Tahiti cruises are a great way to see some of the 150 islands that make up the French Polynesian islands. There are a range of Tahiti cruises available, ranging from 15 day luxury cruises that cover ten or more of the islands, to cheap Tahiti cruises that are shorter in duration or only stop at two or three islands. The cruise packages vary in price and accommodation style, but almost always include stops to the main island of Tahiti, along with nearby Moorea, Bora Bora, and occasionally Rangiroa. Whether you're saving up for your honeymoon or you're considering cheap Tahiti cruises as a last minute vacation next winter, the French Polynesian islands offer an ideal climate, extraordinary scenery, and plenty of attractions.

The main island of French Polynesia, Tahiti, is a favorite among people who take cruises in Tahiti. Upon docking in Papetee, Tahiti's capital city, you'll be greeted by a fury of motorcycle traffic, honking, and occasional loud music. Don't let the hustle and bustle of Papetee scare you. This small, yet vibrant, economic center of Tahiti is full of great shopping, outdoor French cafes, and black pearl shops. There are also many beautiful beaches nearby.

Cruises to Tahiti often stop at the small island of Bora Bora. Although this island was once known as a place that only celebrities and royalty cruised to, cruises to Tahiti that stop at Bora Bora are more common today. Cruise companies often suggest itineraries that include snorkeling off of Bora Bora's lagoons and beaches or taking a day trip to Marae, an ancient temple. There are also several World War II relics and art galleries to visit. Tattoo artistry is said to have started in Bora Bora. If you're brave enough, there are many tattoo galleries throughout the island!

Tahiti Map

Tahiti cruise packages almost always sail to the island of Moorea, the most mountainous of the islands. The interior of the island is characterized by jagged volcanic rocks with bright green foliage, while the exterior consists of white beaches and coral filled lagoons. Guests of cruises to Tahiti often rent a moped from the rental stands at the cruise port and travel around the 40 mile paved road that runs around the island. People who have been on Tahiti cruises often recommend checking out Roto Nui, a scenic overlook which provides breathtaking views of Cook and Opunohu Bays in Tahiti.

If you find Tahiti cruise packages that stop in Rangiroa, be on the lookout for sharks and dolphins. Rangiroa is known as one of the best shark diving locations in the world. If you'd rather avoid close encounters with sharks, avoid Tiputa Pass, where most of them live. Rangiroa is one of the world's largest atolls, meaning that the island is a ring of low land that encompasses a lagoon. Scuba divers and snorkelers come from all over the world to experience visibility of 150 feet and a water temperature of 80 degrees.

Although cheap Tahiti cruises aren't as abundant as say, inexpensive cruises to Mexico, there are still some great ways to save money on Tahiti cruise packages. Prices vary according to what type of cabin you select, so if you don't mind having a basic room, you may be able to save a significant amount. Also, the time of year can affect the cost of Tahiti cruise packages. Taking cruises in Tahiti during the rainy season (between October and March) can help you save money. Although you might experience occasional showers throughout the day, the rainfall in Tahiti isn't significant.

Cruises to Tahiti offer an interesting way to see some of the less explored islands in French Polynesia as well as the well known islands of Tahiti and Bora Bora. No matter what the season, cruises in Tahiti will offer plenty of fun, relaxation, and adventure.