Some say that the best diving (and of course, snorkeling!) in French Polynesia is in the low-lying Tuamotu Archipelago. Fakarava is home to a UNESCO-listed Marine Biosphere Reserve rife with underwater canyons, coral heads, and a high concentration of whitetip sharks, turtles, and more. The reefs and passes here are legendary among divers for their shark walls and
large schools of fish from Napoleons and surgeonfish to butterflies and angels.
Also in the Tuamotus is Rangiroa, French Polynesia’s largest atoll (second largest in the world!) which is also revered as the world’s largest ‘natural’ aquarium. Fringing Motu Nui Nui is a reef teeming with colorful tropical fish and perfect for both beginner and advanced snorkelers.
Bora Bora’s famous lagoon is surrounded by one of the world’s most pristine reefs boasting cauliflower, elkhorn, and finger corals. The shallow sheltered waters are perfect for snorkeling and novice divers. Bora Bora is also famous for diving with manta rays and sharks (there are at least 16 shark species found
here!). Meanwhile, Moorea’s lagoon, a dissected shield volcano with a caldera surrounded by peaks, is great for both snorkeling and diving, with opportunities to swim near dolphins and stingrays in the wild.
Covered in a thick jungle, Huahine is quiet and under the radar compared to some of her French Polynesian sister isles. The island offers excellent snorkeling among coral
gardens in its lagoon. Finally, The Gauguin’s own private islet, Motu Mahana, offers great drift snorkeling over an incredible coral garden brimming with butterflyfish, lionfish, brightly colored wrasse, clownfish, and great giant clams.
Treat yourself to magical underwater discoveries with French Polynesia’s destination expert.
Paul Gauguin Cruises |
www.pgcruises.com 65
... AND A SNORKELER'S DELIGHT
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