Making the most of Fakarava Tuamotu Islands
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Ships moor or anchor here, so passengers come ashore by tender.
The tender dock is normally at Rotoava, the atoll's main settlement.
Polynesia's second-largest atoll is a 60 km by 25 km rectangle with two principal villages. Rotoava is in the northeast by the one kilometer-wide Ngarue pass and airdrome; Tetamanu, formerly the island's main village, lies near the southern Tumakohua pass.
Together with six neighbouring islands, originally including Taiaro, this protected atoll forms a UNESCO classified nature reserve. It reflects the atolls' rich ecosystem and particularly rare flora and fauna, including the hunting kingfisher, Tuamotu palm, and lagoon crustaceans such as squills and sea cicadas.
Explore a pearl farm, the colourful sea-slug smoke house for rori prized by Asian gourmets, and Tetamanu's ancient village, where one of the first coral-built Catholic churches dates from 1874. The island's principal attraction is scuba diving in virtually untouched sites, rich in lagoon and ocean fish including loach, meru, barracuda and rays, plus memorable hammerhead and tiger sharks. These still offer exciting underwater exploration for divers.
Food and shopping
French Polynesia is very expensive: even budget accommodation, food and groceries place pressure on a budget. Bring plenty of money if you visit.
Money
1000 CFP francs is equivalent to 8.38 euros.
Staying connected
The official languages are French and Tahitian.