Paradise awaits beneath Tahiti’s crystal-clear waters. Right from Papeete, efficient half-day tours take you straight to the best snorkeling spots packed with colorful fish and coral gardens. I love the small-group excursions to hidden shipwrecks – they feel more personal and less touristy. The 5-hour tour with lunch stands out for combining great snorkeling with authentic local food on a quiet beach. Morning tours offer your best shot at swimming with sea turtles, while the afternoon “aquarium” trip to three shipwrecks is simply spectacular. These well-organized outings work for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Check out our favorite Tahitian snorkel tours below.
Good To Know
- The 5-hour “Snorkeling Picnic in 5 Hours With Lunch” tour offers a delightful experience with a delicious lunch, swimming with turtles, rays, and colorful fish.
- The “Small-Group Snorkeling Tour of Off-Shore Wrecks” provides a personalized 70-minute exploration of sunken boats, vibrant coral, and diverse marine life.
- The “Small-Group Morning Snorkeling Tour to See Turtles” is a 1-hour excursion that allows you to encounter turtles in calm waters.
- The “Small-Group Afternoon Snorkeling Tour of The Aquarium” is a 90-minute adventure focusing on three wrecks, tropical fish, and coral gardens.
- The “Half-Day Snorkeling Tour from Papeete” is a 4-hour tour with high-quality gear, snacks, and local fruits, suitable for an intimate group of up to 12 travelers.
Half-Day Snorkeling Tour From Papeete
One popular snorkeling option for visitors to Tahiti is the Half-Day Snorkeling Tour from Papeete. This 4-hour tour boasts a Badge of Excellence and 77 positive reviews. Priced from $144.44 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
The tour includes the use of high-quality snorkeling equipment, floating noodles, life jackets, and a buoy for children. Participants will also enjoy bottled water, alcoholic beverages, snacks, and local fruits.
The tour departs from the meeting point in front of the Le Retro restaurant in Faaa. Pickup is available for private tours, but shared tours don’t include this unless a supplement is paid. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and most travelers can participate.
However, some negative reviews mention issues with equipment and limited marine life sightings. The Half-Day Snorkeling Tour provides an opportunity to explore Tahiti’s stunning underwater world with a knowledgeable guide and quality amenities.
Read our full review: Half-Day Snorkeling Tour From Papeete Review
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Small-Group Snorkeling Tour of Off-Shore Wrecks, Tahiti
Tahiti, renowned for its underwater biodiversity, offers visitors a captivating small-group snorkeling experience at the off-shore wrecks known as “The Aquarium.”
This 70-minute excursion, starting at 10:30 am, accommodates a maximum of 5 people, ensuring personalized attention from the knowledgeable and friendly Captain Benoit.
Equipped with all the necessary gear, guests will explore the sunken boats and plane, discovering the vibrant coral and diverse marine life that call this area home.
Travellers consistently praise the tour, with a perfect 5-star rating from 45 reviews. Priced at $85.89 per person, the experience includes souvenir photos emailed after the tour.
While not wheelchair accessible, the meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation.
Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-time explorer, this small-group adventure in Tahiti‘s “Aquarium” promises an unforgettable encounter with the region’s stunning underwater world.
Read our full review: Small-Group Snorkeling Tour of Off-Shore Wrecks, Tahiti Review
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Snorkeling Picnic in 5 Hours With Lunch in Tahiti
This 5-hour snorkeling picnic tour in Tahiti takes guests on an immersive experience, showcasing the region’s diverse marine life and stunning natural beauty.
Priced at $172.70 per person, the tour earns a 4.5-star rating from 25 reviews and boasts a Badge of Excellence. Travelers can enjoy a delectable lunch of raw fish with coconut milk, seasonal tubers, yellow tuna ceviche, and rice, accompanied by refreshing beverages like local fruit juices and rum punch.
Snorkeling equipment is provided, and the tour accommodates wheelchair users, stroller-bound guests, and those with service animals.
The tour’s highlights include swimming with turtles, rays, and colorful fish at renowned snorkeling sites like the Turtle Sanctuary and shipwrecks. Guides are praised for their knowledge and hospitality, ensuring a personalized experience for the maximum of 12 travelers per tour.
While some concerns have been raised about safety and pickup reliability, the overall consensus is that this snorkeling picnic in Tahiti offers a unique and memorable adventure.
Read our full review: Snorkeling Picnic in 5 Hours With Lunch in Tahiti Review
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Small-Group Morning Snorkeling Tour to See Turtles – Tahiti
Embarking on an early morning adventure, this small-group snorkeling tour in Tahiti offers guests the chance to witness the captivating marine life of the region.
With a maximum of 5 people, the intimate excursion allows for personalized attention from the enthusiastic and knowledgeable Captain Benoit. Departing from the Taina Marina at 7:30 am, guests can expect to spend 50 minutes in the calm, clear waters, likely encountering turtles, coral, and an array of vibrant fish.
The tour includes all necessary snorkeling gear and photos from the experience. Participants will return to the starting point, with the entire outing lasting around 1 hour.
Priced from $90.18 per person, this activity is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels, though not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
With a 4.9 overall rating and 97% recommendation, this small-group morning snorkeling tour in Tahiti promises an unforgettable encounter with the region’s stunning marine ecosystem.
Read our full review: Small-Group Morning Snorkeling Tour to See Turtles – Tahiti Review
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Small-Group Afternoon Snorkeling Tour of The Aquarium, Tahiti
The small-group afternoon snorkeling tour of The Aquarium in Tahiti offers guests a 90-minute adventure to explore the region’s captivating marine ecosystem.
Limited to a maximum of 5 people, the tour takes place at 1:00 pm and departs from the Punavai Bunker at the marina Taina, in front of the La Casa Bianca restaurant. Travelers will be greeted by a guide wearing a distinctive hat and provided with snorkeling gear and complimentary photographs.
The tour focuses on three wrecks and the surrounding tropical fish and corals, guided by the knowledgeable Captain Benoit. Participants can expect personalized attention and an up-close encounter with Tahiti’s diverse marine life, including coral gardens.
While not recommended for those with specific medical conditions, the activity is suitable for most travelers, excluding wheelchair users.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 54 reviews, this snorkeling experience is a must-do in Tahiti, offering breathtaking views and a personalized, safe adventure.
Read our full review: Small-Group Afternoon Snorkeling Tour of The Aquarium, Tahiti Review
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Small-Group 90-Minute Snorkeling Tour of Wrecks, Tahiti
What better way to explore the underwater wrecks of Tahiti than on a small-group, 90-minute snorkeling tour?
This intimate excursion, limited to just 5 participants, takes you to three fascinating wreck sites – an airplane and two boats. Ideal for those with layovers in Tahiti, the tour departs from the Marina Taina at 3:30 PM, providing ample time before evening flights.
All necessary snorkeling gear is included, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience. Knowledgeable guides lead the way, sharing insights about the wrecks and the vibrant marine life.
Afterward, you’ll receive a set of photos capturing your memorable underwater adventure. With a 5-star rating from previous guests, this tour offers an exceptional opportunity to discover Tahiti’s fascinating submerged history and abundant sea creatures, including the chance to spot majestic leopard manta rays.
The tour is reasonably priced at $85.89 per person and features a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: Small-Group 90-Minute Snorkeling Tour of Wrecks, Tahiti Review
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3h Dolphin and Snorkeling Tour in a Wild Lagoon With Mobydick
Travelers seeking an immersive dolphin and snorkeling experience in Tahiti’s wild lagoons can embark on a 3-hour tour with Mobydick Tahiti.
The tour costs $124.55 per person and accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers. Snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and coffee/tea are included.
The tour departs from PK 27, Paea, located 27km from Papeete and 33km from Taravao. Participants should look for the Mobydick Tahiti sign and park at the nearby school on weekends. No pick-up service is provided.
Although not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
With a 4.8/5 rating based on 6 reviews, the tour receives positive feedback, with one guest praising the “wonderful guides” and sightings of turtles, fish, and surfers.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: 3h Dolphin and Snorkeling Tour in a Wild Lagoon With Mobydick Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year for Snorkeling in Tahiti?
The best time for snorkeling in Tahiti is typically between May and October when the weather is dry and calm, the waters are warm, and marine life is abundant. This season offers optimal visibility and conditions for an unforgettable snorkeling experience.
Can I Combine Snorkeling With Other Activities Like Hiking or Kayaking?
Yes, you can absolutely combine snorkeling with other activities like hiking or kayaking in Tahiti. Many tour operators offer packages that allow you to experience multiple outdoor adventures during your visit.
What Types of Marine Life Can I Expect to See While Snorkeling in Tahiti?
While snorkeling in Tahiti, one can expect to see a vibrant array of marine life, including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, manta rays, and even the occasional whale shark. The clear waters offer a captivating underwater experience.
Are There Any Special Considerations for Snorkeling With Children in Tahiti?
When snorkeling with children in Tahiti, parents should ensure proper safety gear, hire experienced guides, and choose shallow, calm lagoons to accommodate little ones. Careful supervision and easy access to shore are crucial for an enjoyable family snorkeling adventure.
What Should I Pack for a Snorkeling Trip in Tahiti?
When packing for a snorkeling trip in Tahiti, be sure to bring a swimsuit, snorkel gear, sun protection, water, and a towel. Don’t forget a camera to capture the stunning marine life you’ll encounter.
The Sum Up
Tahiti offers a range of diverse snorkeling experiences, from exploring offshore wrecks to swimming with turtles and dolphins. Whether you prefer a half-day tour or a shorter 90-minute excursion, there’s an option to suit your interests and schedule. With small-group tours and picnic lunches, you can enjoy the island’s stunning marine life in a personalized and comfortable setting.