9-Day Tahiti Yacht Charter Itinerary: Secluded Marquesas & Tuamotus Expedition
Venture beyond the well-trodden path on a Tahiti yacht charter, exploring the wild, untamed beauty of the Marquesas and the pristine atolls of the Tuamotus. This expedition offers a true escape, encountering dramatic volcanic landscapes, ancient Polynesian culture, and vibrant marine life in secluded anchorages. From the lush valleys of Nuku Hiva to the untouched reefs of Fakarava, this journey promises adventure and tranquillity in equal measure, a unique French Polynesia yacht charter.
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Plan this charter
- First planned stop
- Nuku Hiva (Taiohae Bay)
- Final planned stop
- Fakarava (Rotoava Airport)
Shore plans to discuss with your crew
- Day 1Taiohae Cathedral
- Day 1Tohua Koueva (ancient ceremonial site)
- Day 1Hiking to waterfalls
- Day 1Local artisan market
- Day 2Snorkelling in crystal waters
- Day 2Beach relaxation
Confirm joining and departure ports, yacht availability and the daily passage plan before paying a deposit. The captain decides anchorages and any route changes for weather, sea conditions and local restrictions. Shore venues, marine-park permissions and activity bookings require separate confirmation.
Map connections are schematic, not a navigable passage plan. Distances, safe approaches and passage times must be checked by the captain.
Ask for an itemised quotation covering the charter fee, taxes, APA or package expenses, berth charges and any delivery or redelivery costs.
- DAY 01
Nuku Hiva (Taiohae Bay)
Arrive in Taiohae Bay, Nuku Hiva, the largest of the Marquesas Islands. The bay is framed by dramatic volcanic cliffs and lush valleys. Explore the main village and its cultural sites.
- Taiohae Cathedral
- Tohua Koueva (ancient ceremonial site)
- Hiking to waterfalls
- Local artisan market
- Anchorage
- Taiohae Bay
- Dining
- Restaurant Moana Nui
- DAY 02
Nuku Hiva (Anaho Bay)
Sail to the picturesque Anaho Bay, accessible only by sea or a challenging hike. This secluded bay offers calm, clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Experience the tranquility of an undeveloped Marquesan anchorage.
- Snorkelling in crystal waters
- Beach relaxation
- Hiking to Hakaui Waterfall (if conditions allow)
- Exploring coconut groves
- Anchorage
- Anaho Bay
- Dining
- Yacht's chef special dinner
- DAY 03
Nuku Hiva (Hatiheu Bay)
Continue along Nuku Hiva's dramatic coastline to Hatiheu Bay. Visit the small village and its ancient tiki statues. Enjoy the stunning views from the 'Virgin Mary' statue overlooking the bay.
- Hatiheu village exploration
- Ancient tiki sites
- Views from the Virgin Mary statue
- Horseback riding along the beach
- Anchorage
- Hatiheu Bay
- Dining
- Chez Yvonne, renowned for its Marquesan cuisine
- DAY 04
Ua Huka (Vaipaee Bay)
Sail to Ua Huka, known as the 'Horse Island'. Anchor in Vaipaee Bay and discover the island's wild horses and unique arboretum. This island offers a glimpse into authentic Marquesan life.
- Horse spotting
- Arboretum visit
- Archaeological sites
- Local museum of Marquesan art
- Anchorage
- Vaipaee Bay
- Dining
- Local Marquesan dishes prepared by a village cook
- DAY 05
Fakarava (Rotoava)
Embark on a longer passage to the Tuamotu Archipelago, arriving at Fakarava, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Anchor near Rotoava, the main village. The atoll is famed for its exceptional diving and untouched marine ecosystem.
- Exploring Rotoava village
- Snorkelling in the lagoon
- Visit to a pearl farm
- Sunset views over the atoll
- Anchorage
- Rotoava (North Pass)
- Dining
- Restaurant Le Recif
- DAY 06
Fakarava (Garuae Pass)
Experience the famous Garuae Pass, the largest pass in French Polynesia, renowned for its 'wall of sharks' and incredible drift dives. For non-divers, the surrounding reefs offer superb snorkelling.
- Scuba diving Garuae Pass
- Snorkelling with reef sharks
- Exploring the pristine reef
- Beachcombing on secluded motus
- Anchorage
- Near Garuae Pass
- Dining
- Freshly caught fish BBQ on board
- DAY 07
Fakarava (Tumakohua Pass - South Pass)
Sail to the southern part of Fakarava, to the Tumakohua Pass, also known as the South Pass. This area offers a different diving experience, with a focus on vibrant coral formations and diverse fish species. The scenery is wilder and more remote.
- Drift diving in Tumakohua Pass
- Exploring remote motus
- Birdwatching
- Stargazing away from light pollution
- Anchorage
- Tumakohua Pass
- Dining
- Yacht's chef special dinner under the stars
- DAY 08
Fakarava (Tetamanu Village)
Visit the tiny, charming village of Tetamanu, located near the South Pass. Once the capital of Fakarava, it retains a rustic charm. Enjoy the quiet atmosphere and interact with local residents.
- Tetamanu lighthouse
- Old church visit
- Interaction with local community
- Final lagoon swim
- Anchorage
- Tetamanu Village
- Dining
- Simple, authentic local meal at Tetamanu Village
- DAY 09
Fakarava (Rotoava Airport)
Enjoy a final breakfast on board as you make your way back towards Rotoava. Reflect on the unique expedition to the remote Marquesas and the pristine Tuamotus. Transfers will be arranged to Fakarava Airport for your onward journey.
- Last views of Fakarava's lagoon
- Souvenir shopping in Rotoava
- Airport transfer
- Reflection on the journey
- Anchorage
- Rotoava (for airport access)
- Dining
- Breakfast on board
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