If you want to visit Tahiti and Moorea, then you are in for a treat. Both islands are located in French Polynesia and are some of the most stunning honeymoon destinations in the world.
However, planning a trip there will take time as there are several variables to consider. This is due to Moorea being a remote island and not easily accessible. Not to worry, because we will tell you everything you need to know about taking a Tahiti to Moorea ferry.
Taking a Tahiti to Moorea Ferry
There are 114 islands in French Polynesia, but Moorea is one of the most sought-after honeymoon destinations. This could be due to the island being shaped like a heart or because of its eight mountain peaks surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons.
It also features coral reefs that offer a wide range of activities, including paddleboarding, kite surfing, water skiing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and more. If water activities aren’t your thing, you can explore the mountain summits and volcanic craters. These areas are perfect for horseback riding, four-wheeling, hiking, and exploring the lush vegetation.
But what is the best way to get to Moorea? First, you will need to fly into the capital of French Polynesia, Papeete. Papeete (pronounced Pah-pee-yet-ay) is located on the biggest island in the chain, Tahiti. Once you’re in Papeete, you are a hop and skip away from Moorea, about a 30-60 minute ferry ride, depending on which ferry option you choose.
The Tahiti to Moorea ferry runs every day, weather permitting, and starts at 6:00 a.m. The last ferry is at 5:30 p.m. You will need to go to the Papeete port to purchase tickets, or you can buy them through the ferry company online. The ferry will take you to Moorea’s Vaiare marina, and from there, you can make your way to your hotel or resort.
However, there are other ways to get to Moorea if you get seasick. Keep reading to find out more!
Getting to Moorea by Plane
While it is the most expensive option, you can get to Moorea from Tahiti by plane. The airline that does round trips is Air Tahiti. You can also use this airline if you want to visit Bora Bora or other islands in French Polynesia.
The airfare will be more expensive than taking the Tahiti to Moorea ferry, but it is the quickest. From the time you take off to arriving in Moorea is only about 15 minutes.
The main downfall of doing this option is the cost. Depending on the time of the year, roundtrip flights can range from $100 to $400. Plus, you will likely need to stay a night in Tahiti before departing to Moorea because the international flights to Tahiti don’t coordinate with the Air Tahiti schedule.
However, this is a quick and easy way to get to Moorea if you don’t mind paying a bit extra for the convenience.
Tahiti to Moorea Ferry: Cost and Time
The cheapest way to get to Moorea from Tahiti is by ferry. You will find most travelers choose this option because even though it’s longer, it is the most affordable option.
There are different companies that operate ferries from Tahiti to Moorea throughout the day. There are high-speed ferries that can have you on the island within 30 minutes. However, if you choose to take a ferry that transports cars and other vehicles, then it can take 45-60 minutes.
The best part about this option is the cost. Each traveler can expect to pay $11-$15 for a one-way ticket. Children and seniors get a discounted rate.
Travelers can also rent a car in Tahiti and ferry it to Moorea. This can cost around $45-$100 for the transportation, but it may be worth it as car rentals are more expensive in Moorea than in Tahiti.
Tahiti to Moorea Ferry Companies
The two Tahiti to Moorea ferry companies are Aremiti and Terevau. Both have rotating schedules every day of the year as long as the weather is good. This is convenient, as you can pick a time that works best for your schedule.
The Aremiti has two different ferries depending on if you need to transport a vehicle or not. If it’s just you or your group, the Aremiti 6 will take you from Tahiti to Moorea. But if you need to transport a rental car, then you will need to look for Aremiti Ferry 2.
The Aremiti Ferry from Tahiti to Moorea operates from 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., except on Sundays, when there is a 6:10 p.m. option. When you purchase a ticket, there are no reservations, and the ticket is good for a year after purchase. It is recommended to show up 20-30 minutes before the departure time. There is a restaurant inside the ferry terminal if you want to have a drink or snack.
Terevau is a high-speed ferry that will have you in Moorea in 30 minutes. You can also use this company to transport a vehicle if need be. Depending on the day, the Terevau high-speed ferry from Tahiti to Moorea leaves around 6:40 to 7:20 in the morning and operates until 5:30 in the evening.
The cost for a Terevau ferry is slightly cheaper than Aremiti, but the ticket is only valid for 6 months after purchase. Typically this isn’t an issue as most travelers use the ticket the same day it’s purchased.
Tahiti to Moorea Ferry Companies: Which Is Better?
Both Tahiti to Moorea ferry companies have their pros and cons. Terevau is slightly cheaper but has fewer trips operating each day than Aremiti. If you are on a tight schedule and need more flexibility, then Aremiti would be your best option.
Nonetheless, both ferry companies are clean and updated, offering a comfortable ride. Even though they aren’t as quick as a plane ride, you will be there in no time, and it’s budget-friendly.
You can buy tickets for either ferry online or in person. If you choose to purchase the tickets online, be sure to take a screenshot or print the ticket for proof of purchase. It’s tough to get cell service while on the islands, so if you lose your ticket, you might have to buy another one.
If you’d rather purchase tickets in person, then arrive at the terminal 30 minutes to an hour before to ensure you get a spot. Once you have a ticket and board the ferry, there are no assigned seats, so pick a spot that is best for you. You can also stand outside if you’d rather take in the scenery.
Going to Moorea from Tahiti Conclustion
Overall, going to Moorea from Tahiti is straightforward, quick, and inexpensive. While you can take a flight to Moorea from Tahiti, we recommend going by ferry. A roundtrip ferry ticket will cost between $20-$30, depending on the ferry you choose.
However, it’s a big price difference from the $100-$400 you’ll spend for a flight. Even though the flight is 15 minutes to Moorea, you need to consider the time you will spend going through TSA, waiting for the flight, and other issues you may encounter with air travel. With that said, taking a Tahiti to Moorea ferry is the best option.
Planning a honeymoon or romantic getaway? We have articles that may help, including Top 10 Honeymoon Suites in the World 2023, 25 Luxury Honeymoon Destinations, 10 Best Beach Honeymoons in the U.S., and more!
