Yacht Charter French Polynesia
Yacht charter French Polynesia opens a vast ocean territory of 118 islands and atolls scattered across an area of the South Pacific as large as Western Europe – from the volcanic spires of the Society Islands and the luminous lagoon of Bora Bora to the untouched coral rings of the Tuamotus, where drift dives through Fakarava’s south pass deliver encounters with hundreds of grey reef sharks in gin-clear water. Over 25 charter yachts cruise French Polynesian waters, including 68′–98′ motor yachts suited to the inter-island passages of the Leeward chain, 100′+ superyachts equipped for blue-water crossings to the Marquesas, and 55′+ luxury catamarans whose shallow drafts navigate the reef passes and lagoon channels that define this cruising ground.
May to October is peak season – dry south-east trades, 26–29°C water, outstanding visibility, and humpback whales in the passes. November to April brings warmer water, tropical lushness, and gentler pricing. Daily rates start from approximately $2,500/day on a catamaran, climbing to $9,000+/day on a superyacht, with no VAT on charter fees for international visitors and 30–35% APA for fuel, provisions, and atoll-entry fees. French Polynesia’s extraordinary promise is the range of experiences within a single charter season – volcanic peaks, shark-filled passes, sacred Polynesian temples, vanilla-scented atolls, and some of the warmest hospitality in the Pacific, all connected by trade-wind sailing across a lagoon-studded ocean of impossible blue.
Explore French Polynesia
Explore inter-island logistics, atoll-pass timing, and the finest anchorages across five archipelagoes in our comprehensive French Polynesia destination guide.
Browse curated French Polynesia charter itineraries linking Tahiti, Moorea, the Leeward Islands, and the remote Tuamotu atolls.
The grid above showcases 25+ yachts available for French Polynesia charters – motor yachts from 68′, superyachts over 100′, and catamarans from 55′. Weekly rates start from approximately $17,500. Narrow your search by type, guest capacity, length, or rate, then speak with Boatcrowd’s charter specialists for inter-island passage planning, atoll permits, and bespoke itinerary design across the Society Islands, Tuamotus, and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book a French Polynesia charter?
For the peak May–October dry season, six to nine months’ lead time is strongly recommended, with July–August the most competitive window due to European holiday demand and the Heiva festival. Whale-watching season (August–October) also fills early. The November–April wet season offers excellent diving, warmer water, and softer rates, and can often be arranged four to five months ahead.
What is included in the charter price?
The base rate covers the yacht, professional crew, insurance, and standard on-board equipment including snorkelling gear and kayaks. Fuel, provisions, beverages, harbour and atoll-entry fees, and any dive excursions are funded through the APA (30–35% of the charter fee). French Polynesia charges no VAT on charter fees for international visitors. Any unspent APA is refunded at the end of the voyage.
Can I combine the Society Islands with the Tuamotus?
Yes – though the Tuamotus lie roughly 200 nautical miles north-east of Tahiti, the passage is straightforward for motor yachts and larger catamarans. The reward is some of the world’s most pristine drift diving at Rangiroa and Fakarava, plus deserted motu camping and lagoon fishing. Your Boatcrowd broker advises on passage timing, fuel logistics, and the best atolls for your interests.
How many guests can a yacht accommodate?
Catamarans in the 55′–65′ range typically sleep six to eight guests in three to four cabins, while motor yachts of 80′–98′ accommodate eight to ten in four to five staterooms. Superyachts above 100′ can host ten to twelve with dedicated crew quarters. Your Boatcrowd broker matches the right vessel layout and crew-to-guest ratio to your group’s size and preferences.