A pristine atoll with world-class diving and pink sand beaches.
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Overview
Fakarava is a magnificent coral atoll located in the Tuamotu Archipelago of French Polynesia, approximately 450 kilometers (280 miles) northeast of Tahiti. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Fakarava is celebrated for its exceptional biodiversity, particularly its incredibly rich and thriving underwater ecosystem. The atoll is shaped like a rectangle, enclosing a vast lagoon of startlingly clear turquoise water that teems with sharks, rays, and countless species of colorful reef fish. Its two large passes, Garuae (the largest in French Polynesia) and Tumakohua (South Pass), are renowned worldwide for thrilling drift dives among huge schools of fish and sharks. Above water, Fakarava offers tranquil, untouched motus (islets) with pristine white and pink sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and a genuinely laid-back Polynesian charm.
Fakarava is a highly sought-after port of call for luxury, expedition, and smaller cruise ships exploring French Polynesia, especially those catering to dive and snorkel enthusiasts. Due to the atoll's shallow nature and lack of deep-water piers, cruise ships typically anchor outside the lagoon (often near Rotoava village on the north side) and tender passengers ashore to a small pier or beach. A visit to Fakarava offers cruise passengers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in one of the world's healthiest and most biodiverse marine environments, relax on stunning secluded beaches, and experience the authentic, unhurried pace of Polynesian atoll life.
Experience the unparalleled marine life by snorkeling or diving in one of its famous passes. These passes are renowned for their "shark walls," where hundreds of sharks (gray reef, blacktip, whitetip) congregate.
Tip: This is the highlight for many.
Unwind on one of the idyllic pristine beaches, known for their dazzling white or pink sands. Enjoy the calm lagoon waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing amidst swaying palm trees.
Tip: Relax on a pink or white sand beach here and enjoy its dazzling white and pink sands.
Learn about the cultivation of the Tahitian black pearls by visiting a local pearl farm. See how the oysters are nucleated, how the pearls grow, and understand the process behind these lustrous gems.
Tip: Pearl farms are often located on a motu within the lagoon, requiring a short boat transfer.
Take a stroll through Rotoava, the main village on the area. It's a small, laid-back community with a few local shops and a church. Experience the authentic, unhurried pace of atoll life.
Tip: You might find local crafts or fresh fruit for sale.
Take a kayak or stand-up paddleboard out into the calm, shallow waters of the lagoon. This offers a way to explore the waters, spot reef fish from above, and enjoy the beauty of the atoll.
Tip: Resorts or tour operators often provide kayaks/SUPs.
Savor the fresh local fish, caught right in the lagoon or passes. Look for simple, delicious preparations, grilled with lime, or in a traditional Polynesian poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime).
Tip: If your tour includes a beach picnic, it will likely feature fresh fish.
Aboard
Silver Whisper
From
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia
1 Sailing
Nov 26, 2028
Aboard
Silver Cloud
From
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia
1 Sailing
Oct 23, 2028
Aboard
Silver Cloud
From
Puerto Williams, Chile
1 Sailing
Feb 29, 2028
Aboard
Star Breeze
From
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia
3 Sailings
Dec 17, 2026 - Oct 15, 2028
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per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Silver Whisper
From
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia
7 Sailings
Nov 15, 2026 - Mar 21, 2027
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per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia
1 Sailing
Sep 29, 2027
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per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Star Breeze
From
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia
5 Sailings
Jan 14, 2027 - Nov 2, 2028
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per person*
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Aboard
Star Breeze
From
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia
6 Sailings
Jan 7 - Oct 28, 2027
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per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Oceania Aurelia
From
Los Angeles, California
1 Sailing
Jan 6, 2029
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per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Broome, Australia
1 Sailing
Aug 16, 2027
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per person*
taxes & fees included
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