How to get from Tahiti to Bora Bora?

You’ve landed in Tahiti, and now comes the last, easy step to paradise. Getting from Tahiti to Bora Bora means one short domestic flight, or, if you have time to spare, a long and scenic ferry. This guide is part of our full walkthrough on how to get to Bora Bora, and here we zoom in on the Papeete to Bora Bora hop: the two airlines, the price, the ferry option, and what happens when you touch down.

How do you get from Tahiti to Bora Bora?

Bora Bora sits about 172 miles (277 km) northwest of Tahiti, and for almost everyone the answer is simple: you fly. The domestic flight from Papeete (PPT) to Bora Bora (BOB) takes roughly 50 minutes, runs several times a day, and one-way fares typically start around $200. It’s quick, the lagoon views on approach are unforgettable, and it’s the best choice if your time on the islands is limited. There’s also a slower budget option, the inter-island ferry, which we cover further down.

Feeling extra fancy? There’s also a third, very exclusive way to arrive.

In fact, there’s even a third, more exclusive option available to those who have a bigger budget to work with: a private helicopter transfer. This option is definitely for those who are feeling extra fancy, as the price starts at $9500 for inter-island helicopter transfers between Tahiti and Bora Bora. However, if you’re willing to splurge a bit, this could be the most convenient and luxurious way to travel to your Bora Bora resort. The helicopter ride is very quick and you will be able to enjoy stunning views of the islands from high above.

Air Tahiti or Air Moana: which should you book?

Only two airlines fly between the islands of French Polynesia, and both serve Bora Bora: Air Tahiti, the historic carrier, and Air Moana, which launched in 2023 and now flies a growing fleet of ATR 72 turboprops (it also serves Moorea). Between them they operate several flights a day on the Papeete to Bora Bora route, mostly in the morning.

So which one? There’s no wrong answer: both fly the same 50-minute route on similar aircraft. The smart move is to compare Air Tahiti and Air Moana on your exact dates, since schedules and fares differ from day to day. One quick tip: not every flight is direct, as some make short stops on other islands to drop off and pick up passengers, so filter for a nonstop if you’d rather not add a layover to your final leg.

Insider Tips

For the best views of the island make sure to sit on the LEFT SIDE of the plane when boarding in Tahiti (and on the RIGHT SIDE when leaving Bora Bora). Seats are first-come, first-served, so get in line quickly for boarding. You won’t regret it.

One thing to plan for on both airlines: domestic baggage rules are strict. Basic fares include a checked allowance plus a small cabin bag, and both checked and carry-on bags are weighed at the airport, with fees for going over. You can add extra allowance when you book if you’re travelling with heavier luggage.

Good to know

The planes that fly to Bora Bora are small, and if the plane is full, your luggage may arrive with the next flight. Don’t be surprised or alarmed if this happens; it’s a common occurrence.

Budget Tip

When budgeting for your flight to Bora Bora, it’s important to remember to include the price of the boat transfer in your budget. The shuttle is free if you stay on the main island. However, if you are staying in a top motu resort, the transfer can be expensive. The resort will arrange it for you, and a round trip should cost between $150 and $300 per person. Alternatively you can book a private transfert (cost effective if you are travelling as a group).

Schedules change often, so check the latest directly with each airline:

• Air Tahiti Flight Schedule
• Air Moana Flight Schedule

Can you take a boat from Tahiti to Bora Bora?

Yes: the Apetahi Express inter-island ferry connects Tahiti to Bora Bora via Huahine, Raiatea and Taha’a. It’s a long crossing best suited to island-hoppers on a budget; most travelers fly the 50-minute route instead. Check current schedules on the operator’s site before planning around it.

That said, the ferry is an experience in itself. Most passengers are locals, there’s often live music on board, and the route threads past Taha’a, Raiatea and Huahine with beautiful views along the way (keep an eye out for dolphins). A few honest cautions before you commit:

1. This option is NOT for you if you get easily seasick. The ride can be rough. Even if the weather forecast looks good on the day of your trip, I recommend that you stop at a local drug store (“Pharmacie” in French) and ask for “Mercalm” before boarding. This is an anti-seasickness pill. Take two pills 30 minutes before leaving and repeat six hours later if necessary (⚠️ Please always read the label before taking any new medication). If you start to feel unwell, head to the sundeck if it’s open, breathe some fresh air, and stare at the horizon. If the sundeck is closed, take a seat in the center of the boat.
   Last insider tip: If you get too sick, lying down on the floor helps (I promise no one will give you looks).
   
   
2. Sometimes the boat simply cannot depart. If the sea is too rough and the journey becomes unsafe, it will be canceled at the last minute without notice. Check their Facebook page to find out whether or not your boat will depart. If your boat is canceled, you must either wait for the next one or book a last-minute backup flight. As a result, if you are on a tight schedule, this option is not recommended.
   
   
3. Because all boats leave very early in the morning, you have to spend the night before in Tahiti.

Good to know

Always keep in mind that travel time is completely dependent on the weather. If the sea is rough, the journey may take much longer. For this reason, it is not recommended to book a flight on the same day as the ferry ride, as there is a risk of missing the flight if there are any delays due to rough seas.

If the ferry sounds like your kind of adventure, and you can save some money in the process, check the current schedules here (both operators run limited weekly crossings):

• Apetahi Express Schedule
• Vaeara’i Schedule

What happens when you land in Bora Bora?

Bora Bora’s airport sits on its own motu (islet), so everyone leaves by boat. It’s tiny (there aren’t even security checkpoints), and each resort has a small booth in the arrivals area to point you to the right boat. Resorts run their own transfers straight to the property, usually 10 to 20 minutes, and there’s a free shuttle boat to Vaitape, the main town, if you’re staying there. Confirm your transfer with your resort ahead of time and budget for it, as motu-resort boats can be pricey. Not booked yet? See our guide on where to stay in Bora Bora.

Good to know

The Bora Bora airport is so small that there aren’t even any security checkpoints 😂, so you definitely won’t get lost.

Tahiti to Bora Bora: FAQ

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