My friend Jon Joury and I flew to Tahiti for the Atlantis Tahiti cruise. We flew in a few days prior to explore the island. And then I stayed in French Polynesia after and went to two smaller Austral Island – Raivavae & Tubuai.
Papeete
Papeete is the capital and main gateway of Tahiti and all of French Polynesia. Located on Tahiti’s northwest coast, it is the region’s largest city and a hub for government, commerce, and transportation.
We also drove down to Teahup’o which is a small coastal village on the southwest coast of Tahiti, famous for one of the most powerful and dangerous waves in the world. The reef break produces massive, hollow waves that attract elite surfers and host major competitions such as the World Surf League Tahiti Pro and also the Paris Olympics.
Diving Tahiti with Jon
Raivavae
Raivavae is a remote island in the Austral Islands, known for its pristine lagoon, small motu (islets), and traditional Polynesian culture. Often called the “Bora Bora of the Austral Islands,” it features turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and dramatic volcanic peaks. With very little tourism, Raivavae offers a peaceful and authentic island experience focused on nature, local life, and unspoiled scenery.
Tubaui
Tubuai is the largest island in the Austral Islands, located south of Tahiti. Surrounded by a large lagoon and coral reef, the island is known for its green volcanic mountains, quiet villages, and traditional Polynesian lifestyle.
Tubuai also has historical significance as the site where the mutineers from the Mutiny on the Bounty briefly attempted to settle. Today it is a peaceful and remote destination offering natural beauty, local culture, and a slower pace of island life.
Diving Tubaui
Papeete & Flying Home
