The French Polynesia comprises of more than 100 islands in the South Pacific stretching for more than 2,000km.
Divided into the Austral, Gambier, Marquesas, Society and Tuamotu archipelagos they're known for their mountainous terrain, coral-fringed lagoons exhibiting a dazzling array of fish, white sandy beaches and where some of the world’s most precious pearls are formed.
Since the first of the World ARC boats began to arrive in the Marquesas on the 19 March the fleet have had the opportunity to explore a great number of these remote Pacific islands over the last 2 months. Taking in breath taking views both on land and under the crystal clear waters, participants have been fascinated by local traditions and seen an array of different cultures specific to each individual island.
The concluding destination in the French Polynesia’s World ARC programme is the beautiful island of Bora Bora. For many this is their dream destination and they are keen to explore all that this picturesque island has to offer which includes snorkelling, diving, 4x4 and quad bike tours providing views over the lush foliage and the turquoise lagoon below. And for those with higher ambitions, private seaplane flights over Bora Bora and neighbouring islands, Maupiti, Tupai and Tahaa.
The World ARC fleet begin to congregate at the Bora Bora Yacht Club in the next couple of days where buoys have been reserved for each boat for 3 nights. During their stay and before heading on to the Cook Islands, the World ARC programme includes a cocktail reception at the Bora Bora Yacht Club, optionalgourmet dinner and skippers briefing for the start of Leg 5 which takes the fleet from Bora Bora to Tonga via Suwarrow (Cook Islands) and Niue, the world’s smallest independent island country.
Paul and Debora on
Tumi said “because each set of islands are so very different we have separated them out into different memories, the Marquesas for its dramatic geology, the Tuamotu for the incredible diving and remoteness and the Society Islands for dramatic scenery and a little more sophistication.”
The French Polynesia has certainly proved to be the perfect playground for sailing yachts. Navigating coral reefs, anchoring in super clear blue waters and having the opportunity to meet with the locals and learn all about their culture and history has been an unforgettable experience for everyone.
