Hello, My husband and I will be cruising the Society Islands in 30 days. We have been on 20+ cruises, but we've never been to Tahiti. We will be staying in Papeete 1 night pre-cruise and 1 night post cruise. I'm looking for hotel, restaurant, transportation, and tour recommendations. I have already reserved the Radisson for our 1st night and the Interconnental Hotel for our last night. But this is subject to change. Does anyone know how far it is from the cruise port to these hotels and the transportation cost? Your opinions and advice will be greatly appreciated!
Hi Tambran!
We cruised Tahiti a few years ago, and we are going again in a few weeks. Both times on Regent's Paul Gauguin. You are going to be amazed at the beauty of the place and the sweet nature of the people. It's nothing like Hawaii, the Caribbean, or Mexico. WAY nicer!
First of all, let me warn you that Papeete (did you know this is pronounced Papa-aye-tay?) and the actual island of Tahiti which it's on, is not representative of the rest of the Society Islands. It's more civilized, too built up, and lacking the charm of the rest of the islands. I think of it as just a place to board and disembark the ship. The hotels are all very nice, you almost can't go wrong, and some of the pool areas are gorgeous. But the surrounding countryside is nothing to write home about. Resist the temptation to buy souveniers on your pre-cruise night, because you will find wonderful handmade items (made in Tahiti, not made in China) as you sail the islands. The Paul Gauguin museum is not far from Papeete, and it has a lot of his art and his story is interesting. Regarding restaurants, the Tahitians seemed to be really into pizza when we were there...strange but true...but again the food was much better on the other islands than anything we found on the island of Tahiti.
Please feel free to ask me any questions about your upcoming trip. I have researched and saved a lot of info about the Society Islands. You're going to have a great time!
Thanks so much for the information. I'm prepared (mentally) for the expensive drinks and food. That's the best part about being on the ship. I will be sure to add "tips for cruising in Tahiti" when we return. Thanks again.
Oh Thank you so very much for responding! We considered Regent, after I had booked on Princess, and decided to stay with Princess.
We are leaving on Nov 8th. Is is better to wait until we get to Papeete to exchange our money at the airport?
Also, I read some poor reviews regarding roaches at the Interconnental Hotel, then I read that all of the hotels have a roach problem. Can I have your honest opinion.
We are certified scuba divers and plan to dive a couple times. I was checking into the local dive shops, but I think I've convinced myself to book shore excursions from the ship. Your tours are included so that would be wise for you. If they weren't, would you consider booking your own tours after you arrived?
The first day we arrive on the 11:00 pm flight, so we won't be shopping. I do want to check out the Market. Do you know how far it is from the port? I've read, that we should consider taking the ferry to Moorea instead of spending alot of time in Papeete.
What are some of "must see and do's" in your opinion? Thanks so much for your response.
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