Diving & Snorkeling in Tahiti Islands

What Will You Discover
BENEATH THE SURFACE?
Proudly displayed on the bodies of Tahitians, you’ll find manta ray, shark, whale and sea turtle tattoos that tell the story of a people defined by the sea. Divers come from around the world to experience these sacred sea creatures, which, in The Islands of Tahiti, hold a place of reverence among the gods.

It’s only natural that the sea around these islands is both figuratively and literally a clear blue heaven on earth. The warm waters that surround The Islands of Tahiti teem with life from flirty clown fish to ever-present sharks to awe-inspiring humpback whales, which arrive between July and November. When you’re ready to do some diving and snorkeling, the heavens await.

The ocean represents the complete lifecycle to the Tahitians, and they have a masterful, reverential and respectful relationship with it. Traditional outrigger canoes, surfing and sailing are part of everyday life here in The Islands of Tahiti. Of course, travelers can also experience sunset cruising, kayaking, jet skiing and more. The sea, the rainforest and heaven are considered the realms of the gods in the Tahitian spiritual worlds, and we bet you’ll agree once you visit us.

Tahiti Dive Site Highlights
There are dozens of unique dive sites around each island and atoll and expert certified dive operators will take care of all the details. Dives and activities can be arranged in advance by your Preferred Travel Professional or through your resort or cruise ship.

Marine Environment
The crystal-clear waters and the beautiful lagoons of The Islands of Tahiti are home to more than 1,000 species of fish with an unmatched variety of color, size and shape. The smallest fish are often the most colorful and prefer the coral reefs and shallow depths of lagoons while larger species enjoy the bustle of life in the inlets and reef complexes and out in the open sea.

The combination of canyons, caverns and coral reefs provides a multitude of nooks and crannies for marine life. The Islands of Tahiti scuba diving trip is the ideal way to experience the wonders up close.

2,5 million sq. miles (4 million km²) natural aquarium

Because of its exceptional biodiversity, scientists consider the Polynesian sea zone to be the “richest aquarium on earth”. In 2000, the entire region was classified as an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), a wildlife sanctuary where, among other things, drift fishing is prohibited, earning French Polynesia top honors from the WWF (World Wildlife Fund).

The jade and turquoise waters of the beautiful lagoons of the Tuamotu Islands and the Society Islands, where slender, multi-colored fish species have evolved, attract nearly a third of all dolphin species from every ocean. Schools of damselfish, mullet and soldierfish frolic in the coral lacework as striped convict surgeonfish and frowning Picasso triggerfish pass by. These are the moments that solidify our lagoons as the most vibrant and beautiful lagoons in the world.

Manta rays, gliding across the shimmering sea bottom, can suddenly leap skyward and re-enter the water right next to placid sharks basking in the lagoons. Sea turtles bury their eggs in the warm sands of deserted beaches as whales mate and calve in the undisturbed bays of our archipelagos: the Austral Islands, the Gambier Islands, the Tuamotu Islands and the Society Islands.

The Islands of Tahiti: Sharks and More
Whales (Tahitian Name: Tohora)
The eternal migration
Every year, from July to November, marine life like humpback whales (megaptera novaeangliae) migrate from the icy waters of the Antarctic where they feed to the warm waters of the shores of The Islands of Tahiti. It is the ideal place to give birth and breed, sheltered from their predators. The adults measure between 40 to 60 feet (15 to 18 meters). They look very graceful while moving their huge pectoral fins under the water. The calves measure about 15 feet (4.50 meters) at birth. They can put on up to 220 lbs. (100 kg) per day during the first week of life, whale’s milk contains the highest fat content of the animal kingdom. As a cetacean (whale) sanctuary since May 2002, all whales of French Polynesia are protected. Whale watching complies with strict local regulations.

Where can I watch whales in The Islands of Tahiti?
Although you can spot them from any island, Rurutu is a good location for whale watching. You should have an experienced guide who holds an official government authorization lead your whale watching expedition.

How can I watch whales inThe Islands of Tahiti?
Bubbles are a sign of aggressiveness to marine mammals. Scuba diving is, therefore, not the best way to approach them. You are likely to experience a once in a lifetime encounter with only your snorkeling gear. For you and the whales’ safety always follow your guide’s instructions when you are in their presence.

Dolphins (Tahitian Name: Ou’a)
As a cetacean sanctuary, the dozen dolphin species of French Polynesia are also protected. They are present year-round and can be seen around any of the islands. Dolphins behave very similarly to humans. They give birth, nurse their calves and breathe air. Their communication skills are very sophisticated. You are highly likely to encounter some of them during your stay in The Islands of Tahiti. Three main species are easily watched depending on the areas: bottle nosed dolphins (tursiops truncatus), spinner dolphins (stenella longirostris) and rough toothed dolphins (steno bredanensis).

Sharks (Tahitian Name: Ma’o)
Out of the 350 species known worldwide, 19 of them can be observed in the waters of French Polynesia, which is a perfect place for any diver to encounter them. It is also the ideal place to remove some of the myths surrounding sharks. The most commonly encountered species in The Islands of Tahiti are the famous black tip reef sharks (carcharhinus melanopterus – Tahitian name: ma’o mauri), grey sharks (carcharhinus amblyrhynchos – Tahitian name: raira), lemon sharks (negaprion acutidens, Tahitian name: arava) and hammerhead sharks (sphyrna lewini or sphyrna mokarran – Tahitian name: ma’o tuamata).

The ma’oand the ancient Polynesians
From antiquity to today, the western world has viewed sharks as bloodthirsty animals. Yet, the ancient ma’ohi lived with them in harmony. Sharks represented a protective icon in which the kind spirit of a family ancestor was reincarnated.

Essential to the oceans’ eco-system
Sharks belong at the top of the food chain and are generally either predators (population controllers) or scavengers and cleaners. They play an essential role in regulation and balance of the marine eco-systems. Thought to have evolved about 400 million years ago, these fish are extremely well developed and perfectly adapted to their environment. Having had no predator for millions of years, the rate of breeding is slow and quite inefficient. Depending on the species, a female’s gestation can take four to 24 months with a potential fertilization only taking place every couple of years.

Are sharks endangered?
Overfishing, pollution and killing sharks for their fins represent some of the many threat factors threatening and endangering sharks. According to scientific data, it is estimated that more than 150 million sharks are killed each year. Some species are already nearly extinct. To mitigate this problem, French Polynesia government made the decision to protect them by law in 2006.

H3: Sea Turtles (Tahitian Name: Honu)
Two main turtle species live in French Polynesia and are easily encountered in some dive spots. The green turtle (chelonia mydas) owes its name to the color of its flesh and fat. The female reaches sexual maturity between 15 and 20 years of age. She can measure 60 inches (1.50 meters) and weigh up to 441 lbs. (200 kg). The juveniles are carnivorous, but become herbivorous once they are adults.

The hawksbill turtle (eretmochelys imbricata) is smaller and does not measure more than 35 inches (90 cm) for a weight of 198 lbs. (90kg). Carnivorous, they are often found searching for small sponges stuck under rocks. They move using these rocks using their frontal legs. Oviparian, they have a slow reproduction cycle and a late sexual maturity. There are less and less laying sites due to loss of habitat from human development and they are the victims of drift net fishing and hunting. Turtles are now in danger of extinction worldwide. Numerous consciousness-raising campaigns are promoted in The Islands of Tahiti to ensure their conservation.

Rays (Tahitian Name: Fai)
Belonging to the elasmobranch family, rays are close cousins to the sharks. They appeared about 150 million years ago. Like the sharks, they have a cartilaginous skeleton. Yet, they are quite different: their branchial slits are located on the belly and their oversized pectoral fins are welded to their head enabling propulsion. This is what makes them look so gracious, appearing almost like underwater birds. Like their cousins, they have two sexual appendices called pterygopods. Three species of rays can be found easily in The Islands of Tahiti: sting rays (himantura fai – Tahitian name: fai i’u), eagle rays (aétobaus narinar – Tahitian name: faimanu) and manta rays (manta birostris – Tahitian name : fafapiti). A couple of other manta species may also be seen: himantura sp. In the Marquesas and mobula tarapacana, a pelagic kind of manta ray bound to be encountered in the Tuamotu, Gambier and Marquesas.

The Islands of Tahiti Scuba Diving
Around all The Islands of Tahiti, dramatic views continue below the water. Scuba divers and snorkelers are amazed by the density of large marine life. Regular encounters include manta rays whose gigantic wingspan eclipses the passing diver; schools of dolphin dancing along the surf; for sharks, black tips are seemingly at every turn; and, in the Austral Islands, humpback whales thrill the lucky spectators in their annual parade.

Bora Bora Scuba Diving
A variety of Bora Bora scuba diving sites can be found within the tranquil lagoon of this tropical paradise. Bora Bora is the perfect location for divers who are taking an introductory dive or are a little worried about venturing out into the open ocean. There are also a variety of specialized and private dives found beyond the coral for more experienced divers.

The Islands Of Tahiti Diving And Underwater Photography
Whether you are a professional photographer or an amateur, French Polynesia is a perfect place for your passion. Indeed, the underwater clarity and visibility are excellent. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing your amazing encounters on shark dives. Those who enjoy macro photography will also be thrilled. The Islands of Tahiti are famous worldwide for the opportunities to capture amazing images of humpback whales either through video or photography. To protect yourself from paying duty taxes upon arriving and returning home, you should carry copies of your camera’s (and their accessories) purchase receipts to avoid any inconvenience with customs.

Professional Underwater Videos & Photo Shoots
Many dive centers work with an underwater cameraman. They will join your group during the dives and create a customized DVD to commemorate your The Islands of Tahiti diving trip. An abundance of specialized equipment and professionals are available to assist you in organizing shooting underwater images or TV documentaries. Some local producers have a wide range of experience in their field and an excellent set of references. Most bring with them a technically competent team, who will also be able to provide you with HD video cameras with underwater housing. Each island is a nature’s underwater studio.

The Other Aquatic Activities
Aquascopes
In Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora, glass-bottom boats and ‘aquascopes’ (a panoramic room situated under the bridge of the boat) make it possible to discover things hidden under the surface of the lagoon while staying dry. It is a totally original adventure that provides great opportunities to photograph aquatic landscapes. Small underwater vehicles are the ideal means of transport to go down 150 feet (50 meters) deep and observe in detail the underwater depths without getting wet.

Helmet Diving
Diving with a helmet gives you the opportunity to take an aquatic excursion to a depth of 12 feet (3-4 meters). This activity does not require any level of diving skills or knowledge of classic diving equipment because your helmet is constantly connected to the surface. Accompanied by a qualified instructor, those who journey downwards explore the depths of the sea at their own pace, walking through the fields of coral.

Underwater Scooter
Fun and very accessible, the underwater scooter requires no diving experience. Just like their land-based versions, underwater scooters are propelled by electric motors, to a depth of 9 feet (3 meters) and can seat two passengers who can talk using a communal dome. This activity is available in Bora Bora.

Swimming with Whales in Tahiti
Weighing up to a ton and about the length of a VW bus (10-15 feet), a baby humpback whale nosing up beside you is a breathtaking experience. Now picture her mother, weighing more than 40 tons and at a maximum length of 60 feet as she approaches with amazing grace for a creature the size of a semi-truck. Taking in both together or in a pod of multiple whales and you have a scene which is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

When people recount their first time swimming with whales in Tahiti they describe it as an almost magical or surreal experience. There are very few places in the world where you can still swim with humpback whales. These majestic creatures come to The Islands of Tahiti from August to October to birth their young in the tranquil and clear waters that are perfect for whale watching. As marine mammals, female humpback whales have live births and may have one baby every two to three years.

French Polynesia was classified as an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), a wildlife sanctuary where, among other things, drift fishing is prohibited, earning French Polynesia top honors from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

Swim With Humpback Whales In Tahiti
During the right time of year you can book tours to swim with humpbacks whales and dolphins, as well as other species who may wander by including pilot whales, rough toothed dolphins, spinner dolphins, and many species of shark and rays. Whale watching is a regulated activity in The Islands of Tahiti and the territory authorizes professionals who specialize in these types of excursions. Always book your boat tour with an accredited tour guide who follows certain rules such as maintaining a safe distance, letting the whales approach you and never chasing or blocking their path. Swimming with these majestic creatures is a great privilege for visitors who often leave feeling somewhat transformed by the experience.

Swimming with humpback whales in Moorea, Tahiti and Bora Bora is very common. Moorea is a particularly popular place to have small group tours for ocean adventures to see marine wildlife. When whale watching is not in season you can still do lots of activities on Moorea, including snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, as well as sharks and rays. You can also swim with humpback whales in the Austral Islands a little further south than Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea. These islands are a little more remote but can offer an incredible whale watching experience.

Swim with Dolphins in Tahiti
Can I Go Swimming With Dolphins In Tahiti?
Swimming with dolphins in Tahiti is an unforgettable experience. You can have the experience of diving and swimming with these amazing creatures on several different islands. No matter where you swim with dolphins in Tahiti you can be sure that you will encounter not only playful bottlenose dolphins and other species who are excited to meet you, but you will also enjoy 80 degree crystal clear water, a variety of beautiful corals and countless tropical fish!

These marine mammals share a lot in common with us, which is maybe why they are so friendly! From having live births, breathing air, and having highly sophisticated communication skills that they use to maintain strong communal bonds within their pods, there are many similarities between us and our playful friends. When you go dolphin watching you will find there’s a lot they will want to discover about you!

It’s easy to see why dolphins are highly revered in Polynesian culture. They represent wisdom when woven into a tattoo design and are common motif in art and folklore. This special relationship between Polynesians and the dolphins makes this a very unique place to interact with and also learn about dolphins in their natural habitat. The Tuamotu and Society Islands of French Polynesia attract nearly a third of all dolphin species from every ocean!

Best Islands To Swim With Dolphins
There are several ways to have a dolphin encounter during your visit. One of the best ways to meet dolphins is by going on a dolphin watching excursion or lagoon tour. Here you can watch wild dolphins enjoying their natural habitat.

In 2002, French Polynesia’s Ministry of the Environment created the “Marine Mammal Sanctuary of French Polynesia,” placing special protections for species of whales and dolphins. So when you are picking a tour make sure that they adhere to these policies.

Dolphins are in French Polynesia year round and there are some islands where they are better known to be more active.

The types of dolphins you will discover in The Islands of Tahiti include bottlenose dolphins (tursiops truncatus), spinner dolphins (stenella longirostris) and rough-toothed dolphins (steno bredanensis).

The most famous area for seeing wild dolphins in The Islands of Tahiti is on the island of Rangiroa, located a short 1.5 flight from Tahiti in the Tuamotu Islands. Rangiroa is the second largest coral atoll in the world, meaning that the island completely surrounds a massive lagoon where many types of marine life come to relax in the calm, shallow waters.

In Rangiroa, you can dive with dolphins on an excursion at Tiputa Pass. After slipping beneath the seas, many divers hear the cheerful calls of dolphins all around before they can catch sight of them. Suddenly they appear, sidling up beside you to say hello or even doing a barrel roll so you can rub their bellies like you would your family pet. When they have had their fun they slip away into the deep blue waters leaving you in awe. Find a dive center on Rangiroa to help you have this special experience. You can also see dolphins from just standing on the shore! Each day the wild dolphins come into Tiputa Pass to play in the tides. Book your stay at Les Relais de Josephine for the ultimate views of Tiputa Pass and the dolphins.

You can also see them by booking a tour on the island of Moorea. Wild dolphins often join the lagoon tours to say hello! If you want to be sure to have a dolphin encounter you can visit the InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa. Here you can visit the Moorea Dolphin Center and swim with one of three dolphins who were born into captivity outside of French Polynesia for military purposes and, as they are unable to return to the wild, have “retired” in Moorea. These dolphins, Lokahi, Hina and Kuokoa, do not do “shows” for guests but a one-on-one encounter with a marine biologist can be arranged as an educational experience.

Enjoy dolphin excursions/tours on various islands throughout The Islands of Tahiti.
· Moorea Dolphin Center (Moorea)
· Moorea Dolphin Expedition (Moorea)
· Dolphins & Whales Spirit Adventure (Moorea)
· Tahiti Iti Tour & Surf (Tahiti)

What To Expect When Swimming With Dolphins In Tahiti
Swim with dolphins responsibly and have an amazing experience. It’s important to not chase the dolphins when snorkeling with them, allow them to approach you. Look for tours that provide in educational experience in addition to just sighting dolphins.

Things to bring:
· Swimsuit
· Towel
· Watersocks/shoes
· Camera (waterproof)
· “Reef-Safe” sunscreen is a must! Make sure you keep the dolphins natural environment healthy by only taking “reef-safe” sunscreen. Do not use sunscreens which list oxybenzone & octinoxate in the ingredients.

Swimming with dolphins in Tahiti, Moorea, and the Tuamotu Islands is a special experience. Come ready to learn about (and play!) with these incredible animals.