Vanilla Flavor & Motu Picnic

Cruise to the island of Tahaa to visit a vanilla farm and then visit a small islet nearby to comb the beaches, snorkel and enjoy a typical Polynesian picnic lunch.

After departing from the pier in a boat, you will soon enter the protected turquoise lagoon that encircles Raiatea, an island whose name translates to faraway heaven. Upon arriving at the nearby island of Tahaa, it’s a short walk to reach the vanilla plantation. Seventy percent of the vanilla grown in French Polynesia is from Tahaa and it makes for a wonderfully fragrant setting. While strolling about, you can expect to see and smell aromatic vanilla pods curing in the sun. You may also walk among the rows of climbing orchids that produce the pods and learn how they are hand-pollinated. You will also have time to shop for vanilla-infused products.

Re-boarding your boat, it’s a short cruise to one of the lagoon’s gorgeous reef islets, known as motus. Few places are so relaxing, serene and ideal for beachcombing. An island style lunch will be served during your time on the motu, and the remainder of your stay will be free to do as you please. You might sunbathe or relax in the shade, doing nothing more ambitious than watching the waves gently lap at the shore. Or you may enjoy a refreshing swim and a bit of snorkeling (mask and snorkel provided).