Learn to Dive in French Polynesia
French Polynesia’s Highlights
Whilst it remains remote and difficult to get to, French Polynesia has some of the best diving in the world. It has an incredible array of marine diversity. Stunning coral and a host of marine life await. From sharks to wrasses’, French Polynesia should be on any diver’s bucket list.
Due to its remote nature, the reefs surrounding French Polynesia are luscious and teeming with life. Comprising 118 islands and atolls, there are a variety of dives including drift and wreck dives. Manta rays, whale sharks and other large pelagic life can be spotted in French Polynesia.
When is the best time to go diving in French Polynesia?
You can dive at any time of year. The dry season is from May to October and tends to be the busiest. The rainy season is from November to April and visibility is slightly diminished. The poorer visibility is a result of plankton which brings in large marine life that feast on the plankton.
Water Temperature: 26°C to 30°C all year-round.
Currents: None to very strong
Visibility: Around 30 meters
French Polynesia’s best dive sites
Ray’s Corridor Drift
During this fast-paced dive, you can drift from 2.5 to 3.5km. The crystal clear waters are home to remarkable marine life. Take in as you drift past eagle rays and a range of sharks. Not for the faint-hearted.
Tiki Point
One of French Polynesia’s most famous dive sites is Tiki Point. Made famous for the sheer amount of marine life available to spot. Due to the sheer amount of fish that call the Tiki Point home, predators come from all over to hunt at this spot. Sharks, dolphins and whales are known to be seen.
Garuae Pass, Fakarava
During this dive, you’re nearly guaranteed to see a wall of reef sharks. Lying amongst them, you may be able to spot a gray shark, hammerhead shark or manta ray. For fish lovers, spot barracudas, tunas and napoleons. The current is strong and this site is reserved for experienced divers.
About the country
You can choose whether you would prefer to do a liveaboard or dive resort. If you’re planning to dive on multiple islands, consider a dive package. Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea are some of the most famous of the 118 islands that make up French Polynesia.
Recreational Courses in French Polynesia
Dive Centers in French Polynesia
Getting to French Polynesia
Fly to Faa’a International Airport in Tahiti. From Papeete, catch a ferry to your island of choice. French Polynesia is easily accessible by California and only an 8 hour plane ride. From Europe, the journey is long, ranging from 20 to 24 hours. Australia and New Zealand are about a 9 hour plane ride.
Other important information
- Capital: Papeete
- Official Language: French
- Other recognized languages: Tahitian, Austral, Raivavau, Rapa, Mangareva, Tuamotuan and Marquesan.
- Demonym: French Polynesian
- Currency: CFP Franc (XPF)
- Calling code: +689
- Driving Side: right
- Population: Around 276,000
- Pressure: Pounds/square inch (psi)
- First Stage: INT/ Yoke
