Rangiroa - General Info
Description:
Rangiroa is 45 miles long and 15 miles wide. It is the largest Tuamotu and the second largest atoll in the world. Made of mostly water, the lagoon in Rangiroa is so substantial that the entire island of Tahiti could fit inside. This size, coupled with the lagoon’s sheer abundance of marine life, has earned Rangiroa her reputation as a superb diving locale.
Entrance Notes and Cautions:
There are two passes, Tiputa which has a nearby anchorage that yachts seem to favour and Avatoru Pass. The currents rip through the passes here, so it’s best to try and time your entrance/exit as close as possible to slack water.
Cruisers report that Tiputa Pass, which faces northeast is “very ugly” with an outgoing current and strong east/north east winds.
Avatoru Pass is wide with a relatively easy entry although a strong incoming current requires some caution.
Cruiser Highlights:
The Avatoru Pass and Tiputa Pass, both located on the northern side of the atoll, produce currents that are ideal for drift diving or snorkeling. They are also known to attract schools of wild dolphins. The Blue Lagoon, located on the western side of Rangiroa, is a shallow lagoon carved into the reef inside the central lagoon, creating a small natural aquarium no more than 16 feet (5 meters) deep. Deep-sea fishing is also a popular water activity.
Position:
14° 58.01’S, 147° 37.47’W (Tiputa pass)
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Related to following destinations: French Polynesia, Rangiroa, Tuamotus
Port Navigation
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Rangiroa dive centre helping cruisers.
Eleuthera Plongee dive centre just near the dock at Tiputa village is making himself available to help cruisers. They have a washing machine, wifi, postal service, push bike hire and more available and run a very professional diving operation.
Yannick is there to welcome you and will try to help with any issues cruisers have and would like to hear feedback on how he can help. There are two small supermarkets within easy walking distance which make a great place to stop for a while.