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Tahiti Pearl Regatta: A South Pacific Sailing Spectacle

Experience the thrill of sailing in paradise at the Tahiti Pearl Regatta, a premier nautical event in French Polynesia's Leeward Islands.

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The Tahiti Pearl Regatta is an annual sailing event held in the Leeward Islands of French Polynesia, near Uturoa, Raiatea. It attracts both local and international crews for several days of racing and festivities in a stunning tropical setting.

A brief summary to Tahiti Pearl Regatta

Local tips

  • Check the official Tahiti Pearl Regatta website or the Fédération Tahitienne de Voile for the most up-to-date schedule and registration details.
  • Book accommodations and flights well in advance, as the regatta draws many participants and spectators to Raiatea.
  • Consider renting a car to explore Raiatea and visit attractions like Mount Tapioi and the Taputapuatea marae.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Raiatea Airport (RFP), a taxi to Uturoa, where the Tahiti Pearl Regatta events are often centered, takes about 5-10 minutes. Expect to pay around 1,500-2,000 XPF.

  • Public Transport

    Raiatea has a bus service, with the main stop in Uturoa. However, schedules can be unreliable, so it's best to ask locals for advice. A bus ride within Uturoa will cost a few hundred XPF.

  • Ferry

    If arriving from another island like Tahiti, the Apetahi Express ferry arrives in Uturoa. From the ferry terminal, the regatta events are within walking distance or a short taxi ride. A one-way ferry from Papeete (Tahiti) to Uturoa costs approximately 55-70 USD and takes about 4 hours and 40 minutes.

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Discover more about Tahiti Pearl Regatta

The Tahiti Pearl Regatta is a celebrated sailing competition that unfolds each year in the breathtaking Leeward Islands of French Polynesia. This event, centered around Raiatea and Taha'a, has grown into the largest nautical event in French Polynesia since its inception in 2003. It typically spans four days, drawing hundreds of participants from around the globe to compete amidst the islands' stunning lagoons and open ocean passages. The regatta combines competitive sailing with Polynesian festivities. Participants can expect a mix of racing during the day and beachside gatherings in the evenings, complete with Polynesian food, music, and dance. The event emphasizes a convivial atmosphere, showcasing Polynesian culture through dance spectacles and traditional cuisine. The races themselves are designed to test sailors' skills without being overly taxing, with distances rarely exceeding 20 nautical miles, making it accessible for sailors of varying experience levels. Each edition of the Tahiti Pearl Regatta features a unique course that explores different islands within the Leeward group. The trade winds provide consistent sailing conditions, though gusts can reach exhilarating speeds. The event culminates in a prize-giving ceremony, followed by a traditional fire dance, marking the end of the regatta. Beyond the competition, the regatta promotes marine awareness and environmental responsibility, with activities such as port clean-ups and educational catamaran outings for local children.

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