A French Polynesia yacht charter is defined by island-hopping, short Society Islands passages, golden-sand lagoons and a blend of Polynesian culture, French sophistication and extraordinary natural beauty that rewards those who take the time to move through it slowly. From the sacred UNESCO marae of Raiatea and the vanilla and pearl farms of Tahaa to the dramatic peaks of Moorea, the world-famous lagoon of Bora Bora and the sacred eels of Huahine, routes are shaped around your pace, whether that means vibrant harbour feasts and dancing ashore or quiet anchorages and unhurried swim days onboard.
Princess curates each luxury yacht charter in French Polynesia around your timing and preferences, carefully matching yacht, crew and itinerary to your group so the experience feels seamless from embarkation to return.
French Polynesia is one of the South Pacific’s most rewarding cruising regions, where the Society Islands’ compact layout means short passage days between destinations of remarkable and varied beauty.
The contrast between the cultural and religious heritage of Raiatea — once the spiritual centre of eastern Polynesia — and the gilded lagoon luxury of Bora Bora allows itineraries to move naturally between history and indulgence. In peak season, the most celebrated anchorages at Bora Bora fill quickly, which is why local knowledge and thoughtful planning are essential.
Sample eight-day route from Pape’ete
Turquoise lagoons
Snorkelling reefs
Off the beaten track
The main charter season runs from May to November, the dry season in the Society Islands, when trade winds are consistent, the weather is settled and temperatures are warm without the humidity of the wet season. July to September is peak season with the best conditions.
December to April is the wet season, with warmer water and occasional tropical rain. The islands are still sailable during this period and some charter guests prefer the lush green landscapes and quieter anchorages, but local knowledge is essential for routing around the occasional cyclone risk.
These luxury yachts are crafted for French Polynesia cruising, with outdoor living, swim stops and relaxed itineraries shaped around the short Society Islands passages and the sheltered lagoon anchorages of Bora Bora and Moorea.
May to November is the dry season with the most settled conditions. July to September is peak season with the best trade winds and visibility for diving.
Typically 4–6 islands across the Society Islands, depending on pace and routing. Moorea, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Huahine each reward at least a full day.
Yes. Calm, warm lagoon water at Bora Bora and Moorea, the marine life encounters and the cultural visits to vanilla farms and pearl workshops make it very family-friendly.
Yes. Fiji lies to the west for longer trans-Pacific charters. Pape’ete is well connected by international flights and works well as both embarkation and disembarkation point.
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