Windstar Cruises has been sailing to Tahiti for over 35 years, and they are considered the small ship expert in the region. From relaxing on private beaches to snorkeling in pristine coral reefs, a cruise to Tahiti is a dream trip for many travelers, especially those seeking a romantic retreat.
In 2023, USA Today included Windstar on their 10 Best Honeymoon Cruises list, and the previous year Porthole Magazine honored Windstar as the Most Romantic Cruise Line in their Readers’ Choice Awards. In 2022, Travel + Leisure included Windstar on their list of the 10 Best Intimate Cruise Lines, and Windstar is recognized for offering guests access to small ports and private tours.
Despite the stunning scenery and exclusive guest experience, these are the main reasons many travelers pass on a Tahitian getaway — and some facts that help dispel these myths.
Myth #1: I Can’t Afford It
With new lower pricing on select sailings starting at $4,899 per guest including cruise, airfare, and hotel, Windstar Cruises offers extraordinary value for those looking to experience romantic paradise in the South Pacific.
“Our private yacht style of cruising brings guests closer to the worlds they want to discover,” says Christopher Prelog, president of Windstar Cruises.
When honeymooners – or any couple looking for an escape – think of a romantic destination, Tahiti, Bora Bora, and the islands of French Polynesia are at the top of the list, but with costly airfare, expensive lodging, and sky-high food and beverage costs on the islands, few can actually afford the luxury. Windstar, however, is making the dream trip more attainable, even on a luxury yacht.
“The biggest secret about Tahiti is that exploring by small ship is not only the best way to experience the islands, it’s also the best value,” Prelog says.
With Windstar’s Dreams of Tahiti itinerary, guests can experience six islands inclusive of flights from Los Angeles, eight nights of accommodations, all ground transfers, all meals (including 24 hour room service), water sports activities from the Watersports Platform, all non-alcoholic beverages, a champagne welcome reception, and a special Private Event in Bora Bora complete with fire dancers and a locally-inspired feast of Tahitian fare. Comparative pricing for a similar resort experience is more than double Windstar’s rates, especially with the cruise line’s tempting Cruise + Air + Hotel voyages.
Myth #2: It’s Too Far / Difficult to Get There
Reached with a direct eight hour flight from Los Angeles, Tahiti is also much closer than most people imagine. And once you get there, traversing the islands by yacht is a breeze. The islands are never more than a few hours of scenic sailing away and are perfectly sampled with a week-long getaway.
Myth #3: I Don’t Have Time
Windstar Cruises offers weekly seven-day voyages on the Dreams of Tahiti cruise, as well as several 10- and 11-day itineraries that also explore the remote Tuamotu Islands for an extended experience. The Dreams of Tahiti voyage begins in Papeete and sails to Moorea, Tahaa, Raiatea (overnight), Huahine, and Bora Bora (overnight).
In just seven days, you see so much! Plus, you get to soak up the aqua blue water of the South Pacific at the back of the Wind Spirit on the unique Watersports Platform, which offers kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, flotation devices for relaxing in the water, sailing, water skiing, slalom water skiing, wakeboarding, and windsurfing, at no additional charge. Bikes are also available on board for a nominal rental fee.
So now you know the secret: cruising in Tahiti is more possible than you thought. We hope to see you on board in paradise!
Our guest Greg B. on Facebook: “And we’re back! Had a fantastic honeymoon in the French Polynesian islands! Started off with 3 nights in an overwater bungalow in Moorea, then boarded the Wind Spirit of Windstar Cruises for an unbelievable tour of Tahiti, Moorea, Tahaa, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Huahine! A little rain, but the sights, adventures and food were amazing!!! Didn’t hurt to be accompanied by my gorgeous wife Kristin B.”
Cruise Critic Member Onanisle: “For my wife and I, this was a “bucket list” destination/cruise and we were able to see both the Society and Tuomotu islands at a leisurely pace. This is a laid back environment and you are even welcome on the bridge during the daylight hours while at sea. There is a very cool ritual as the sails are unfurled to the music of Vangellis’ “Conquest of Paradise”. It made for are very memorable sunset! Food was excellent and the relatively small amount of passengers gave us the feeling we extra special on board Wind Spirit.”
