Enjoy a luxurious boating break in the Tahitian islands

Thursday, 12 January 2012 10:24 AM

If you are looking for a holiday that promises unrivalled luxury, stunning surroundings and the chance to try some exciting new activities, a boating trip around the Tahitian Leeward Islands will tick all your boxes. Here's a brief guide to what you can expect.

Boat charters are one of the best ways in which to explore the South Pacific archipelago, as they give you the opportunity to travel between the islands and experience a variety of different sights and sounds.

Take control of your own vessel and you will be able to move around as you please, dropping anchor where and when you want to. If, on the other hand, you would prefer not to lift a finger, crewed yachting holidays in the South Pacific are likely to be ideal.

On such a break, you can really concentrate on relaxing, while an experienced skipper manoeuvres the boat from place to place, stopping off at the destinations of your choice.

Should you be keen to get in the water and go snorkelling, you will discover all the equipment you require is provided onboard, while scuba diving is a popular pastime among many holidaymakers here.

When you dip your head beneath the surface, you will quickly understand why, with colourful fish darting about between the corals. Certain spots in this region are renowned for their larger marine life, such as stingrays and manta rays, so if you are keen to swim with these gentle giants, there is no better place to do so.

Of course, there are plenty of attractions on land as well as in the water, so make sure you leave time to explore just a few of these verdant isles.

To learn more about Polynesian culture, be sure to stop at Raiatea, which is often referred to as the Sacred Island. It was once the centre of religion and culture among the Marae civilisation and one of the best-preserved sites relating to these ancient people can be found on the isle.

Another unique attraction on Raiatea is the Faaroa River, the only navigable river in Polynesia. An excellent way to fully appreciate it is to hire a canoe and paddle further upstream, admiring the forest as you go.

Tahaa is one of Tahiti's little gems and the island in the shape of a flower is bound to be a highlight of any boating holiday in the area.

Known for its vanilla plantations, this is a great place to discover more about how Tahitians make a living nowadays, by growing crops such as vanilla and watermelons. Take a tour of one of the plantations and you will see why Tahaa's other name is the Vanilla Island.

Bora Bora is another stop you should not miss during your break, especially if you are enjoying the trip with a loved one. It is called the Romantic Island due to its incredibly picturesque beaches, lagoons and forests.

If you would like to do a little more than simply soak up the sun on one of its stretches of pristine sand, why not join a 4x4 tour that will take you into the interior of the isle?

As you wind your way up forest-lined roads, you will reach viewpoints that give you spectacular vistas across the island and out to sea. Make sure you have your camera handy to take a few holiday snaps.

So, whether you are considering powerboat holidays or yacht charters, the Tahitian Leeward Islands are a memorable destination to explore in total luxury.
 

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