Location & Transportation
When your ship anchors in Bora Bora, you’ll tender into Vaitape, the vibrant heart of the island. This charming town is where most services are located, and you can easily find rental counters like Europcar and a local post office within a short walk of the tender pier.
Nearby Lodging
Bora Bora is famous for its luxury resorts and overwater bungalows that promise an unforgettable stay. While many cruisers opt for day excursions, if you decide to extend your visit, consider staying at renowned properties such as the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora or the Conrad Bora Bora Nui. For a more local feel, guesthouses and boutique hotels in Vaitape offer comfortable accommodations with easy access to town.
Nearest Airport
Bora Bora Airport, also known as Motu Mute Airport, is conveniently located about 6 km from Vaitape. Transfers to and from the airport are typically made via speedboat or taxi. If you’re arriving on a tight schedule, a pre-arranged transfer can help ensure a smooth connection to your cruise port.
Sightseeing
Bora Bora’s natural beauty is truly otherworldly. Wandering around the island, you’ll discover:
- The Lagoon & Mount Otemanu: The island’s iconic volcanic peak towers above a crystalline lagoon dotted with overwater bungalows. Seen from the air, Bora Bora can appear as “a tiny emerald set in a sea of turquoise, encircled by a sparkling necklace of motu.”
- Coral Garden: Located to the southeast, this underwater park is bursting with colorful fish and corals.
- White Valley: At the entrance of the pass, experience the graceful ballet of gray sharks and barracudas – a spectacle for marine lovers.
- Motu Excursions: A drive or boat ride around the island (which can be done by car in about an hour) lets you absorb the lush tropical landscapes dotted with hibiscus, palm trees, and pristine white-sand beaches.
Every corner of the island tells a story of natural wonder and Polynesian charm.
Tours & Excursions
There’s no shortage of activities once you’re on Bora Bora:
- Shark & Ray Feeding Excursions: Join a safe, guided tour where local divers feed reef sharks and friendly rays by hand in chest-deep water.
- Circle-the-Lagoon Tours: Choose a motu picnic cruise or rent a small boat to explore the vast, multi-hued lagoon.
- Lagoonarium Visit: Head to the Lagoonarium on Motu Piti Aau, on the island’s eastern reef, for a close look at diverse marine life.
- 4x4 Island Safari: For a different perspective, embark on a 3-hour off-road tour that takes you to panoramic viewpoints and historic US cannons. It’s a fantastic way to capture the island’s rugged beauty and hidden treasures.
- Bike & Scooter Rentals: With well-maintained roads in Vaitape, renting an (electric) bike offers a flexible and fun way to explore at your own pace.
Make sure to have your camera ready – Bora Bora’s striking landscapes are as photogenic as they are inspiring!
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
When you wander through Vaitape, you’ll come across local markets and craft stalls where artisans showcase their skill:
- Unique handmade shell jewelry and belts
- Wood sculptures and traditional Polynesian handicrafts
- Beautiful pareaus (local accessories) and other souvenirs
Remember, bargaining isn’t customary here, so prices are generally fixed.
Dining
Dining in Bora Bora is a delightful experience, blending French influences with indigenous Polynesian flavors. Whether you’re sampling fresh seafood at a beachside café or enjoying a gourmet meal at a resort restaurant, you can expect dishes that highlight tropical fruits, locally caught fish, and fresh ingredients. Many resorts offer day passes to access their dining facilities, so I’d suggest extending a few hours ashore to indulge in a leisurely meal with a view over the lagoon.
Culture & Local Events
Bora Bora isn’t just about its stunning natural beauty—its culture and local events add unique flavor to your visit:
- Local Currency & Costs: The island uses CFP francs (XPF). For context, 1000 CFP francs is approximately 8.38 euros. Keep in mind that Bora Bora is known for its luxury, and prices reflect its reputation as a high-end destination.
- Languages & Communication: While French and Tahitian are the official languages, many locals in the tourism industry speak English. Remember that internet access in hotels can be pricey, so plan accordingly.
- Local Festivals & Events: If you’re lucky to visit during festival season, you might experience celebrations like the annual Heiva festival, which features traditional dance, music, and sports that showcase Polynesian heritage.
- Safety & Awareness: As with any travel destination, exercise common sense when exploring remote areas or venturing out on water excursions. Always follow the advice of local guides and check weather conditions before any water activity. In case of emergencies, the local emergency number is 112.