The 118 islands of French Polynesia unfold in layers of culture and natural beauty, connected by the spiritual concept of mana (vital force) that links Tahiti to the distant Marquesas. This destination rewards visitors who seek both cultural immersion and marine exploration, from vibrant reefs to lush inland valleys. Cruising is a convenient way to experience multiple islands while unpacking only once, and it’s especially appealing across this semi-autonomous French territory that spans nearly 2 million square miles of ocean and includes five distinct archipelagos.
There are many ways to cruise French Polynesia to match different travel styles. For a classic, authentic experience, consider the passenger freighter Aranui 5. Launched in 2015 with just 103 cabins, the vessel combines cargo service and passenger travel, delivering supplies—from food to appliances—to remote communities while offering 12-day journeys that visit the Marquesas, Tuamotu, Society and Austral islands. Onboard, passengers get a window into everyday island life as well as opportunities to explore remote destinations.
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For travelers preferring a more luxurious small-ship experience, Paul Gauguin Cruises offers several week-long itineraries that visit islands such as Huahine, Taha‘a and Bora Bora on seven-night sailings from Tahiti. The line’s longer 14-night voyages reach farther islands like Fakarava in the Tuamotu Archipelago and Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa in the Marquesas, where guests can snorkel in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and explore ancient archaeological sites in valleys such as Taipivai.
Windstar Cruises, which has sailed these waters for more than three decades, operates seven- and 14-day itineraries from Papeete aboard the 314-passenger Star Breeze. Oceania Cruises also includes French Polynesia on select itineraries; for example, in 2025 the line planned an 18-day sailing from Los Angeles to Papeete aboard the 670-passenger Nautica, with overnight stays in Bora Bora and Papeete and calls to Moorea and Raiatea. Other Oceania offerings include a 10-day Tahitian Legends round-trip from Papeete that visits Bora Bora, Moorea, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa and Raiatea. Choosing which islands to prioritize—each with its own character and attractions—can be the most delightful challenge of a Tahitian trip.
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Lodging
Hilton Hotel Tahiti
Located conveniently near the airport on Tahiti, the newer Hilton Hotel Tahiti (opened 2021) features a striking pool and pool bar with views toward Moorea. Multiple on-site restaurants serve Tahitian specialties—poisson cru is a local must—along with Southeast Asian dishes, sushi and steaks. A good option for travelers seeking modern amenities and easy access to transport.
Auae Faaa, Papeete,
French Polynesia
$$$$
InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa
A short drive from the airport, this long-established oceanfront resort has been a Tahitian icon since 1974. The property’s 246 guestrooms include overwater bungalows overlooking a sheltered lagoon and gardens filled with flowering tropical plants.
PK7, Fa‘a‘ā, French
Polynesia
$$$$
Te Moana Tahiti Resort
This 120-room resort is a strong mid-range choice; opt for an oceanfront room to enjoy the infinity pool, fitness center and a manmade lagoon with small motus that can be rented for private retreats.
Puna‘auia, French
Polynesia
$$$
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Dining
Kozy Restaurant
Led by Polynesian chef Kirahu Chaves, trained in France, Kozy offers refined dishes that showcase tropical ingredients prepared with French technique. Locals flock to this understated spot; the tuna tataki with black garlic and ponzu is a highlight.
129 Rue Dumont
d’Urville, Papeete, French
Polynesia
$$–$$$
L’O à la Bouche
A refined dining destination in Papeete, L’O à la Bouche presents seafood and meat dishes that blend French culinary traditions with Polynesian flavors—think items such as foie gras with Tahitian vanilla—delivered in an elegant setting.
BP 343 Papeete, French
Polynesia
$$
Tahiti La Plage Restaurant & Beach Bar
Set on Sapinus Bay, this open-air restaurant sits at the edge of a black-sand beach with ocean views and glimpses of Moorea. The menu ranges from healthy bowls and burgers to grilled lobster and steaks, making it a relaxed choice for daytime or sunset dining.
Restaurant le Coco’s,
PK 13,200, Puna‘auia,
French Polynesia
$$–$$$
Info to Go
Tahiti Fa‘a‘ā International Airport in Papeete is the only international gateway to French Polynesia, with direct flights from several countries. Domestic carriers such as Air Tahiti Nui, Air Moana and Tahiti Nui Helicopters, along with charter services, connect travelers to the archipelagos; note that some remote islands receive only a few small passenger flights per week. Most cruise ships dock in Papeete, the cosmopolitan capital where travelers can arrange onward island excursions and cultural experiences.