Depart March 11th - 12th, 2025
Packages including flights from Los Angeles to Papeete uses the Air Tahiti Nui
March 11th - depart Los Angeles at 11:55pm - arrive Papeete at 5:05am on March 12th
Arrive Papeete on March 12th and be transferred to the Intercontinental Tahiti Resort & Spa:
Be picked up and transferred to the beautiful Intercontinental Tahiti Resort & Spa which is on 32 acres of lush tropical gardens facing an idyllic lagoon. With dramatic volcanic peaks and an aquamarine lagoon backdropping expansive lush gardens, the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa is your gateway to the archipelago of French Polynesia. On the vibrant main island of Tahiti, two kilometers from the airport, our exotic overwater bungalows and tropical accommodations are a sublime jumping-off point for must-see cultural events and enviable panoramas.
Relax and get rid of any jet-leg before boarding your ship tomorrow!
https://tahiti.intercontinental.com/
If you are not on the package deal - you may want to come early and stay for a few nights at Te Moana Resort in a 1, 2, or 3 bdrm unit! https://www.temoanatahitiresort.pf/en/
Today we will be transferred to our home for the next 8 days. The beautiful Star Breeze Yacht:
Star Breeze is large enough to pamper and entertain you, yet small enough to tuck into delightful tiny harbors and hidden coves that others can’t reach.
This all-suite yacht completed renovation as part of the $250 Million Star Plus Initiative to provide more of what our guests love. New public areas, including two new dining venues, a new spa, infinity pool, and fitness area. The yacht also boasts all new bathrooms in every suite and a new category of Star suites, featuring a new layout. With ocean views and at least 277 square feet of comfort, Star Breeze is the perfect yacht to watch hidden lagoons and pristine beaches drift by from the serenity of your suite.
Carrying only 312 guests, Star Breeze makes Papeete her homeport in February 2024.
We will board the ship and slowly make our way out of the harbour to our first stop - Moorea.
The Environment - Unregimented. Unstructured. Giving you the freedom to choose to have all the privacy you want, or to be pampered. Design your experience to be as inclusive – or not – as you want. You have the flexibility to include flights, hotel (pre/post cruise), shore excursions, beverage packages, and other onboard amenities to your cruise. Service that is attentive when you need it to be. A warm, smiling crew who get to know what you like. The Bridge is almost always open for your visit. There are many activities at hand, but they are never imposed.
The Dress Code - from 7 am - 6 pm guests are welcome to dress as they please with the exception of no swimwear in all public lounges and restaurants and no clothing with offensive language or graphics that distract from the comfort and well-being of others. The general shipboard style is elegant, but relaxed including jeans and Bermuda/ walking shorts.
In the evening - after 6 pm when dining in Amphora, Stella Bistro or Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, the dress code is country club-type clothing. For men - nice slacks, polo shirts, button down shirts, shoes other than athlectic shoes. Designer denim jeans without rips or holes or are multi-colores are also acceptable. Sport coats are optional. Ties are not needed. For women - nice pants, skirts, tops, casual dresses, sundresses, nice sandals or casual shoes and designer denim dress jeans not ripped or multi-colored or having holes. Blazers are optional.
No assigned seating in Amphora or Veranda restaurants. And what can be more casual than merely signing for onboard purchases? You will feel like this is your ship, your personal yacht. The environment inspires the attitude. Reservations are required for Candles and can be made on board.
Windstar's strong ties to the local communities help us bring the culture alive for our guests with fire dancing, storytellers, guides, and artists. They have also partnered with Coral Gardeners to support the sustainability of reefs in the area. And because Windstar has been sailing here longer than any other cruise, they know Tahiti the best!
OTHER INFO: https://www.windstarcruises.com/voyage-plan/general-information/
Moorea: Welcome to paradise, where your stunning surroundings soak up superlatives and call for more. In our stay here you’ll have plenty of time to do it all. Be sure to consider the opportunity to hone your photography talents on an optional tour of the island in the company of a professional photographer. Your choices here are endless. Hike the majestic Three Coconut Trail. Visit dolphins in their native habitat. Or spend your time swimming and kayaking from Wind Spirit’s Watersports Platform as we lay at anchor in these beautiful sapphire seas.
An exciting exursion here today would be the Dolphin Eco Tour - $169 p/p
Join marine biologist Dr. Michael Poole or his assistant and learn about their ecotourism and research projects on the dolphins that frequent Moorea’s magnificent coastline. Dr. Poole, the founder of the Marine Mammal Research Program, has been studying dolphins and whales in French Polynesia since 1987. Spinner dolphins, rough-tooth dolphins, and pilot whales are often seen around Moorea. Hear details on the remarkable life and society of these fascinating mammals. Learn about the geology of French Polynesia while viewing and photographing the dramatic beauty of Moorea from the water. Dolphins are found on 95% of the tours, and the thoroughness of the commentary and the sheer magnificence of Moorea’s coastline will ensure a rewarding and educational experience. This tour company follows international ecotourism guidelines and is an active contributor to the conservation of French Polynesia’s dolphins and whales. Participation in this tour will help to further their goal.
Please note: As with all creatures in their natural environment, the presence of wildlife cannot be guaranteed, but even so, dolphins are found 95% of the time. This is not a swim with the dolphins, but time permitting you can swim directly from the boat at the end of the tour. Even though the boat is covered, you are advised to wear biodegradable sunscreen as protection from the glare of the water. And definitely bring your camera. Biodegradable sun protection is recommended since most sunscreens contain substances that are extremely harmful to the marine ecosystem.
EXCURSIONS: The best on land brought to you by the best at sea. Get to the heart of local cultures with Windstar shore excursions. You don't want to just dip a toe in local culture, you want to dive into the deep end, and that's exactly what Windstar shore excursions are designed to do. All of our excursion are created to provide authentic local experience - the kind travelers like you are looking for. And with more than 2,500 excursions to choose from, you can experience your destination in whatever way is most meaningful to you. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, a history buff, or someone who loves to get to know the faces behind the many places we travel.
In Moorea, there are 6 excursions to choose from! Have a look: EXCURSIONS: https://www.windstarcruises.com/cruise/shore-excursions/tahiti/papeete-to-papeete/dreams-of-tahiti-air-hotel-package-lax/?pkgid=356986
A day on board your Windstar ship is a day of choices, all of them good. Perhaps you’ll begin with a relaxing massage in World Spa by Windstar. Or maybe an invigorating workout in the Fitness Center. Even better, why not both? After a sumptuous lunch in Veranda, make a splash from the Watersports Platform off the ship’s stern. Everything you can think of for fun in the water is there — swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. And it’s all complimentary, of course. Sun yourself on deck, take a dip in the whirlpool, then catch up on email or order a cheese plate for your stateroom or suite. After dinner, dance to live music in the Lounge. This is your yacht, so of course you’re welcome on the Bridge, where the Captain and officers are delighted to share charts, routes, and vistas with you.
As you prepare for another amazing Windstar day, enjoy a nightcap anywhere you like — on deck, in the Lounge, or why not let us bring it to your suite or stateroom? Your day ends just as it began, blissfully.
Raiatea, “The Sacred Island,” is located just across the lagoon from Tahaa and shares the same barrier reef. (Legend claims the two were a single island until a conger eel possessed by the spirit of a princess separated them.) It used to be the center of religion and culture in the Society Islands. Taputapuatea, on the southeast coast, was once the most important marae around, the place where kings from the neighboring islands would gather for important ceremonies. Uturoa, the main town, reminds some people of Papeete in its younger days with its quaint low-rise buildings. Raiatea is also home to the only navigable river in the islands, the Fa’aroa. Explore Polynesian history or climb Mount Temehani in search of the rare tiare apetahi flower, which grows only here.
There are 9 Windstar excursions to choose from in Raiatea or hiking on your own: Raiatea offers several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the island and the surrounding lagoon. The most popular trail is the hike to the summit of Mount Temetiu, which offers breathtaking views of the island and the ocean.
If you are interested in Scuba Diving - there are both advanced Scuba days available (Raiatea, Bora Bora) and also, here in Raiatea it is possible to do the "Discover Scuba" for $149 p/p (or in Bora Bora for $219 p/p).
This program is for the guest who wants to experience SCUBA diving for the first time, or for the guest with no dive certification. You will have a great experience, and receive lots of personal attention. Dives will take place at the following site (weather dependent).
Teavapiti Pass: A drive dive. You will be able to observe white tip lagoon sharks, black tip, grey sharks, schools of jacks fish, barracudas, napoleons and sometimes tuna fish in a depth up to 18 feet.
Raiatea: 2 Tank Certified Dive Essentials Collection | Snorkeling | Wildlife
Duration 4 HOURS
Activity Level STRENUOUS
$219Per Person
This program is for Certified Divers looking to do a half day of diving (approximately 4 hours).. The typical time underwater for the 2 tank dive is 45 minutes for the first dive, with a long surface interval followed by a second dive of approximately 45 minutes. For guests only wanting a one tank, you can go at the same price and may choose to snorkel or swim while the second dive is going. Dives will take place at the following site (weather dependent).
Teavapiti Pass: A drive dive. You will be able to observe white tip lagoon sharks, black tip, grey sharks, schools of jacks fish, barracudas, napoleons and sometimes tuna fish in a depth up to 90 feet.
Please note: The Dive Tour being offered is for Certified Divers only. Certified Divers need to bring their PADI - CMAS Cards or other proof of certification, including a log book. Waiver release forms must be signed and medical conditions must be disclosed. Bring your C-card. Please wear your swimsuit under your clothing and bring a towel, spare t-shirt and sun block.Please take a refresher course before the cruise if you haven’t been diving in over a year. Divers 75 years of age or older must present a medical certificate and diving insurance.
MOTU MAHAEA (TAHAA)
We will spend the day on a private island complete with swaying palm trees and white-sand beaches. Swim, snorkel and enjoy a variety of water sports in the crystal-clear waters. There will be a delicious barbecue lunch and tropical drinks waiting for you. Explore Tahaa with optional excursions to discover the vanilla plantations and sacred sites of the island.
BORA BORA - Our stay here allows plenty of time to capture the beauty in photographs — and you’ll want plenty. These stunning waters will show a different kaleidoscope of blue in each frame. You’ll have lots of options for exploration, whether you prefer the access provided by a 4-by-4, or the thrill of riding in the open air. Stretch out on stunning white-sand beaches, dive and swim in brightly colored seas, or sail among the tiny islands and lagoons. But the highlight here will be the Windstar Exclusive Destination Discovery Event on a private mote complete with fird dancers. This is the stuff that dreams are made of and available to small ships.
13 shore excursions to choose from, PLUS:
A Complimentary Windstar Destination Discovery Event
Bora Bora is surrounded by a number of tiny islets called “motu” – small, pristine, secluded paradises that offer privacy, beauty and relaxing ambiance. You will spend the evening on one of these perfect Polynesian oases accompanied only by other Windstar guests. As has long been the tradition in Tahiti, you will be welcomed to the motu with a fragrant flower lei.
Your private feast on the beach promises to be extraordinary. The menu has been carefully selected by Windstar’s executive chef and is sure to please and tantalize your palate.
When your meal is complete and the stars begin to shine, the highlight of this enchanted evening will begin. Fire dancing has long been deeply embedded in the Polynesian culture as a way to send messages to the gods. Your fire dancing experts will be wearing traditional loincloths and will dazzle you with high-speed acrobatic moves, throwing flames so hot you’ll feel the warmth 10 feet away.
Bora Bora: 2 Tank Certified Dive Essentials Collection | Snorkeling | Wildlife
Duration 4 HOURS
Activity Level STRENUOUS
$319Per Person
This program is for Certified Divers looking to do a half day of diving (approximately 4 hours). The typical time underwater for the 2 tank dive is 45 minutes for the first dive, with a long surface interval followed by a second dive of approximately 45 minutes. For guests only wanting a one tank, you can go at the same price and may choose to snorkel or swim while the second dive is going. Dives will take place at two of the following three sites (weather dependent).
Tapu: An ocean dive and one of the most famous dive sites of Bora Bora. From the coral drop-off, you will meet lemon sharks, black tip sharks, humphead maori wrasses, moray eels, turtles.
Toopua: A lagoon dive where many tropical fish gather along the wall, among others, anemones and clown fish. At the bottom, you find a large sand bank where eagle rays and sting rays wander searching for food. You will anchor or drift dive depending upon weather conditions.
Anau: A lagoon dive in which you will follow a slope where rose corals grow and you are very likely to meet manta rays there. The visibility here may not be as clear sometimes due to the plankton.
Please note: The Dive Tour being offered is for Certified Divers only. Certified Divers need to bring their PADI - CMAS Cards or other proof of certification, including a log book. Waiver release forms must be signed and medical conditions must be disclosed. Bring your C-card. Nitrox is free of charge for Nitrox Certified Divers. Please wear your swimsuit under your clothing and bring a towel, spare t-shirt and sun block. Please take a refresher course before the cruise if you haven’t been diving in over a year. Divers 75 years of age or older must present a medical certificate and diving insurance.
Bora Bora - another day in paradise! How about try one of these amazing adventures:
SNORKEL SAFARI & STINGRAY ENCOUNTER (highly recommended!) $139 p/p
Dance with the stingrays under the supervision of your guide before exploring the intricate coral formations and colorful tropical fish of the coral gardens. Your adventure will begin as you glide across the lagoon aboard a covered lagoon cruiser. Once you’re past famous Motu Tapu, the captain will drop anchor on a shallow sandbank, a favorite haunt of several stingrays. With your guide’s assistance, you will be able to touch these harmless creatures as they swim an effortless ballet around you. The harmless black tip sharks are often seen in the lagoon and there is also the possibility you will encounter one. Next, you will explore the unspoiled coral gardens by the barrier reef, where ideal conditions have encouraged maximum coral growth. After donning a mask and snorkel, you will enter water that is 4 to 5 feet deep and swim among the marine life. Underwater sightings may include butterfly fish, groupers, and hundreds of other rainbow-colored species.
or maybe an AQUASAFARI - $159 P/P
Discover the fabulous underwater world of Bora Bora in a fun and exciting adventure, the AquaSafari. Go down 10 feet of water, where you will walk surrounded by hundreds of tropical fish. Understand why Bora Bora’s spectacular lagoon is considered to be among the most beautiful in existence today during this unique underwater adventure. You will depart the pier by boat where your certified diving instructor will explain your safety and diving instructions, and help you put on your helmet. Your head will remain dry inside the helmet; you can even wear your glasses as you freely maneuver about in total security just a few feet below the surface. While you are connected to the boat by an air hose, you can freely walk underwater and enjoy the coral formation around you. Plastic shoes, wet suits, masks and snorkels will be available, as there will be time for snorkeling while the other guests take their underwater walk. No swimming or diving experience is required.
Hauhine - Anchor here in the place whose nickname is “Garden of Eden.” Take your time to explore the lush forests, the tropical landscapes, and the quaint villages to discover one of Polynesia’s best kept secrets. Here, at a slower pace, see a glimpse of the authentic South Pacific island lifestyle. Stop by the Maeva archaeological site and wander around the 150-odd marae (temple sites) and 400-year-old stone fish traps that are still in use And you’ll have your pick of the world’s best snorkeling once again.
Try one of the Windstar excursions below, or rent an e-bike to explore the island!
Maybe try a 4 x 4 Nature Adventure $119 p/p
This tranquil paradise will seduce you with white-sand beaches, coral islets dotting an azure blue lagoon and luxurious mountains covered with magnificent foliage making it an idyllic paradise. Huahine Iti or Huahine's smaller island, is covered with plantations and a wealth of beautiful plants, fruits and flowers and is also home to one of the most amazing white-sand beaches in French Polynesia. During your 4x4 drive you will be able to discover the agricultural interests of the island, learn about the culture of its inhabitants while driving through villages and passing its sacred temple. Dip your feet in the water or go for a swim on the most beautiful beach of the island; the swim stop is optional, you may enjoy a simple stroll on the beach too. This tour is definitely a unique way to discover the "Green" island of Polynesia and its beauty!
or a Sacred Sites & Legendary Places Tour! $119 p/p
You will set off on an educational exploration of the island and learn all about Polynesian geology, botany, anthropology, archaeology, sociology, economy, history, and traditions. Your guide will share his knowledge, experience, and passion for this beautiful island with such a rich culture. Boarding "Le Truck," French Polynesia's famous local style bus, you will depart from Maroe Village on the small island of Huahine Iti, crossing the bridge to Huahine Nui, or 'big island.' Here you will drive past lush green valleys and turquoise lagoons through the capital town of Fare, where Captain James Cook sojourned on his visits to the island. Your first stop will be Maeva Village, considered to be one of French Polynesia's most important archaeological areas and home to the largest pre-historic habitation site in Polynesia. During your walk through the village, you will explore the archaeological sites along the lake shore and the Fare Pote'e Museum. You will learn about Polynesian origins and migrations, traditional society, religion, botany, European explorers and get a first-hand look at various traditional tools, handicrafts and artifacts. You will continue on to Mata'ire'a Hill, just above Maeva and home to more than 200 stone structures, including marae, agricultural terraces, house foundations, fortification walls and burial platforms. Your next stop, via "Le Truck," is a local family-run vanilla plantation where you will have the opportunity to purchase various vanilla products. Continuing on, you will stop to see and learn about the 500-year-old fish traps that are used again today by the people of Maeva Village. Your return journey to port, will take you through the village of Faie where your guide will feed the island's giant blue-eyed eels that swim in the stream, before enjoying a photo-stop at the Belvedere Lookout, for panoramic views of Huahine Iti and beautiful Maroe Bay.
Back to Papeete where you would have time to do an Island Tour ($89 p/p) if you like before your day room use at the Intercontinenal (if part of the air & hotel & cruise deal).
You will head towards the east coast of Tahiti to visit the James Norman Hall House. The home displays the daily environment of this poet and writer of American contemporary literature. Enjoy a local delicacy before you continue on to Matavai Bay, and reach Venus Point, the historic landing site for most European discoverers and evangelists. Matavai Bay boasts the only lighthouse of the island, built in 1867. A Handicraft Center is located next to the lighthouse and you will have a brief opportunity for some local shopping. Your last stop will be at the Tahara’a View Point for an extraordinary photo opportunity overlooking Papeete and Moorea.
Group flights are typically on:
March 20th - Papeete just before midnight - arrive LAX at 10:45am on March 21st.
For others going back over to Moorea, we will board a ferry for our excursion over to the Manava Beach Resort & Spa! Check in to your Premium Overwater Bungalow for the next 3 nights.
A charming boutique hotel, the Manava Beach Resort and Spa - Moorea (formerly the Moorea Pearl Resort & Spa) is the perfect blend of luxury and serenity. The resort was built on the site of the original Bali Hai Moorea Hotel, the first major international resort on the island, and is close to several restaurants, boutiques, Cook's Bay, and the Moorea Golf Course. This traditional, Polynesian-style resort offers spacious garden rooms, well-appointed beachfront suites, and romantic overwater villas, creating an atmosphere where both couples and families can peacefully coexist. Each overwater bungalow features a large sundeck with direct access to the lagoon. Guest amenities include a large infinity pool, a poolside restaurant and bar, gourmet restaurant, live entertainment, on-site dive center and a range of activities and excursions.
These units are approximately 500 sq. ft. and Premium Overwater Bungalows feature 1 king size bed, a large sundeck and sitting area with direct access to the lagoon.
Thursday – Live Music at 6pm
Check out the attached activities guide under "documents" as well for a variety of things to do in Moorea!
In Moorea, relax in your unit and enjoy the calm Tahitian waters ... or choose an excursion you haven't had a chance to do yet!
Maybe try out the Manea Spa. In Polynesian culture, massage (called Taurumi in Tahitian) is a philosophy of life and part of traditional medicine and ancestral practices and customs.
Or, learn to dive at the Moorea Blue Diving center which offers a large range of diving session to explore the ocean depths of Moorea.
https://www.tahitilegends.com/tahiti/moorea-activities
ATV's, Jet Skis, Snorkeling, sunset catamaran tour - the options are fabulous!
diving: https://www.manavamoorearesort.com/en/maeva-bienvenue/activities-spa/moorea-blue-diving/
see the activities guide attached to this proposal.
Same as yesterday, another day in paradise!
Saturday – Polynesian dance show at 7:30pm
Today after a leisurely breakfast, you will check out of your unit and be picked up to the ferry terminal for the ferry back to Papeete.
We have the afternoon to explore Papeete before going to the airport where we will have business lounge access while waiting for your flight home!
Typical flight home:
March 23rd - Papeete just before midnight - arrive LAX at 10:45am on March 24th.
