Tahiti

Here at last is paradise on earth. Visitors who fly into the islands and stay at hotels can experience only a part of the magic of these islands. It is only in sailing between blue ocean and turquoise lagoons in the shadow of majestic volcanic peaks, as the ancient Polynesians did in their outrigger canoes, that one realizes the full majesty of Tahiti. Our cruising area encompasses the Leeward Islands of Tahiti: Raiatea, Tahaa, Huahine and Bora Bora. There is more open water sailing here than most of our other cruises. Steady trade winds provide fast reaches of about 5 hours between islands.

The Islands

The four major islands have ancient volcanic centers which rise from lovely calm lagoons ringed by outlying reefs. Passes in the reefs allow safe access in and out of the smooth sailing lagoons to blue water sailing in the tradewinds. Good anchorages are abundant among the central islands as well as on the motus, lushly vegetated islets that have evolved on the encircling barrier reefs. These coral atolls have sandy beaches and offer a stunning view back toward those volcanic ranges.

The Boats

We have reserved a Moorings 4500 and a Sunsail 454L catamaran for the trip.  This catamaran is 45 feet with 4 cabins and 4 heads with stall showers in each head.  The boat has a generator (50Hz 220volt) for AC power, air conditioning, refrigerator, freezer and USB outlets.

Dining

The food order is customized for each boat. Crew will get together and choose their own provisions. This includes breakfasts, lunches, snacks and any dinners that would be cooked aboard the boat. Members will get together before the trip to fill out the order forms. Each boat will be responsible for their food and beverage cost. A transom barbecue and a fully equipped galley are provided for cooking aboard although most dinners will be had ashore.

Bareboat Charter & Cruising Catamaran Certification

Certification is available to Basic Coastal Cruising graduates who have done at least 3 charters as skipper on a BCC boat such as a Merit 25 or Catalina 27 and have passed the Docking Endorsement class. The cost for each certification is $600 non member, $450 member. Study materials are provided and Bob Diamond will lead a study session for Bareboat students in time for students to get the written exam completed before the cruise. Students who want to obtain Bareboat Charter Certification must charter at the Basic Coastal Cruising level at least three times before the cruise.

Activities in Tahiti

There’s plenty to do and see on the islands of Tahiti. Snorkeling is always a popular activity on our bareboat cruises. The coral reefs are spectacular as they rise from 80 feet or more to just a few feet deep. SCUBA tours and lessons are also available. There are van tours and rentals of cars and jeeps ashore where ancient Polynesian temples and other structures can be seen.

Reservation and Payment Information

Cost per Cabin

$6300 on a Moorings 4500 Catamaran or Sunsail 454 Classic Catamaran

$6400 on a Sunsail 454L Catamaran

Convenient Payment Schedule

• $500 non refundable deposit
• 1/3 due August 15, 2023
• 1/3 due November 15, 2023
• Balance due January 15, 2024