Tahiti To Moorea Ferry 2024: Affordable & Easy Transportation Option
LOOKING TO TAKE THE FERRY FROM TAHITI TO MOOREA IN FRENCH POLYNESIA?
Moorea is a paradise island off the coast of Tahiti. Both islands are part of French Polynesia, one of the most beautiful archipelagos in the world. We’ve been lucky to spend 3 months traveling on Moorea since 2020.
Planning a trip to Moorea can be overwhelming. How do we access such remote island locations? How do we get to the ferry on Tahiti? How do I buy tickets for the ferry?
As travel experts and frequent visitors of French Polynesia, we’ll detail everything you need to know about taking the ferry from Tahiti to Moorea below:
Tahiti To Moorea Ferry: Quick Guide
Taking the ferry from Tahiti to Moorea is simple, although it can seem daunting. If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick guide to accessing these islands:
Step #1: Check the ferry schedules to match your preferred time of departure. Here are the two ferries that serve the islands:
Step #2: Purchase your tickets. Both websites allow online booking, which is very helpful.
Insider tip: Be aware that neither ferry system will ask you to choose a date or time for your ferry crossing when purchasing your tickets. This is nice because you can be flexible and take any departing ferry with your ticket (of course, if you purchase a Terevau ticket, you must take the Terevau ferry, and vice versa).
Step #3: Book your taxi ride from the airport or hotel to the ferry. There are plenty of taxis at the airport, or you can contact your hotel/accommodation ahead of time to set up a ride to the ferry. Note that transportation will cost extra. There isn’t any accommodation on Tahiti with free shuttles.
Riding the ferry is as simple as that. But, if you’re looking for additional information, continue reading our detailed guide and frequently asked questions below.
Our Detailed Guide: How Do You Get To Moorea From Tahiti?
To reach the island of Moorea, you’ll first need to fly to Papeete (pronounced Pah-pee-yet-ay), the capital of French Polynesia. Papeete is located on Tahiti, the biggest of the French Polynesian islands.
Since Tahiti is just 10 nautical miles from Moorea, moving between these islands is relatively easy and cheap.
There are two common ways to get to Moorea from Tahiti:
- Tahiti to Moorea by plane
This is the more expensive option. Air Tahiti covers this route. You will use this company if you want to fly to Bora Bora or any other French Polynesian island.
The flight takes approximately 15 minutes, and Air Tahiti offers two of these non-stop flights per day. Round-trip airfare from Tahiti to Moorea can cost anywhere from $100 to well over $400, depending on the time of year. - Tahiti to Moorea by ferry
While flying might seem like the most logical option because it only takes 15 minutes, remember to calculate the time it takes to drive to the airport, go through security, and wait for your flight.
In our opinion, the best, cheapest, and easiest way to get from Tahiti to Moorea and back is by ferry. This is the transportation option we choose every time we visit Moorea.
How Long Is The Tahiti To Moorea Ferry?
The trip from Tahiti to Moorea via the ferry will take approximately 25-45 minutes, depending on which ferry you choose.
There are slower ferries that carry cars and other vehicles, and there are faster ferries that only hold passengers. But overall, it will take less than an hour to get from one island to the next.
How Much Does The Tahiti To Moorea Ferry Cost?
Ferries from Tahiti to Moorea typically cost between $11 and $15 for a one-way trip. This may vary depending on the time of year. Children and seniors pay about $10 for a one-way ticket.
If you plan to take a vehicle from Tahiti to Moorea, you’ll need to pay between $45 and $100, depending on the size of your car.
Note: Some passengers rent a vehicle in Tahiti and take it across to Moorea on the ferry because it’s cheaper than renting a car on Moorea.
The Two Ferry Options: Aremiti Vs. Terevau
If you decide to take the ferry from Tahiti to Moorea, you can choose between two companies:
Both ferry options sail this specific route several times per day, so you can choose a time that works best for your schedule. Here are details about both ferry companies:
Aremiti Ferry Details
We have taken both Aremiti and Terevau ferries. Both offered the exact same services, and both were great options.
Aremiti runs two different ferries: Aremiti 6 and the Aremiti Ferry 2.
The Aremiti Ferry 2 can transport vehicles, while the Aremiti 6 only holds passengers. If you choose to take a rental car from Tahiti to Moorea, check the Aremiti schedule to determine which routes allow vehicles.
Aremiti Schedule
Aremiti sails from Tahiti to Moorea 7-10 times per day, starting at about 5:40am. The last Aremiti ferry to leave Tahiti for Moorea is around 5:30 pm (except Sundays, which has a 6:10 pm option).
To check the exact schedule and find the right time, check the Aremiti website here: Aremiti Timetable.
Aremiti Ferry Price
Two of the most frequently asked questions about taking the ferry from Tahiti to Moorea are: “do I need a reservation? How much will this cost?”
Taking the Aremiti Ferry costs about $15 USD per adult for a one-way ticket. Children and seniors cost approximately $10 USD one-way.
Every ticket is valid for a year after purchase. No reservations are required; simply show up for the ferry you’d like to take and show your ticket.
Note: It’s best to show up 20-30 minutes prior to departure. Inside the ferry terminal in Tahiti, there is a restaurant/coffee shop on the second floor that looks out over the ocean. Grab a snack before boarding, or hang out in the waiting area (also on the second floor).
Terevau Ferry Details
The second ferry company you can take is Terevau. We have taken the Terevau ferry several times over the past three years. This company also allows vehicles at designated times.
Terevau Schedule
Terevau sails between Tahiti and Moorea 5-7 times per day, depending on the day of the week. This gives you plenty of options to choose from so that it fits your schedule.
The first Terevau Ferry typically leaves Tahiti around 6:35am and the final ferry leaves at around 5:30pm.
For up-to-date departures, check out their website: Terevau Schedules.
Terevau Ferry Price
Terevau charges approximately $12-13 USD per person for a one-way ticket. Children cost about $6 USD, and seniors will pay close to $10 USD. This is significantly cheaper than flying.
Each ticket will remain valid for six months after it’s purchased. This means you can use it whenever you’d like. Again, there are no reservations; you simply show up, provide your ticket, and get on the ferry.
Which Ferry Is Better: Aremiti or Terevau?
Both the Aremiti and Terevau ferries are excellent.
Terevau is usually the slightly cheaper option than Aremiti, which can be seen as a plus, but you’d only be saving a dollar or two. On the other hand, Aremiti offers more trips per day, which could fit into your travel schedule better.
We have really enjoyed both ferry companies. Here’s what you can expect from both companies:
- Updated interior
- Clean
- Comfortable
- Plenty of seating
- Bathrooms
- Snack bar (cash only)
Regardless of their amenities, your ferry ride will be very short, so you should encounter many issues. The staff for both Aremiti and Terevau are helpful and kind, so we believe you’ll have a great trip.
Will I get seasick on the ferry from Tahiti to Moorea?
The answer is a big MAYBE. We have taken the ferry many times, and the sea conditions have been different every time.
Initially, I would have said you won’t get seasick because our first trip was smooth sailing (see what I did there? 😏). But we’ve experienced the complete opposite on this route, too.
Several of our trips had iffy weather, and the waves were massive. Although big and powerful, the ferry was tossed around a bit, and if you’re prone to seasickness or motion sickness, I could see you not enjoying the ride.
That said, both ferries have private bathrooms, just in case.
Additionally, it’s best to stand outside if you’re feeling seasick. The fresh air can help you maintain composure, or you can feel confident retching off the side of the ferry, knowing you’ll likely find privacy.
How To Buy Your Tickets
You can buy ferry tickets in two ways: online or in person. Both options are straightforward. Here’s what you need to know:
Book Tickets Online
We always purchase our tickets online so that we are ready to go when we arrive in Tahiti. The websites below are in both French and English.
You can book your tickets online here: Aremiti or Terevau.
Don’t worry about printing off your tickets. You just need to show your ticket QR code to the person at the ferry terminal; we do this by showing them through our phone.
Insider tip: Be sure to save your ticket as a PDF on your phone or take a screenshot to show the ferry attendant. Remember, you may not get cell phone service because you’ll be in a different country.
Book Ferry Tickets In Person
The other option is to purchase your ferry tickets at the Tahiti ferry terminal for Terevau or Aremiti.
To do this, go up to the ticket window about 30 minutes before the ferry is supposed to depart. You can find the ticket window underneath the massive carport attached to the terminal. We included a picture below to help:
You will hand your luggage to the baggage man near the ticket office (pictured below). If you don’t see the bag cart near the ticketing office, an assistant will likely be there to direct you where to go. In our experience, they are all accommodating and kind.
You can also ask the person you purchased your ticket from where to put your luggage. Luggage is free with your ticket purchase.
Are There Seat Assignments On The Ferry?
There are no seat assignments for either the Aremiti Ferry or the Terevau Ferry. You’ll simply show up, board the ferry, and find a comfortable spot.
If you would rather check out the scenery, there are plenty of seats, tables, and outdoor standing areas.
Insider tip: If you plan on staying inside during the ride, grab a seat at the front of the ferry so you can see Moorea as you approach the island. Below, you’ll see a photo we took from our seats at the front of the boat.
How Do I Get From The Tahiti Airport To The Ferry?
It’s unlikely that you’ll arrive in Tahiti in time to catch a ferry OR a flight to Moorea on the same day. They do this on purpose to encourage tourists to spend time in Papeete before leaving for other islands, which is an intelligent economic move.
The chances of you going directly from the airport to the ferry terminal are slim.
With that said, if you’re one of the lucky ones who has a flight arriving in time to catch a ferry, you can get from the airport to the ferry terminal by taxi.
Book Your Tahiti Airport Shuttle Here
We found it was easiest to book an airport shuttle beforehand with this company – it was hassle-free!
The airport is about two miles from the ferry terminal, and it takes about 10 minutes to get there by car.
A taxi from the Tahiti Airport to the ferry terminal costs approximately $20-25 USD. This might seem steep (because it is), but you’re in French Polynesia, and that is the typical rate for taxis.
Note: You can also rent a car from the airport and drive it to the ferry terminal if you plan to bring a rental car to Moorea. Not only would it save you money on taxis, but you’ll get a much better deal by renting a car in Tahiti as opposed to Moorea.
Where Is The Tahiti Ferry Terminal?
The Papeete Ferry Terminal is located near the city center and close to the most popular shops and restaurants. Here is a map to help you locate it:
Note: If you are walking to the ferry terminal, pull up directions BEFORE leaving your accommodation or any location with WiFi. If you don’t have an international phone, you won’t be able to use Google Maps directions.
In order to save money on taxi rides, consider staying in a hotel or vacation rental near the ferry such as the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea.
Where Is The Moorea Ferry Terminal?
When you arrive in Moorea, you’ll be on the island’s east side.
The best way to get from the port to your accommodation is by asking your host to schedule a taxi. A large majority of hosts (both hotel and Airbnb) will gladly do this for you.
Additionally, you’ll find a line of taxis when you arrive at either pier (Tahiti or Moorea). Taxi rides vary in price depending on your accommodation location, but the furthest distance would be a 30-35-minute taxi ride.
Also, if you’re spending more than a couple of days in Moorea you’ll need to consider how to get around.
Day Trips To Moorea By Ferry
Moorea and Tahiti are very close in distance, which means day trips between the two islands are possible.
Many Moorea and Tahiti residents take the ferry back and forth between the islands daily for various reasons. Some people live on one island and take the ferry to the other island for work each day.
If you want to take a day trip from Tahiti to Moorea, we suggest boarding the first ferry of the day. To put it lightly, Moorea is magnificent, and you’ll want to spend as much time there as possible.
Rent a car for the day and check out some of the best things to do in Moorea before catching the last ferry back to Tahiti.
Whether you want to lounge at the public beaches or go hiking for views like the one in the picture above, Moorea has it all.
Note: We actually recommend spending more than one day in Moorea if possible. We stayed for three months, and even that didn’t seem like enough time.
Watch Our YouTube Video About The Ferry Below
If you’re like me and want to know every step-by-step detail about going from Tahiti to Moorea by ferry, watch our YouTube video below. We show you exactly how easy it is to move between these two islands.
Are There Any Ferries To Bora Bora?
Unfortunately, there are no ferry services between the islands of Tahiti and Bora Bora.
Since Tahiti is a Windward Island and Bora Bora is a Leeward Island, they are not close enough in distance to reach by ferry.
In order to get from Tahiti or Moorea to Bora Bora, you will need to fly with Air Tahiti. Prices range from $300 to well over $600, depending on the time of year. Take this into account if you plan to visit Bora Bora during your French Polynesian vacation.
Note: If flights from Tahiti to Bora Bora are too expensive, consider flying to Raiatea. Once there, you can take a taxi boat to Bora Bora.
The Wrap-Up: Tahiti To Moorea Ferry
Before going to French Polynesia, I was nervous about taking the ferry from Tahiti to Moorea. I didn’t know the exact logistics, which worried me.
I hope this post brought you peace of mind if you’re planning to take the ferry between these two islands. It’s simple, affordable, and the best way to get from one paradise island to the next. And if you’re still deciding where to stay, check out these best resorts in Tahiti.
