Half Day Tour : Moorea Snorkeling & Sailing on a Catamaran named Taboo

If you’re heading to Moorea, French Polynesia, and want to combine sailing with some of the best snorkeling the island has to offer, this half-day tour on the Catamaran Taboo might just be your perfect escape. For around $154, you’ll spend roughly four hours out on the water, guided by friendly, knowledgeable crew who are passionate about sharing the lagoon’s treasures. Expect small-group intimacy (max 8 guests), plenty of marine life, and a relaxed pace that suits both seasoned snorkelers and beginners alike.

What we love about this experience? First, the personalized vibe of a small boat means you aren’t just another face in a crowd. Second, the diverse snorkeling sites promise encounters with blacktip sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles, making every moment underwater exciting. A minor thing to consider is that some reviews mention communication could be clearer at times; however, most guests find the guides friendly and eager to share their knowledge. This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate stunning scenery, marine life, and a laid-back atmosphere, especially if you’re looking for a small-group experience that feels more like a private cruise.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personalized experience with attentive guides.
• Diverse snorkeling locations allow for multiple encounters with sharks, rays, and colorful fish.
• Expert guides like Flo, Meri, Louie, and Leo are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Inclusion of snacks and drinks such as tropical fruits, juices, and cocktails adds a leisurely touch.
• Round-trip hotel transfers make logistics hassle-free, especially for those staying in Moorea.
• Limited availability (up to 8 guests) enhances the intimate, relaxed vibe.

Discovering Moorea’s Lagoon: What to Expect from the Tour

A Laid-Back Start with Scenic Sailing

The tour begins with pickup from your Moorea hotel — a simple and stress-free way to start. The Catamaran Taboo is noted for its comfortable size and relaxed pace. As the boat heads out into the crystal-clear waters, you’ll quickly feel the tranquility that only being on the water can bring. Many reviews highlight the boat’s comfortable setup and the friendly crew, especially Captain Leo, who is praised for his professional yet approachable demeanor. You’ll get a sense that this isn’t a high-speed thrill ride but rather a leisurely exploration of Moorea’s marine environment.

First Stop: Pnohu Bay

The initial stop at Pnohu Bay offers sweeping landscape views and a chance to enjoy the legendary scenery of Moorea’s coastline. This spot is free to visit, and many guests comment on the beautiful vistas and calming waters. It’s a perfect introduction before plunging into the underwater world. From the reviews, we learn that the scenery alone makes the stop worthwhile, and it provides a tranquil moment to soak in the island’s natural beauty.

Snorkeling in the Crystal Waters

The main attraction is, of course, the snorkeling. The tour visits up to three different sites, each offering a distinct underwater landscape. Expect to see colorful coral gardens, a variety of tropical fish, and for the lucky, sea turtles and dolphins.

Guests consistently rave about the diversity of marine life and the ease of snorkeling thanks to provided gear. One reviewer shares, “We saw sea turtles and swam with blacktip sharks, stingrays, and loads of fish — the scenery was beautiful.” Others note that the waters are crystal clear, making the experience both safe and awe-inspiring.

Encounters with Marine Life

One of the tour’s most praised aspects is the opportunity to swim alongside sharks, rays, and turtles. Guides like Louie and Mary are often highlighted for their knowledge and friendliness, making interactions both educational and fun. Several reviews mention the guides’ ability to put nervous swimmers at ease — important since encounters with sharks and rays can be intimidating if unaccustomed. Many travelers find these moments to be highlight memories of their trip.

Refreshments and Relaxation on Board

After the water adventures, the boat provides tropical fruits, fruit juices, and cocktails. The inclusion of refreshments adds a leisurely, vacation vibe that many find makes the experience feel like a luxurious day out. As one reviewer notes, “We enjoyed sipping cocktails and snacking on fresh fruits while soaking up the scenery.”

Final Stop and Return

The tour typically ends with a final scenic stop to admire Moorea’s landscapes before heading back to the dock. The round-trip transfer from your hotel ensures a hassle-free experience, saving you time and stress. Most guests comment on how timely pickups and drop-offs make the whole day smooth.

Why This Tour Stands Out: The Authentic Experience

Compared to larger, more commercial tours, the small group size creates a more intimate, relaxed environment. Many reviews mention how guides like Flo, Meri, Leo, and Louie make the trip special through their friendliness and expertise. Their ability to share knowledge about Moorea’s marine life adds an educational element that enriches the adventure.

The diversity of snorkeling stops is a big plus. With the chance to swim with sharks, rays, and turtles, you’ll find this tour offers a balanced mix of excitement and serenity. On top of that, the scenic sailing aspect — though sometimes affected by weather conditions — provides a gentle cruise with plenty of picture-worthy vistas.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience appeals to adventurers and tranquility seekers alike, especially those who enjoy small-group settings. If you’re curious about marine life and want to avoid large crowds, this tour offers a more personal touch. Perfect for families with children, couples celebrating special occasions, or solo travelers wanting a friendly, informative outing — many reviewers mention how kids and adults alike enjoy the experience.

If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides and values authentic, scenic moments on the water, you’ll find this tour rewarding. However, if you prefer very fast-paced activities or are not comfortable in the water, consider the reviews noting ease of snorkeling and friendly guides.

Deep Dive: The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Departure

Starting from Voila Moorea, the hotel pickup is straightforward, with most travelers praising the timeliness and ease of transfer. The small group—limited to 8—ensures that everyone gets personal attention.

Sailing Across Moorea’s Lagoon

The journey out on the Taboo is relaxed, with some reviews noting that the boat isn’t particularly fast, which, for many, enhances the peaceful vibe. The boat’s comfortable size allows for plenty of space to lounge or sit comfortably while cruising.

Pnohu Bay

The first stop at Pnohu Bay is more about taking in views. Guests enjoy snapshots of lush landscape and calm waters, with some noting it as a good photo opportunity. It’s a brief stop, but one that sets the tone for the day.

Snorkeling Sites

The core of the tour involves dipping into three distinct sites, each chosen for their marine richness. Expect reefs teeming with fish, shark encounters, and rays gliding past. Several reviews highlight that the guides provide clear instructions and are attentive to guest safety and enjoyment.

Underwater Highlights

• Coral gardens with colorful fish
• Swims with sharks and rays in controlled environments
• Potential sightings of sea turtles and dolphins

Guests frequently emphasize how safe and accessible snorkeling is, thanks to the equipment supplied and the guides’ care.

Refreshments and Final Views

Post-snorkeling, the crew offers fresh fruits and drinks, including cocktails and fruit juices, adding a luxury touch. The tour wraps up with a scenic sail back to Moorea, giving everyone time to reflect on their marine encounters.

Return and Hotel Drop-off

Most reviews mention a prompt return, with drop-offs at the hotel providing a hassle-free experience. This convenience makes it easier to plan the rest of your day, whether relaxing or exploring more.

Overall Value and Recommendations

Considering the price point of $154, many guests agree this tour offers excellent value. The small group size, diverse snorkeling locations, and knowledgeable guides elevate it beyond typical boat trips. The all-inclusive nature—gear, snacks, drinks, hotel transfers—means fewer worries and more time to enjoy.

This tour will suit adventurous travelers eager to see sharks and rays, families with kids who want a safe, fun experience, or couples looking for a relaxing day on the water. It’s especially ideal if you prefer small-group intimacy over large, busier excursions.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 4 hours, including pickups, snorkeling stops, and sailing.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is supplied, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfers from Moorea are offered, making logistics easier.

Can children join this tour?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is suitable for most ages.

What marine animals might we see?
Expect to see fish, stingrays, blacktip sharks, and possibly sea turtles.

What if the weather is bad?
Most bookings are fully refundable if canceled 24 hours in advance, so check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, many reviews praise the comfortable size and relaxed pace of the Taboo.

How many people are on the boat?
The maximum is 8 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
It’s the small-group attention, diverse snorkeling sites, and friendly guides that truly make this experience special.

Do I need to be an experienced swimmer?
Not necessarily. The guides are attentive, and snorkeling is made accessible, making it suitable for most comfort levels.

This Moorea snorkeling and sailing tour on the Catamaran Taboo offers an authentic, intimate way to explore the island’s vibrant lagoon. With friendly guides, diverse marine encounters, and beautiful scenery, it’s a highlight for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, making it ideal for those who want a more personalized experience without the crowds. If you’re eager to swim with sharks, rays, and turtles, and enjoy a peaceful sail in one of the most stunning settings in French Polynesia, this tour will likely meet or exceed your expectations.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply eager for a memorable day on the water, the Moorea Snorkeling & Sailing experience on Taboo stands out as a genuinely worthwhile investment in your trip. The blend of natural beauty, marine life, and expert guides ensures you leave with plenty of stories—and maybe a few unforgettable photos—to remember your time in Moorea.