Raiatea - Docking

Anchoring Restrictions:

No Anchoring Zones:

In July 2023, the Directorate of Maritime Affairs of French Polynesia (DPAM) announced the creation of new No-Anchoring Zones for Raiatea (and Tahaa).

Anchoring is prohibited in seven protection zones (see appendices) for various cables, pipelines or submarine outfalls as indicated on the following map.  For full details see this Noonsite news item.

Moorings

There are moorings available in some areas of the lagoon.  Some moorings have been set up on the north-eastern side of Raiatea and their use will be limited to 72 hours in most places.  Moorings must be booked through the Escales website.

According to long-term cruisers in the area, the situation changes daily. To find out more, read the following reports:

• Significant Changes to Anchoring Restrictions for Cruising Yachts
• Current Situation from the Association des Voiliers en Polynesie (AVP)

Due to the issues surrounding anchoring restrictions, the anchorages below may no longer be available for use by visiting cruisers.

• Many boats now anchor in the shallower depths between the two islands inside the reef. If your draft is 2m or less there are lots of options.
• Baie Haamene on the west coast offers secure holding in mud.
• In front of the northern Uturoa Marina (Dream Yacht Charters) is a good and not-too-deep a spot for a sandy anchorage. However, if charter catamarans are using the mooring buoys in front of the marina it can be difficult to find anchoring space.
• There are numerous places to anchor before the reef on the west and east side of Raiatea depending on the wind direction. It is recommended to get the exact spot information from locals or a good map.
• Faaroa Bay is a popular destination and there are now 3 mooring balls mid-channel (in front of the restaurant) and 3 more and a dinghy dock at the bottom of the bay. Anchoring in mud is possible too.
• Miri Miri is to be avoided, yachts are not welcome there.
• Cruisers report being able to anchor on the west side of Tahaa in clear water and good sand just north of the Tahaa Resort, near the "Jardin de Coraill" (Coral Garden).

Marinas

There are three public Marinas in Raiatea: Two in Uturoa and one in Apooiti. There are also mooring buoys that are for public use, some paid, others not.  These are mostly useful in the dry season, April to November. The marinas are small and advance reservations are only possible for permanent residents. Visitor docks work on a first-come-first-served basis, however you can always call or e-mail in advance to check for space.

On the east coast of Tahaa in the Baie de Faaha, there are moorings available at the Tahaa Motu Pearl Farm.

Uturoa main marina/public dock: This is mainly for the local fishermen, loading/unloading, ferries and access for big cruise ships and is located in the centre of town. It is divided into two areas: a well-protected part for fishing boats and ferries; and a very exposed part for visitors. Sailboats are only allowed to dock in the latter part. There is no power supply or water connection. Wash from the fast fishing boats and ferries are sometimes a hazard if staying on the dock here, as well as strong easterly winds. Keep in mind, there are some steel rings directly attached to the pier’s concrete wall. The nearby Shell Gas Station does not offer water for visitors.

Uturoa Marina North: Home base of Dream Yacht Charters and usually overcrowded with permanent residents. However, there are two moorings in front of the marina entrance which can be used if free and by liaising with Dream Yacht Charters.

Apooiti Marina: Apooiti marina has a visitors dock (depth about 2.5m) with power and water that can accommodate 4-5 boats maximum . They do have a rate per hour if you don’t want to stay overnight. It’s on a first come first served basis, no reservations.

It is possible to also Med-moor to the outside wall. There is good depth in the middle of the marina and it may be possible to go stern-to and use a passarelle to get ashore. This outside wall is used by charter boats in high season, so space is at a premium.

There are also many mooring buoys outside the marine entrance which can be picked up if free. You will need to register at the marina office once tied up.

Chantier Naval: This boatyard has a small marina, but only for their customers waiting to get pulled out of the water.

Security:

There is no security on Uturoa public dock and there continue to be incidents of thefts from boats here (both unlocked and locked) as well as dinghy and outboard theft. It is recommended not to overnight on this dock, however, if it cannot be avoided be sure to secure everything on deck as well as the dinghy engine(s) and the dinghy itself and remove anything of value from view. It goes without saying that you should lock the boat up at night and when going ashore.

Take care if leaving your dinghy at the northern marina. Even chained and padlocked dinghies/outboards get stolen. It may be wise to appoint a watchman.

Rubbish Disposal:

New regulations have been established prohibiting any rubbish to be deposited anywhere on the island and all common garbage points are to be locked.  According to the Association des Voiliers en Polynesia (AVP), all sailors who want to get rid of rubbish must go to a collection point in Raiatea West (Pk 14) and pay 9000 xpf before being allowed to dispose of rubbish. It is hoped a viable solution to this problem will be found soon.

Used oil and batteries CAN be disposed of at the ComCom, PK 14, Raiatea West at no cost.  See User Comments (the speech bubble icon)  for the latest information.

Last updated:  September 2025