Bora Bora: Catamaran Sailing, Snorkeling & Floating Bar Tour

Summary

Luxury sailing in Bora Bora’s lagoon with snorkeling and floating bar

You’ll sail Bora Bora’s glowing lagoon on a luxury catamaran with a small group, snorkel among bright fish at a private coral garden, then sip cold drinks at a floating bar in paradise bay. With hotel pickup and a local guide who shares real stories, it’s more than just pretty views — it’s those little moments that stick with you.

What’s the experience like?

I opened my eyes to the kind of blue you almost don’t believe until you’re right there — Bora Bora’s lagoon just sort of glows. We climbed aboard this 46ft catamaran (bare feet, sun on my shoulders) and our guide Manu grinned, asking if we wanted music or just the sound of water. I said both. There was a soft breeze that kept everything easy. The boat had these shaded seats where you could stretch out and watch the island slide by — palm trees, thatched roofs, little boats in the distance. I kept touching the railings; they were cool from last night’s rain.

We stopped at this spot Manu called “the aquarium” — not sure if that’s official or just what everyone says. I dunked my head under and it was quiet except for my own bubbles and the fish darting everywhere. Coral like old bones, parrotfish flashing past. Someone handed me a mask because I’d forgotten mine (thanks again). The water tasted faintly salty but sweet too, somehow. When we got back on board, someone had already set up cold drinks — beer for some, pineapple juice for me — and Manu told us about growing up here, how his uncle taught him to read the clouds for weather.

Later we drifted into this shallow bay where the water was so clear you could see your own toes wiggling in the sand. They set up a floating bar right there — honestly didn’t know what to expect but it was just fun, people laughing, music low enough to hear each other talk. I tried saying “Mauruuru” (thank you) but probably butchered it; Manu laughed anyway. Sunlight flickered on everyone’s faces and I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail, snorkel, and enjoy floating bar

• Sail on crystal clear lagoon
• Snorkel at private coral garden
• Celebrate at floating bar in shallow water
• Enjoy ice cold drinks and music

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Bora Bora catamaran tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour.

How many people can join the luxury catamaran tour?

The maximum is 8 people per booking for this catamaran experience.

What activities are part of this sailing tour?

You’ll sail around Bora Bora’s lagoon, snorkel at a private coral garden, swim in Paradise Bay, and enjoy drinks at a floating bar.

Are drinks provided during the catamaran trip?

Yes, bottled water and beverages are included during the tour.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on board?

The description doesn’t specify all gear details but masks were available when needed during our experience.

How long does the day trip last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect several hours including sailing, snorkeling, swimming and relaxing time.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is mentioned; only drinks like bottled water and other beverages are included.

What is the minimum age for joining this catamaran trip?

The minimum age to join is 8 years old.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Bora Bora, all beverages like bottled water and soft drinks while onboard (and at the floating bar), plus an experienced local guide who knows these waters inside out — so you can just relax into island time without worrying about logistics or finding your way back after snorkeling.