Agent Specializing in Tahiti and French Polynesia

Windstar Cruise Ships in French Polynesia

French Polynesia and the tropical isles of Bora Bora is the ultimate bucket list destination, however, if you haven’t yet been, it feels like such an exotic and far off place…where do you even start? With a travel agent in your back pocket, and a partner like Windstar, Paul Gauguin, or Ponant, it couldn’t be easier, more doable, or more feasible.

French Polynesia might be a 9-hour nonstop flight from SFO or LAX, but it’s still in the Hawaiian time zone, and only a 4-hour time difference from Utah!? Doesn’t that suddenly make Tahiti and Bora Bora feel so much closer that you thought!? For those with small kids back at home that need constant communication, or those who simply hate jetlag, this is a super exotic and coveted travel destination, that really doesn’t seem that far away, after all.

But once you decide to go for it, how could you ever pick just one or two islands to visit…the most popular being Bora Bora or Moorea!? With Windstar Cruises, you don’t have to choose. You can visit a new island every day, all in 7-14 days. Unpack once, and see it all! Your small-ship sailing yacht will travel at night, taking you to a new and tropical island, day after day.

And to those of you with the over water bungalow experience on your bucket list, we can still make that happen; you can arrive early for a pre-cruise over water bungalow stay in Moorea, or opt for over water bungalow experience in Bora Bora, on the ship’s overnight there...all water shuttles or island hopping flights conveniently included! We’ve thought of everything, of course.  

1. The Small Ship Experience

Windstar's ships are significantly smaller than traditional cruise ships, with a capacity of 148 to 312 guests. This "yacht-style" cruising provides a more personalized and less crowded atmosphere. The size of the ships allows them to navigate into secluded bays and lagoons that are inaccessible to larger vessels, bringing you closer to the heart of the islands.

With fewer passengers, you'll feel like you're on a private yacht. The crew-to-passenger ratio is high, leading to attentive and personalized service. Crew members often remember your name and preferences.

Windstar often has an open bridge policy, where guests can visit the bridge, meet the captain and officers, and learn about the navigation and route, fostering a sense of adventure and connection to the journey.

2. Immersive and Authentic Itineraries

Windstar's French Polynesia cruises are designed to immerse you in the local culture and natural beauty of the islands.

• Overnight stays: Many itineraries include overnight stays in iconic locations like Bora Bora and Moorea, allowing you to experience the islands' vibrant nightlife and stunning sunsets.
• Signature events: Windstar offers exclusive, complimentary "Destination Discovery Events." A highlight is the private island beach party, often featuring a barbecue feast, tropical drinks, and a traditional Polynesian fire dance.
• Local engagement: The cruises often include opportunities to engage with the local culture, such as onboard lecturers who share insights on Polynesian history and traditions, or the chance to meet local artisans and musicians.

3. Onboard Amenities and Activities

While the focus is on the destination, the onboard experience is luxurious and well-appointed.

• Watersports platform: A signature feature of Windstar's ships is the watersports platform at the stern. When the ship is anchored in a calm lagoon, this platform lowers to the water, giving you direct access for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
• Gourmet dining: Dining on a Windstar cruise is a highlight, with open-seating and a variety of options from casual buffets to specialty restaurants. Menus often feature locally sourced ingredients and regional dishes. You can even dine under the stars at the romantic Candles restaurant.
• Relaxed and casual atmosphere: There are no formal nights on a Windstar cruise, allowing for a comfortable and relaxed dress code. The onboard entertainment is low-key, focusing on live music and local performances.4. Comprehensive French Polynesia Exploration

Windstar offers various itineraries to suit different travel styles and time frames.

Dreams of Tahiti: The most popular 7-day voyage that visits the main Society Islands, including Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, Raiatea, and Huahine.

Longer voyages: For a more in-depth exploration, you can choose longer itineraries like the 10-day "Tahiti & the Tuamotu Islands" or the 14-day "Tahitian Treasures & Magnificent Marquesas" which venture to more remote and less-visited archipelagos.

When you're ready to venture to French Polynesia, please let us help you! Our personal experience, advice, and travel planning help is completely free to you, and we will ensure your arrangements are flawless, you are well-prepared and educated for an incredible destination vacation, and you will surely have your best travel experience yet.