Snorkeling in Tahaa: Vanilla, pearls and coral gardens

Snorkel sharks and coral gardens, then taste vanilla and rum on a private island

A full-day snorkeling trip in Tahaa includes two sessions in the lagoon (one with lagoon sharks, one in a coral garden) plus visits to a vanilla plantation, pearl farm and distillery, with lunch on the private beach at motu Tautau. A local guide leads the group in English or French, and snorkeling equipment is provided. The pace is unhurried and the itinerary suits all fitness levels and cruise passengers with flexible timing.

Step-by-step itinerary

Full day trip to Tahaa highlights

• Snorkeling with lagoon sharks
• Visit vanilla plantation and shop
• Discover pearl farm and shop
• Tour local distillery and taste rum
• Lunch on private beach at motu Tautau
• Snorkeling in coral garden

The experience

The day opens in Tahaa Lagoon with a snorkeling session where you watch lagoon sharks in their natural, secure environment before moving to a coral garden rich with tropical fish, Bora Bora visible across the water. Snorkeling equipment is provided on request (mask and snorkel), and there's a shower on the boat to rinse off afterward.

Between water time, you visit three working sites that show how Tahaa sustains itself: a vanilla plantation in the Bay of Apu where you learn the island's world-renowned cultivation methods and can shop for vanilla products; a local pearl farm where you see the grafting, cultivating and harvesting of Polynesian pearls; and a small distillery where tastings introduce you to local rum and sugarcane handicrafts. A guide who knows the island's history and traditions walks you through each stop without rushing.

Lunch is included on the private beach at motu Tautau, where you have free time to swim, relax or drift in the lagoon before the second snorkeling session in the coral garden. Meals, fruits and drinks are all covered. The full day runs about eight hours, and the group stays small enough that the pace feels personal rather than regimented.

What’s included

• Snorkeling equipment provided on request.
• meals, fresh fruit and drinks throughout the day.
• lunch on the private beach at motu Tautau.
• visits to a vanilla plantation, pearl farm and distillery with tastings and shopping at each.
• a local guide in English or French.

Before you book

Days and timesTuesday and SundayDeparts at 08:00Last departure this season: 31 Dec

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (under 12)

GroupUp to 12

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 5 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Hava'i and Sea

Is this one for you?This trip works best if you're staying in or near Tahaa or can arrange your own transport to the meeting point, since pickup is not specified. If you're on a cruise, confirm your ship's schedule when booking so the guide can time the day to your port call.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

6 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and French.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 12).

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 snorkeling like in Tahaa Lagoon?

Two snorkeling sessions make up the day: the first watches lagoon sharks in a natural setting, and the second explores a coral garden with tropical fish and clear water, with Bora Bora as the backdrop. Snorkeling equipment is provided on request.

What happens at the vanilla plantation and pearl farm?

At the vanilla plantation in the Bay of Apu, you learn the stages of Tahaa's traditional vanilla cultivation and can buy vanilla products on site. At the pearl farm, you discover how Polynesian pearls are grafted, cultivated and harvested, with shopping available there too.

Is lunch included, and where do we eat?

Lunch is included on the private beach at motu Tautau, along with fruits and drinks throughout the day. You have free time to swim or relax on the beach after eating.

Can I do this trip if I'm visiting on a cruise ship?

The trip is suitable for cruise passengers, and timing can be arranged to fit your ship's stopover schedule. Confirm your port arrival and departure times when you book so the guide can plan accordingly.