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YACHT CHARTER IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC

Daydreaming about the South Seas. Embark on a great voyage of discovery in the Pacific on a yacht charter.

  • A sailing vacation is truly the best and often only way to experience the Pacific islands
  • Multi-faceted paradise with sparkling beaches and remote islands
  • Local people are very welcoming everywhere in the South Pacific
  • Provisions are a challenge or a treat – depending on the country
  • Communication back home may be impossible when sailing remote Pacific islands

The “South Seas” has entranced adventurers with its fascinating islands for centuries. Whether you choose to explore the beautiful islands of French Polynesia or the dramatic coast of New Zealand you will not be disappointed. The islands of the South Pacific all offer an irresistible call to experience their dramatic geography, beautiful beaches, tropical climate, stunning scenery, fascinating flora and fauna. The reefs and lagoons are resplendent with diverse rich marine growth and populated by a plethora of unusual and colorful fish.

The fascinating cruising grounds of the South Pacific offer fabulous sailing conditions. You will be impressed by the infrastructure ready to assist you in your exploration of the Pacific Ocean by yacht charter.

The South Pacific is home to some of the world’s friendliest people whether they are Australians or Tongans, Kiwis or Polynesian. Outside of New Zealand and Australia most of your hosts have been largely unspoiled by the trappings of the outside world. A sailing vacation to the South Pacific will allow you to encounter traditional lifestyles that focus on kinship and kindness rather than material possessions and wealth.

There is no better way to truly experience the South Pacific than to take a yacht charter, which will literally transport your experience of this paradise to a new level as you travel from one magical island to another. Certain stunning island destinations in the South Pacific may be no bigger than your neighbor’s backyard. A yacht charter, bareboat or crewed, will allow you to explore these destinations, which would be otherwise difficult to reach.

If you are going to travel to the South Pacific you will want to make the most of your time there and discover all that it has to offer. Only a yacht charter will truly allow you the full experience of this incredible corner of the world. Having come all this way, these destinations are all particularly inviting for a long or extended charter. In most cases 2 weeks will not seem like enough time!

It is important to plan your sailing vacation to the South Pacific well in advance, particularly if you would like to explore the more remote islands. Although your neighbor down the street may not be heading out to the Tuamotu Archipelago, adventurers from other corners of the earth may hear the same islands calling them . You may want to consider cabin cruising, which is booking just a cabin on a large private yacht. This option is particularly attractive to those looking to sail “unchartered waters”. Although you have to share your boat – you may find that you have a lot in common with your fellow passengers who have also committed to undertaking such an adventure. Surprisingly, the more remote charters are often booked before the “popular” destinations. If you have your heart set on a unique itinerary, the individually owned yachts can often accommodate requests. Planning, even up to a year in advance is essential, especially for a holiday period. For the adventure traveler, be sure to consider the smaller crewed yachts that offer itineraries that are quite ambitious and truly unique. The most popular boats for this region are by far the catamaran. Catamarans are particularly well adapted for cruising these waters because of their low draft in shallow waters.

One-way itineraries are not very common in the South Pacific as there are fewer bases and the distances between archipelagos can be enormous. With so many islands to choose from having a local skipper on board can be extremely useful especially serving a role as guide. A local skipper will know how to find isolated islands, the most spectacular beaches and the best restaurants and markets. If you are planning on long distance sails to remote areas, crew may be required.

If planning to bareboat, it is crucial to confirm that your sailing license will be acceptable by the charter company and to have in writing that confirmation.

Take extra care with your provisioning list especially for remote itineraries like Tonga or the Marquesas Islands. Provisioning for perishables on the isolated islands of the South Pacific may often present a challenge and an expense. However, it can be a pleasure in New Zealand and Australia where provisioning is readily accessible and local food and wine very good. Remember, communication with the office will be dicey at best from many of the islands with again the exception of Australia and New Zealand.

Prepare to travel lightly as there is no excess room on a yacht. Bring your necessities in soft luggage so that all may be stowed easily on the yacht. As you may be encountering different cultures it is a good idea to be prepared to dress modestly when in town. Skimpy clothing is best reserved for the beaches and when on board your boat.

As the tropical paradise of the South Pacific encompasses hundreds of species of fish, coral animals and a vast range of other marine life you should be prepared to “encounter “ them too. It is only natural that some of these creatures' defense mechanisms can occasionally be harmful to humans. Although major incidents are rare, you should take some basic precautions and inform yourself of the local dangers to avoid a bad experience.