Bora Bora Yacht Charter: Sail the Iconic Lagoon in Luxury
Soft trade winds, a sea that shimmers in fifty shades of blue, and the dramatic profile of Mount Otemanu rising from an emerald isle – welcome to Bora Bora, perhaps the most celebrated island in the South Pacific. A yacht charter in Bora Bora invites you to experience this iconic destination in the most exclusive way possible: aboard your own private floating resort. Known worldwide for its romance and breathtaking lagoon, Bora Bora is even more enchanting when explored by yacht. Picture yourself anchored off a pristine motu (islet), dipping into crystal-clear water straight from your yacht’s swim platform, or enjoying a sunset dinner on deck with the silhouette of Bora Bora’s peaks as your backdrop. For luxury travelers and seasoned charter guests alike, a Bora Bora yacht charter is the pinnacle of tropical indulgence – emotionally resonant, visually spectacular, and deeply personal.
From the moment you arrive, Bora Bora wraps you in luxury and natural beauty. The tone here is relaxed yet refined. Your attentive crew greets you with fragrant flower leis and a welcome cocktail as you step aboard. Perhaps you’ll start with a cruise around the lagoon’s vivid coral gardens, where manta rays glide beneath the hull. By day, partake in adventures like snorkeling with reef sharks or exploring secluded beaches accessible only by boat. By night, let the gentle rocking of the yacht lull you to sleep under constellations of the southern sky. Bora Bora has long been a honeymooners’ heaven with its overwater bungalows – but on a yacht charter, you get something even more special: the freedom to experience Bora Bora and its sister islands on your own terms, away from any crowds, with five-star service at your fingertips. This introduction only hints at what’s in store when you set sail in Bora Bora’s magical waters.
Best Time to Charter in Bora Bora
Bora Bora’s tropical climate makes it a year-round paradise, but certain seasons stand out for chartering. The dry season from May through October is widely considered the best time to charter in Bora Bora. During these months, expect warm, sunny days (around 28–30°C or 82–86°F) and relatively low humidity. The trade winds blow gently, cooling the air and filling sails – perfect for leisurely cruising between islands. Rainfall is minimal in the dry season, meaning you’ll enjoy clear views of those famous turquoise waters and dramatic sunsets nearly every day. It’s also a social time in the islands: July brings the festivities of Heiva (with local dance competitions and outrigger canoe races), and in late October, Bora Bora serves as the grand finale for the Hawaiki Nui Va’a – a renowned Polynesian outrigger canoe race that starts on Huahine and finishes in Bora Bora. If your charter coincides with this event, you could witness an incredible finish as paddlers sprint across the lagoon amidst cheering crowds.
Shoulder months like April, early May, and November can also be ideal. The weather is still very pleasant, and there are fewer tourists around Bora Bora’s resorts. You might find charter rates a bit more attractive in these periods while still catching good conditions. April and May are especially lovely – the tail end of the wet season means the islands are lush and green, but the heavy rains have tapered off.
The wet season (November through March) is the “South Pacific summer.” It’s warmer (up to 32°C/90°F) and more humid, with sporadic showers or occasional downpours, usually in short bursts. While this is considered the low season, don’t write it off – Bora Bora in the rain is still Bora Bora, and often rainclouds give way to rainbows. Plus, the lagoon remains calm and inviting year-round. The wet season’s advantages include greater tranquility (you might be one of the only yachts in certain anchorages) and abundant marine life. Divers, for instance, appreciate the summer months for manta ray and hammerhead shark sightings in nearby atolls. Cyclones (hurricanes) are relatively rare in this part of the Pacific, but most charter companies keep a close eye on weather systems during these months. With a flexible attitude and a knowledgeable captain, a charter in the off-season can still be magical – think afternoon spa treatments or island tours during a rain shower, followed by clearing skies and brilliant sunsets.
In summary, May-October is peak perfection for a Bora Bora charter – expect idyllic weather and vibrant local events – while the rest of the year offers a more secluded charm. Whenever you choose to go, Bora Bora will dazzle you with its legendary lagoon and Polynesian hospitality.
Why Charter a Yacht in Bora Bora?
Bora Bora is often called the “Pearl of the Pacific,” and a private yacht charter lets you discover every luminous facet of this gem. Here’s why chartering a yacht in Bora Bora is an experience beyond compare:
The World’s Most Beautiful Lagoon – All to Yourself
Bora Bora’s lagoon is the stuff of dreams – an endless expanse of glittering turquoise, aquamarine, and sapphire blues. While many visitors see it from the window of a plane or the deck of a resort, on a yacht you live within the lagoon. You can cruise to the prettiest coral gardens for a swim, anchor off tiny sandbars for a picnic, and even navigate the entire circumference of the island, soaking in 360° views. Without the constraints of a hotel location, you’ll witness the lagoon’s beauty from every angle. Want to watch the sunrise with Mount Otemanu turning pink in the early light? Your captain can position the yacht on the eastern side. Crave the perfect photograph of those iconic overwater bungalows set against volcanic peaks? Sail over and capture it from your private vantage point. A charter gives you unparalleled access to Bora Bora’s natural beauty, minus the day-tripper crowds.
Privacy and Romance
Bora Bora is famed as a honeymoon and luxury getaway spot – and a yacht charter elevates the romance to a whole new level. Imagine anchoring in a quiet cove where it’s just you and your loved one, and perhaps a pair of sea turtles swimming by. On a yacht, privacy is guaranteed; you’re not sharing the beach or the infinity pool with anyone else. You can arrange for a private motu dinner, where your crew ferries you to a deserted islet and serves an elaborate meal on a table set in the shallow water, with torches and stars lighting the night. Or consider renewing your vows Polynesian-style on deck, as a local priest paddles out to perform a blessing amid flower petals floating on the sea. Such intimate moments are only possible with the seclusion of a private charter. Even families or groups of friends find that a yacht offers bonding time away from tourist bustle – it’s your own floating sanctuary.
Island Hopping – Beyond Bora Bora
While Bora Bora is the highlight, a huge benefit of chartering here is the ability to explore the neighboring Leeward Islands easily. Your yacht is not confined to Bora Bora alone. Within a day’s sail are Taha’a (the Vanilla Island), Raiatea (sacred culture and sailing hub), and Huahine (the lush Garden Island). Unlike travelers who fly in and stay put on Bora Bora, you can broaden your adventure. Perhaps spend two days enjoying Bora Bora’s delights, then set sail to Taha’a to tour fragrant vanilla plantations and snorkel its renowned coral garden drift.
Or visit Raiatea to see the UNESCO-recognized Marae Taputapuatea, an ancient Polynesian temple site, for a touch of history and culture. Each island adds new experiences – from Huahine’s wild beauty and archaeological sites to the authentic village life on Raiatea. Chartering a yacht essentially gives you a multi-island vacation without the hassle of packing or transit – your hotel comes with you. And rest assured, the sailing distances are manageable and enjoyable, with likely sightings of dolphins or flying fish en route. By journey’s end, you’ll have truly experienced the diverse tapestry of French Polynesia, with Bora Bora as the sparkling centerpiece.
Unmatched Water Adventures
Bora Bora’s calm lagoon and surrounding waters are a playground for water sports, and having a yacht means you have all the toys at your disposal. Love snorkeling? Your crew can guide you to the Coral Garden on the southeastern side – an underwater paradise where neon fish flit through coral mazes (one of Bora Bora’s top snorkel spots). For a thrill, hop on a jetski and circle the island, or try wakeboarding and tubing in the glassy morning waters. Kayaks and paddleboards let you explore at a slower pace, perhaps paddling above schools of rays gliding on the sandy bottom.
Fishing enthusiasts can troll outside the lagoon for tuna or mahi mahi – and your chef can turn the catch into the freshest sashimi or grilled steaks for dinner. Diving is spectacular too; whether it’s a beginner’s introductory dive in the shallow lagoon or a dive outside the reef to see lemon sharks, the options abound (your yacht can rendezvous with a local dive boat or, on some luxury charters, carry its own dive instructor).
One unique must-do in Bora Bora is the lagoon shark and ray experience: in waist-deep water, guided by experts, you’ll safely interact with curious reef sharks and feel the silky glide of rays as they swim around you. It’s a gentle adrenaline rush that often becomes guests’ favorite memory. Ultimately, a yacht charter offers a bespoke adventure menu – you choose when to amp up the adrenaline or when to relax with a chilled coconut in hand.
Local Culture and Luxury Combined
Bora Bora might be famed for luxury resorts, but it still pulses with Polynesian culture if you know where to look. Your crew, many of whom are likely from the islands, can introduce you to authentic experiences. Perhaps arrange a visit to a pearl farm on one of the atolls, where you’ll learn how Tahitian black pearls are cultivated and maybe select one as a special keepsake.
Visit Vaitape (Bora Bora’s main town) on a morning when the local market is open – you’ll find artisans selling hand-dyed pareo wraps, carvings, and vanilla beans, and you can sample delicious street foods like poisson cru and coconut bread. If your charter aligns with a Polynesian dance show (often held at resorts or village centers weekly), your crew can secure you excellent seats – or even hire a small troupe to perform just for your party on the yacht’s deck! These performances of ‘ori Tahiti (Tahitian dance) with drum orchestras are spellbinding and will give you goosebumps. Meanwhile, every element on your yacht remains luxurious: from plush bedding to curated wines and French champagnes (yes, you can enjoy fine French gastronomy in the middle of the Pacific, thanks to Tahiti’s fusion of French and Polynesian influence).
Bora Bora uniquely fuses laid-back island life with high-end amenities – and a yacht charter is where those two meet perfectly. One afternoon you might learn to weave palm fronds into a platter with your crew, and that evening you’re dining on a gourmet French–Polynesian meal under the stars. It’s this interplay of culture and comfort that makes a Bora Bora yacht charter deeply enriching as well as indulgent.
In essence, a Bora Bora yacht charter is worth every penny for those seeking the ultimate tropical escape. You’ll have front-row access to stunning nature, the freedom to craft your ideal itinerary, and the reassurance of expert crew ensuring each moment is exceptional. Bora Bora by yacht is not just a trip – it’s a dream fulfilled for many who have imagined these vistas and now get to live them in style.
Sample 4-Day Bora Bora Yacht Charter Itinerary (3–4 Nights)
Ready to envision your journey? Here’s a sample 4-day itinerary focusing on Bora Bora and its enchanting neighbors in the Society Islands. This itinerary balances time in Bora Bora’s famous lagoon with exploration of nearby Taha’a and Raiatea – offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and local flavor. It’s geared for a 3–4 night charter, but can be adjusted to your preferences.
Day 1: Raiatea to Taha’a – The Journey Begins
Many Bora Bora charters start from Raiatea (which has a larger marina and airport). After a short flight from Tahiti to Raiatea, you’ll meet your yacht and crew in Uturoa, the main town. By midday, set sail for Taha’a, Raiatea’s sister island just a few miles north. In fact, they share a lagoon – so it’s a quick and scenic one-hour cruise. As the boat glides over shallow aquamarine waters, you can already smell the sweet aroma of vanilla in the air; Taha’a is nicknamed the Vanilla Island. Your captain moors off the west coast of Taha’a, near a local village. In the afternoon, head ashore for a delightful vanilla plantation tour. Stroll through lush gardens of climbing vanilla orchids and learn how this precious spice is hand-pollinated and cured – a true farm-to-table experience when you taste vanilla-infused goodies afterward. Back on board, enjoy a sunset cocktail with Taha’a’s verdant hills in view. Dinner might be freshly caught Pacific fish grilled to perfection. That night, your yacht can anchor in tranquil Ha’amene Bay. With such calm waters, you’ll sleep like royalty in your gentle rocking cradle.
Day 2: Taha’a to Bora Bora – Sailing into the Dream
Rise with the sun and perhaps take a refreshing dip before breakfast – nothing beats a morning swim in a quiet lagoon. Today you’ll make the eagerly awaited trip to Bora Bora! Before departing Taha’a, there’s time for one more treat: a visit to a black pearl farm. Taha’a’s lagoon waters are ideal for cultivating Tahitian black pearls. Your crew takes you by tender to a farm built on stilts over the water, where you’ll see how oysters are nucleated and tended to produce lustrous pearls of greens, blues, and aubergine hues. You might even purchase a gorgeous pearl directly from the source as a memento. By late morning, everyone’s back on the yacht and under sail.
The journey from Taha’a to Bora Bora is about 4 hours (approximately 20–25 nautical miles) – an enjoyable sail in open water with the wind in your hair. Keep your eyes peeled for marine life; occasionally dolphins ride the bow wake, and seabirds dip into the ocean hunting fish. Soon, Bora Bora’s unmistakable profile emerges on the horizon. It’s an exciting moment as you approach the pass into Bora Bora’s lagoon, watching the water turn that unreal shade of bright turquoise. Once inside the lagoon, the captain will steer towards a prime anchorage. One favorite spot is near Motu Tapu on the southwest side – a little islet with stunning views across to the main island and typically great sunset vistas.
Congratulations, you’ve arrived in Bora Bora! Spend the remainder of the afternoon snorkeling right off the yacht – you are likely to see butterflyfish, parrotfish, and maybe an elegant manta ray gliding by. In the evening, why not step ashore for a taste of local life? Your crew can reserve a table at the famous Bloody Mary’s restaurant. This iconic Bora Bora institution has a sand floor, tiki torches, and a lineup of today’s fresh catch on display for you to choose your dinner. Dine on Polynesian-grilled mahi mahi or lobster with your toes in the sand. After a lovely evening out, return to your yacht under a sky full of stars – you’ll find the decks turned down and perhaps a sweet coconut treat waiting on your pillow.
Day 3: Enjoying Bora Bora’s Lagoon
This day is dedicated to exploring Bora Bora’s wonders, both above and below the water. After a leisurely breakfast on deck (with Mount Otemanu’s majestic peak watching over you), gear up for a morning snorkel safari. A short cruise or tender ride brings you to the Coral Garden adjacent to Motu Pitiu. Here, in waist-deep crystal water, you’ll drift snorkel through a vibrant coral maze. It’s like swimming in an aquarium – expect to be surrounded by schools of technicolor fish; your crew will likely bring along some bread to attract swarms of curious reef fish right up close.
For an adrenaline boost, the next stop is the lagoon’s sandbar near Matira Point for the famous shark and ray encounter. Standing in warm waist-high water, you’ll witness (and feel!) graceful stingrays brushing by and small black-tip reef sharks elegantly circling. They’re used to human presence and with a good guide it’s perfectly safe – an exhilarating encounter that usually leaves guests grinning ear to ear. Come lunchtime, perhaps enjoy a picnic on Motu Pitiu: under the shade of palms, feast on poisson cru, barbecued chicken, tropical fruits, and ice-cold Hinano beers, all set up by your thoughtful crew.
In the afternoon, you might indulge in some water sports. The yacht’s sea kayaks or paddleboards are a peaceful way to explore the shallow lagoons and get closer to the shore’s scenic overwater bungalows. If you’re feeling adventurous, your captain can arrange a jetski tour around Bora Bora – zoom across the lagoon’s mirror-like surface, stopping at beautiful viewpoints. Another option is an island tour: hop in the tender to Vaitape and meet a guide for a 4x4 Jeep adventure around Bora Bora’s only road. You’ll visit WWII-era cannons hidden in the jungle, viewpoints high up the mountain for jaw-dropping panoramas, and learn a bit about the island’s history and legends. As the day winds down, consider a little pampering.
One special idea is a visit to the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa (your yacht can drop you off at their dock). This award-winning spa has glass-floor treatment rooms so you can watch fish during a massage – a true Bora Bora delight! By sunset, everyone is back on board. Enjoy your final evening in Bora Bora with a bang: a private beach barbecue on a motu, arranged by your crew. A table is set on the sand, tiki torches flicker, and perhaps a local Polynesian duo plays soft ukulele music as you dine under the stars. It’s a celebration of an incredible journey. Toast with a fine champagne or a freshly cracked coconut – either feels right in this moment of tropical bliss.
Day 4: Bora Bora’s Farewell – Optional Tupai Excursion & Departure
On your last morning, wake up early to soak in Bora Bora’s sunrise – the lagoon often looks like pure glass at dawn. Enjoy a final swim or maybe some beachcombing along Matira Beach (the island’s longest stretch of sand) before breakfast. If time allows and you’re craving one more off-the-beaten-path adventure, there is an optional excursion to Tupai Atoll.
Just 10 miles north of Bora Bora lies Tupai, a small heart-shaped atoll that is uninhabited. Few travelers ever see it, but with a yacht, you have the possibility (weather permitting). Sail an hour or so to Tupai and marvel at its perfect heart shape from sea level (a drone photograph from here would be epic!). The crew can anchor off the reef, and you can go ashore to pretend you’re Robinson Crusoe on your own love-heart island. Tupai’s beaches are pristine; this could be an amazing private last picnic spot.
After enjoying Tupai, begin the sail back to Bora Bora or Raiatea (depending on your charter’s end-point). Many one-way charters conclude in Bora Bora, where you’ll disembark and catch a short domestic flight back to Tahiti. If that’s your plan, your captain will bring you to the Bora Bora Yacht Club or Vaitape dock by midday. Hugs and farewells with the crew are inevitable – in a few days they’ve not only catered to you, but shared stories and laughs, making you feel part of the Polynesian family. Should your charter be a round-trip to Raiatea, you’ll depart a bit earlier for the 4-5 hour return sail – perhaps trolling lines for fish and enjoying the open ocean one last time. Either way, you conclude your charter with a heart full of gratitude and awe. You’ve sailed the most beautiful seas in the world, experienced Bora Bora from every glorious angle, and enjoyed days of pure luxury and freedom.
This sample Bora Bora yacht charter itinerary showcases just a fragment of what’s possible. In 3–4 nights, you tasted adventure, culture, and relaxation across multiple islands. Many guests extend to a week to further enjoy Huahine or even Tahiti and Moorea, but even on this shorter charter, Bora Bora and its neighbors will have left you spellbound.
