Shared cruises may require a minimum number of guests.
Price may vary depending on the cabin type, occupancy and cruise date.
Reservations are subjected to acceptance after availability checks. In case, the selected cruise is not available we will contact you with similar offers.
Explore Fakarava, Rangiroa and remote motus of the Tuamotu Archipelago on a flexible 10–11 day sailing and diving journey.
The Tuamotu Archipelago in French Polynesia is a vast chain of atolls scattered across the Pacific, where turquoise lagoons meet coral passes alive with marine life. Aboard a Fountaine Pajot Eleuthera 60 catamaran, this itinerary offers a balance of diving, sailing and island exploration, always adapting to the weather and ocean conditions to make the most of each day.
While the exact route may vary, highlights often include Fakarava, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its legendary Garuae and Tumakohua passes, where divers encounter grey reef sharks, schools of barracuda, mantas and vibrant coral gardens. Another possible stop is Rangiroa, one of the world’s largest atolls, famous for its wild dolphin encounters and wine produced in the middle of a lagoon.
In between dives, the voyage allows time to explore pristine motus fringed with coconut palms, visit small pearl farms, enjoy beach barbecues and discover Polynesian traditions on shore. Snorkelers can drift through shallow coral gardens, while those seeking tranquility can simply relax on deck or swim in the lagoons’ crystal-clear waters.
Every evening unfolds differently: sometimes anchoring in deserted coves where the only light comes from the stars, sometimes near small villages where the rhythm of Polynesian life flows gently. The flexible sailing plan ensures safety and comfort, while creating space for serendipitous discoveries that make each cruise unique.
This Tuamotu sailing itinerary is not a fixed schedule, but an invitation to explore one of the most pristine marine environments on earth — where the journey itself is the destination.
Itinerary
Day1
Arrival in Fakarava
Embark in Rotoava, Fakarava, and settle into your cabin aboard the Eleuthera 60 catamaran. After a welcome briefing, enjoy your first swim in the lagoon and a sunset dinner under Polynesian skies.
Day2
Fakarava North Pass (Garuae)
Morning dives in the Garuae Pass, one of the world’s most famous drift dives, home to schools of barracuda, napoleon wrasse and reef sharks. Afternoon beach time on a quiet motu. (Where is the best drift dive in Polynesia? Fakarava North is among the top.)
Day3
Toau Atoll Exploration
Sail to Toau Atoll, known for its pristine lagoon and traditional Polynesian hospitality. Diving here often reveals grey reef sharks and manta rays, while snorkelers enjoy shallow coral gardens. Evening barbecue on the beach.
Day4
Kauehi Atoll & Coral Gardens
Anchor in Kauehi, a tranquil atoll with few inhabitants. Spend the day diving its colorful coral gardens or visiting the small local village for a glimpse of Tuamotu daily life.
Day5
Aratika Atoll Adventure
Sail to Aratika, a remote atoll with crystal-clear passes. Divers often spot eagle rays and vibrant reef fish, while non-divers can kayak through the lagoon or explore deserted motus.
Day6
South Fakarava (Tumakohua Pass)
Return to Fakarava South Pass, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, famous for the “Wall of Sharks.” Divers encounter hundreds of grey reef sharks, while snorkelers drift over soft corals and colorful reef life.
Day7
Raraka Atoll Discovery
Morning sail to Raraka, one of the most untouched atolls. Enjoy dives in little-explored sites, then visit the small village or walk along deserted beaches fringed with palm trees.
Day8
Rangiroa Extension (optional)
Depending on weather and group, sail toward Rangiroa, the second largest atoll in the world. Its Tiputa Pass is known for wild dolphin encounters. Evening at anchor in the vast lagoon.
Day9
Drift Diving & Motu Exploration
Full day of drift dives or snorkeling in passes rich with sharks, groupers and rays. Non-divers can enjoy paddleboarding or guided walks on coral motus, learning about pearl farming.
Day10
Return toward Fakarava
Begin the sail back to Fakarava, with stops for final dives in calm lagoons. Sunset aperitif on deck and farewell dinner under the stars.
Day 11 – Disembarkation in Fakarava
After breakfast, disembark in Rotoava, Fakarava. Transfers to the airport connect with flights to Tahiti (Papeete). Guests leave with memories of one of the most extraordinary diving cruises in the world.
Cruise price details
Price per person
€ 6050
Accomodation on selected shared cabin, check out single use and details
Cabin type
Front Cabin
Double cabin
cabin capacity
double bed
private bathroom
air conditioning
Price/person
Price may vary depending on the cruise date.
Vip Cabin
Rear Double cabin
cabin capacity
double bed
private bathroom
air conditioning
Price/person
Price may vary depending on the cruise date.
Twin cabin
Rear Twin Cabin
cabin capacity
private bathroom
Price/person
Price may vary depending on the cruise date.
Included in the price
Accommodation in double cabin with private bathroom
Professional crew with skipper, hostess and diving instructor
Full board with meals prepared on board
Water, tea and coffee during the cruise
Airport to boat and boat to airport transfers in Fakarava
Scheduled land excursions (villages, motus, pearl farms)
Use of snorkeling equipment, sea kayaks, paddleboard and fishing gear
Not included
International and domestic flights to Fakarava
Alcoholic beverages and wines
Bottled mineral water and sodas
Bar expenses
Extra services
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tips for the crew Scuba diving package with certified instructor
Nitrox 50% option per block
Water-skiing and wakeboarding sessions
Special excursions outside the regular program
Yacht - Fountaine Pajot Eleuthera
Sail and dive the remote lagoons of French Polynesia on a crewed Eleuthera 60, blending comfort, exploration and world-class underwater encounters.
Step aboard a Fountaine Pajot Eleuthera 60, a catamaran designed for long-range expeditions across the South Pacific. With its 18 meters of length and 8.5 meters of beam, this sailing liveaboard combines stability, space, and elegance, making it ideal for voyages through the remote Tuamotu atolls of French Polynesia.
The layout offers four guest cabins, each with private bathroom and hot-water shower, including a spacious VIP suite with added amenities. Social areas are equally inviting: a panoramic saloon with video lounge and cocktail bar, an outdoor galley with plancha grill, and wide trampolines at the bow for sunbathing or stargazing. A powerful generator, watermaker, and 24/7 electricity ensure continuous comfort even in the most secluded anchorages.
Life on board balances relaxation and adventure. Divers will appreciate the dedicated facilities and professional dive guide, with daily opportunities to explore passes teeming with grey reef sharks, manta rays, and vibrant coral gardens. Non-divers can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply drifting in the turquoise lagoons. Meals are freshly prepared, often highlighting local Polynesian flavors, with evenings spent dining under the stars or enjoying an aperitif on deck.
What makes this Eleuthera 60 catamaran cruise unique is the sense of intimacy: with only a handful of guests, every journey feels like a private expedition. Whether you dream of disconnecting in untouched atolls, sharing dives with extraordinary marine life, or savoring the comfort of a modern sailing home, this liveaboard delivers an experience where exploration meets refined simplicity.
Yacht
Model
2011 Fountaine Pajot Eleuthera
Length
18 m
Yacht services
Tender size
3.5 m
Air conditioning
Yes
Snorkeling equipment
Yes
Fishing equipment
Yes
Toys on board
Yes
Accommodations
Max guests
8
Double cabins
4
Bathrooms
4
Private Bathrooms
Yes
Crew
2
Chef on board
Yes
Cabins
Front Cabin
Double cabin
cabin capacity
double bed
private bathroom
air conditioning
Vip Cabin
Rear Double cabin
cabin capacity
double bed
private bathroom
air conditioning
Twin cabin
Rear Twin Cabin
cabin capacity
private bathroom
Cruise activities and tips
Travel activities
Diving Experience (Optional, Extra Fee 550 euro per person/cruise)
This Tuamotu liveaboard is designed for certified divers, with up to two guided dives per day (except embarkation and disembarkation). Supervised by a BEES instructor and supported by a surface team, dives take place in world-famous passes where currents attract reef sharks, manta rays, dolphins, barracudas and turtles. Water temperatures range 25–29°C with visibility often beyond 30 m. Nitrox 50% is available on board (extra fee €50 per 7L block). Important note: diving is an optional service with extra fees, so both divers and non-divers can enjoy the cruise at their own pace.
Snorkeling & Lagoon Life
Even without scuba gear, the Tuamotu lagoons are a natural aquarium. Drift snorkeling in shallow passes reveals parrotfish, rays and coral gardens, while calm anchorages allow for easy swims directly from the boat. Kayaks and paddleboards offer another way to glide over turquoise waters. Many motus (tiny islets) are surrounded by shallow coral reefs, perfect for families and beginners. For many travelers, snorkeling is the simplest way to experience the richness of Polynesia’s lagoons — colorful fish, warm waters and effortless exploration.
Onboard Life & Cultural Encounters
The Eleuthera 60 catamaran blends comfort with discovery. Wide decks and trampolines invite sunbathing and stargazing, while evenings often feature freshly prepared meals or a barbecue on a deserted motu. Ashore, guests may visit pearl farms, meet local communities or share a traditional meal. The rhythm is relaxed, with space for both social moments and quiet reflection. This balance between island exploration and onboard comfort makes the voyage appealing not only to divers, but to anyone seeking an authentic Polynesian experience.
Water Sports & Active Exploration
Life on board includes many ways to stay active. Guests can try sea kayaking, paddleboarding or even an introduction to sailing. For thrill-seekers, waterskiing and monoski are available in selected anchorages. Those curious about traditional skills can experience spearfishing or reef walks guided by the crew. These activities add variety to the journey, ensuring there’s something for everyone — whether you prefer adrenaline on the water or slow exploration of the lagoons.
Travel organizer tips
What should I pack for a sailing holiday in Polynesia?
Bring a soft bag instead of a suitcase, reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, a light jacket for evenings and non-slip shoes. Snorkeling gear is available, but your own mask ensures the best fit. Read our full guide: What to pack in a suitcase for a yacht charter
Is diving included in this cruise?
Diving is offered as an optional extra service (approx. €550 per person per cruise). Equipment, Nitrox and guided sessions are available on board, led by a certified instructor. Non-divers can still enjoy the itinerary fully.
Shared cruises may require a minimum number of guests.
Price may vary depending on the cabin type, occupancy and cruise date.
Reservations are subjected to acceptance after availability checks. In case, the selected cruise is not available we will contact you with similar offers.
per Person
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