Bora Bora

Bora Bora is part of the Leeward group of the Society Islands and is 142 miles (230 km) to the northwest of Tahiti.  The island is well known for and dominated by the two peaks in the center of the island, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, which are remnants of an extinct volcano and the focal point of stunning views from most of the island.  We take a short tour, starting at a pareo factory, manufacturing the rectangular fabric similar to a sarong that can be wrapped and tied around the body in various ways.  We saw examples of the way pareos are adorned with colorful patterns depicting local flora, fauna, or cultural motifs and received lessons on tying the fabric around our waist.

Making pareo

Pareo for sale

Our tour bus

The twin peaks in the distance

We continue around the island, admiring the beautiful views.

Great scenery

Hotel bungalows over the water across the bay

Beautiful beaches, water, and views

Great flowers

Local band

Locals in the sun

We wander a bit more and then return to the ship.

More views across the water

The ship at anchor

Another view of the twin peaks

A final view as we leave the next day

Motu Mahaea (Taha'a)

Taha'a is known as the "Vanilla Island" as it produces 70%-80% of the high-quality vanilla from French Polynesia and the island always has a fragrance of vanilla and hibiscus.  Taha'a does not get much tourist traffic and the majority of visitors head out to one the the motus or small islands in the lagoon.  We visit Motu Mahaea, a secluded islet with bright white sand and scattered coconut trees providing shade.  Surrounded by a blue-turquoise lagoon, the motu has great snorkeling, swimming, water sports, and relaxing on the beach.

Approaching Taha'a

Motus

Going ashore at Motu Mahaea

We spend a few hours swimming and wandering around the islet.

In the water

Looking back at Motu Mahaea from the water

Enjoying the beach

More play in the water

A storm rapidly approaches and sweeps over the motu, drenching us and then quickly moving on.

Passing storm

We circle the islet on the fine white sand, swim some more, and wander.

White sand

Clear water

Far too soon, our day of play comes to an end and it's time to head back to the ship.