Tahiti to Moorea by Ferry
All international travelers traveling to French Polynesia arrive at Fa’a’a International Airport located in Tahiti. Many travelers then immediately travel to Moorea upon arrival. There are two modes of transportation for travel to Moorea. One option is to fly, and the second option is to take a ferry. Flying may seem like the best option to get you to Moorea, but once you consider the time necessary to check in at the airport, clear security, and wait for your flight, the ferry option to Moorea becomes more appealing. Plus, a flight from Tahiti to Moorea will cost you a few hundred dollars. Moorea is very easy to travel to, thanks to the Tahiti Moorea ferry service. I was nervous about the logistics when taking the ferry, so this article aims to provide helpful information to make the process easy and enjoyable for you.
Duration of Tahiti to Moorea Ferry Ride
Moorea is located 10 miles off the coast of Tahiti, and the ferry ride lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Taking the ferry from Tahiti to Moorea is quick, easy, enjoyable, and inexpensive. We took the ferry and loved being outside, admiring the beauty, especially after the long flight to Tahiti.
A Sustainable Option
Traveling by ferry is not only convenient but also a more sustainable alternative to flying. It reduces the carbon footprint and allows travelers to enjoy the journey with a smaller environmental impact.
Ferry Terminal Location
The Tahiti Ferry Terminal is located in downtown Papeete and a 15-30 minute drive from the airport, depending on traffic conditions. If you pick up a rental car at the airport, then you will drive yourself to the Papeete Ferry Terminal. Otherwise, a taxi from the Tahiti Airport to the ferry terminal costs approximately $25-$35 USD. We took a taxi, and they were easy to find at the airport and plentiful. The Moorea Ferry Terminal is located straight west of the Tahiti Ferry Terminal. The boat will arrive at the city of Vai’are in Moorea, which is on the east side of the island.
Tahiti Moorea Ferry Options
Two ferries operate regular ferry services between Tahiti and Moorea. They are Armeiti and Terevau. They both offer a range of options to suit different preferences and schedules. These include high-speed catamarans and larger ferries capable of carrying vehicles. The ferries are well-equipped with comfortable seating areas, decks for sightseeing, and often, small cafes or snack bars. This makes the journey not just a means of transportation but a pleasant part of your travel itinerary.
Both ferry companies are very similar. They both depart and arrive at the same ferry terminal. Your decision will depend on ferry schedule and whether or not you are driving a car onto the ferry. The car transport ferries will be slightly slower than the passenger-only ferries. However, it will still take less than an hour to reach the island.
Tahiti to Moorea Ferry Ticket Cost
Armeiti charges $16 for adults, $11 for seniors 60 years and older, and $10 for children. Children under two years old ride for free. These prices are for a one-way ride only. A ticket for a small vehicle on the Aremiti ferry starts at $80 and increases with the size of the vehicle. Plus, the vehicle ferry ticket is only valid for the selected ferry time.
Terevau charges $11 for adults, $9 for seniors 60 years and older, and $6 for children. Again, these prices are one way. You can also purchase round-trip tickets if that is more convenient. A ticket to bring your vehicle on the ferry will cost an additional $40 or more, depending on the size of your vehicle. Your vehicle ticket is only valid for the ferry time you choose. You can also purchase tickets to bring a bicycle or scooter if you plan to travel with one.
You can also purchase your ticket as a round trip. While this doesn’t save you any money, it does save you a bit of time and convenience if you purchase both tickets at once. No reservation is needed to ride any passenger ferry unless you are bringing a vehicle onboard.
Moorea Ferry Schedule
Ferries from Tahiti to Moorea run numerous times per day from 5:00 am to 6:00 pm, so it is easy to plan day trips or longer stays on Moorea. No reservation is necessary unless you are traveling with a vehicle. Not all boats allow vehicles on, and there are a limited number of spots for those that do. I highly recommend purchasing your vehicle ticket in advance to ensure a spot at your preferred ferry time. Ferry schedules can be found here: Terevau and Aremiti.
Purchase Ferry Tickets Online
Options to purchase ferry tickets are online or in person at the ferry terminal. Both ferry websites allow online booking in both French and English. It is not necessary to purchase tickets in advance unless you are traveling with a vehicle. However, it can provide peace of mind to purchase tickets in advance so it is one less thing to worry about. You do not need to print your tickets if you purchase online. The ferry terminal employee will want to see your QR code, so you can simply show them this on your phone. However, you may want to save your ticket as a PDF or take a screenshot for the ferry attendant. This is because you are out of your home country, so cell phone service may be unreliable.
Purchase Ferry Tickets In Person
The other option is to purchase your ferry tickets at the Tahiti Ferry Terminal. The ticket window is located beneath the large carport attached to the terminal. This same ticket counter sells tickets for both Terevau and Aremiti ferries.
Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure to the ferry terminal if you are purchasing tickets there. This ensures you have adequate time to locate the ticket booth and board the ferry. You will not need to choose a date or time for your ferry crossing unless you are traveling with a vehicle. You will only need to specify a round trip or one-way.
Luggage
Luggage is included with your ticket price, so you will not have to worry about an extra fee. You should see a luggage cart near the ferry ticketing office and a luggage attendant. Hand your luggage to this individual, and they will load it on the ferry for you.
Seat Selection
Seats are not selected in advance for either ferry. You simply board the ferry and find a comfortable seat. We chose to go to the top open-air deck to admire the scenery and feel the warm sunshine. Upstairs, we found abundant seats, tables, and outdoor standing areas along the railing.
Which Ferry is Better: Aremiti or Terevau?
Both ferries from Tahiti to Moorea are excellent. Terevau is slightly less expensive, especially if traveling with a vehicle, but Aremiti offers more trips per day. The staff for both Aremiti and Terevau are kind, helpful, and patient. They really are both great choices.
A Scenic Passage
The journey between these two islands is not just a transfer but an experience in itself, thanks to the efficient and enjoyable ferry services. As you embark from Tahiti, the urban landscape slowly gives way to panoramic ocean views. The highlight of the voyage is the approach to Moorea, where the island’s iconic jagged peaks and lush greenery come into view, rising majestically from the turquoise waters. It is the most beautiful ferry ride I have ever been on.
A Gateway to Adventure
Once in Moorea, visitors can indulge in a variety of activities. The island is renowned for its stunning bays, snorkeling and diving spots, hiking trails, and the opportunity to interact with friendly stingrays and sharks in their natural habitat. The ease of travel between Tahiti and Moorea via the ferries ensures that these experiences are readily accessible.
Conclusion: An Essential Part of the Tahiti-Moorea Experience
In conclusion, the ferry journey from Tahiti to Moorea is an essential part of the experience when visiting French Polynesia. It is not just a transit but a gateway to discovering the beauty, culture, and adventures that these islands offer. The convenience, regularity, and scenic views of the ferry service make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking to explore the enchanting landscapes of Tahiti and Moorea. We loved both of our ferry rides and hope you do, too!
