Gambier Islands Yacht Charter Guide

A luxury yacht charter is the best way to explore these seemingly untouched landscapes, showcasing a dazzling array of flora and fauna, impressive scenery, and hidden gems around every corner.

The Gambier Islands comprise 14 seemingly unspoiled islands dotted around a crystal-clear lagoon in French Polynesia, radiating all shades of blue. A luxury yacht charter is the best way to explore these pockets of paradise. Colorful fruit trees and a lush landscape are showcased across these beautiful islands, courtesy of their proximity to the Tropic of Capricorn and balmy tropical climate. These off-the-grid islands are a diver’s paradise, blooming with colorful coral reefs and eye-catching marine life. Keep an eye out for the protruding coral heads and many pearl farm buoys.

You can explore the largest of the Gambier Islands, Mangareva, and its capital, Rikitea. The stretch of the main road is lined with century-old oak trees, also called Koueriki, giving this quaint town a picturesque, charming feel. Rikitea is home to St. Michael’s Cathedral, the main attraction in the entire Gambier Island group. It is the largest and arguably the most beautiful church in the South Pacific.

The unique atmosphere of Taravai, Kukena and Akamaru stand out from the turquoise waters, making themselves known and inviting you to explore their welcoming terrains. This trio of islands shares landscapes that showcase hills that beg to be explored. Their beaches act as the perfect lounging spot under swaying palm trees and, depending on the location, pine trees. After enjoying a late morning breakfast on the deck of your yacht, you can spend the afternoon exploring these different islands, which all offer a unique aesthetic, from strolling the charming, manicured village of Akamaru to enjoying unbeatable sunsets on the western side of Taravai at the two uninhabited bays, Baie Anganui and Baie Onemea.

For charterers seeking adventure ashore, you may find a hike up Mount Duff will do the trick. It is the highest peak in the Gambier Islands, with an average hike of 1.5 hours to reach the summit. We promise the views at the top are worth the trek. If you’re keener to lay out and lounge on the sands of the most beautiful beach in the Gambiers, we recommend you head to Tai O Ra’a Beach, located on the north side of Aukena. The soft white sand and peaceful, quiet atmosphere will have you in complete serenity.

You can take an afternoon to tour the Robert Wan pearl farm, a fascinating and educating experience where you can learn about this bustling industry and delicate process that is so sacred to the Gambiers.