Sailinity Lagoon catamaran: 100% sailing in Raiatea

Wind-powered sailing, rays and turtles, a motu swim, and the rhythm of the lagoon

A half-day catamaran sailing tour in the Raiatea lagoon that runs on wind alone, not motors. You board at Apooiti Marina, sail toward Taha'a across turquoise water where sharks, rays and turtles move below, anchor at Motu Mahaea for a swim and snorkeling break, then sail back under canvas. Morning and afternoon departures are timed to work around cruise ship schedules, and the guide speaks English and French.

Step-by-step itinerary

Half day catamaran sailing in lagoon

• Board at Apooiti Marina
• Sail towards Taha'a in Raiatea lagoon
• Observe sharks, rays, and turtles
• Anchor at Motu Mahaea for swim and snorkel
• Enjoy snacks and drinks on board
• Sail back to Apooiti Marina

The experience

The Sailinity Lagoon tour runs on 100% sailing: the wind sets the pace, and no two outings are the same. You board at Apooiti Marina and drop moorings into the heart of the Raiatea lagoon, heading toward Taha'a across light blue and turquoise water. From the boat, it's common to spot sharks, rays and turtles moving through the shallows. The boat carries few passengers, which means a quieter experience and room to move on deck.

The anchor drops at Motu Mahaea, a preserved motu where you swim in clear water and snorkel with masks provided. A ladder makes boarding easy after the water. Snacks, fresh fruit, dried fruit and drinks are on board. A rinse shower lets you freshen up before sailing back. The return to Apooiti happens under sails again, moving to the rhythm of the wind and weather. The whole outing takes around three to three and a half hours.

Afternoon tours are scheduled to get you back to the quay before cruise ship departures around 4:30 PM, and the operator adapts timing to fit your ship's schedule. Cushions, music and a USB-C charger are on board. Children from age 4 are welcome, though infants must sit on an adult's lap.

What’s included

• Snorkeling masks.
• light snacks (fresh fruit and dried fruit).
• water, sparkling water and local juice.
• rinse shower.
• cushions.
• music.
• USB-C charger on board.
• a ladder for easy boarding after swimming.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 08:30 and 13:00

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (19 to 49 years) · Senior (50 to 70 years) · Youth (13 to 18 years) · Child (7 to 12 years) · Infant (4 to 6 years) · Under 4: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 8

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 or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 7 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Sailinity Excursions

Is this one for you?Small groups and solo travelers seeking a quiet, wind-powered experience will find the few-passenger setup and sailing rhythm very different from the busier motorized tours. Afternoon departures work well if you're arriving by cruise ship and need to be back by early evening.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and French.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (13 to 18 years); Child (7 to 12 years); Infant (4 to 6 years). Under 4: they can't be included in the booking.

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's the difference between this sailing tour and the motorized catamaran trips in Raiatea?

This tour is 100% sailing: the wind powers the boat, not an engine. That means every outing is shaped by the weather and wind conditions, and the pace is slower and quieter than a motorized trip. The boat also carries fewer passengers, so there's more space and a more intimate atmosphere on deck.

Will I actually see marine life like rays and turtles, or is that just marketing?

The lagoon around Raiatea is home to rays, sharks and turtles, and spotting them from the boat is common during the sail. The route crosses areas where these animals move through the shallow water, so sightings happen regularly, though there's no guarantee on any single day.

How does the afternoon departure work if I'm arriving on a cruise ship?

Afternoon tours are timed to return you to Apooiti Marina before cruise ship departures around 4:30 PM. The operator can adjust the schedule to fit your ship's arrival and departure times, so you can confirm the exact timing when you book.

What happens if there's no wind on the day of my tour?

The tour is designed around sailing, so the wind sets the rhythm and every outing is unique. If conditions are very light, the pace will be slower, but the boat still operates. Rough weather or unsafe conditions would be communicated before departure.

Is there a bathroom on board?

Restroom availability on board depends on which boat is assigned to your departure. Confirm this detail when you book, especially if it matters for your comfort during the three-hour outing.