-ylang, jasmine, ginger and plumeria. Abound with ruins and lined with tiki’s carved from stone; the Marquesas are ripe for exploration amongst the tropical jungle life against a backdrop of brooding volcanic landscape. Relatively undiscovered, these lustrous islands offer a warm welcome to their few visitors with sheltered reefs and lagoons inviting visitors to wind down in complete and utter opulence.

The Austral Islands
Laced with coconut palms and flourishing banana trees, the Austral Islands welcome visitors to a slow paced daily life. Located on the Tropic of Capricorn this small chain of islands is steeped in tradition and a mirage of cultures. The art of weaving coconut and pandanus leaves into hats, purses and bags is prominent here making for quirky opportunities for souvenir shopping. With opportunities to hike to numerous waterfalls and explore the stalagmites of secluded caves, the Austral Islands offer a unique sense of adventure whilst remaining synonymous with rejuvenation.

The Gambier Archipelago
Untouched and undiscovered this tiny archipelago is the ultimate destination for those looking to immerse themselves in sheer seclusion, so far removed from the realities of modern life that your credit card will serve no purpose. The islands here are as precious as the pearls they produce, saturated with mountainous landscapes, colonial histories and outstanding natural beauty, there is nowhere better to experience that ‘get away from it all’ feel. Draped with monuments, white sand beaches and towering rocky peaks the Gambier Archipelago is an idyllic charter destination.

If you are interested in discovering this island paradise by superyacht view all yachts available for a French Polynesia yacht charter and start planning your next yacht rental vacation with a reccomended charter broker.