The Best Time to Cruise Tahiti, Bora Bora and French Polynesia

When to Go?

The dry season between May and October is the best time to cruise Tahiti, Bora Bora, and French Polynesia. While there is no shortage of blue skies and sunshine throughout the year; there are more festivals, less humidity, and greater availability of cruise dates during these times.

For those looking for fewer crowds, the shoulder months of May, September, and October have pleasant weather and plenty to see and do.  Bora Bora, Tahiti, and French Polynesia weather patterns are characterized by wet and dry seasons.

The dry season lasts from May to October while the wet season occurs from November through April. These seasons bring with them contrasting temperatures and precipitation, which may make one season more appealing than another depending on your vacation goals. Given their proximity, they experience near-identical temperatures year-round averaging at around 28C (82F).

A 50-minute flight with Air Tahiti or a three to four-hour boat ride from Tahiti will get you to Bora Bora, which is located 143 miles northwest of the island. Bora Bora and Tahiti are both located in French Polynesia's Society Islands, which are composed of volcanic islands. 

May (Shoulder Season)

June is the best time of year to sail in Tahiti—and that's the consensus of not only the locals but of many travelers. In the Southern Hemisphere, June marks the start of winter, but in Tahiti, it's a bit on the cool side. The average temperature during June is a mild 25°C. The heavy rains are long gone by June, leaving behind nothing but clear skies and sunny days for your whole stay. But perhaps even more importantly, humidity is lower, alleviated by increased trade winds coming in from the east. The seemingly endless dry and clear days coincide with the start of the busier tourist season. Nights are a mild 21°C (70°F), making it easier to sleep since it's not so hot and sticky.

July in Tahiti and Bora Bora finds the high season in full swing with the Heiva festival, great weather, and cruises kicking into gear around the islands. It's also the best time for snorkeling at remote coves, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and helicopter rides. French Polynesia cruises offer these activities when touring the islands of Papeete, Bora Bora, Moorea, Taha’a, and Huahine. ​The dry season makes the pristine lagoons of Huahine excellent for snorkeling, swimming, or scuba diving during a Tahiti cruise.
 

August is one of the best months of the dry season when the weather and the conditions in French Polynesia are at their peak, but it is also the most popular, with hotels booked months in advance due to the influx of both foreign visitors and residents to the smaller islands during this period. It's best to reserve far in advance if you're considering sailing in August. If you want lesser crowds, consider delaying your trip until September. 

The best time to see whales in French Polynesia is from mid-August until the end of October. This is when humpbacks migrate from Antarctica to mate and give birth. Average day and night temperatures start to rise, but humidity levels are still low enough for you to enjoy being outside for longer periods. Come to Tahiti in October to see the whales, swim with them, and enjoy clear skies, sunny weather, and fewer people on holiday. Although it's the wettest month of the season, it still has only half the rainfall in November.

​While hiking and surfing in Tahiti are best between June and September, keep in mind that areas near the mountains are frequently cold and wet throughout the year, and July and August can be unexpectedly windy.