Raiatea: The Sacred Start (and Sweet Farewell) of Your Bora Bora Sailing Adventure

When you think of a sailing escape to Bora Bora, your mind probably jumps to turquoise lagoons, iconic mountain peaks, and days spent barefoot under the sun. 

But before the catamaran sets sail, your adventure begins—and ends—on an island that quietly holds the soul of Polynesia: Raiatea.

Often overlooked for its more famous sister islands, Raiatea is a hidden gem. And for guests joining us on our charter catamaran with friends and friends-of-friends, it's more than just the boarding point—it’s the prologue and the encore to your week in paradise.

Why Raiatea Matters

Known as the "Sacred Island," Raiatea is the cultural and spiritual heart of French Polynesia. It's believed to be the birthplace of Polynesian civilization and once served as the launching point for great canoe voyages across the Pacific. 

Today, it’s home to lush valleys, ancient temples, quiet villages, and deep, dreamlike lagoons.

Before we untie the lines for Bora Bora, or after we return from a week of sailing bliss, you’ll have a chance to explore what makes Raiatea so special.

Let’s start your story in Raiatea—where the legends began.

Things to Do on Raiatea (Before or After You Sail)

Visit Taputapuātea Marae (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Step into living history at this sacred site on the island’s southeast coast. Once a gathering place for Polynesian chiefs and navigators, this ancient temple complex is beautifully preserved—and feels downright mystical.

Stroll the Market in Uturoa

The island’s main town, just minutes from our marina, offers a colorful local market where you can browse fresh tropical fruit, pareos (sarongs), and hand-crafted souvenirs. A perfect stop to stock up on snacks—or gifts for home.

Kayak or Paddleboard the Faaroa River

This is the only navigable river in French Polynesia, and it’s lined with dense, tropical jungle. Paddle slowly through a Jurassic-like world of birds, vines, and silence.

Hike Mount Temehani (Home of the Tiare Apetahi)

If you’re feeling adventurous, this unique mountain hosts the rare tiare apetahi flower, found nowhere else on Earth. The hike offers stunning views of the lagoon—and a chance to say you’ve walked through sacred landscapes.

Snorkel or Dive Raiatea’s Coral Gardens

Even before we leave the dock, the underwater world is calling. Raiatea’s reefs are teeming with colorful marine life—perfect for an easy snorkel or a certified dive if you’ve got time.

Enjoy a Sunset Dinner Overlooking the Lagoon

Several charming restaurants offer waterfront views with freshly grilled fish, island cocktails, and the kind of sunset that makes you stop mid-sentence.

A Moment to Ground Yourself—Before You Drift Away

Raiatea isn’t flashy. It’s authentic, grounded, and steeped in mana (spiritual energy). It’s the perfect place to settle in, meet your fellow travelers, and get ready for the magic that awaits on the water.

And when we return after a week of sailing, it’s also the perfect place to reflect, exhale, and say a soft goodbye to the islands—until next time.

Want to Join Us in Bora Bora, February 2026?

We’re curating an easygoing crew for our sailing catamaran adventure through French Polynesia, starting and ending right here in Raiatea. If you want to share this experience with friends and new travel-minded souls, now’s the time to hop aboard.

Check out our Bora Bora trip information and reserve your spot.

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