Setting Sail on the Blue Lagoon

The sun was just beginning to rise over the horizon as I found myself boarding the Blue Lagoon, a modern and comfortable canoe, ready to embark on the Vanilla Tour of Taha’a. The air was filled with a sense of adventure, and the promise of a day filled with cultural discoveries and marine exploration had me buzzing with excitement. As a former professional surfer, I’ve always had a deep connection with the ocean, and this tour seemed like the perfect blend of my love for the sea and my curiosity for island culture.

Our group was a mix of English and French speakers, and Jimmy, the owner of Blue Lagoon Raiatea, was our guide for the day. The boat was designed for comfort, with tables and seats around them, and a net on one side for lounging. With 13 passengers on board, we set off towards the island of Taha’a, ready to uncover its hidden treasures.

Discovering the Secrets of Taha’a

Our first stop was the Champon Pearl Farm, where we were introduced to the fascinating process of farming and grafting pearls. The colors of the pearls, ranging from copper to aubergine, were unique to French Polynesia, and I couldn’t help but marvel at their beauty. The opportunity to shop for these exquisite gems was tempting, but I was more interested in soaking up the knowledge and the serene atmosphere of the farm.

Next, we made our way to the vanilla plantation, a short 10-minute ride by water. Under a canopy with seats, the owner gave us a brief tour of his farm, sharing insights into the cultivation of vanilla. The air was thick with the sweet scent of vanilla, and I found myself lost in the moment, appreciating the simplicity and beauty of island life.

Snorkeling Adventures and Island Flavors

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the snorkeling at the Coral Garden. As an experienced swimmer, I took Jimmy’s special route, letting the strong current carry me over the vibrant coral. The water was shallow, and the view was breathtaking, with multicolored fish darting around me. It was a reminder of why I fell in love with the ocean in the first place.

After snorkeling, we visited the Pari Pari Rum Factory, where we learned about the artisanal process of making Tahitian rum. Though there were no free samples, the opportunity to purchase a taste of this iconic drink was enough to satisfy my curiosity.

Lunch was served on Motu Tuahi, a small island where we feasted on a variety of local dishes, including sugared banana, taro, and coconut bread cooked in leaves. Despite the presence of flies, the food was delicious, and the setting was idyllic. We spent the afternoon swimming with eagle rays and sharks, playing catch in the water, and simply enjoying the beauty of the island.

As the day came to a close, we sailed around Taha’a, stopping for one last snorkeling adventure with black-tipped sharks. It was a thrilling end to a day filled with unforgettable experiences, and as we headed back to the marina, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this enchanting island.