French Polynesia Cruises

Discover the Enchantment of French Polynesia on a Cruise

French Polynesia, a tropical paradise made up of over 100 islands, is famed for its stunning blue lagoons, lush mountainous landscapes, and vibrant cultures. A cruise to this idyllic destination offers an unforgettable journey through some of the most breathtaking locations in the South Pacific. Fun fact: Bora Bora is often called the “Pearl of the Pacific” due to its stunning coral reefs and vibrant marine life. Cruisers can indulge in activities such as snorkeling, hiking, and experiencing the local Polynesian culture all while basking in the sunshine of this beautiful region.

Must-Visit Harbours in French Polynesia

Your cruise through French Polynesia will take you to several incredible harbours where you can indulge in unique experiences. Here are five top harbours to explore:

Popular Ports Outside French Polynesia

Several ports outside of French Polynesia are commonly visited during cruises that explore the region:

When to Cruise French Polynesia

The best time to visit French Polynesia is during the dry season, from May to October, where temperatures typically range from 20°C to 30°C. This is the ideal time for stunning weather, vibrant sunshine, and calm seas, perfect for a wonderful cruising experience. If you prefer slightly warmer temperatures and a quieter experience, the shoulder months of April and November can be delightful, with average temperatures around 22°C to 28°C, allowing you to escape the tourist crowds without sacrificing comfort.

Cruise Pricing Overview for French Polynesia

Curious about costs for cruising through French Polynesia? A 1-week cruise typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,500 for standard cruises and $5,000 to $10,000 for luxury options. If you’re considering a 2-week cruise, expect prices around $3,500 to $8,500 for regular options and upwards of $12,000 for luxury cruises. The cheapest times for cruising are generally during the shoulder seasons of April to early June and November, while prices peak during the dry season when more travelers choose to visit. Dining in French Polynesia typically costs around $25 to $60 for a meal, with beverages averaging $5 to $15.

Major Cruise Lines Sailing to French Polynesia

• Princess Cruises
  With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises has two vessels, Crown Princess and Discovery Princess, offering itineraries to French Polynesia. Departures typically occur from domestic ports like Sydney or Brisbane, as well as international ports such as Dover or New York. Princess is well-regarded for its modern amenities, family-friendly atmosphere, and excellent dining options that cater to guests of all ages.
• Norwegian Cruise Line
  Norwegian operates a fleet of 20 ships, including Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Spirit, which sail to French Polynesia. These cruises most commonly depart from Papeete or Honolulu. Norwegian’s freestyle cruising concept offers flexibility, allowing guests to choose when and how to dine, combined with a lively onboard atmosphere for an enjoyable experience.
• Holland America Line
  This cruising powerhouse consists of 11 ships, with 6 offering itineraries to French Polynesia, including Zaandam and Zuiderdam. Most departures are from Sydney or international ports like Fort Lauderdale or San Diego. Holland America Line is recognized for its cultural enrichment programs and exploration-focused excursions, enhancing the overall cruise experience.
• Cunard Line
  With a fleet of just four ships, Cunard focuses on luxury experiences, featuring the Queen Mary 2 on its itineraries to French Polynesia. Commonly departing from San Francisco or New York, Cunard is renowned for its elegance, superior service, and extraordinary dining options, making it a memorable choice for discerning cruisers.
• MSC Cruises
  With 23 ships in its fleet, MSC has one ship, MSC Magnifica, that visits French Polynesia, departing from Valparaíso (Santiago) or Barcelona. MSC is known for its vibrant onboard atmosphere and family-friendly amenities that cater to cruisers of all interests.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises
  Oceania’s fleet of 8 ships includes 6 offering itineraries to French Polynesia, such as Regatta and Insignia. Typical departure ports include Sydney or Perth (Fremantle), alongside international ports like Papeete or Los Angeles. Oceania is celebrated for its exquisite dining experiences and intimate atmosphere, ensuring cruisers enjoy a luxurious journey with personal touches.
• Silversea
  Silversea operates 13 ships, with 5 dedicated to French Polynesia itineraries, including Silver Shadow and Silver Dawn. Departing from Perth (Fremantle) or international ports like Papeete or Valparaíso, Silversea is known for its all-inclusive luxury offerings and ultra-personalized service, ensuring every guest feels catered to throughout their journey.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent features 6 elegant ships, with 4 sailing to French Polynesia, including Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Navigator. Departures are most common from Papeete or Miami, and Regent is renowned for its inclusivity, providing an all-inclusive luxury experience that truly pampers guests.
• Seabourn
  Seabourn’s fleet of 6 ships includes 3 that offer itineraries to French Polynesia, such as Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Sojourn. Departures typically occur from Sydney or international ports such as Papeete or Los Angeles. Known for its intimate, luxurious experiences, Seabourn offers personalized service and unique shore excursions that cater to travellers’ preferences.
• Azamara Cruises
  With a fleet of 4 ships, Azamara has one ship, Azamara Onward, with itineraries that include French Polynesia. Common departure points include Papeete or San Diego. Azamara is revered for its destination-focused approach, offering extended port stays and immersive experiences that truly connect guests to the local culture.

Alternative Regions for Your Consideration

If you’re drawn to French Polynesia but are open to other cruising options, consider these alternative regions:

• South Pacific: Explore other stunning islands, like Fiji or Samoa, where you can enjoy rich cultures, pristine beaches, and palm-fringed lagoons perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
• Caribbean: Experience the vibrant cultures, beautiful beaches, and lush landscapes of the Caribbean islands, making it an excellent alternative for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts.
• Australia: Boasting stunning coastal towns and a unique outback experience, Australia offers a mix of vibrant cities and breathtaking natural landscapes—ideal for those looking to explore diverse destinations.
• New Zealand: With its dramatic landscapes and Maori culture, New Zealand is a haven for nature lovers and adventure-seekers. Enjoy stunning fjords, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant food scene in this remarkable destination.
• Maldives: If you love turquoise waters and luxurious resorts, the Maldives is an idyllic alternative that offers romantic getaways and tranquil beach experiences, perfect for relaxation!

Ready to set sail for an unforgettable adventure in French Polynesia? Book your next cruise with CruiseAway and prepare for the journey of a lifetime!