Best Catamaran Cruise in Lewards islands, itineraries Bora, Raiatea, Tahaa
Sailing in French Polynesia aboard a catamaran is one of the most beautiful ways to explore the crystal-clear lagoons of the Leeward Islands. In this article, we share the best catamaran cruise itineraries in French Polynesia, with a special focus on the Leeward Islands. We will guide you through the different routes, the islands to visit, the Ă -la-carte experiences available on board, and provide price guidelines to help you plan your dream cruise.
Departing from Raiatea, several itinerary combinations are possible, allowing you to sail to Taha’a, then on to Bora Bora, Maupiti, or Huahine, depending on your preferences and the length of your stay.
At MyLittlePolynesia, we recommend a 10-day catamaran cruise with skipper and hostess in the Leeward Islands. This is a fully tailor-made experience, designed around your wishes: you choose the duration, the islands you want to explore, the pace of navigation, and the activities you wish to enjoy, both on land and on the water. Below, we detail the different itinerary options along with our key recommendations.
Sail through the heart of the Leeward Islands (Raiatea, Tahaa, Bora Bora, Huahine…) and receive a personalized quote based on your budget, preferred duration, and comfort level.
👉 Request my catamaran cruise quote
Private Catamaran Cruise: Tailor-Made Itinerary in the Leeward Islands
The catamaran is based in Raiatea, the sacred island and spiritual heart of French Polynesia. It is the perfect starting point to explore the Leeward Islands. Ideally located in the center of the archipelago and well connected to Tahiti by plane (Raiatea is the second most populated island in Polynesia), it allows you to begin your journey with ease. Each itinerary is adjusted by the skipper according to your wishes and the weather conditions, making every cruise truly tailor-made.
Every morning, the sunrise reveals a new landscape, and each day brings a different atmosphere: a hike in Huahine, a swim with manta rays in Bora Bora, or a silent sunset at anchor in Maupiti. The cruise becomes a simple, efficient, and truly magical way to discover Polynesia, with the comfort of a private yacht and the freedom to choose the pace of your holiday.
For more inspiration, we also recommend checking out our complete guide to the Top 7 Polynesian Islands to include in your trip.
| Duration | Itinerary | Experiences & Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 4 days / 3 nights | Around Raiatea | Lagoon exploration, snorkeling in coral gardens, anchoring on motus, sailing on the Faaroa River, visit to the botanical garden. |
| 5 days / 4 nights | Raiatea – Tahaa – Raiatea | Tour of Tahaa with vanilla plantations, pearl farm, artisanal rum distillery, isolated coral and motus, fragrant and cultural atmosphere. |
| 6 to 8 days | Raiatea – Tahaa + Huahine or Bora Bora | Extension to a mythical or wild island: Bora Bora lagoon or authentic Huahine, manta rays and shark snorkeling, hiking, and secret anchorages. |
| 9 to 12 days | Raiatea – Huahine – Tahaa – Bora Bora – Raiatea | Full loop: varied sailing, local culture, exceptional lagoons, perfect balance between sea and land. |
| 13 to 16 days | Raiatea – Huahine – Tahaa – Bora Bora – Maupiti – Raiatea | The ultimate journey: rare discovery of Maupiti, pristine pearl island, scenic oceanic sailing with dolphins and whales (in season). |
How Much Does a Cruise Cost in the Leeward Islands: Bora Bora, Raiatea & Taha’a?”
This private Lagoon 46 with skipper offers 4 double cabins with en-suite bathrooms and can comfortably host up to 8 guests. The price is fixed: whether you are 2 or 8, the rate stays the same. For larger groups, up to 10 passengers can be accommodated thanks to the spacious saloon bench, often used by children (very comfortable but with less privacy).
Budget to expect : On average, plan for:
Low season: about $7,000 for 7 days for the entire group.
High season: about $11,500 for 7 days for the entire group.
The rates include the catamaran with an experienced and discreet skipper. Optional services include full board (three meals a day for $30/day) and a cook/hostess ($200/day).
Also read: Best time to visit french Polynesia and swim with whales
Why sail in the Leeward Islands?
Sailing by catamaran in the Leeward Islands is a true delight. Distances are short, the lagoons unfold one after another, and the crossings between Raiatea, Tahaa, Huahine, Bora Bora and Maupiti remain smooth and pleasant. This means you avoid long days of offshore navigation and instead enjoy the simple pleasures: swimming in turquoise waters, snorkeling in vibrant coral gardens, anchoring in front of a secluded motu, or stepping ashore for a walk through a Polynesian village. Everything is tailor-made, and the skipper knows exactly how to take you away from the crowds and into hidden gems.
What makes this private catamaran cruise in French Polynesia so special is the freedom to discover several islands in just a few days, without having to deal with domestic flights, transfers, or constant hotel check-ins and check-outs. With five days, you can already enjoy the beauty of Raiatea and Tahaa. In one week, you may extend your journey to Huahine, wild and mysterious, or to Bora Bora, the legendary island with its exceptional lagoon. And if you allow yourself ten to fifteen days, you can live the ultimate adventure by completing the full circuit of Raiatea, Tahaa, Huahine, Bora Bora and Maupiti, taking the time to savor each destination at your own pace.
Polynesia is truly a world of its own: every island has its own personality, and there is always another one to discover. Check out our full article on the Polynesia travel budget for honeymoon.
Sail through the heart of the Leeward Islands (Raiatea, Tahaa, Bora Bora, Huahine…) and receive a personalized quote based on your budget, preferred duration, and comfort level.
👉 Request my catamaran cruise quote
Why We Recommend This Private Catamaran Cruise in the Leeward Islands?
We have personally experienced this private catamaran cruise in French Polynesia, and we can recommend it without hesitation. The boat belongs to a passionate private owner, genuinely committed to quality. Instead of prioritizing business at the expense of the yacht and the guests, he has chosen meticulous and constant maintenance to ensure everything remains in perfect condition.
The result is a beautifully maintained catamaran, comfortable and fully equipped for life at sea, with four spacious double cabins, inviting common areas, and everything you need on board: snorkeling gear, towels, sheets, and even Starlink WiFi. Nothing is left to chance — every detail has been thought through, creating the perfect setting to watch unforgettable sunsets and enjoy magical moments on the water.
Check out our article on the Paul Gauguin cruise, the ideal blend of onboard luxury and authentic Polynesian experiences.
What truly makes the difference, however, is the crew. Each lagoon, pass, and anchorage has its own story, and the skipper always knows where to drop anchor to combine safety, comfort, and breathtaking scenery. With his experience and warm personality, navigation feels smooth and reassuring, while always adapting to the pace and desires of the group.
On top of that, the cuisine on board is outstanding. Every day, fresh and flavorful meals highlight local products: grilled lagoon fish, sun-ripened tropical fruits, and even Polynesian dishes with a creative twist. These shared moments around the table, with the lagoon as a backdrop, quickly become some of the most memorable highlights of the entire cruise.
It is this unique combination, a high-end catamaran, an experienced skipper, and an attentive chef that makes the experience so extraordinary. More than just a trip, it is a true immersion into authentic Polynesia, with the freedom of the sea and the comfort of a tailor-made holiday.
If you are wondering how to get to Raiatea from Tahiti or Bora Bora, don’t miss our dedicated article on how to travel between the Polynesian islands.
Our Recommendation: Combine a Catamaran Cruise with a Land Stay for a Complete Polynesian Experience
Experiencing a catamaran cruise in the Leeward Islands is already an unforgettable adventure on its own. The boat becomes your guiding thread between Raiatea, Tahaa, Huahine, Bora Bora, and Maupiti, giving you the freedom to explore several islands in just a few days. But to fully experience Polynesia, we recommend extending your journey with a land stay.
After sailing, settling on Tahiti or Moorea allows you to embrace the relaxed pace of island life. Tahiti captivates with its markets, waterfalls, and vibrant urban culture, while Moorea offers accessible landscapes, stunning beaches, and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for a few days of rest before continuing your adventure.
Planning a shared catamaran cruise in Polynesia? Find out how much it costs, when to go, how far in advance to book, and whether you need sailing experience. All your questions answered!
For lagoon lovers, the adventure can continue in the Tuamotu Archipelago. Spending a few days in Rangiroa or Fakarava offers a completely different experience: endless atolls, white sands stretching as far as the eye can see, snorkeling and diving in some of the world’s most beautiful sites. Here too, the journey takes on another dimension, with crystal-clear lagoons, legendary passes, and small fishing villages where time seems to stand still.
By combining a private catamaran cruise in the Leeward Islands, a land stay in Tahiti and Moorea, and an extension to the Tuamotus, you create a rich, varied, and perfectly balanced itinerary. Sea, land, and lagoons complement each other, leaving you with the impression of having truly discovered Polynesia in all its diversity.
You can also check out our complete article on travel budgets in Polynesia if you want a clearer idea for your upcoming trip to the Fenua.
You can read more in our full article: planning your trip to Polynesia with the best local travel agency.)
👉 If you have around 20 nights to spare, a fantastic option is to split your trip between land and sea. Spend 10 days on the islands of the Leeward group (Society Islands) — Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora — combining stays on land with a luxury catamaran cruise, as these islands are close enough to easily reach by boat.
For those with even more time, consider adding a Tuamotu atoll such as Rangiroa, perfect for a first diving experience in its vast lagoon, or Fakarava, which will delight nature lovers seeking pristine marine life.
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FAQ – Everything You Need to Know About a Private Catamaran Cruise in Bora Bora, Raiatea, Tahaa
What budget should I plan for a catamaran cruise in French Polynesia?
The price depends on the duration, the season, and the number of passengers. A private cruise with skipper and chef departing from Raiatea is often more affordable than expected, especially when costs are shared among several couples or friends. Unlike a hotel stay, almost everything is included: navigation, meals, crew services, and nautical equipment.
When is the best time to sail in the Leeward Islands? (Bora Bora, Raiatea, Tahaa, Maupiti, Huahine)
Sailing is pleasant all year round, but the most stable weather is from May to October, during the dry season — which is also the high tourist season. From November to April, the climate is wetter, but the lagoons remain stunning, and rates are often more attractive.
How many people can board the catamaran?
The catamaran has four double cabins, comfortably accommodating 8 to 10 passengers. It’s perfect for a group of friends or several couples. It’s also possible to privatize the boat for a single couple seeking a fully romantic and exclusive experience.
What itineraries are possible from Raiatea?
Itineraries are fully customizable. In a short version, you explore the Raiatea and Tahaa lagoons. For a longer tailor-made cruise, you can include Huahine, Bora Bora, and even Maupiti. The skipper always adjusts the route according to weather conditions and your preferences.
What does a private catamaran cruise in Polynesia include?
In general, the price covers the private yacht, the permanent crew (skipper and chef), meals on board, fuel, navigation fees, and nautical equipment (fins, masks, snorkels, paddleboard). The only additional costs are for certain shore excursions or personal purchases.
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👉 Here, we share our best travel experiences, insider tips, favorite spots, and authentic advice to explore French Polynesia with passion 💙 (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, the Marquesas, Tuamotu…)
