Yacht Charter in Raiatea The Leeward islands around Tahiti, most famous for beautiful Bora Bora, is a pure exotic sailing mecca. Cosy anchorages with surrounding reefs and stunning mountains that rise to the sky are part of what makes Raiatea, Tahiti and French Polynesia a sailors' paradise. Sailing in the exotic waters of the South Pacific Beautiful Bora Bora Picturesque anchorages - the smell of vanilla on Tahaa Snorkelling and diving on the many reefs Archaeological sites in Raiatea Good restaurants and interesting shops Located halfway in the Pacific Ocean between South America and Australia, French Polynesia is made up of 118 islands, spread out over an area the size of Europe. Papeete is Tahiti's capital. Among the Society Islands are Bora Bora, Raiatea, Tahaa and Huahine that make up the jewels on a sailing holiday in Tahiti. Mountainous heights rise from the sea, and the many reefs are home to sea turtles, sharks, dolphins, porpoises, colourful hard/soft coral and over 500 species of fish - which makes the Society Islands one of the world's best spots for snorkelling and diving. Resorts, water sports, trips to the islands, archaeological sites and good food are just some of the many pleasures of a sailing vacation in Tahiti. Sailing at Raiatea A yacht charter in Raiatea offers balmy trade winds from the east, which usually has a strength of between 15-20 knots year round - this almost guarantees relaxing sailing in the calm water behind the reefs, as well as more challenging passages on open water. Behind the reefs, navigation is easy and going from one marker to the other, although it is important to keep a close eye on the chart - just as it is important to plot the stretches of longer passages between islands. The tidal range is less than a foot and is negligible - which also means that the current is often weak, except in narrow passages. A sailing vacation in Tahiti is possible for sailors with basic skills in coastal navigation. Beauty and the area's unique character attracts both experienced and inexperienced sailors time and time again. Highlights Although Bora Bora, Raiatea, Tahaa and Huahine are neighbours, each island has a slightly different mood. Of course, the beauty of the South Pacific is a common denominator, like the exquisite reefs, islets (motus) and beaches - but where one island committed to the chic and modern, on the other primarily nature prevails. Other islands are known for their local crafts and ancient archaeological Polynesian temples. Together, they offer attractions for all visitors - and ensures that a sailing holiday in Tahiti will be a memorable sailing holiday for all.