This program is for Certified Divers looking to do a half day of diving (approximately 4 hours).. The typical time underwater for the 2 tank dive is 45 minutes for the first dive, with a long surface interval followed by a second dive of approximately 45 minutes. For guests only wanting a one tank, you can go at the same price and may choose to snorkel or swim while the second dive is going. Dives will take place at the following site (weather dependent). 

 

Teavapiti Pass: A drive dive. You will be able to observe white tip lagoon sharks, black tip, grey sharks, schools of jacks fish, barracudas, napoleons and sometimes tuna fish in a depth up to 90 feet. 

 

Please note: The Dive Tour being offered is for Certified Divers only. Certified Divers need to bring their PADI - CMAS Cards or other proof of certification, including a log book. Waiver release forms must be signed and medical conditions must be disclosed. Bring your C-card. Please wear your swimsuit under your clothing and bring a towel, spare t-shirt and sun block.Please take a refresher course before the cruise if you haven’t been diving in over a year. Divers 75 years of age or older must present a medical certificate and diving insurance.

 

              

 

A scenic, 15-minute drive will bring you to the pier where you’ll take a boat ride out to Raiatea’s reef. The sound of waves breaking on the reef and the spectacular palette of colors surrounding you are pure magic from the moment you arrive at Anapa Pearl Farm. Visit a small pearl station built over the lagoon, where your guide will unveil all the secrets of Tahiti’s mysterious black pearl. Witness the pearl harvest, and see how a black pearl is cultured. You’ll see the grafter performing the “operation” on the pearl. This is a fascinating look at one of nature’s unique and most beautiful gifts. Seeing these rare pearl oysters during their underwater slumber is a truly unforgettable experience. Don’t miss snorkeling on Raiatea’s stunning reef—a true coral garden filled with a large variety of tropical fish. After your time in the water, relax while drinking fresh fruit juice and enjoy the view of Bora Bora rising above the reef.

 

Please note: This unique experience is limited to 16 guests. Wear your swimsuit under a cover-up and bring sunscreen and a towel from the ship. There are no restroom stops. There is a small boutique at the pearl farm; cash and credit cards are accepted.  If you want the opportunity to snorkel a mask and snorkel will be provided, however we recommend you bring your own for maximum comfort. Biodegradable sun protection is recommended since most sunscreens contain substances that are extremely harmful to the marine ecosystem. For your own safety and to preserve the environment, please respect reef etiquette when snorkeling and do not touch or step on the coral reef.  

               

Coral Garden Drift Snorkel
Approximately 3.5 hours
Activity Level: Moderate
 
Ride by covered motorized boat to the west coast of Tahaa to discover the beauty of the island. Put on your water shoes to leave the boat and walk across an uninhabited motu (islet) off the coast. Start your snorkeling experience from the other side of the motu. Your guide will lead you as the current carries you along over shallow corals. There’s no stopping along the way through the shallow lagoon and the drift will be done up to 3 times (as time allows). An alternate site may be used depending on the current and water level. The area teems with a spectacular variety of tropical fish and amazing corals.  The richness of this coral garden is unique in Polynesia!
 
Please note: To cross the motu and reach the starting point of the drift snorkeling adventure, wear aqua shoes or similar shoes you do not mind getting wet.  Participants must be extremely comfortable in the water as snorkeling is done over very shallow water through a current that can be really strong. Itinerary and stops may be reduced or may alternate dependent upon weather conditions. For your own safety and to help preserve the environment, when snorkeling, do not touch or step on coral. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing, water shoes, a rash guard or t-shirt, biodegradable sunscreen, and a hat. Bring water and a towel. Bring your own snorkel gear. Booking and participating on this tour will not conflict with your Motu Day.  Snorkeling is done over very shallow water through a current that can be very strong.
 
                 

 

 

 

Board a motorized Polynesian outrigger canoe and glide on deep blue waters towards the eastern coast of the island. This tour will take you upstream on the only navigable river in the Society Islands — the Faaroa River. Along the way, discover the lush vegetation of a tropical forest with wild hibiscus purau trees, bamboo groves, Tahitian chestnut trees, and much more. Departing from the river, you will be taken to a small motu, or islet, where you will have time to enjoy the water and relax in the sun.

 

Please note: Wear your bathing suit under shorts and a t-shirt. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a towel. River access is sometimes obstructed, dependent on water level, and floating trees, the canoe will ride as deep as possible however time in the river cannot be guaranteed. Biodegradable sun protection is recommended since most sunscreens contain substances that are extremely harmful to the marine ecosystem. 

 

                  

 

Discover the pristine natural beauty of Raiatea along the same route as New Zealand’s Maohi settlers took during this unique kayak adventure on the Faaroa River. Depart the pier and drive to the Faaroa River, the only navigable river in French Polynesia. Upon arrival, you will receive your safety instructions and equipment and then set out in your kayak. Led by your guide, you will begin your tour by paddling gently along the river, beginning in the fjord-like inlet on Raiatea known as the Faaroa Gorge.  You will continue up the scenic Faaroa River where you will find the steep river walls lush with jungle foliage and home to diverse species of birds and wild hibiscus purau trees along the sheer cliffs of the rainforest.  Following your tour, you will reboard your vehicle for the return drive to the pier and ship. This is truly a peaceful yet active way to appreciate Raiatea’s beauty.

 

Please note: This active tour includes approximately 1.75 hours of paddling. Guests must know how to swim and be in good physical condition. Pregnant women and guests with neck or back problems will not be permitted to participate on this tour. Wear your swimsuit under a cover-up with reef shoes and bring biodegradable sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent. Kayaks are doubles and will be shared. Children must be at least 12 years old and accompanied by a parent. The maximum weight to participate on this tour is 260 pounds per person. This is a guided tour; you will be required to follow your guide and wear your life jacket. A waterproof bag will be available onboard the kayak to store your small items. 

 

             

 

Meet your guide for an informative & intimate tour by minibus. Drive towards the south of Raiatea. Along the east coast of the island, past the small village of Avera, you will discover the world of pearl farming, visit a little local farmer and appreciate the process of one of the main resources of French Polynesia, a little shopping may be done here (cash only!) Continuing along the Faaroa River you will then reach the district of OPOA where the unique UNESCO World Heritage Site Marae Taputapuātea is located. This site is at the center of the ‘Polynesian Triangle,’ a vast portion of the Pacific Ocean, dotted with islands, and the last part of the globe to be settled by humans. The property includes two forested valleys, a portion of lagoon and coral reef and a strip of open ocean. At the heart of the property is the Taputapuātea Marae complex, a political, ceremonial and funerary center. As the ancestral homeland of Polynesian culture, Taputapuātea is of outstanding significance for people throughout the whole of Polynesia, for the way it symbolizes their origins, connects them with ancestors and as an expression of their spirituality. Your visit here will include a tour around the main platform and allow you to learn a bit more about this exceptional testimony to 1,000 years of Mā'ohi civilization. Before heading back to the pier, your tour will include a visit to the Botanical Garden for an in-depth walk through the local plants.
 
Please note: Tours operate mainly on paved road, however some road conditions may be bumpy, so those with bad backs, pregnant women or persons who suffer from motion sickness or vertigo should be advised accordingly, multiple buses for the same tour may be used, friends or families should present themselves together upon departure. Wear comfortable attire including non-slippery shoes, carry a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent and a reusable water bottle filled up! Please carry Credit Card &/or cash if you wish to purchase souvenirs. All sensitive belongings should be carried with caution. Expensive jewelry or clothing are not recommended on tour. Guests should not leave their belongings unattended.
 
              

 

 

 

               

 

This program is for the guest who wants to experience SCUBA diving for the first time, or for the guest with no dive certification. You will have a great experience, and receive lots of personal attention. Dives will take place at the following site (weather dependent). 

 

Teavapiti Pass: A drive dive. You will be able to observe white tip lagoon sharks, black tip, grey sharks, schools of jacks fish, barracudas, napoleons and sometimes tuna fish in a depth up to 18 feet.  

 

Please note: Wear your swimsuit under your clothing and bring a towel. Waiver release form must be signed and medical conditions must be disclosed. Scuba equipment is provided. Divers 75 years of age or older must present a medical certificate and diving insurance.

 

              

 

 

                

Discover the fabulous underwater world of Bora Bora in a fun and exciting adventure, the AquaSafari.  Go down 10 feet of water, where you will walk surrounded by hundreds of tropical fish. Understand why Bora Bora’s spectacular lagoon is considered to be among the most beautiful in existence today during this unique underwater adventure. You will depart the pier by boat where your certified diving instructor will explain your safety and diving instructions, and help you put on your helmet. Your head will remain dry inside the helmet; you can even wear your glasses as you freely maneuver about in total security just a few feet below the surface. While you are connected to the boat by an air hose, you can freely walk underwater and enjoy the coral formation around you. Plastic shoes, wet suits, masks and snorkels will be available, as there will be time for snorkeling while the other guests take their underwater walk. No swimming or diving experience is required. 

 

 

 

Discover the fabulous underwater world of Bora Bora in a fun and exciting adventure, the AquaSafari.  Go down 10 feet of water, where you will walk surrounded by hundreds of tropical fish. Understand why Bora Bora’s spectacular lagoon is considered to be among the most beautiful in existence today during this unique underwater adventure. You will depart the pier by boat where your certified diving instructor will explain your safety and diving instructions, and help you put on your helmet. Your head will remain dry inside the helmet; you can even wear your glasses as you freely maneuver about in total security just a few feet below the surface. While you are connected to the boat by an air hose, you can freely walk underwater and enjoy the coral formation around you. Plastic shoes, wet suits, masks and snorkels will be available, as there will be time for snorkeling while the other guests take their underwater walk. No swimming or diving experience is required.