The Top Cruising Rallies and Events in French Polynesia

French Polynesia, a collection of over 100 islands in the South Pacific, is a dream destination for many sailors. With its turquoise waters, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder that this paradise attracts numerous cruising rallies and events each year. In this article, we’ll explore the top cruising rallies and events in French Polynesia, providing you with all the information you need to plan your own sailing adventure in this idyllic region.

Table of Contents

• Introduction to French Polynesia
• Tahiti Pearl Regatta
• Tahiti-Moorea Sailing Rendez-vous
• Pacific Puddle Jump
• ARC Pacific
• Oyster World Rally
• World ARC
• Cruising Tips for French Polynesia
• Conclusion

Introduction to French Polynesia

French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France, located in the South Pacific Ocean. It is made up of five main archipelagos: the Society Islands, the Tuamotu Archipelago, the Gambier Islands, the Marquesas Islands, and the Austral Islands. The most famous and populous island is Tahiti, which is part of the Society Islands and home to the capital city, Papeete.

The region is known for its stunning natural beauty, including crystal-clear lagoons, white-sand beaches, and lush mountain peaks. The warm and welcoming Polynesian culture adds to the allure, making French Polynesia a top destination for sailors from around the world.

Tahiti Pearl Regatta

When: May

Where: Society Islands

The Tahiti Pearl Regatta is an annual sailing event that takes place in the Society Islands, usually in May. This international regatta is open to all types of sailboats, from monohulls to catamarans and even traditional Polynesian outrigger canoes. The race covers a distance of approximately 140 nautical miles, with stops at various islands such as Raiatea, Taha’a, and Bora Bora.

The event is not only about competitive racing but also about promoting Polynesian culture and fostering camaraderie among sailors. Participants can expect a festive atmosphere, with traditional dance performances, local food, and plenty of opportunities to socialize with fellow sailors.

Tahiti-Moorea Sailing Rendez-vous

When: June

Where: Tahiti and Moorea

The Tahiti-Moorea Sailing Rendez-vous is an annual event that aims to welcome and celebrate the arrival of cruising sailors who have crossed the Pacific Ocean. Held in June, the event begins in Papeete, Tahiti, and ends in Moorea, just a short sail away.

The three-day event includes a variety of activities, such as a welcome cocktail party, a sailing race from Tahiti to Moorea, and a traditional Polynesian feast on the beach. Participants also have the opportunity to learn about Polynesian culture through workshops on traditional dance, music, and handicrafts.

Pacific Puddle Jump

When: March to June

Where: Crossing the Pacific Ocean, with a stop in French Polynesia

The Pacific Puddle Jump is an annual migration of cruising sailors who cross the Pacific Ocean from the Americas to French Polynesia. The “puddle jump” typically takes place between March and June, when the trade winds are favorable for the 3,000 to 4,000-nautical-mile journey.

While not an organized rally or race, the Pacific Puddle Jump provides support and camaraderie for sailors making the crossing. Participants can attend seminars and social events in the months leading up to the departure, as well as receive assistance with paperwork and logistics upon arrival in French Polynesia.

ARC Pacific

When: March

Where: San Diego, California to French Polynesia

The ARC Pacific is a cruising rally organized by the World Cruising Club, the same organization behind the popular Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC). The rally begins in San Diego, California, and takes participants on a 2,900-nautical-mile journey across the Pacific Ocean to Hiva Oa in the Marquesas Islands of French Polynesia.

The ARC Pacific offers sailors the opportunity to make the crossing in the company of other boats, with the support of experienced rally organizers. Participants can expect pre-departure seminars, social events, and assistance with logistics and paperwork.

Oyster World Rally

When: January (every two years)

Where: Circumnavigation, with a stop in French Polynesia

The Oyster World Rally is a 27-month circumnavigation event organized by Oyster Yachts, a British luxury yacht manufacturer. The rally is open to Oyster yacht owners and covers over 30,000 nautical miles, with stops in more than 25 countries.

One of the highlights of the Oyster World Rally is the stop in French Polynesia, where participants can explore the stunning islands of the Society, Tuamotu, and Marquesas archipelagos. The rally offers a unique opportunity for Oyster yacht owners to sail around the world in the company of like-minded sailors, with the support of experienced rally organizers.

World ARC

When: January (every two years)

Where: Circumnavigation, with a stop in French Polynesia

The World ARC is a 26-month circumnavigation rally organized by the World Cruising Club. The event is open to all types of cruising sailboats and covers over 26,000 nautical miles, with stops in more than 20 countries.

The World ARC includes a stop in French Polynesia, where participants can explore the beautiful islands of the Society, Tuamotu, and Marquesas archipelagos. The rally offers sailors the opportunity to circumnavigate the globe in the company of other boats, with the support of experienced rally organizers.

Cruising Tips for French Polynesia

• Navigation: While French Polynesia is a sailor’s paradise, it’s essential to be cautious when navigating the region’s coral reefs and atolls. Make sure to have up-to-date charts and cruising guides, and always keep a lookout when sailing in unfamiliar waters.

• Weather: The best time to sail in French Polynesia is during the dry season, from April to October, when the trade winds are consistent and the weather is generally sunny and dry. Be prepared for occasional squalls and monitor the weather forecasts regularly.

• Provisioning: While you’ll find supermarkets and local markets in the larger towns and cities, such as Papeete and Uturoa, provisioning can be more challenging in the smaller islands. Plan ahead and stock up on non-perishable items before leaving the main islands.

• Customs and Immigration: As an overseas collectivity of France, French Polynesia has specific customs and immigration requirements for visiting sailors. Make sure to research the necessary paperwork and procedures before your arrival.

Conclusion

French Polynesia is a dream destination for many sailors, and participating in a cruising rally or event can make the experience even more memorable. Whether you’re racing in the Tahiti Pearl Regatta, celebrating your Pacific crossing at the Tahiti-Moorea Sailing Rendez-vous, or circumnavigating the globe with the World ARC, you’re sure to create lasting memories and forge new friendships in this stunning South Pacific paradise.