4 Best Snorkeling Experiences In Windward Islands French Polynesia

Few places on earth compare to the Windward Islands of French Polynesia for snorkeling. Crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and stunning scenery make it a paradise for water lovers. Among the top options are tours that range from exhilarating whale swims to peaceful sunset cruises, each offering a different flavor of the ocean’s wonders. We particularly love the Moorea 4H Shared Boat Tour Whale Swimming and Snorkeling, which combines the thrill of swimming with humpback whales with encounters with stingrays, sharks, and turtles—an unforgettable experience for ocean enthusiasts. For a more relaxed, romantic outing, the Moorea Private Sunset Cruise with Champagne & Snorkeling delivers a magical evening of sparkling drinks and colorful fish. Want a full day of marine adventure? The Moorea 6H Private Boat Tours Snorkeling & Lunch provides a luxurious, private way to explore Moorea’s waters. Read on for a detailed look at these top experiences.

Quick Overview

Our list includes four standout snorkeling tours in Windward Islands French Polynesia. From whale swimming to private sunset cruises and full-day boat trips, each offers something unique. You can choose a quick 4-hour shared tour that combines marine encounters with local guides, or indulge in a 6-hour private boat trip complete with lunch and personalized service. For a special day, the Tahiti island snorkeling picnic features wrecks, stingrays, and a Polynesian meal in a natural setting. All tours are highly rated and cater to different interests and schedules. Now, let’s dive into what makes each of these experiences worth considering.

1. Moorea 4H Shared Boat Tour Whale Swimming and Snorkeling

At number 1, this shared boat tour of Moorea combines the excitement of swimming with humpback whales with opportunities to see stingrays, reef sharks, and turtles. It’s a 4-hour adventure that highlights Moorea’s rich marine environment. Led by a local guide, the tour provides a relaxed yet immersive experience, with plenty of time to marvel at the creatures of the ocean.

What makes this tour special is the chance to swim alongside whales during their migration season—an experience that’s both humbling and exhilarating. The boat departs from multiple pickup points, including the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa, making logistics straightforward. During the trip, you’ll enjoy fresh tropical fruits and beverages, adding a touch of Polynesian hospitality. The reviews are glowing, with a 4.7/5 rating from 52 reviews, praising the knowledgeable guides and the flexible itinerary that allows for dolphin watching and marine life viewing.

Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a full marine immersion with a focus on whale encounters and a small group setting for a more personalized experience.

2. Tahiti Island: 5 Hours Snorkeling Picnic

For around 5 hours of snorkeling adventure, the Tahiti island snorkeling picnic offers a mix of exploration and relaxation. It includes swimming with sea turtles, exploring wrecks and a sunken plane in a natural aquarium, then unwinding on a sandbank with stingrays. The guides make sure everyone stays in complete safety while giving you close-up views of marine life.

This tour stands out because of its focus on diverse encounters—from turtles to wrecks—and the chance to relax on a remote sandbank with stunning scenery. The local Polynesian meal, featuring raw fish and fresh fruits, adds a delicious touch to the day. Although it’s rated 4.5/5 from 10 reviews, it’s praised for its intimate feel and expert guidance.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers looking for a full-day, diverse snorkeling experience with opportunities for wildlife and wreck exploration paired with a relaxing picnic.

3. Moorea: Private Sunset Cruise with Champagne & Snorkeling

At number 3, this private sunset cruise offers a more serene experience. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll enjoy crystal-clear lagoon waters, where you can snorkel amid colorful reef fish. As the sun sets over Moorea, you’ll sip champagne or a selection of cocktails and nibble on homemade tapas.

This tour’s charm lies in its intimate setting—small groups or private charters allow for a customized experience. The crew is friendly and attentive, making it perfect for romantic evenings or special occasions. It’s rated a perfect 5/5 based on a single review, which underscores its exclusivity and attention to detail.

Bottom line: Best suited for couples or those seeking a romantic, luxe way to enjoy Moorea’s waters at sunset.

4. Moorea 6H Private Boat Tours Snorkeling & Lunch

For a full half-day of marine exploration, the Moorea 6H Private Boat Tour offers a comprehensive and comfortable outing. This luxury tour is limited to small groups, with a maximum of 8 people, ensuring personalized attention. It includes expert guidance, top-notch equipment, and a relaxed schedule with several pickup points, including the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa.

During the 6 hours, your crew will take you to prime snorkeling spots, where you’ll see a variety of marine life, and stop for a delicious lunch, often featuring local specialties. The private nature makes it ideal for families, honeymooners, or anyone wanting tailored service. Reviews emphasize the comfort and professionalism of the tour.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a luxurious, full-day adventure with personalized service and exclusive access to Moorea’s best snorkeling spots.

How to Choose the Best Snorkeling Tour in Windward Islands French Polynesia

When selecting a snorkeling experience, think about your priorities. If you want the thrill of swimming with whales, the Moorea whale tour is unbeatable. For a mix of wrecks, rays, and turtles in a single day, the Tahiti picnic offers variety. Couples or those seeking a romantic escape should consider the sunset cruise, while those wanting a full-day, personalized adventure should look at the 6-hour private tour.

Budget, time, and your interest in marine life will guide your choice. Book early, especially for private tours or peak season trips, to ensure availability.

Final Thoughts

The Windward Islands of French Polynesia offer a remarkable variety of snorkeling options suitable for all kinds of travelers. If your priority is seeing whales up close, the Moorea whale swim is a must. For a romantic, intimate experience, the sunset cruise can be perfect. And if you want a comprehensive, full-day private adventure, the Moorea private boat tour is hard to beat.

No matter which tour you choose, the clear waters and abundant marine life promise an unforgettable experience. With proper planning, you’ll be snorkeling in paradise in no time—just remember to book early and bring your sense of adventure.