Once there...
Transportation in Polynesia
Inter-island transportation
With a territory as vast as Europe, flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the outer islands and archipelagos from Tahiti. However, maritime connections have significantly improved, now allowing you to explore French Polynesia at your own pace.
By Air
The domestic network is operated by Air Tahiti (serving 48 islands) and Air Moana. Both airlines offer inter-island passes and multi-island packages to combine several destinations (such as Bora Bora, Fakarava, etc.) at a preferential rate.
Checked Baggage (In the Hold)
- Standard Fare: 1 bag up to 23 kg (50 lbs) maximum with both Air Tahiti and Air Moana.
- Premium / Flex Fare: Up to 46 kg (100 lbs) maximum (usually split into 2 bags of 23 kg) with both airlines.
- Dimensions: L + W + H = 150 cm (59 inches) maximum.
- Diver Advantage: +5 kg (11 lbs) complimentary allowance offered by Air Tahiti and Air Moana upon presentation of a valid diving license.
- Sports Gear: Specific allowance or surcharge applies depending on the length of the equipment (surfboards, paddleboards).
Carry-On Baggage (In the Cabin)
- Rule: Only 1 piece of baggage up to 5 kg (11 lbs) maximum with Air Tahiti and Air Moana (strict checks due to the narrow overhead bins in their ATR aircraft) + 1 small personal item to be placed under the seat.
- Dimensions: 55 x 35 x 25 cm (21.6 x 13.7 x 9.8 inches) maximum.
Important Considerations
- Small Aircraft (Twin Otter / Beechcraft): The total baggage allowance may be reduced to 10 kg (22 lbs) on certain isolated routes operated by Air Tahiti.
- Maximum Weight per Piece: To protect the health of baggage handlers, no single piece of luggage may exceed 25 kg (55 lbs) with either carrier.
Promotional Fares: Checked baggage may be limited to 15 kg (33 lbs) on Air Tahiti special offers, whereas Air Moana generally maintains the 23 kg (50 lbs) allowance even for promotional tickets.
By Boat
The company Apetahi Express connects Tahiti to the Society Islands (Huahine, Raiatea, Taha’a, Bora Bora) with its high-speed catamaran. The Tahiti-Huahine crossing takes about 3.5 hours. Short stopovers allow you to check out the local ports, though it is advised to stay close to the vessel.
Additionally, cargo-passenger ships like the Aranui continue to provide essential freight supply and tourism cruises to remote archipelagos such as the Marquesas.
Polynesian island transportation
On the island of Tahiti, buses and taxis are available for those without a vehicle.
However, to make your vacation easier, car rentals are available on the main islands. Book the vehicle of your choice, load your luggage, sign up for insurance, and hit the road... You will just need to drop the car off when you return to the airport.
Although the iconic local "trucks" (traditional buses) are becoming increasingly rare, you can still enjoy an island tour aboard this unique mode of transport. Depending on the island you are visiting, bicycles or horses are also very practical and pleasant options.
In the Tuamotu Archipelago, boats are the most practical way to travel, especially when moving from one "motu" (small islet) to another.
Transfers
To ensure a completely hassle-free trip, the vacation packages we offer systematically include a meet-and-greet greeting and transfers between airports and your accommodations. These transfers are operated by minibus or boat.
For maximum comfort and to avoid any waiting time, private transfers are also available on all islands.