Cruise port Bora Bora
Port information & tips for Bora Bora
Bora Bora is considered the "Pearl of the Pacific" and is the epitome of a Polynesian island paradise in the heart of French Polynesia. Arriving in the crystal-clear lagoon promises an unforgettable experience between turquoise waters and the majestic peaks of Mount Otemanu. Right in the charming main town of Vaitape, exclusive pearl boutiques, the picturesque Vaitape Church, and local handicraft markets invite exploration, while the world-famous Matira Beach is just a short drive away. Since Bora Bora is a tender port, shuttle boats bring guests directly to the central Vaitape Pier. Thanks to this prime location, travelers find themselves immediately in the lively center and can reach cafes as well as providers for lagoon tours in just a few steps.
The port of Bora Bora in the main town of Vaitape is the glamorous gateway to one of the most exclusive cruise destinations in the world and is usually accessed by tender boat due to the protected lagoon. As the terminal is located directly in the charming center of Vaitape, guests can easily reach the local infrastructure as well as the island's only ring road from there.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region is via long-haul connections to Tahiti International Airport (PPT), followed by an approximately 50-minute connecting flight to Bora Bora Airport (BOB). The island airport is located on an offshore coral island (Motu Mute), so the first part of the journey to the ship begins with a spectacular view of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu.
Transfer & Shuttle
From the airport motu, you can only reach the main town of Vaitape by water, with the airlines Air Tahiti and Air Moana providing free boat shuttles for their passengers. The crossing takes about 15 to 20 minutes and leads directly to the central pier in Vaitape, which also serves as the landing stage for the tender boats of the large cruise ships.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the total travel time of over 24 hours and the time difference of up to 12 hours, arriving at least two days before embarkation is recommended. A stay in one of the overwater bungalow resorts or in a hotel on the main island allows for relaxed acclimatization and also ensures that you reach your ship on time even in the event of flight schedule changes for domestic connections.
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 and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The port of Bora Bora in the main town of Vaitape is the glamorous gateway to one of the most exclusive cruise destinations in the world and is usually accessed by tender boat due to the protected lagoon. As the terminal is located directly in the charming center of Vaitape, guests can easily reach the local infrastructure as well as the island's only ring road from there.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region is via long-haul connections to Tahiti International Airport (PPT), followed by an approximately 50-minute connecting flight to Bora Bora Airport (BOB). The island airport is located on an offshore coral island (Motu Mute), so the first part of the journey to the ship begins with a spectacular view of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu.
Transfer & Shuttle
From the airport motu, you can only reach the main town of Vaitape by water, with the airlines Air Tahiti and Air Moana providing free boat shuttles for their passengers. The crossing takes about 15 to 20 minutes and leads directly to the central pier in Vaitape, which also serves as the landing stage for the tender boats of the large cruise ships.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the total travel time of over 24 hours and the time difference of up to 12 hours, arriving at least two days before embarkation is recommended. A stay in one of the overwater bungalow resorts or in a hotel on the main island allows for relaxed acclimatization and also ensures that you reach your ship on time even in the event of flight schedule changes for domestic connections.
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 and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Cruise ships anchor in the picturesque lagoon of Bora Bora and transport their guests by tender boats directly to the central pier of Vaitape. From this point of arrival, the island can be explored very comfortably and flexibly thanks to short distances and a variety of options.
On Foot
Since the tender boats dock directly in the main town of Vaitape, you can reach local markets, boutiques, and cafes within a few minutes. A relaxed stroll through the charming village offers a direct insight into Polynesian life and also takes you comfortably to all the important contact points in the center.
Taxis and Water Taxis
Taxis are available directly at the pier in Vaitape for trips across the main island and will take you to the famous Matira Beach in a short time. At the same time, water taxis offer a first-class way to reach the surrounding motus and secluded sections of the lagoon directly across the crystal-clear water.
Le Truck and Rental Vehicles
Traditional, colorful buses called Le Truck run irregularly along the coastal road and offer an authentic form of transportation. Additionally, you will find local providers for bicycles, scooters, and small rental cars directly at the harbor, allowing you to discover the island individually thanks to the well-developed coastal road.
To make the most of your stay in paradise, a combination of the charming island center and the legendary coastal sections by the lagoon is recommended.
Vaitape
The island's vibrant main village welcomes you directly at the tender pier with local handicraft markets, small pearl boutiques, and the striking Protestant church set against a backdrop of green mountain peaks.
Matira Beach
At the southernmost point of the main island, one of the world's most beautiful public sandy beaches awaits you, featuring shallow, turquoise water and perfect conditions for a relaxed day of swimming under palm trees.
The Lagoon and Motus
A boat tour across the crystal-clear water leads to the small offshore coral islands and offers the ultimate island experience thanks to the colorful underwater world and spectacular views of Mount Otemanu.
Matira Beach
World-famous Matira Beach, located at the southernmost tip of the island, is easily accessible from the tender pier in Vaitape in about fifteen minutes by taxi or local shuttle and impresses with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear, gently sloping water. This paradisiacal spot is perfect for a carefree day at the beach, as the immediate vicinity also offers charming cafes and small restaurants for a quick refreshment. Ideally, visit the beach in the morning to experience the soft colors of the lagoon in their full glory, and plan your return to the harbor relaxed about two hours before the departure of the last tender boat.
The way back to the central tender pier in Vaitape is very relaxed and safe thanks to the manageable structure of the island. Since the cruise ships are anchored in the lagoon, the harbor square in the main town is the crucial meeting point for your return on board.
Taxi
Taxis are available at popular attractions such as Matira Beach, as well as in front of the larger restaurants and hotels, and will take you quickly to the harbor square in Vaitape. You can also conveniently ask for a taxi to be ordered at any café or shop, which will take you directly to the tender terminal.
Shuttle and Boat Transfers
Many local tour operators end their excursions directly at the pier in Vaitape and ensure a punctual arrival at the harbor thanks to the organized return journey. The shuttle boats from the resorts located on the motus also run to the main pier at regular intervals, so that you arrive comfortably and in time for the last tender trip.
On Foot
From the center of Vaitape, you can reach the harbor within a few minutes' walk and easily find your way back to the pier thanks to its central location on the main road. Orientation is particularly easy, as the tender terminal is the busiest point in the village and you can usually keep your cruise ship directly in view in the bay.
