DESTINATIONS:

Tahiti, French Polynesia

The impossibly remote and endlessly alluring French Polynesian islands were one of the last places on Earth to be settled by humans. Today, the year-round trade winds and mild, consistent climate makes French Polynesia a year-round sailing destination.

A South Pacific sailing vacation is no coastal cruise, with many of French Polynesia’s islands spread tens or even hundreds of miles apart. Experienced ocean sailors will relish the opportunity to sail the calm waters of the South Pacific in search of island-hopping adventure, encountering welcoming, traditional island communities, dramatic volcanic scenery and incredible oceanic wildlife along the way.

Weather watch:

Temperatures in Tahiti tend to be dry and cooler (averaging 24ºC) May to November with the driest months between June and August. It is warmer and rainier December to April. February tends to be the hottest month, while December and January have cooling showers to counter the sun’s heat.

The sailing conditions in the Leeward Islands benefit from a south-easterly wind of between 15 and 20 knots and the Maraamu wind between June and August of 25 and 35 knots. You need a special waiver to navigate Tuamotu Archipelago and authorisation for night navigation.

Remember - Enjoy your stay, but don't leave your mark.