Two of the most stunning and well-known islands in French Polynesia are Raiatea and Bora Bora. These islands are renowned for their spectacular coral reefs, pristine oceans, and breathtaking natural landscape. While being physically close to one another, travelling from Raiatea to Bora Bora might be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the region. We’ll go through five possible ways to get from Raiatea to Bora Bora in this article.
By Air
Flying is, as already noted, the shortest and most straightforward way to go from Raiatea to Bora Bora. The flight between the two islands takes about 20 minutes and is regularly operated by Air Tahiti. Despite being the priciest choice, it is worthwhile for the ease and breathtaking aerial views of the islands. While the airport in Bora Bora is situated on the island of Motu Mute, the airport in Raiatea is situated in Uturoa. These flights are conducted on small aircraft, with a maximum capacity of 16 passengers. This means that the weather might have an impact on the flights, and if the weather is bad, they might be delayed or cancelled.
While flying from Raiatea to Bora Bora, it’s crucial to reserve your seats far in advance, especially during the busiest travel times. May through October is French Polynesia’s main travel season, and during this time, flights may quickly sell out. You have two options for purchasing tickets: either online through the Air Tahiti website or through a travel agency.
You’ll need to take a boat transfer to go to your hotel or resort after landing in Bora Bora. This service is typically provided by most hotels and resorts, and the cost of your stay will typically cover it. The boat transfer takes around 15-20 minutes, and during that time you can enjoy the stunning views of the lagoon and the nearby islands.
By Boat
Boating is another well-liked mode of transportation between Raiatea and Bora Bora. Depending on the weather, several companies provide boat trips between the two islands. The journey takes about 2-3 hours. While some boats are bigger and more comfortable than others, smaller vessels may be less expensive. If you want a more specialized experience, you can also opt to take a private boat transfer.
The ability to take in the breathtaking views of the lagoon and the neighboring islands is one of the benefits of going by boat. During the journey, you may stop at the smaller island of Taha’a. You can even stay for a few nights if you would like.
Traveling by boat might not be the ideal choice for you if you are prone to motion sickness. The trip may be difficult and rocky, particularly in bad weather. Also, you should be ready for weather-related cancellations or delays.
You’ll most likely be dropped off at the Vaitape dock when you get to Bora Bora. You can then take a cab or shuttle bus from there to your hotel or resort. Alternatively, your hotel or resort can make arrangements for a private transfer.
By Helicopter
Consider taking a helicopter if you’re searching for a more exciting and fun method from Raiatea to Bora Bora. Regular flights between the two islands are run by Tahiti Helicopters, and the trip takes around 15 minutes. If you want to view the islands from a different angle and get some stunning aerial shots, this is a fantastic choice. Unfortunately, it is also the most expensive choice, and reservations must be made far in advance to guarantee a space.
Some of the most breathtaking views of the lagoon and the neighboring islands can be seen when you take a helicopter from Raiatea to Bora Bora. Also, you’ll see Mount Otemanu, the famous peak that protrudes from the middle of Bora Bora, from above. You’ll never forget the exhilarating sensation of the helicopter trip.
The use of a helicopter for transportation is subject to several restrictions. First off, the helicopter only has a small carrying capacity—the most of them can only fit around six people. As a result, the price per person may be rather expensive. In addition, the helicopter flights are weather-dependent and could be postponed or cancelled depending on the weather. It’s crucial to plan ahead and monitor the weather reports if you want to take a helicopter journey from Raiatea to Bora Bora.
You’ll most likely be dropped off at the Motu Mute island airstrip or at a helipad near your hotel when you arrive in Bora Bora. You can then take a boat transfer to your hotel or resort if there is not a helipad nearby.
Private Yacht Charter
Consider leasing a private yacht if you’re seeking an opulent and individualized way to get from Raiatea to Bora Bora. You can select from various yachts and catamarans to fit your budget and preferences from a number of firms that provide private yacht charters in French Polynesia.
You’ll have the freedom to plan your own route and explore the islands at your own speed when you charter a private boat. During the cruise, you can stop at a few of the smaller islands to go snorkeling or scuba diving. On board, you may also savor some fine dining and specialty drinks while taking in the lagoon’s setting sun.
The most expensive alternative, however—hiring a private yacht—might not be practical for individuals on a tight budget. Also, the weather might impact the voyage, so if it’s not ideal, you might need to adjust your plan.
When you get to Bora Bora, your yacht will probably dock at the marina close to your hotel or resort. The island can be explored on foot or by bicycle, or you can organize a boat ride from the airport to your hotel or resort.
To sum up, there are a variety of routes to get from Raiatea to Bora Bora, each with its benefits and drawbacks. You can select the travel mode that best fits your tastes and price range, whether by air, sea, land, or private yacht rental. The most practical choice if you need to go to Bora Bora quickly is to take a domestic airline. A boat transfer is an excellent choice if you want to take in the breathtaking views of the islands from the ocean. It’s difficult to top a helicopter flight for a unique experience. A fantastic option for exploring more of the islands and learning about the local culture is to combine land and water transportation. A private yacht charter is the ideal mode of transportation for individuals seeking a luxurious and individualized trip.
Whatever route you take, going from Raiatea to Bora Bora is a journey in and of itself. French Polynesia’s islands are known for their stunning natural scenery, clean waters, and abundant marine life. You’ll get the chance to become immersed in the local culture as you travel from one island to the next, meet welcoming locals, and make lifelong memories. Book Far and Away Adventure’s latest packages today!
Our Top FAQ's
The flight between Raiatea and Bora Bora takes approximately 20 minutes.
You can reserve your seats in advance either through the Air Tahiti website or a travel agency.
The boat trip between Raiatea and Bora Bora typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on the weather.
Traveling by boat allows you to enjoy breathtaking views of the lagoon and neighboring islands. You may also stop at smaller islands and interact with local communities.
The helicopter journey from Raiatea to Bora Bora takes around 15 minutes.
A helicopter trip provides stunning aerial views of the islands, including Mount Otemanu, the famous peak in Bora Bora.
Taking a combination of land and sea travel allows you to explore more islands and interact with locals.
Renting a private yacht offers a luxurious and personalized way to travel between Raiatea and Bora Bora, with the freedom to plan your route and make stops at smaller islands.