Bora Bora Yacht Charter Guide

It is no surprise that the reputation of this French Polynesia beauty precedes it, as Bora Bora’s landscape is the stuff of fairytales. Dominated by the majestic Mount Otemanu and ringed by a sheltered lagoon, it’s hard to believe a place so perfect really exists until you see it with your own eyes. But exist it does, and there is no better way to explore this paradise island’s coves, coral gardens, and cliffs than on a superyacht charter. As you cruise the pristine waters, spot visiting humpback whales, then anchor up and dive colorful coral landscapes in the company of playful manta rays, sharks, and Napoleon wrasses. The calm waters are ideal for all types of watersports, from jet skis to stand-up paddleboarding, making Bora Bora the perfect place to test your charter yacht’s collection of water toys. There is just as much to offer on land. Hike amongst the hibiscus, past ancient villages to reach the volcanic summit of Mount Pahia, then spend time recovering in a tranquil Polynesian spa. Or take a 4X4 tour of the island before visiting boutique shops to buy local oils, vanilla, and black pearls. Enjoy the understated luxury of the exclusive resorts which dot the coastline, providing a unique view of the marine life from their traditional floating huts, and offering world-class dining in waterside restaurants. Welcome to the South Pacific – one of the last truly unspoiled destinations.

Best Time To Visit: The best time of year to visit French Polynesia is between May and October.

Key Cruising Areas: Bora Bora and its surrounding islets can be incorporated into a cruise of the beautiful Society Islands, which include Tahiti, Taha’a, and Mooreland Raiatea.

Don’t Miss: A bird’s eye view of this picturesque island. A scenic helicopter tour is the best way to appreciate the staggering cliffs of Mount Otemanu and the ever-changing blue tones of the island’s lagoon. Romantics can even incorporate a flyby of nearby Tupai island, which is shaped like a heart.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining: The numerous resort restaurants all offer fine dining, so there is no shortage of choices. Excellent sail-up options include Maikai Bora Bora Marina and Yacht Club, and their famous Bloody Marys. For fine dining at its best, The Lagoon by Jean-Georges at St Regis Bora Bora serves world-class Asian-French fusion and boasts an unmatched view of the island. 

Best Local Dish: Local cuisine is said to be a fusion of French and Asian flavors, coupled with exotic island ingredients. Try Poisson cru, French Polynesia’s answer to ceviche: a delicious dish made from raw tuna, marinated in lime juice and coconut milk.

Local Culture: Enjoy a private performance from a local dance group on the deck of your superyacht, where the rich cultural history of the islands will be expressed in four different dance types.

Best Beach: The most popular public beach on Bora Bora is Matira Beach, thanks to its long stretch of bright white sand and excellent swimming conditions. However, for a slice of your own private paradise, cruise instead to a deserted beach on one of the nearby small islands, known locally as ‘motu’.

IYC recommends: Spot humpback whales from the deck of your superyacht. These majestic creatures are a common sight between August and October when females come to the area to give birth.