Port information & tips for Motu Tapu
Motu Tapu is an exclusive island paradise in the heart of the Bora Bora lagoon and is considered one of the most photographed motus in French Polynesia. The private island impresses with its pristine white sand beach, crystal-clear turquoise water, and a spectacular view of the majestic Mount Otemanu. Visitors can enjoy world-class snorkeling in colorful coral gardens as well as relaxing hours under coconut palms, and also take advantage of the excellent swimming opportunities in the shallow lagoon. Since it is a secluded private island, guests can easily reach the Motu Tapu pier by tender boat directly from the ship anchored in the lagoon. The main island of Bora Bora with the main town of Vaitape is only a short boat ride away, allowing guests to perfectly combine idyllic seclusion with explorations of the region thanks to the short distances.
Motu Tapu is an idyllic small island near Bora Bora and serves cruise ships as a picturesque excursion destination for unforgettable days in paradise. The actual embarkation for cruises in French Polynesia usually takes place in Papeete on Tahiti, the main arrival point for international guests from the DACH region. Due to the long journey, a relaxing pre-cruise overnight stay is highly recommended here.
Airplane
Tahiti Faa'a International Airport (PPT) is the hub for your journey to French Polynesia and is located only about 6 kilometers west of the cruise port of Papeete. International airlines offer regular connections, although direct flights from Europe usually involve layovers. Thanks to the good connections, you can easily reach your ship from here.
Transfer & Shuttle
From PPT airport, you can reach the port of Papeete quickly and easily. Taxis are available directly at the terminal and take about 15 to 20 minutes for the short distance. Many cruise lines also organize their own transfer services to bring passengers directly from the airport or a recommended pre-cruise hotel to the ship. Booking in advance ensures a smooth transition.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long international flights, arriving in Papeete at least one day before embarkation is highly recommended. Numerous hotels in and around Papeete are ideal for an overnight stay to start your cruise adventure relaxed. Many accommodations offer shuttle services to the port or are just a short taxi ride from the terminal, which significantly increases travel comfort.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and bear in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as port times and departure times can change at short notice.
Motu Tapu is an idyllic small island near Bora Bora and serves cruise ships as a picturesque excursion destination for unforgettable days in paradise. The actual embarkation for cruises in French Polynesia usually takes place in Papeete on Tahiti, the main arrival point for international guests from the DACH region. Due to the long journey, a relaxing pre-cruise overnight stay is highly recommended here.
Airplane
Tahiti Faa'a International Airport (PPT) is the hub for your journey to French Polynesia and is located only about 6 kilometers west of the cruise port of Papeete. International airlines offer regular connections, although direct flights from Europe usually involve layovers. Thanks to the good connections, you can easily reach your ship from here.
Transfer & Shuttle
From PPT airport, you can reach the port of Papeete quickly and easily. Taxis are available directly at the terminal and take about 15 to 20 minutes for the short distance. Many cruise lines also organize their own transfer services to bring passengers directly from the airport or a recommended pre-cruise hotel to the ship. Booking in advance ensures a smooth transition.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long international flights, arriving in Papeete at least one day before embarkation is highly recommended. Numerous hotels in and around Papeete are ideal for an overnight stay to start your cruise adventure relaxed. Many accommodations offer shuttle services to the port or are just a short taxi ride from the terminal, which significantly increases travel comfort.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and bear in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as port times and departure times can change at short notice.
The exclusive private island of Motu Tapu is picturesquely located in the Bora Bora lagoon and is easily accessible for guests via the ship's own tender boats.
Tender Service
The ships bring you directly to the island's fine sandy beach. The crossing from the cruise ship takes only a few minutes and also offers a fantastic view of the turquoise water and Mount Otemanu.
On Foot
The manageable size of Motu Tapu allows you to explore the entire island paradise relaxed on foot. The short paths lead directly along the shore and invite you to take a leisurely stroll under palm trees.
Water Taxis and Pirogues
For individual trips to the main town of Vaitape or to other parts of the lagoon, private water taxis and traditional pirogues are available. These boats dock directly at the pier and, thanks to their flexibility, ensure a convenient connection between the private island and the surrounding destinations.
To make the most of your limited time at the paradisiacal Motu Tapu, we recommend a relaxing day on the white sandy beach combined with a side trip to the nearby cultural center of the islands.
Motu Tapu Beach
This exclusive private island is considered one of the most photographed places in the South Pacific and impresses with its powder-white sand and shallow, turquoise water, which is ideal for a refreshing swim in absolute seclusion.
Vaitape
The lively main town of Bora Bora is just a short boat ride away and invites you to discover the Polynesian way of life and high-quality pearl jewelry in the immediate vicinity of the harbor with its cozy cafes and colorful boutiques.
Mount Otemanu and Lagoon Gardens
The striking peaks of the sacred mountain rise imposingly above the lagoon and, together with the dazzling coral gardens, form a breathtaking backdrop that is perfectly accessible thanks to guided boat tours directly from the berth.
Motu Tapu
The legendary private island of Motu Tapu is easily accessible from the main pier in Vaitape via a short boat transfer taking only about fifteen minutes and is considered one of the most exclusive beach paradises in the world, featuring the finest coral sand and a spectacular panoramic view of the silhouette of Bora Bora. Thanks to its sheltered location in the turquoise lagoon, you will enjoy first-class conditions for swimming and snorkeling in a peaceful atmosphere, which is also perfectly complemented by provided amenities such as cool refreshments and shaded spots under palm trees. Ideally, start your excursion directly in the early morning to experience the untouched beauty of the island in complete tranquility, and return to the main ship no later than ninety minutes before departure to end the day in a relaxed manner.
The return journey to the central tender pier in Vaitape is extremely straightforward thanks to the short distances and good local organization.
Tender Boats and Water Taxis
From the main pier in Vaitape, the ship's own tender boats will take you back to the ship at short intervals, making for a comfortable return journey. Keep an eye out for the posted departure times at the quay and enjoy the short ride across the turquoise water directly to the deck.
Taxis and Hotel Shuttles
Taxis are available at the central port square for the return trip from more remote beaches, and many local operators also organize reliable shared transfers. The drivers are well acquainted with the cruise ships' port times and will bring you safely and punctually to the meeting point at the harbor.
On Foot
Within the town of Vaitape, you can easily reach the harbor on foot by simply following the prominent main road directly along the coast. The path is safe and leads you directly to the clearly visible entrance of the tender pier without any detours.
