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South Pacific Journey. Bora Bora to Moorea, French Polynesia. April 2025

🌺 Island Hopping in French Polynesia: From Bora Bora to Moorea

Travel Dates: 19–23 April 2025

Leaving Bora Bora - for now, our island-hopping adventure continued. Here's how we explored French Polynesia—ferry rides, scenic drives, hidden gems, and unforgettable ocean experiences included!

🚤 19 April 2025: From Bora Bora to Moorea via Tahiti

It was an early start! We checked out of our hotel and caught a taxi to the ferry terminal in Vaitape, where we boarded a short boat ride to Bora Bora Airport.




Despite the 7:05 AM departure, check-in was quick and painless. The flight wasn’t full—so no seat scramble this time—and the aerial views of Bora Bora were absolutely stunning from my window seat.

Back at Faa'a International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti, we picked up our left luggage, repacked, and headed to the ferry terminal. We easily purchased tickets for the next Aremiti Ferry to Moorea.

The ferry ride (about 40 minutes) was surprisingly rough, but stepping outside was worth it—the approach to Moorea was breath-taking.

Directly across from the port was the Avis car rental office. The team was efficient and friendly, and by midday we were off to the Champion supermarket to stock up.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're in French Polynesia over Easter, be aware that alcohol sales may be restricted—shops get busy fast!

Then we drove to the other side of the island to our accommodation:

Sunset Beach Apartments – Moorea

A wonderful choice!

  • Beachfront location

  • Kayaks, canoes, and windsurfing available

  • Excellent snorkelling





  • Clean, comfy apartment with full kitchen, washing machine & dryer

  • Great outdoor space with retractable awning—perfect for both sun and rain


🚗 20 April 2025: Exploring Moorea

Today was about island discovery! We drove up to the scenic Belvedere Lookout for panoramic views of the island.

It was busy—Quantum of the Seas, with over 5,000 passengers, was anchored in Opunohu Bay. That explained the crowd!

Despite the buzz, it was uplifting to see local businesses thrive. Attractions were sold out everywhere—great for the economy, even if it made spontaneous plans a challenge.

21 April 2025: Aqua Safari.

Turns out we had an extra day—we were sure we were leaving tomorrow but actually had until the 23rd. Bonus!

We headed to the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort to book an Aqua Safari- hand held scooter .

Highly recommended:

  • Glorious coral reefs 

  • A turtle swam right by us

  • Rays 

  • We even spotted a pod of dolphins on the way back!




Later, we visited the Moorea Juice Factory for a self-guided tour and picked up a bottle of their Pineapple Champagne. 
Dinner that evening was at Holy Steak House—delicious and a nice treat after a day on the water.

🌴 22 April 2025: A Day of Pure Relaxation

Just one of those blissful, lazy beach days.

We cracked open the Pineapple Champagne that evening. Let's just say… it must be an acquired taste. Not a repeat for me! 




⛴️ 23 April 2025: Farewell Moorea

After a relaxed morning, we returned the rental car to Avis and took the 11:00 AM Aremiti ferry back to Papeete, Tahiti.

Leaving Moorea was bittersweet. It's stunning and serene in a way that’s hard to put into words.

Final Thoughts

🌺 Bora Bora may be the glamorous postcard-perfect face of French Polynesia—but Moorea stole our hearts.

It’s easier to access, less polished but more genuine, and full of charm. If you're headed to French Polynesia, don’t skip Moorea. Stay longer if you can. Relax, explore, and soak it in.

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