9 Reasons to Travel to French Polynesia

Bora Bora’s blue lagoon and overwater bungalows. Moorea’s emerald peaks and valleys. Rangiroa’s black pearls. Vanilla farms on Raiatea. Tikis and cultural encounters on Nuku Niva. Legendary, exotic and unimaginably beautiful, French Polynesia is home to some of the most remote and desirable islands in the world. Our French Polynesia cruises bring you the chance to discover the best of the islands and fill your days with lagoon cruises, underwater discoveries, ukulele rhythms and lingering sunsets. If you’re in need of further convincing, read on for the top reasons to travel to French Polynesia and why a voyage with Oceania Cruises is the best way.

1. The natural beauty. The vivid turquoise lagoons you associate with the paradise of Bora Bora are even more stunning in real life. Many of our French Polynesia cruises feature an overnight stay in Bora Bora so you have even more time to soak in the beauty of the lagoon. Moorea and Rangiroa also boast gorgeous lagoons that you can explore on a glass-bottom boat tour, a catamaran cruise or snorkeling adventure. The lush green peaks and valleys of the islands offer the chance for off-road safaris, breathtaking panoramic views, an inside look at the local life and more.
2. A bucket list destination. Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea and other islands within French Polynesia have become top bucket list destinations for many seasoned travelers. Like going on an African safari or visiting Machu Picchu or Taj Mahal, exploring French Polynesia is an experience that passionate travelers just don’t want to miss. A cruise is the best way to make the most of your time in this blissful part of the world.
3. The unique culture. Many of the islands have preserved and honor their traditional way of life through language, stories, dances, food, ceremonies, artisanal crafts and pastimes such as outrigger canoe races. Our voyages invite you to meet locals and experience the culture and heritage of these unique islands. A few of our favorite cultural excursions are Huahine’s Sacred Sites & Cultural Walk tour, Nuku Hiva’s Visit to Taipivai Valley and Raiatea’s Opoa & Taputapuatea adventure.

4. Incredible marine life. The turquoise blue waters are home to an abundance of colorful tropical fish and sea creatures. You’re likely to spot clown fish, emperor angelfish, yellow Moorish idols, blue parrotfish, graceful eagle rays, spinner and bottlenose dolphins and more. Experienced divers and novice snorkelers alike will be delighted.
5. The legacy of creativity. French Polynesia has drawn its fair share of explorers, writers and artists over the centuries and has inspired generations of artists and writers such as Paul Gauguin, Henri Matisse and Herman Melville. Even so, perhaps some of the most remarkable forms of creativity originated on the islands themselves – you’ll discover a rich heritage of artistry across French Polynesia. Weaving, woodcarving, textile-making, jewelry-making and tattooing are all rooted in the traditions of ancient ancestors and reveal stories about the islanders’ way of life and enduring relationship with nature.
6. Island flavors. Polynesian cuisine features a bevy of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, root vegetables and French culinary influences. You’ll have the chance to explore local markets, become a connoisseur of poisson cru, the Tahitian national dish; and enjoy an array of traditional dishes such as po’e, a Polynesian fruit pudding typically made with banana and brown sugar.
7. Traveling to French Polynesia is easier than you think. From the West Coast of the United States, an 8-hour nonstop flight brings you to this exotic corner of the world that will leave you with lifelong memories.
8. Unpack once. Exploring French Polynesia is made even more blissful and carefree when you take a voyage with Oceania Cruises. We take care of the details so you can soak up every moment of your journey in paradise.
9. Re-inspired Nautica. Even better, in 2024 our completely re-inspired Nautica will be charting the best of French Polynesia. Beautifully reimagined from stem to stern, Nautica spends the entire season in the beautiful South Pacific, so you can choose from several 10-day roundtrip Papeete cruises that depart beginning in January of 2024.

What are you waiting for? Start planning your dream voyage to French Polynesia.