Private Sailing Tahiti Lagoon: Red Junk Sails & Snorkeling

The Polynesian canoe's red junk sails are unlike anything else on the water.

A private half-day sailing excursion on the Tahiti lagoon aboard a traditional Polynesian canoe with distinctive red junk sails. You snorkel two sites (a wreck in 10 to 12 meters of water and a shallow reef) with mask and snorkel provided, then anchor for fresh fruit, seasonal juices and local punch. The captain speaks English and French and steers the boat. The experience lasts four hours and suits all fitness levels.

Step-by-step itinerary

Afternoon sailing and snorkeling excursion

• Board the Polynesian canoe
• Dive at the wreck snorkeling site
• Relax in shallow water with drinks and fruit
• Visit Taapuna surf spot to watch surfers

The experience

The boat is yours alone with friends, family or colleagues. You set the pace on the water: dive among colorful fish at the wreck site or the shallow anchorage, or simply sit on deck and let the red sails carry you. The captain navigates both snorkeling stops and can swing by the famous surf break at Taapuna if you want to watch surfers ride the waves from the water. A relaxed atmosphere is what makes the afternoon work, and the lagoon's calm waters mean even first-time snorkelers can manage the depth.

The first stop is a wreck site in 10 to 12 meters of water: a real challenge for freedivers, but the captain reads the group and sets the pace. The second anchorage is shallow and built for ease: this is where the punch, fresh fruit and seasonal fruit salad come out, and where you can float and recover. Bring your own cooler, picnic or drinks if you want. The captain provides the snorkel gear, and you bring sunscreen, sunglasses, towels and your swimsuit. Public transportation runs nearby if you need it to reach the boat.

What’s included

• Snorkel mask and snorkel.
• fresh seasonal fruit, fruit juices and spring water.
• local punch served at the second anchorage.
• captain's commentary in English or French.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 08:00 and 12:00

Book up to1h before

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and French

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 4 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearby

Operated by Balades en double pirogue polynésienne sur le lagon de Tahiti / Water activity on Tahiti

Is this one for you?The captain speaks English and French fluently, so language is never a barrier to understanding the route, the snorkel sites or safety instructions. Choose this if you want a private boat where everyone in your group can follow along comfortably in their preferred language.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and French.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What exactly is a Polynesian canoe with red junk sails?

A traditional sailing vessel unique to French Polynesia, rigged with distinctive red sails that catch the wind differently than standard white canvas. The design is built for lagoon sailing and creates an experience you won't find on a modern catamaran or speedboat.

Can I snorkel if I've never done it before?

Yes. The captain provides all snorkel equipment and chooses two sites suited to mixed experience levels: the wreck in deeper water is for confident swimmers and freedivers, while the second shallow anchorage is designed for relaxation and easier breathing. You decide how long to stay in the water at each stop.

What happens if I don't want to snorkel the whole time?

You don't have to. The boat is yours for four hours, and you can spend that time on deck watching the water, enjoying the sails and the view, or watching surfers at Taapuna. Snorkeling is an option, not a requirement.

What's included in the price, and what do I need to bring?

Snorkel gear, fresh fruit, seasonal juices, spring water and local punch are included. Bring your own sunscreen, sunglasses, towels, swimsuit and any food or drinks you want beyond what's provided. Tips and personal expenses are separate.