Sunset Cruise : Moorea Sailing on a Catamaran named Taboo

If you’re dreaming of ending a day in Moorea with a peaceful sail into the sunset, this Sunset Cruise aboard the catamaran Taboo might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally sailed with them, the glowing reviews and consistent 5-star rating suggest this experience hits the right notes for many travelers. It combines a laid-back vibe, beautiful scenery, and some interesting local tidbits, all wrapped up in a small-group setting that feels intimate without being crowded.

What we love about this tour is how relaxed and personable it seems—guides like Leo apparently share genuine stories and knowledge, making it more than just a boat ride. Plus, the opportunity to see Moorea from the water as the sun dips below the horizon offers those classic, postcard-worthy views we all hope for. On the downside, some reviews mention weather dependency and the fact that it’s a small-group experience, so if you prefer large, bustling tours, this might not be your first pick. Still, it caters best to those seeking a mellow, scenic, and romantic way to cap off a day.

If you’re someone who appreciates a calm cruise with beautiful vistas, engaging guides, and a bit of local lore, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for couples or anyone wanting a peaceful, picturesque way to enjoy Moorea’s natural beauty without a lot of fuss.

• Small-group intimacy enhances the relaxed atmosphere and personalized experience.
• Knowledgeable guides like Leo add depth with local stories and facts.
• Stunning sunset views over Moorea are the main focus, with prime spots for photos.
• Comfortable amenities include cocktails and fruit juice served on board.
• Weather can impact the experience, so clear skies will give you the best views.
• Departure from Mareto Public Beach offers free parking, making logistics easier.

What to Expect on the Moorea Sunset Catamaran Cruise

This cruise isn’t about rushing through sights or packing in busy stops. Instead, it offers a peaceful, 2-hour 20-minute sail along Moorea’s northern coast, giving you plenty of time to unwind and take in the scenery. The boat used, the Taboo, is a cozy sailing catamaran suitable for small groups—up to 8 travelers—which means you’ll get a more personal touch.

Starting Point and Getting There

The adventure begins at Mareto Public Beach, a convenient spot with free parking. The process is straightforward: most travelers report that pick-up is offered, which helps to eliminate the hassle of finding the meeting point. You’re likely to board via a small skiff, which might be a consideration for those with mobility issues, but guides are helpful with transfers.

The Itinerary in Detail

The main highlight of the trip is the sailing into the sunset. As the boat departs, you’ll cruise along the coast, passing notable local spots such as Cook’s Bay and Pnohu Bay. The cruise takes you through both inside and outside the reef, offering varied perspectives of Moorea’s landscape and waters.

Cook’s Bay is known for its scenic beauty and legendary tales, and many reviews mention how informative guides are about the area’s geology and lore. Around 15 minutes are spent here, giving you a chance for some photos or simply soaking in the views.

Next, the boat moves towards Pnohu Bay for another 15-minute stop. Here, the focus stays on relaxing and enjoying the surroundings—some travelers have noted that guides sprinkle in fun facts, making the experience more engaging.

The Sunset Experience

The core of this tour is of course the sunset. With a small group, guides are able to position the boat for optimal viewing—many mention how they were taken to the “perfect spot” to watch the sun paint the sky in shades of orange, pink, and purple. Even when clouds obscure the horizon, guides like Leo or Neil often share fascinating insights about the area, making the trip educational as well as scenic.

While weather is unpredictable, several reviews mention that even if the sunset isn’t spectacular, the experience remains enjoyable thanks to the tranquil waters and good company. During the cruise, cocktails and fruit juices are served on board, adding a touch of luxury to the relaxed vibe.

The Return

After soaking in the sunset, the boat heads back along the coast, with some travelers reporting sightings of spinner dolphins or even a breaching whale if luck is on your side. Once back at Mareto Public Beach, the experience wraps up, often on time and with easy logistics.

The Value of This Experience

At $156.62 per person, this tour is priced to reflect its intimate, personalized nature and the premium views it promises. Considering the included drinks, the guided commentary, and the scenic beauty, many travelers say it offers good value—especially for a romantic or special evening. It’s not a hurried, large-group tour but rather a peaceful, well-paced excursion ideal for those who want to savor Moorea’s stunning environment.

From the reviews, most guests find the experience well worth the cost. Guides like Leo and Neil are frequently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and professionalism. The boat itself is described as well-kept, comfortable, and suitable for a relaxing sail.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect if you’re looking for a calm, scenic, and intimate way to end your day in Moorea. It suits couples, small groups of friends, or anyone craving a peaceful boat ride with breathtaking views. If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local lore or wants a touch of luxury with drinks and stories, you’ll likely love this experience.

However, if you prefer high-energy adventures or large, noisy tours, you might find this a bit too subdued. Also, weather plays a significant role—if rain or clouds obscure the sunset, it might diminish the overall magic, though many find the trip still worthwhile for the serene sail and company.

The Sum Up

The Sunset Cruise on Moorea’s catamaran Taboo offers a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, expert storytelling, and relaxed elegance. It’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful, visually stunning way to appreciate Moorea’s coastlines and sunsets without the hustle of big tours. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see the island from the water make this a memorable addition to any Moorea itinerary.

While weather can sometimes be a wild card, the overall experience is praised for its tranquility and the personal touch guides bring. It’s especially good for couples looking to enjoy a romantic evening or travelers who want a taste of local maritime charm. If you’re after a laid-back, picturesque cruise that combines natural beauty with some light education and drinks, this trip could be just your style.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup is offered, making it convenient to start the tour without stress.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, including stops and sailing time.

What do I need to bring? Besides your camera and sunscreen, just be prepared for the weather—bring a light jacket if needed, especially if it’s cooler in the evening.

Can I see the sunset? Most days, yes. Guides will take you to the best spots to enjoy the sunset, but weather conditions can affect visibility.

Is this suitable for children? The tour is generally small-group and relaxed, but because it involves a boat transfer via skiff, consider mobility needs. It’s best suited for guests comfortable with boat transfers.

Are drinks included? Yes, cocktails and fruit juices are served on board, adding to the relaxed, festive vibe.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on each cruise? The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Is the tour educational? Yes, guides like Leo frequently share interesting facts about Moorea’s geology, history, and local lore, making the trip more enriching than just a scenic sail.

In short, if you’re after a leisurely, scenic, and friendly way to end your day in Moorea, this sunset cruise aboard Taboo offers a terrific balance of beauty, storytelling, and relaxation.