Month-by-Month
May - October: The Dry Season
The southeast trade winds blow reliably at 12-20 knots throughout the dry season, making sailing between the Society Islands a consistent beam reach pleasure. Temperatures are 26-29C, humidity drops to comfortable levels, and rainfall is minimal.
November - April: Wet Season & Cyclone Risk
The wet season brings heavier rainfall, more variable winds, and cyclone risk. French Polynesia averages 1-2 cyclones per year with the highest risk January-March. Most charter companies reduce operations during this period.
The Classic Society Islands Circuit
Most charters start in Raiatea and follow the classic circuit: Raiatea to Taha'a (vanilla island) to Bora Bora to Huahine to Moorea to Papeete. The full circuit takes 10-14 days at a comfortable pace.
Charter Costs
A 45ft catamaran in peak season (July-August) costs $8,000-$14,000/week bareboat from Raiatea. Shoulder season (May-June, September-October) runs $6,000-$10,000/week.