1/2 day "Treasures of Raiatea" by boat - ideal for cruise passengers
Overview
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Hava'i and Sea is the perfect half-day trip to discover two iconic gems of Raiatea, the sacred island of French Polynesia: its unique navigable river and pearl culture.
This boat trip has been designed to offer you an authentic immersion in the heart of Raiatea, combining sailing on the river Faaroa, discovering the landscapes and meeting around local know-how.
Ideal for cruise passengers, this half-day is perfectly adapted to the constraints of time while offering a rich, exotic and memorable experience, without monopolizing all day.
This is the perfect opportunity to marvel at the natural beauty of Raiatea and better understand its heritage, while keeping free time to enjoy the rest of your stopover or stay.
A unique excursion combining nature, discovery and wonder, not to be missed during your visit to Raiatea.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Up the river Faaroa: a journey through lush nature Your adventure begins on the peaceful waters of the Faaroa River, the only navigable river in French Polynesia, the first treasure of the day to be discovered, accompanied by comments from your Guide. As you sail, you glide between shores lined with dense tropical vegetation, where the murmur of water and the song of birds make up a soft and soothing atmosphere. This river lift is a real timeless break, in the heart of the sacred island of Raiatea, offering unspoilt landscapes, a feeling of absolute calm and total immersion in Polynesian nature.
Opoa
Pearl farm: second treasure of this excursion After the tranquility of the Faaroa River, make way for the discovery of an emblematic know-how of Raiatea: Polynesian pearl farming. You visit a local pearl farm and dive behind the scenes of Tahitian pearl culture. Your Guide explains the various stages of this meticulous work, from oysters to pearls, and reveals the secrets of these natural gems known for their unique reflections and deep nuances. A rewarding step that allows you to admire these pearl treasures up close while understanding the importance of this traditional craft in the history and economy of the island.
What‘s Included
Guided excursion
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1/2 day "Treasures of Raiatea" by boat - ideal for cruise passengers
Reviews
42 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Hidden Gems of Raiatea – An Incredible Half Day on the Water with Julien
April P,Apr 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This half-day boat tour with Julien was one of the true highlights of our French Polynesia cruise stop and one we would recommend without hesitation to anyone visiting Raiatea. Julien is a skilled and confident captain who took us up the Faaroa River – the only navigable river in all of French Polynesia – a remarkable and unique experience you simply cannot get anywhere else in the region. The scenery along the river was lush and beautiful, and Julien brought great knowledge and enthusiasm to every part of the journey. The pearl farm stop was exceptional. The in-depth explanation and hands-on visual display of the cultivation process gave us a real appreciation for the artistry and patience behind every pearl. It was educational, engaging, and genuinely fascinating. The unexpected highlight of the day was encountering a large pod of dolphins on the water. Julien circled back so we could take our time photographing and filming them – a spontaneous and magical moment that none of us will forget. Throughout the tour he provided a wonderful spread of local fruits and drinks that everyone on board thoroughly enjoyed. It was a warm and generous touch that added to the overall experience. For cruise passengers looking to make the most of their time in Raiatea, this is the tour to book. Julien delivers a 5-star experience from start to finish.
A True Treasure
Lisa R,Apr 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Captain Julien and guide Guillaume picked us at port. They took us up the only navigatable river in Raiatea while explaining the many different types of vegetation and the importance to their lifestyle. We then went to The Pearl Farm to learn how the black pearls comes to be. On our way back to the Noordam, we enjoyed fresh bananas, passion fruit, grapefruit and coconut. Captain Julien bought them on the river. They were the freshest fruit we ever tasted. The highlight of the trip was the pod of dolphins we were blessed to see…not once but two different times thanks to Captain Julien. The water was the most beautiful we’ve ever seen. Would highly recommend this tour.
Liked the river but not the rest
Jan G,Mar 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00The river was beautiful and our tour guide did a great job. The black pearl farm was interesting but a definite tourist trap. We spent more than 90 minutes on a very bumpy boat ride to and from these sites
The BEST Little Tour!!
SheDevl,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was by far one of the best tours we had during our week-long cruise to the different islands! Julien and Jeremy were our captains for the day and they were so unbelievably personable! They were on time and took us around the island, stopped at a pearl farm (and bought a ring!!!) and then headed up the Faaroa River. It was so nice to be surrounded by all the vegetation and such a serene river. We had a minor rain shower but it was over within minutes. They provided juices and fruit and were just overall outstanding!!!
Love Raiatea
ROBERT H,Mar 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Tour guide & driver good, gave information & provided grapefruit & passion fruit plus drinks. We especially enjoyed the river. Also ordered perfect weather for us. Very enjoyable day. I traveled with 6 friends as. Well as my husband..
Wonderful.
E1676XQlisao,Mar 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. The driver and tour guide were excellent. Fruit snacks and drinks made the trip.
Good choice, half...
daniela S,Feb 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great choice, half clean, nice and prepared guide, beautiful places, correct price!!!!!!!!!
Beyond Fabulous
Karen C,Feb 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The boat for the tour is extremely close to the ship and Julian (?) was holding a sign with our name, so it was easy to find. Sometimes it can be confusing as to where to pick up the tour, but not this one. He was attentive and thoughtful the whole beautiful trip around Raiatea. The pearl farm was very intimate and interesting. The mango and grapefruit he served was the sweetest, juiciest we have ever had. Do not hesitate to book this tour!
Amazing day
lolaa304,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A superb day with Julien to discover the beauty of Raiatea! Everything was perfect and we loved every moment in perfect conditions! Thank you for your wonderful memories.
Pleasant walk in the river Faaroa
Belina T,Dec 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00The guide Julien is very friendly and smiling. He offered us local fruits, we feasted. We sailed from the port to the river Faaroa and then to the home of the perliculturist. We discovered the river Faaroa around which there are beautiful flowers and plantations.
From €119.00
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