Hi Reader,
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For part three of our Tahiti series, we’re diving into the one thing that can make or break your French Polynesia sailing adventure—the cruising conditions. If you missed part two, where we compared sailing in Tahiti to the BVI, you can check it out here.

First, a couple of quick news bites:

• The US Coast Guard is still working to remove a grounded catamaran from Flamenco Beach in Culebra. A 400-ton crane was mobilized all the way from Baltimore and is now on-site, with salvage operations in progress.

• The Virgin Islands National Park has proposed mooring fee increases from $26 to $40. You would also need to pay for a daystop.
• The Wandering Hillbilly lost his Aquila 54 to salvage after the grounding on Virgin Gorda and following the denial of his claim by insurance. It raises some interesting considerations for owners. You can check out his YT channel here.

Cruising Conditions in Tahiti

You’ve probably heard the stories, seen the pictures, and dreamt of gliding through turquoise lagoons with towering volcanic peaks in the backdrop. But before you hoist those sails, let’s break down what you can actually expect when you hit the water in the Society Islands.

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Sailing Seasons in Tahiti

Here’s the deal: If you want smooth sailing, many recommend the dry season from May to October as your best bet. Why? It’s when the weather is cooler, less humid, and the winds are steady—perfect for open water passages and exploring those dreamy lagoons. The wet season runs from November to April with tropical cyclones possible from December to April. One of our Yacht Warriors readers wrote me and provided this advice:

I'm a sucker for an epic sunset, so sounds like January might be a better time for me to visit!

Wind and Weather

Ah, the Mara'amu trade winds—your new best friend or your biggest challenge, depending on how you like your sailing. These winds typically blow from the southeast, averaging between 15-20 knots, but don’t be surprised if they ramp up to 25-35 knots during the peak months of June to August. Sound exhilarating? It is. The wind is steady, but open water passages can be rought, with swells reaching 8-10 feet at times. You’re in for an adventurous ride, but the beauty of these islands makes it all worth it.

Navigating the Lagoons and Passes

Tahiti’s lagoons are beautiful but require skill and attention. Crystal-clear waters with coral heads (bommies), narrow channels, and reef-lined passes are part of the charm—and the challenge. While tides are minimal (less than a foot), currents near the passes can be strong, especially when wind and swell push water into the lagoon, creating a constant outward flow through the passes. The stronger the wind and swell, the more intense the current, so timing is key when planning your passages.

When navigating, daylight is your best friend—night sailing is off-limits for most charter companies, and for good reason. Always have a lookout on the bow to spot coral heads, and stick to the middle of marked channels to avoid any surprises.

Anchoring and Mooring in Tahiti

Now, if you’re used to anchoring in shallower waters, get ready for a change. Lagoon depths here can reach up to 40 meters (131 feet), and it's possible it might be necessary to anchor in depths of 50+ feet. This is advisable only in settled conditions and it's generally recommended to try and find a suitable overnight spot in less than 30 feet.

Mooring balls: Some spots, like the Bora Bora Yacht Club or Laprirogue Api in Tahaa, offer mooring balls, but be sure to check their condition. Not all are created equal...

Inter-Island Passages

Aim to leave by 10 AM so you reach your destination well before sunset, giving you plenty of time to drop anchor and settle in. The charter companies also recommend avoiding direct passages from Huahine to Bora Bora; opt instead for overnight stops in Tahaa or Raiatea.

Bottom Line: Adventure Meets Caution

Sailing in Tahiti is a dream, no doubt about it. But it’s also a place where the stakes are a bit higher than your average Caribbean getaway. The trade winds, deep lagoons, and coral-lined passes require you to stay sharp, but for every challenge, there’s a reward: secluded anchorages, untouched coral gardens, and sunsets that will take your breath away. With a little planning and a lot of respect for the local conditions, you’ll have a trip that’s as epic as the islands themselves.

Next time, we'll wrap up the Tahiti series with a 10-day float plan. That's it for today!

Have a great week! - Matt Weidert