Moorea is a perfect playground for boat lovers. Its calm lagoon waters, vibrant coral gardens, and stunning coastal scenery make any boat tour a memorable part of your trip. Whether you’re eager to swim with sharks and rays on a half-day snorkeling cruise or prefer a peaceful sunset sail with cocktails in hand, Moorea offers options for all tastes. We especially love the Half Day Tour : Moorea Snorkeling & Sailing on a Catamaran named Taboo, which combines excellent snorkeling with a relaxed sailing experience and top-notch reviews. For those wanting a private experience, the Private Boat Tour of Moorea Lagoon offers personalized attention and the chance to get up close with marine life at your own pace.
Moorea’s clear waters and plentiful marine life make it a haven for boat-based adventures. From snorkel safaris with sharks and rays to scenic sunset cruises that showcase the island’s beauty, there’s a tour for every traveler. Some tours include cultural insights, like traditional Polynesian sailing lessons or visits to pineapple farms. If your goal is a luxurious, intimate experience, the private tours stand out. For budget-friendly, family-friendly fun, the larger group outings are just right. Now, let’s explore each of the best options.
1. Half Day Tour : Moorea Snorkeling & Sailing on a Catamaran named Taboo
At number 1, this half-day snorkeling and sailing tour on the catamaran Taboo earns its top spot with a flawless 5.0/5 rating from 500 reviews. It lasts about four hours and includes round-trip transfers from your Moorea hotel, making logistics easy. The trip features snorkeling in Moorea’s crystal-clear lagoon waters, where you’ll see tropical fish, blacktip sharks, stingrays, and more. The crew provides snorkeling gear and fresh tropical fruits, plus cocktails and maitais served onboard, adding to the laid-back vibe. Guests rave about the friendly guides and the chance to swim with sharks and rays, often describing it as a “wonderful morning” or “an awesome experience.” Ideal for travelers wanting a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour offers excellent value at $154 per person. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of marine life without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: This tour is highly recommended for first-timers or anyone looking for a fun, hassle-free snorkeling trip combined with sailing.
2. Moorea Cruise Ships: 4×4, Belvedere, Pineapple, & Magic Mountain
A popular shore excursion, the 4WD tour of Moorea ranks second with a perfect 5.0/5 from 330 reviews. For around $67, you get a 3-4 hour adventure that covers top sights like Belvedere Lookout, Magic Mountain, Cook’s Bay, and the pineapple plantations. The tour emphasizes off-the-beaten-path attractions and local culture, with a guide who shares detailed stories and insights. Guests particularly enjoy the panoramic views from Magic Mountain and the delicious pineapple products tastings at the Manutea Tahiti factory. The tour’s convenience, including port pickup and drop-off, makes it especially attractive for cruise passengers. It’s a lively, informative experience suited for those who want to explore the island’s highlights efficiently without the hassle of planning.
Bottom Line: An energetic, comprehensive tour that balances scenic viewpoints, cultural insights, and a touch of adventure—great for cruise passengers with limited time.
3. Sunset Cruise : Moorea Sailing on a Catamaran named Taboo
Number 3 is the Sunset Cruise, which earns a perfect 5.0/5 from 229 reviews. This approximately two-hour-and-twenty-minute sail offers relaxed views of Moorea’s coast, Cook’s Bay, and the barrier reef, all while the sun dips below the horizon. Guests rave about the peaceful atmosphere and the spectacular sunset views, often mentioning how it’s a perfect way to unwind after a day’s exploring. Cocktails and fresh fruit are served onboard, making the experience feel indulgent yet laid-back. Departing from Mareto Public Beach, it’s easy to access, and the small-group setting ensures personalized attention. The tour’s appeal lies in its tranquil setting, ideal for couples or anyone seeking a romantic wrap-up to a day in Moorea.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a romantic evening or a calming end to your day, this sunset sail offers stunning views and a gentle, intimate vibe.
4. Private Boat Tour of Moorea Lagoon
Topping the list for personalized experiences, the Private Boat Tour scores a perfect 5.0/5 from 192 reviews. For $290.54 per person, you get about three hours of exclusive access to Moorea’s lagoon, with your own captain and crew. This tour is fully customizable—you can swim with rays, sharks, turtles, or just lounge on the boat soaking up the scenery. Guests love the flexibility and the chance to have a private, relaxed experience, with photos taken from GoPro cameras and sent afterward. Not only can you explore at your own pace, but you also get the intimacy and comfort of a private charter, making it ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends. Several reviews mention how Luna and Clem made the trip unforgettable with their expertise and warmth.
Bottom Line: If you want complete control over your itinerary and extra privacy, this private tour offers a luxurious, flexible day on the water.
5. Introduction to sailing and discovering the lagoon
At number 5, the Introduction to sailing and lagoon discovery earns praise with a 5.0/5 from 136 reviews. Over approximately four hours, you’ll learn about Polynesian navigation aboard a traditional double canoe. It’s perfect for beginners who want to try sailing and explore Moorea’s lagoon, visiting significant sites and snorkeling in tranquil spots. The tour highlights include tropical fruit, drinks, and a small-group setting that guarantees personal attention. Guests appreciate the cultural aspect, especially the chance to learn traditional navigation skills from passionate guides. It’s a leisurely, educational experience suited for families and curious travelers.
Bottom Line: Best for those interested in culture combined with light adventure and snorkeling.
6. PRIVATE Half Day Tour : Moorea Snorkeling & Sailing on a Catamaran named Taboo
This private half-day tour boasts a 5.0/5 rating from 97 reviews. It’s similar to the shared version but offers exclusive use of the Taboo with a dedicated crew. You’ll enjoy swimming with rays, sharks, and colorful fish, while snacks and beverages, including alcohol, are served on board. The captain and crew focus on your comfort and safety, making it ideal for families or couples wanting privacy. Guests often mention how Luna and Clem made the experience special, with plenty of personal touches. The tour’s value lies in the private setting and flexibility to customize your experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a private, intimate day with tailored snorkeling and high-end service.
7. Boat tour 1/2 day Excursion in the lagoon of Moorea
Coming in at number 7, this half-day lagoon tour offers about four hours of exploring Moorea’s vibrant waters for $118.86. It features visits to Cook’s and Opunohu Bays, snorkeling with turtles, and seeing stingrays and blacktip sharks. The tour emphasizes seeing the best of Moorea’s marine life from both the boat and snorkeling stops. Reviewers mention how the guides are very knowledgeable and the experience is lively, with a mix of wildlife sightings and scenic views. It’s a good choice for families and those who want a rundown of the lagoon’s underwater world.
Bottom Line: An engaging, well-rounded cruise for anyone wanting a mix of wildlife encounters and scenic cruising.
8. Sunset sailing
The Sunset sailing ranks eighth with a 5.0/5 from 48 reviews. Over three hours, you’ll gently sail Moorea’s coast on a traditional canoe, learning about Polynesian navigation. The small group ensures personal attention as you watch the sun set over the water, with optional snorkeling gear available. Reviewers describe it as a “very unique experience” with great atmosphere, perfect for couples. The tour includes snacks and a cocktail, with a focus on relaxed enjoyment rather than active adventure. It’s suitable for travelers seeking serenity and a taste of local culture in an intimate setting.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, cultural experience ideal for a romantic evening or quiet reflection.
9. Private Day Trip Hike and Boat in Moorea
Number 9 offers an immersive private day trip combining hiking and boat, rated 5.0/5 from 46 reviews. This full-day adventure includes hiking trails like the Belvedere and the 3 Pinus, plus a full meal on a motu, followed by a marine exploration with a biologist. You’ll visit Cook and Opunohu Bays, swimming with turtles and spotting dolphins in season. The guide shares plenty of local insights, making this a comprehensive trip for active travelers who want a balanced mix of land and sea. Guests highlight the quality of the guide and the delicious meal onboard. It’s best suited for fit travelers who want variety and local flavor.
Bottom Line: A full-day, personalized experience combining active hiking, cultural insights, and marine wildlife.
10. PRIVATE Sunset Cruise : Moorea Sailing on a Catamaran named Taboo
Number 10’s private sunset cruise offers an exclusive 2-hour-20-minute journey rated 5.0/5. It features a romantic sail through Cook’s Bay, with panoramic views and cocktails served onboard. The small group (up to four) makes it intimate, perfect for special occasions or couples wanting a quiet, scenic experience. Travelers praise the captain Leo for his storytelling and the boat’s comfort. Watching the sunset from a moored Taboo feels special, and the tour tailor-makes the experience to your desires.
Bottom Line: The ultimate private, intimate way to enjoy a Moorea sunset, ideal for celebrating a special moment.
11. Moorea: Whale Swimming Boat Trip
Number 11 is the Whale Swimming Boat Trip, rated 4.6/5 by 112 reviews. In season, you get the chance to observe and swim with humpback whales, with potential sightings of spinner dolphins and pilot whales. This unforgettable trip is both thrilling and educational, with guides sharing facts and legends about these magnificent creatures. It’s best during whale season but offers a rare opportunity to connect with marine mammals in their natural habitat. For wildlife lovers, this adventure offers awe-inspiring moments and plenty of photo ops.
Bottom Line: An exceptional option for whale enthusiasts and wildlife lovers seeking an up-close encounter.
12. Moorea: Glass Bottom Boat Adventure with Lagoon Wonders
The Glass Bottom Boat Adventure ranks 12th with perfect reviews from 33 travelers. This five-and-a-half-hour tour provides a peek into Moorea’s underwater world without getting wet, with opportunities to see sea turtles, explore an underwater tiki, and enjoy a meal on a secluded motu. The unique glass bottom allows for viewing coral reefs and marine life from the comfort of the boat. It’s perfect for families, especially those with kids or limited snorkeling ability, and offers a mix of cultural and natural highlights.
Bottom Line: An engaging, relaxed way to experience Moorea’s marine life from above and below.
13. PRIVATE Full Day Tour : Moorea Snorkeling & Sailing on a Catamaran named Taboo
Number 13, the full-day private sailing trip, earns a perfect rating. It offers the ultimate flexible adventure—sailing where you want, snorkeling in prime spots, and even picnicking on a quiet beach. For around $1,548 for a group of up to four, this is an excellent choice for families or couples who want total control. Guests report it as a “fantastic” experience with personalized service from the crew, including snorkeling with sharks, rays, turtles, and exploring Polynesian tikis underwater. The custom itinerary means you can focus on what interests you most.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want a bespoke, all-day water adventure, this private charter is hard to beat.
14. Private sailing adventure
This private sailing ranks 14th with a 5.0/5 from 24 reviews. It’s a 4-hour journey with a captain who shares his passions for surfing, diving, and fishing. The experience is about feeling the freedom of the ocean, with personalized attention for up to two people per group. It’s a low-key, intimate trip perfect for a romantic escape or a small group wanting a relaxed day on the water.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or small groups seeking a peaceful, authentic sailing experience.
15. Moorea Cruise Ships: 4×4, Belvedere, Magic Mountain, Pineapple
Finally, the 4×4 Moorea highlights tour offers a budget-friendly, four-hour overview of key sights like Belvedere, Magic Mountain, and pineapple fields. It’s a quick, practical way to see Moorea’s top attractions when docked by cruise ships, with local guides providing insight. The tour gets a solid 4.5/5 rating, and reviews mention how it’s a good mix of scenic viewpoints and local culture, especially suitable for cruise passengers short on time.
Bottom Line: Great for a brief, comprehensive glimpse of the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Moorea
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your budget, the amount of time available, and your specific interests. If you want a full immersion, the Private Full Day Tour offers the most flexibility and personalized service, but at a higher price. For a quick, scenic overview, the 4×4 Moorea or half-day lagoon trips deliver excellent value and memorable sights.
If relaxation and romance are your goals, the Sunset Cruise or the Private Sunset Cruise are unbeatable choices. Do note that some tours, like the whale swim, are seasonal and require advance booking, especially during migration periods. Booking early ensures availability, especially for private or popular trips.
Final Thoughts
Moorea offers a broad range of boat adventures—from snorkel safaris and cultural sailing lessons to luxurious private charters and whale encounters. For those seeking a lively group experience with excellent reviews, the Half Day Tour with Taboo is a standout. If privacy and personalized service are your priorities, the private tours provide unmatched intimacy. And for romantic sunset moments, the Sunset Cruise or the Private Sunset Cruise are perfect choices.
As with any popular destination, booking early is wise—especially for private or seasonal trips. Whichever you choose, a day on Moorea’s waters will likely be a highlight of your trip. Prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty, fascinating marine life, and warm Polynesian hospitality that makes Moorea a true island paradise for boat lovers.