Here’s how a cruise turns a trip to Bora Bora into the perfect vacation, even for the non-beachgoers among us.
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1. It’s Romantic
Nothing makes you feel all lovey-dovey quite like a voyage at sea. Maybe it’s the salt-sea air, the stars wheeling overhead as you stand on the deck staring off into the moonlight, reflecting off the waves below. Or maybe it’s the easy access to all the alcohol you want. Whatever the cause, there’s something about a cruise that lends itself to romance. Even if you’re traveling alone, who’s to say you can’t find a new friend aboard the SS Love Connection? And there’s so much on a cruise ship for two people to do together. Dining, dancing, and lounging poolside are just a few of the things two lovebirds can do at sea. Forget the inter-island flights and taxi cabs, sea travel is the most amorous means of transportation.
2. You’re On A Floating Resort
One can’t think about Bora Bora without images of those iconic overwater bungalows springing to mind. Your cruise ship is basically a floating overwater bungalow, complete with restaurants, a gym, a spa, and much more. There’s no scouring the streets looking for an affordable meal. All that’s missing is the thatched roof and the risk of an accidental swim as you traverse the dock to your stilted bungalow after one too many Mai Tais. Of course, you can always book a night or two at an overwater bungalow just before or after your cruise, should the mood strike you.
3. One Fee, No Surprises
When staying at an island resort, the costs can add up quickly and you could find yourself spending far more money than you had anticipated. When on a cruise, you already know what you’re paying. Meals, entertainment, transportation between destinations, and certain activities are already factored into the price. This means you won’t be scratching your head at the end of your vacation wondering where all your money went. A cruise can be a great way to squeeze the most enjoyment out of your vacation budget.
4. You Can Leave The Logistics To The Experts
On a cruise ship, the staff’s job is to show you a good time, and they know just how to do it. You want to have as much fun as possible with the least amount of planning possible. Leave the experts to worry about getting you from A to B while you swim in the pool or get a massage. If you want to go snorkeling, kayaking, or even go for a bike ride on an island, they provide you easy access to the gear you need to partake in the activity of your choosing. A cruise lets you spend less time planning and more time having fun!
5. There’s Something For Everyone
There are four cruise lines that specialize in journeys through French Polynesia. Aranui can provide you with an immersive cultural experience thanks to their Polynesian staff. The smaller sailing yachts of Windstar Cruises offer an intimate, more laid-back voyage. Oceania Cruises have their acclaimed Canyon Ranch SpaClub, cuisine curated by world-renowned chef Jacques Pépin, and a country club casual atmosphere. Paul Gauguin Cruises will keep you in the lap of luxury with their own private island, a private white sand beach in Bora Bora, and even an onboard casino.
6. There Are Plenty Of Fish (And Islands) In The Sea
Bora Bora’s great, don’t get us wrong. You know what else is great? Tahiti. Moorea. And let’s not forget Huahine. There are many beautiful islands scattered about the area (more than you can hit in a cruise, even), so why would you want to limit yourself to just one? Each island has its own traits and offerings, and a cruise is the best way to maximize your exposure to all Micronesia has to offer. It’s hard to beat the view from a cruise ship as you approach yet another tropical paradise. Trust me, it never gets old. Flying from island to island costs you both time and money, but aboard a cruise ship the cost is already factored in, and your time is spent is relaxing in a manner you see fit, rather than crammed into an aircraft.
7. Don’t Worry: You’ll Get To Bora Bora
Bora Bora is a beautiful, wonderful place, so naturally, most cruise itineraries will get you there. You’ll get to see Mount Otemanu, the lagoonarium (a natural aquarium), and Bora Bora’s largest city: Vaitape. Dining out in Bora Bora can put a hurt on your wallet, but there are affordable restaurant options such as Fare Manuia, La Bounty, or any of the small and budget-friendly cafes scattered throughout the island. There’s a lot to do in Bora Bora, but snorkeling in the coral gardens is a must-do activity during your visit.
French Polynesia has a lot to offer, and a cruise ship allows you to cast a wide net to catch as many great memories as you can.
