Luxury Diving Holidays in French Polynesia

Whilst the Society Islands offer incredible scenery and luxury hotels, for the best dive sites in French Polynesia, divers must head to the Tuamotus. The islands are a stark contrast to the Society islands, consisting of close to 80 low-lying coralline islands and atolls forming the largest chain of atolls in the world. It is a paradise both above and below the waves, with glistening lagoons and marine life aplenty. Most of the diving in the Tuamotus takes place in atoll passes, where currents can be strong and consequently exciting pelagic life can be seen. In Tikehau, divers can expect spectacular fish life in the Tuheiava Pass as well as a manta cleaning station adjacent to an old derelict pearl farm. The Tiputa Pass in Rangiroa is famous for its resident pod of common bottlenose dolphins, who are both playful and inquisitive. Add to this multiple shark species (hammerhead, grey, whitetip, blacktip and tiger), schooling jackfish and barracuda...and it is easy to see why it makes it into the top 10 dive sites in the world. Arguably the jewel in the crown of French Polynesia diving can be found at Fakarava, a remote and underdeveloped atoll. Walls of over 200 grey reef sharks can be seen in the passes, in little current with the backdrop of pristine hard coral gardens. 

Beyond the Reef

An island-hopping diving holiday to French Polynesia is naturally water focused, however there are plenty of adventures to be had on land across the islands. Moorea, the island of pineapples, has a number of excellent hikes exploring trails across the valleys and peaks, as does Tahiti. French Polynesia is bursting with culture and we can put together a range of immersive experiences including joining a local for the day, catching fish from an outrigger to make the traditional dish 'Poisson Cru', with key ingredients being lime juice and creamy coconut milk.

For nature lovers, visit Bird Island in Tikehau: a sanctuary for many marine bird species. Snorkelling is excellent throughout the islands, a particular favourite being Big Lagoon in Rangiroa for its coral gardens and pink sand beaches. We know the inside track and are ready to help put together a bucket list trip exploring these magical South Pacific islands.