Bora Bora: Sunset lagoon cruise with drinks & local guide

Summary

Drift across Bora Bora’s lagoon at sunset with local flavors & stories

You’ll join a small group on a sunset lagoon cruise in Bora Bora with a local guide, enjoying drinks (alcoholic or not), fresh fruit, and appetizers as you drift past motus and listen to stories about island life. With warm towels, flowers, and plenty of time to soak up the changing light over Mount Otemanu, it’s an evening you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever seen water this blue?” That’s what Narii asked as we pulled away from the dock in his pirogue, and honestly, I just laughed because I hadn’t. The boat felt both sturdy and kind of homey — there were these little Polynesian touches everywhere, like woven mats and bright flowers tucked into corners. There was a salty breeze that made my hair stick to my face, but it felt right for the moment. We weren’t in any rush; nobody was checking their phone or anything.

Narii handed out oshiburi towels (still warm) and a flower for each of us — mine smelled faintly sweet, almost like vanilla but not quite. He started telling us about the different motus around Bora Bora as we drifted past them, pointing out which ones belonged to families he knew. I tried one of the local cocktails (can’t remember the name — something with pineapple and rum), and it was cold enough to make my teeth hurt. There were platters of fruit and little snacks passed around too; I grabbed something that looked like sushi but tasted more like coconut.

The sun dipped lower and everything went kind of gold-orange — you know that light where everyone looks softer? Someone played music from their phone for a bit but mostly it was quiet except for the water lapping against the hull. At one point Narii just stopped talking and let us watch the sky change colors over Mount Otemanu. I didn’t expect to feel so calm out there, honestly. Still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset Lagoon Cruise

• Board motorized Polynesian pirogue
• Enjoy cocktail with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
• Admire sunset over Bora Bora lagoon
• Receive surprise refreshment

Top questions

Is pickup included for the Bora Bora sunset lagoon cruise?

No, hotel pickup is not included; public transportation options are available nearby.

What drinks are offered during the sunset cruise?

You can choose from four non-alcoholic drinks or three alcoholic beverages served onboard.

Are food or snacks provided on this tour?

Yes, appetizers and local fruits are served during the cruise.

How long does the sunset lagoon cruise last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but it covers sunset hours on the lagoon.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Can people with spinal injuries join this tour?

No, travelers with spinal injuries are advised not to join this activity.

Is this shared or private?

This is a shared group experience on the lagoon.

Who leads the tour?

A local guide named Narii leads the cruise and shares stories about Bora Bora.

What’s included

Your evening includes service onboard a decorated Polynesian pirogue with your choice of four non-alcoholic drinks or three alcoholic beverages, plus appetizers and fresh local fruits served throughout the sunset cruise. You’ll also receive an oshiburi towel and a flower as part of your welcome from your local guide before returning after dusk.