I wanna go back! Ever since I returned from a glorious month in French Polynesia all I can think about is when can I return.
Each of the two trips were dreamy. Our first group started with 3 nights at the Kia Ora in Rangiroa and continued with 7 nights on the oh so comfortable Aqua Tiki III catamaran in Fakarava. Rangiroa and Fakarava are the two largest atolls in the world. Talk about a big swimming pool! And full of so much life! Large schools of butterfly fish, banner fish, parrot fish, a zillion convict surgeons and the friendliest humphead wrasses I’ve ever encountered! And talk about sharks! Fakarava is the sharkiest place I’ve ever been. Black tip, White tip, Grey sharks even Lemon sharks, which are actually yellow when they are young. Quite easy to see a dozen sharks or more on every outing.
The Aqua Tiki III is a comfortable catamaran that holds 10 passengers. We found the crew of 4 very helpful and enthusiastic. During the first voyage we had some high winds but the water surface was fine for snorkeling. The second week the wind died down and we spent much more time on the lovely top deck.
The second group began with 7 nights in Fakarava on the Aqua Tiki and continued to the island of Rurutu. Rurutu is a remote and authentic island in the Australes Archipelago. Each year, hundreds of humpback whales with small calves migrate north from Antarctica. In September, many stop to shelter in Rurutu’s protected bays.
We enjoyed four half days of very up-close and personal encounters with mama and baby humpback whales. It’s so incredible to make eye contact with a whale. A breath-taking experience for sure.
French Polynesia is a beautiful country, the people are lovely and the marine life is exciting. Best of all, st 8 hours from the West Coast. I’m looking at the schedule….I plan to return!
Wendy Simon
October 2024