Water World – Living the Ocean
Polynesians have long learned to master the sea. Sailing, fishing, pearl farming and water sports are part of the daily life of the islands. In the Society and Tuamotu archipelagos, the ocean and lagoons are often the extension of the island, where many activities take place.
Va'a, surfing, sailing, Stand-Up Paddle, kitesurfing, foiling, water skiing, kayaking, scuba diving... the list of activities available in this huge aquatic world is endless. French Polynesia naturally brings out the passion for water in the people we call "Watermen" and "Waterwomen." These men and women are the athletes and adventurers of the seas. They've been pursuing their passion for years, and living it to the fullest in Polynesian waters, in complete harmony with the elements.
Air Tahiti Nui's Watermen Ambassadors give you the best advice to make the most of your stay in French Polynesia by exploring the ocean.
Who are our Watermen Ambassadors?
Whether they are on a surfboard, behind a camera, or simply swimming in the lagoon, the Watermen Ambassadors all experience a deep connection with the water. These surfers, multidisciplinary athletes and photographers, love to immerse themselves in this world of their own in order to surpass themselves and experience the most wonderful sensations.
Professionals and enthusiasts travel from all over the world and come to French Polynesia to experience the pleasures of the warm and crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. The Watermen who live here are delighted to share their magnificent playground, bordered by the most beautiful islands in the world!
Discover their vision of French Polynesia, their tips on how not to miss anything during your stay in The Islands of Tahiti, and what they think are the must-see spots.
A deep connection with the ocean
The ocean and sea fauna are an essential part of Polynesian culture, and are the source of legends, beliefs and traditions for this navigating people. The Islands of Tahiti cover an extensive maritime territory of more than 2.5 million km² for 4000 km² of land. For the local population, life in The Islands of Tahiti is thus turned towards the ocean and the lagoons, both for leisure and for economic activities.
French Polynesia is home to five archipelagos and just as many ways to experience the ocean:
- The Society Islands (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora…), comprising the Leeward and Windward Islands, perfect for water sports, or to experience a night in an overwater bungalow and days on sailing cruises,
- The Tuamotu Archipelago and its atolls, renowned for scuba diving and snorkeling,
- The Gambier Islands and their pearl farms creating the natural jewels of the Pacific Ocean,
- The Marquesas Islands, with their distinctive landscape, without coral reefs or lagoons,
- and the Austral Islands, located in the south, whose waters are particularly populated by humpback whales between August and October.
Water sports, in particular, have great importance here. Surfing was invented in Polynesia, on the gorgeous waves of Tahiti. Teahupo'o, the venue for the 2024 Olympic Games, is famous throughout the world and is the dream of international athletes who come here regularly to compete. French Polynesia is also the country of va'a, the local traditional outrigger canoe, for which many competitions, such as the Hawaiki Nui Va'a, take place every year (iconic race between Huahine, Raiatea, Taha’a and Bora Bora).
There are so many other things to discover! Diving, swimming or exploring the Tahitian lagoon by boat… Feel the power of Mana (Tahitian spiritual power) emanating from the waters and islands of the South Pacific.
Your vacation in French Polynesia will be a colorful experience. From the deep blue of the ocean to the iridescent turquoise of the lagoons, discover our Ambassadors’ best itineraries and their tips for an exceptional trip to The Islands of Tahiti.
There is no doubt that you will be surprised by the quantity of adventures and treasures that await you in the magnificent Polynesian lagoons!
