French Polynesia’s Windward Islands offer some of the most memorable snorkeling experiences in the world. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and spectacular scenery, it’s a haven for water lovers. Among the options, we especially like the Moorea 4H Shared Boat Tour Whale Swimming and Snorkeling for its chance to swim with whales and explore diverse marine creatures, and the Tahiti island: 5 hours Snorkeling Picnic which combines wreck diving, stingray encounters, and a Polynesian meal. Each offers its own flavor of adventure and unforgettable sights, making the islands a true snorkeling paradise.
Quick Overview
This list features three top snorkeling tours: a shared boat trip in Moorea with whale encounters, a snorkeling picnic in Tahiti that includes wrecks and stingrays, and a private sunset cruise in Moorea with champagne and colorful fish. Each is tailored to different interests, budgets, and time constraints. Now, let’s dive into what makes each of these options special.
1. Moorea 4H Shared Boat Tour Whale Swimming and Snorkeling
For around $284 per person, this shared boat tour in Moorea offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim with humpback whales, along with opportunities to encounter stingrays, blacktip sharks, and turtles. The tour lasts four hours, making it a manageable half-day outing that packs a punch. What makes this tour truly stand out is the chance to witness whales in their natural habitat, which is a rare privilege for travelers. The local guide shares deep knowledge of Moorea’s marine ecosystem, enriching the experience beyond just snorkeling.
Guests rave about the intimacy and personalized feel of this trip. The boat is shared but not crowded, and the guide’s passion for marine life is contagious. The onboard fresh tropical fruits and beverages add to the relaxed vibe. The highlight for many is swimming alongside humpbacks, which can be awe-inspiring and humbling. The combination of marine encounters and the scenic waters of Moorea offers excellent value, especially if you’re keen on wildlife.
Bottom Line: If swimming with whales is on your bucket list and you want a chance to see a variety of marine creatures in one trip, this tour delivers a memorable experience. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable in open water and eager for an adventure that combines wildlife with snorkeling.
2. Tahiti island: 5 hours Snorkeling Picnic
Priced at $228 per person, this 5-hour snorkeling picnic in Tahiti balances underwater exploration with relaxing downtime. The tour takes you to swim with turtles, explore wrecks and a sunken plane in what’s called a natural aquarium, and visit a sandbank where stingrays glide close by. The snorkeling is done in crystal-clear waters, and the guides prioritize safety, making it suitable for less experienced snorkelers too.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of activities—wreck and plane wreck diving, with a chance to relax on a postcard-worthy sandbank. The guides introduce local flavors through Polynesian raw fish and fresh fruits, turning the trip into a cultural as well as marine experience. Many reviewers mention the encounter with stingrays and sea turtles as unforgettable, with the shallow waters making it accessible for families or those new to snorkeling.
Compared to more expensive tours, this offers good value, blending adventure, relaxation, and cultural flavor in one outing. The tour is perfect for travelers who want a variety of underwater sights without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: This snorkeling picnic is an excellent choice for those wanting a diverse underwater experience combined with local flavors, especially suited for families or beginners.
3. Moorea: Private Sunset Cruise with Champagne & Snorkeling
At $945 for a group of up to six, this private sunset cruise in Moorea is the most luxurious option on our list. Lasting 2.5 hours, it combines relaxed snorkeling with the romance of watching the sun set over the horizon. You’ll float in crystal-clear waters, observing colorful fish and coral, while on board, a friendly crew serves champagne, cocktails, or even homemade tapas.
The private setting means fewer people, more personalized service, and the chance to tailor your experience. Guests often comment on the tranquil atmosphere, the stunning views, and the chance to unwind after a day of exploring. The cruise is ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone wanting a more intimate and indulgent experience. During sunset, the lighting makes the water shimmer, and the relaxed ambiance makes it easy to unwind and soak in the scenery.
Reviewers love the combination of snorkeling and a romantic setting, calling it a “highlight of the trip.” However, it is the priciest option and best suited for those with a small group or those celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: If luxury, privacy, and romance top your list, this sunset cruise with snorkeling offers a memorable, intimate way to end a day in Moorea.
$945 per group up to 6
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re eager to swim with whales and see a wide variety of marine life, go for the Moorea whale tour. For a more laid-back, culturally rich snorkeling experience with wrecks and stingrays, the Tahiti picnic is perfect. Meanwhile, the private sunset cruise suits travelers looking for romance or a luxurious finish to their day.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the private cruise, which is popular among honeymooners and couples. The best time for snorkeling is during the dry season from May to October, when waters are calm and visibility is at its best.
Final Thoughts
The Windward Islands in French Polynesia offer a range of snorkeling experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you seek the thrill of swimming with whales, the diversity of wrecks and rays, or a romantic sunset with champagne, there’s an option that fits. For wildlife lovers, the whale swim is unbeatable; for those wanting a relaxed cultural day, the Tahiti picnic hits the spot; and for couples or those celebrating, the private sunset cruise offers a special, intimate experience.
Remember, these tours tend to fill up quickly, so booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on your top choice. Whichever you pick, expect astonishing marine sights and warm Polynesian hospitality. Happy snorkeling!