Sunset Cruise : Moorea Sailing on a Catamaran named Taboo

A Sunset Sailing Adventure in Moorea on the Catamaran Taboo

When you think of Moorea, French Polynesia, picture lush green mountains, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful, laid-back vibe. Now, imagine experiencing all that from the deck of a small, comfortable catamaran named Taboo, as the sun dips below the horizon. This sunset cruise, costing around $155 per person, lasts about 2 hours and 20 minutes, starting from the local Mareto Public Beach, a spot where you’ll find free parking and easy access.

What makes this outing special? First, it offers intimate glimpses of Moorea’s coastline and bays—particularly Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay—away from the crowds. Second, the informative and friendly guides, especially Captain Leo, enhance the trip with stories and insights that add context to the stunning scenery. We loved how relaxed and personal the atmosphere felt, thanks to the small group size of just eight passengers.

A possible consideration? Since the tour involves boarding a small skiff to reach the catamaran, those with mobility challenges should be prepared for a bit of a transfer. Also, weather can influence the experience—if it rains, the sunset cruise may be rescheduled or canceled for safety reasons.

This cruise is ideal for travelers craving a romantic, peaceful way to end the day. Couples, small groups, or anyone interested in a laid-back, scenic experience with a touch of local storytelling will find it especially rewarding.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group size creates a personalized, relaxed environment.
• Breathtaking Views: Get a unique perspective of Moorea’s bays and the sunset.
• Expert Guides: Captain Leo and crew share insightful commentary about the island’s geology, history, and nature.
• Quality Drinks: Enjoy cocktails and fruit juice while sailing—perfect for unwinding.
• Easy Access: Depart from Mareto Public Beach with free parking.
• Weather Dependent: The experience relies on good weather; cancellations are possible.

Discovering Moorea from the Water: A Detailed Look at the Sunset Cruise

Moorea is one of those islands that immediately feels like a tropical paradise—particularly when seen from the water. This sunset cruise offers a chance to savor that view up close and from a different angle, blending scenic sailing with a touch of Polynesian charm.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Two things truly set this experience apart: its small-group intimacy and its knowledgeable guides. With only up to eight travelers, you aren’t just another face in a crowd. Instead, you get a chance to interact with Captain Leo and his crew, learning about Moorea’s landscapes, geology, and legends as you glide past the bays and reefs. Multiple reviews highlight how personable and informative Captain Leo was, sharing stories that added depth to the beautiful scenery.

The spectacular sunset is another highlight. Many visitors mention how the views from the boat offer a different, often more breathtaking perspective than land-based vantage points. The boat’s design, especially the nets and cushions where you can lounge, means you can relax comfortably while watching the sky change colors.

What to Expect on the Itinerary

Start Point: Mareto Public Beach

Your adventure begins here, a convenient spot with free parking and easy access. The tour includes pickup options, but most travelers will find their way here without much trouble. From the dock, a quick transfer on a small boat takes you to the Taboo catamaran, which is kept clean, comfortable, and well-maintained.

Inside and Outside the Reef

Once aboard, the captain takes you inside and outside the reef, passing through the barrier that protects Moorea’s bays. This allows for a mix of tranquil lagoon waters and the open ocean, offering varied scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. You’ll love the way the boat moves smoothly, the water is calm, and the breeze is just right for sailing.

Stop 1: Cook’s Bay

Your first stop is Cook’s Bay, a scenic spot surrounded by lush mountains and legendary for its legendary views. Here, the crew shares stories and legends, with some reviews noting how much they appreciated the local history tidbits. You might spend about 15 minutes here, soaking in the landscape and taking photos.

Stop 2: Opunohu Bay

Next, the tour takes you to Opunohu Bay, another beautiful setting with deep waters and striking scenery. Again, expect about 15 minutes to enjoy the surroundings, with the crew offering commentary and answering questions. The ability to see these iconic bays from the water adds a new layer of appreciation for Moorea’s geography.

Sailing into the Sunset

As the boat heads back toward shore, the real highlight begins—the spectacular sunset. Many review comments mention how beautifully the sky turns shades of pink, orange, and purple, all framed by the lush green mountains. It’s a peaceful moment, perfect for photos or just soaking in the scene.

Drinks & Atmosphere

On board, cocktails and fruit juice are served, allowing you to unwind with a drink in hand while watching the colors shift overhead. Many travelers note that the drinks are well-made, and the relaxed ambiance makes this a perfect way to decompress after a day of exploring.

The Experience in Authentic Traveler Words

• “My wife and I came here on our honeymoon, looking for a romantic evening out. The waters were so still and there was a slight breeze.” — Michaelangelo_G
• “A wonderful relaxing experience. We loved every minute.” — Alistair_B
• “Very personable, lots of history, beautiful views.” — Jessica_M
• “The captain was very cool and the boat was very nice. The sunset is very beautiful.” — RaiMan2000

These comments reflect the tour’s appeal: personalized service, beautiful scenery, and a peaceful vibe.

Practical Details and Tips

Group Size & Comfort: With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour emphasizes intimacy. It’s ideal if you prefer a quieter, more personal experience rather than a large, noisy group.

Duration & Timing: At roughly 2 hours and 20 minutes, it’s a manageable outing, perfect for winding down in the evening. Booking during the sunset hours ensures you catch the best views.

Cost & Value: At $154.80 per person, it’s a bit of an investment but offers excellent value for the personalized service, scenic beauty, and the chance to learn about Moorea directly from locals.

Weather & Cancellation: The tour is weather-dependent. If it rains, expect a reschedule or full refund, so check the forecast.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This sunset cruise is best suited for travelers craving a relaxed, scenic, and personalized way to experience Moorea. Couples seeking a romantic outing, small groups of friends, or anyone interested in photos, storytelling, and a peaceful sail will find it captivating. It’s also a great choice for those who appreciate good value, as many reviews emphasize the high quality of the experience relative to the price.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a calm, intimate, and beautifully scenic way to end a day in Moorea, this small-group sunset cruise checks all the boxes. It combines authentic sailing with informative guides, stunning views of the bays and sunset, and a laid-back atmosphere—all at a fair price considering the quality.

While weather can influence your plans, most travelers find that the experience is worth the effort, especially when sharing it with a small, friendly group. This tour offers a genuine glimpse into Moorea’s natural beauty and local spirit, making it a memorable part of any island itinerary.

FAQ

How long does the sunset cruise last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and the sunset.

Where does the tour begin?
The tour departs from Mareto Public Beach, which offers free parking for easy access.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the sailing experience, drinks (cocktails and fruit juice), and guided commentary. Pickup options may be available.

How many people are on the boat?
A maximum of 8 travelers are allowed, ensuring a small, intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility difficulties should note that boarding involves transfers on a small skiff.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In case of poor weather, it can be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund.

Are there stops during the cruise?
Yes, there are two main stops: Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay, each about 15 minutes, where guides share local stories and allow time for photos.

Is this experience good value for money?
Yes, considering the small group size, personalized service, scenic views, and drinks included, most find it a worthwhile investment.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Absolutely, it’s recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak times, as the experience is quite popular.

In all, this sunset cruise on Taboo offers a peaceful, scenic, and engaging way to see Moorea’s bays and enjoy a memorable Polynesian sunset. We think it’s perfect for those who want a mix of relaxation, storytelling, and stunning views—an authentic slice of island life on the water.