Independent Cruising in French Polynesia

World ARC 2025-26: French Polynesia

The fleet of 30 World ARC 2025-26 yachts has spent six unforgettable weeks cruising independently through the islands and atolls of French Polynesia, visiting the Marquesas, Tuamotus and Society Islands.

Names like Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora are synonymous with Pacific sailing, conjuring images of turquoise waters and lush landscapes. Captain Cook and his crew were among the first Europeans to set foot on these islands, and they were captivated by both the breathtaking scenery and the warm hospitality of the local people. “Everybody is so friendly and welcoming” is a sentiment echoed by nearly every sailor who visits these islands.

Marquesas, Tuamotus and Society Islands

Though the Marquesas and the Tuamotus are separated by just 480 nautical miles, they could hardly be more different. The Marquesas are dramatic volcanic islands-towering, green, and lush. In contrast, the Tuamotus are low-lying coral atolls: rings of palm-fringed white sand enclosing tranquil lagoons, rarely more than a couple of meters above sea level.

Marine life thrives in both regions. In the Marquesas, manta rays gather in the anchorages, feasting on abundant plankton. But for divers and underwater enthusiasts, the Tuamotus are the true highlight: exhilarating drift dives through the passes reveal a vibrant world of colourful coral, swirling fish, curious sharks, and playful dolphins.

The Society Islands, meanwhile, offer the best of both worlds-a harmonious blend of volcanic peaks and coral reefs.

Bora Bora Rendezvous

After following their own itineraries for six weeks, the yachts gathered on the Society Island of Bora Bora for the World ARC rendezvous.

Evenings at the Bora Bora Yacht Club were filled with laughter and camaraderie, as crews swapped stories over happy hour drinks and World ARC buffet dinners, debating which island was the most beautiful of all.

Onward to New Adventures

For the next leg of the journey from Bora Bora to Niue and Tonga, the fleet has temporarily split into two groups. With only limited space available for visiting yachts on these remote raised coral atolls, this arrangement ensures everyone can enjoy their stopover.

Bora Bora to Tonga via Niue is just over one thousand nautical miles, almost nothing compared to the distance they have sailed since leaving Saint Lucia, but still a challenging prospect.