A private catamaran cruise through the Leeward Islands

Board in Uturoa, the quiet “capital” of Raiatea. Visit the market for a first taste of the peaceful Raromatai islands before entering the lagoon and heading towards Faraoa Bay in the south-east of the island.

Follow the river by tender or kayak; lush vegetation and mangroves recall the Amazon, making this a real adventure.
Stop by a farmer friend to discover local fruit and vegetables and/or visit the botanical garden.

On the way to motu Nao Nao, visit the impressive Taputapuatea marae — a sacred Maohi site listed as UNESCO World Heritage — with its platforms and coral-block structures. Sailing along the mountains in their many shades of green, with the reef ahead, is a magnificent sight, ending in a small white-sand cove where we drop anchor.

You will not resist the lagoon’s call: excellent snorkelling awaits, or you can walk around the motu by the beach to discover local wildlife, admire the open-ocean view, watch waves breaking in the pass and look towards the distant mountains.
Sailing through the lagoon towards the island’s west coast and Tiano Pass is another chance to enjoy the lush nature; surfers can even catch a session before heading offshore.

We reach MaupitiWe reach Maupiti after a day or a night at sea, depending on the weather. Entering its narrow, winding pass is always an impressive moment not to be missed. Then comes the reward: a channel alongside beautiful motu begins to reveal the splendour of the island and its lagoon. It is a must!

There is no shortage of activities here: swim with resident manta rays, admire giant clams and fish while snorkelling along the drop-offs and reef, or glide by kayak across this immense natural pool. The sandbanks are perfect for relaxing.

For hiking, climbing Mount Tiriano is one of the archipelago’s most extraordinary experiences. You can soon see the ocean and lagoon at the same time as you climb, and the view is simply breathtaking!

Exploring the island by bicycle or on foot is also a pleasure, with splendid lagoon views. The beach is never far away for a refreshing swim. Kite and wing-foiling enthusiasts will be delighted: the playground is spectacular!

Finally, on this authentic island, long protected from tourism, the people are welcoming and full of joie de vivre.

Set off for Bora Boraat first light. After four hours of sailing, we anchor near motu Toopua, close to the pass, to enjoy snorkelling spots rich in rays and colourful fish beside the reef sheltered from the swell.
As we sail south, the Pacific’s pearl reveals its treasures.
Highlights include a sunset walk along Matira’s long beach, drift snorkelling along the island’s south-east point and watching manta rays.

After a half-day passage, return to the island of Taha’a — which shares its lagoon with Raiatea. With a little luck, dolphins will accompany us through the pass before we head north to anchor in the lee of motu Tautau.

The coral garden, where the current carries you between corals as you play hide-and-seek with a myriad of colourful fish, is a snorkelling site not to be missed.

Sunset with a view of Bora is simply fantastic!

Rum lovers and the curious can visit Papi-Pari’s distillery, just across the bay in Tapuamu. Only by tasting its nectars can you decide whether they deserve their medals…

Continue north around Taha’a, bordered by a necklace of highly photogenic motu; this passage has a Tuamotu feel. Visit a pearl farm along the way before anchoring for the final night at motu Céran, one of the Society Islands’ finest anchorages.

Please note that this cruise route is also perfect for kitesurfing and wing foiling. Incredible spots can be found near our favourite anchorages on every island.

If you have four or five extra days, we can sail to Huahine. Its main village, Fare, and its lush, rugged island landscape, with beautiful white-sand bays, are well worth the detour.