Port
Raiatea, Society Islands, French Polynesia
Activity Level
Moderate
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At
$139.95
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
Board a boat and glide over the tranquil lagoon toward Raiatea's sister island -- Taha'a. Ancient legend says that Raiatea and Taha'a were originally one island until an enraged creature broke through the surface of the earth and cut the island in two to create Raiatea and Taha'a.
Upon arrival on Taha'a, board a 4-wheel-drive vehicle and head to the valleys and mountains inland. Your guide will point out sights along the way. You'll stop at a beautiful viewpoint and learn about the traditional uses of local plants and trees. Sample various local fruits and learn some tamure -- typical Tahitian dancing.
The island of Taha'a is often called "the Vanilla Island," and you will learn about this fragrant spice while visiting a small family-owned vanilla plantation.
You will also visit a black pearl farm and discover how these treasures of the sea are raised and harvested. These small cottage industries are part of this small island's economic structure.
Finally, board a motorized outrigger canoe for an enjoyable ride across the turquoise waters of Taha'a's lagoon to a motu (islet) for some snorkeling.
Notes:
The boat is not wheelchair accessible. Not advisable for guests with mobility limitations. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing; bring a towel, reef-safe/biodegradable sunscreen, light clothing to act as a full cover-up for further protection from the sun, and a hat. Swim at your own risk. Bring insect repellent. Participants must know how to swim and be comfortable wearing snorkel gear, being in deep water, and coping with occasional currents. Expensive clothing or jewelry should not be worn on tour. Do not touch or step on the coral. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed. Depth of water is not guaranteed due to currents and sea level variation. Sailing on board a boat requires vigilance; participants must be physically and mentally alert to the boating environment and fit enough to negotiate steps and the vessel layout. The boat may be wet; personal belongings and devices should be stored with caution. Tour operates rain or shine. No weather-related refunds are offered; however, the tour may be canceled by the operator in the event of extremely bad weather or unsuitable conditions. Itinerary may vary dependent upon weather and sea conditions.