Visiting Moorea: Papeete to Moorea Ferry
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This quick guide to the ferry between Papeete, Tahiti and Moorea will help you start your amazing trip to French Polynesia.
How To Get To Moorea from Tahiti (Moorea Ferry): (Jump To)
Ferry From Tahiti to Moorea
It’s easy to take the ferry to Moorea after landing at the airport in Tahiti. The Ferry from Tahiti to Moorea is inexpensive and frequent.
The ferry from Papeete, Tahiti to Moorea offers a convenient and scenic mode of transportation between the two stunning islands in French Polynesia.
The ferry ride from Papeete to Moorea usually takes around 30 minutes. The views during the entire trip are simply stunning. There is no reason to bring anything to occupy your time during the journey. You can find a spot on the small exterior portion of the ferry’s deck or occupy a nice indoor seat with a large window view and enjoy the beauty of the islands as you make your journey.
There are a range of amenities onboard, including comfortable seating across two large seating areas (one upstairs and one downstairs). The interior cabins have air-conditioning and small but plentiful restroom facilities.
The lower deck offers a small snack stand with sandwiches, coffee, chips, candy, drinks, local beer and other alcoholic beverages. They accept credit cards and cash on board, and prices are extremely reasonable.
In Papeete, ferries to Moorea usually depart from the Papeete Ferry Terminal, which is conveniently located near the city center. Ensure you arrive at the terminal with sufficient time before your scheduled departure. If visiting on a cruise, the ferry port is directly adjacent to the cruise terminal.
Papeete Ferry Terminal: Google Maps
Upon arrival in Moorea, ferries usually dock at the Vaiare Wharf, which is situated on the northern coast of the island. From there, you can easily access transportation options to your accommodation or explore the island further.
Vaiare Wharf: Google Maps
If by some chance you brought a car, It’s worth mentioning that the ferry can accommodate 10 cars per journey.
Overall, the ferry from Papeete, Tahiti to Moorea provides a convenient, affordable, and enjoyable way to hop between the islands for the day or for a longer stay at one of Moorea’s beautiful ocean resorts.
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Ferry Schedule: Papeete to Moorea
It’s important to check the Papeete to Moorea Ferry schedule prior to arriving in Tahiti to make sure your flights and Moorea hotel accommodations work around the ferry times.
The ferry company is called Terevau, their large painted vessels are unmissable as they come and go from the island. The ferry schedule from Papeete to Moorea typically includes multiple departures throughout the day.
The schedule varies depending on the time of year and day of the week. Most days have at least 4 or 5 departures and arrivals. Check the website for the best information.
Terevau Ferry Schedule: Link
It’s worth noting that the last ferry of the day often departs before many international flights arrive into the Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT). You can book a nice hotel close to the ferry terminal and spend the night exploring Papeete.
Tahiti to Moorea Ferry Tickets
You can buy Moorea Ferry Tickets online, but it doesn’t guarantee you a ride.
The boat typically has plenty of spots available. The ferry can accommodate 360 people per journey.
Tickets are available online via the Terevau Website but the tickets are untimed and do not reserve a specific day, time, or seat. It’s simply a general admission ferry ticket.
The cost of ferry tickets from Papeete to Moorea varies depending on whether you opt for a one-way or round-trip ticket. Prices are reasonable and offer good value for the convenience and experience of traveling between these beautiful islands.
Adult round-trip tickets will run you about USD $27 for adults and USD $13.50 for children (2700/1340 Tahitian Francs). Discounts are offered for one-way journeys and if bought as packs of 10 tickets. You can bring a bike or scooter on board for a small extra fee.
Getting Around Moorea
There are a number of great options for getting around Moorea during your visit. We outline the most cost-effective and most efficient travel methods on the island.
Renting a car is one of the most popular and convenient options for exploring Moorea independently. Several car rental agencies operate on the island, offering a range of vehicles from compact cars to SUVs. With a rental car, you have the flexibility to visit different areas at your own pace and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. See more about car rental below.
Scooter rentals are another popular choice for exploring Moorea, especially for travelers seeking a more adventurous and eco-friendly way to get around. Scooters provide the freedom to navigate narrow roads and access scenic viewpoints that may be inaccessible by car. Many rental agencies offer scooter rentals with helmets and basic safety instructions.
Taxis and rideshare are available and affordable on Moorea. However the availability is limited and during high-demand times (like when the ferry departs and arrives, major resort check-out times, and before large aircraft departures).
Some hotels and resorts on Moorea offer shuttle services for guests, providing convenient transportation to and from the ferry port. Many also offer free shuttles to popular attractions, beaches, and local restaurants. Check with your hotel provider to learn more about shuttle schedules and availability.
Moorea also has a limited public transportation system, including buses that operate along designated routes across the island. The buses run on “island time” and pretty much just show up when they show up using a very loose schedule of departures. If you have the time and patience, buses offer an affordable option for getting around Moorea.
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Car Rental in Moorea, French Polynesia
Driving in Moorea is easy when you rent a car in Moorea Tahiti. It’s the most time-efficient way to see the island.
There are car rental facilities available at the Moorea Ferry Terminal. Cars can be reserved in advance through international brands like Avis, Hertz, and Thrifty The quantity of cars is quite limited, so booking in advance is highly recommended. However, it is quite expensive to rent on the island.
Cheaper options from local car rental companies are a good option for saving money and supporting local island businesses.
