Our Original Diving expert, Rachel, recently spent two weeks on a research trip in French Polynesia. When she wasn't hiking through lush mountains in Moorea and cycling along the islands of Rangiroa, she was diving with dolphins in the Tiputa Pass and spotting hundreds of hammerheads in South Fakarava. Want all the details? Read on for the highlights of Rachel's diving adventures...
Where did you visit?
On my diving adventures, I visited Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia, as well as Moorea, Rangiroa (the world's second-largest atoll), Fakarava and Huahine.
What did you get up to?
So much! I dived with lemon sharks and turtles in Moorea and took on the role of a coral gardener, learning about all things coral conservation. I also tried humpback whale snorkelling, though sadly I didn't spot any whales as it was a bit late in the season. However, I had my ocean giant fix in Rangiroa, where I saw hammerheads while diving the Tiputa Pass and swam with dolphins. In Fakarava, I dived the North and South passes before heading to Huahine, where, back on land, I visited a vanilla plantation, archaeological sites and a pearl farm.
What were the highlights of your trip?
Hiking through Moorea's mountainous landscapes was definitely a highlight. Even though it was raining and very muddy, the clouds created a moody, atmospheric backdrop and the scenery was just stunning. Another memorable moment was watching large schools of grey sharks pass by in South Fakarava. I lost count of how many there were - it seemed like hundreds!
Did you learn about any secret spots?
Yes, Raimiti in South Fakarava. This charming guesthouse is a great option for non-divers, as the team organises free daily trips to their favourite local spots. You can expect plenty of serene snorkelling and wildlife watching.
What’s your favourite thing you ate?
Poisson cru, the country's national dish. It's raw fish, marinated in lime juice and coconut milk, served with a mix of fresh vegetables, like a Polynesian ceviche. Delicious!
What was something you’d never done before?
Diving with wild dolphins. The Tiputa Pass is home to a resident population of about 30 bottlenose dolphins. They live there year-round and can sometimes be spotted from shore when the tide conditions are good. It was amazing to see them gliding underwater. I even found myself briefly among a pod of six.
What’s one thing that can’t be missed?
You can't miss the 'Wall of Sharks' in South Fakarava. As the name suggests, when you dive the southern pass, you'll be surrounded by hundreds and hundreds of grey sharks, almost forming a solid wall. I've never seen anything like it.
Did anything surprise you about the destination?
The differences between the Society Islands and the Tuamotu Islands are astonishing. The Society Islands of Tahiti, Moorea and Huahine are known for their towering, rugged mountains and calm, pristine lagoons, making them ideal for families seeking adventure. In contrast, the Tuamotu Islands - particularly Rangiroa and Fakarava - are a diver's dream, home to vibrant coral gardens and an abundance of marine life.
What’s a top tip you’d give to clients?
If you're staying in Moorea or Tahiti, be sure to bring earplugs as roosters will probably wake you up, but it's all part of the experience.
