A Yacht Journey like No Other: Discover Whales and Untouched Isles in French Polynesia

Marlon Brando’s decision to set foot on Tetiʻaroa and stay forever holds a mesmerizing tale. With rainforested peaks and coral-fringed lagoons, this remote Pacific archipelago is pulling superyachts away from the usual routes, beckoning them to explore its biodiverse waters. The allure lies in its seclusion, requiring an eight-hour flight from both the American west coast and Australia’s east, creating an exclusive “reachable only by boat” experience favored by yacht enthusiasts. Explorer yachts like Arctic P and Suri were seen last season, and this summer, sailing yacht Farfalla joins the trend.

Experience the Society islands like never before with a private charter aboard the 157-foot Hanse Explorer in November. With EYOS expedition staff on every journey, you’ll discover hidden gems like Huahine, Moorea, Raiatea, and Taha’a, steering clear of the usual tourist spots like Bora Bora.

Boasting an 8,000-nautical-mile range and a diving center, Hanse Explorer is the ideal vessel for venturing off the beaten path. The 10-hour cruise from Papeete to Taha’a, where the wild vanilla orchid grows, promises a comfortable voyage.

Tahiti’s 118 islands form a superyacht haven in the vast South Pacific, rivaling the expanse of the United States. Thanks to conservation efforts, including fishing bans, this area hosts the world’s largest marine sanctuary, protecting an array of species from whales to sharks.

Tahiti has become a hotspot for migrating humpback whales, offering charter guests the unparalleled opportunity to swim with these majestic creatures. Below the waves, explore the Opunohu canyons and Ceran Pass, home to blacktip sharks, sea turtles, and barracuda. For thrill-seekers, deep-sea fishing charters promise the chance to reel in mahi mahi and colossal marlin off the coast of Huahine island. Get ready for extraordinary adventures in Tahiti’s waters

Tahiti’s enchanting “motus” with palm-lined shores are perfect for beach barbecues. For the more adventurous, Mo’orea’s Mount Tohivea offers a challenging hike through lush canopies. Just a short cruise away, the dramatic Cook’s Bay on Mo’orea is an ideal starting point for a two-week itinerary that ends conveniently at Tahiti’s surf and international airport. With yachts making themselves at home for the summer, exploring Polynesian wilderness has never been easier.