Tahiti Holiday - 2002

Only by boat can you truly experience the magic of the Leeward Islands of Tahiti. Sail tranquil lagoons in the shadows of volcanic peaks just as ancient Polynesians did in outrigger canoes. Let trade winds scented with the fragrant mix of orchid, frangipani and vanilla carry you to the islands that have cast their mesmerizing spell on writers, painters and centuries of sailors.

Passage By Sail, A journey To Paradise

Discover a place unspoiled by modern times and seemingly reserved just for you, where barrier reefs offer protection from a hestic world. Like generations of seafarers before you, you'll experience the gracious welcoming traditions of the gentle people of these islands. Ponder the source of a towering waterfall and marvel at the sacred site of an ancient temple. Drift above the dazzling reefs, impossibly rich with exotic colours. Anchor on a motu, a vegetated islet on a reef, and watch a sunset reflected in a placid lagoon. Gaze upon a distant horizon and, like Fletcher Christian, you just may wish to stay forever.

Four Islands For Our Exploration

Bora Bora - With a lyrical name that casts a spell, Bora Bora is the otherworldly mountanous soul of the South Pacific. Sailors are greeted by a spectacular scene and an easy approach on the line-of-sight crossing from Raiatea. Once inside the sheltering lagoon, sunlight bathes the basalt slab of Mount Otemanu in a rainbow of changing colour. Seen together with the rounded top of Mount Pahia, the view is everchanging with each unforgettable anchorage.

Huahine - This island of farms is affected least by the outside world. The beach of Relais Mahana offers fine sand and a deep lagoon, while Fare Village retains its authentic charm. Near Maeva are sacred sites of 16th century maraes, ancient Tahitian temples.

Raiatea - Explore the Aoppamao River by dinghy and listen to the natural voices of these jungles-fringed waters. Look for the rare tiare apetahi, a white flower with five petals found nowhere else on earth. Taputapuatea Marae is distinguished by its massive altar and slab seats with upright backs.

Tahaa - The "Vanilla Island" produces 80% of French Polynesia's vanilla. Tahaa is Raiatae's smaller companion island.

Setting the sails Thursday 29 August 2002

At $2850 this trip is discounted and includes, Flights from Sydney, The base is located at Apooiti Marina in Raiatea. International carriers provide direct flights from Sydney to Tahiti-Faaa International Airport near Papeete, the capital city of Tahiti, connecting with a 45-minute Air Tahiti flight. Includes a brand new yacht charter for seven days, Matthew Wren the Sailing guide, transfers to and from the charter base.

You may choose to extend your stay at Le Meridian Hotel in Papeete or cross to Moorea and relax lagoon side in the Hibiscus Bungalow Hotel .

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Photos are courtesy of the Queensland Tourism Office.