Papeete Cruises

Papeete, the capital of Tahiti and the entire French Polynesia, is a bustling tropical city with a population of over 290,000 people. While Papeete serves primarily as a gateway to the island’s many attractions, it offers its own unique charm with a mix of towering palm trees, vibrant flowers, government buildings, and industrial establishments. A day or two in Papeete is perfect for sightseeing before you venture out to explore Tahiti’s caves, waterfalls, and stunning beaches.

The Best Time to Cruise to Papeete

French Polynesia experiences two main seasons: the winter (dry) season and the rainy, hurricane season. The dry season typically runs from April to November, while the rainy season spans from November to April.

The months of December to February are generally considered the least ideal for visiting Papeete due to the heightened risk of hurricanes. For the best experience, we recommend cruising to Tahiti and Papeete during May-June or September-October, when:

• Temperatures are more moderate
• Rainfall is relatively low
• Whales and manta rays are often spotted

Things to Do in Papeete

Papeete is a vibrant city with a rich blend of French and Polynesian culture, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Here are some must-see attractions and activities in the city:

• Explore the Papeete Market: Immerse yourself in local life at the Papeete Market, housed in a 19th-century building—Tahiti’s oldest institution and a landmark in its own right.
• Stroll Through Bougainville Park: Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and admire the native flora, including a majestic banyan tree that provides ample shade.
• Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral: A must-see attraction, this cathedral is simple yet beautiful, featuring delightful artwork inside.
• Discover the Robert Wan Pearl Museum: Learn about the region’s unique and valuable pearls while exploring fascinating exhibits at this one-of-a-kind museum.

Top Cruise Lines

Papeete and Tahiti in general attract a great range of cruise lines, there is one for every taste and budget, so the choice is yours. Heaps of their cruises will set sail in Sydney or Brisbane:

• Princess cruises to Papeete
• Royal Caribbean cruises to Papeete
• MSC cruises to Papeete
• Oceania cruises to Papeete
• Holland America cruises to Papeete