New Year Journey of the Paganels
to French Polynesia and Bora Bora
10 DAYS
6 CATAMARANS
4290 EURO
10 DAYS
26.12.2026 - 04.01.2027
New Year trips with the Paganels are, of course, truly special events! At this time of year, we always strive to reach some completely unique point on our planet — beautiful, romantic, and one-of-a-kind.
Returning to French Polynesia has long been our dream. In 2014, we already conducted a small reconnaissance in this region. In 2018 and 2019, we visited it again during our New Year and May voyages with Paganel Studio. We know everything, are perfectly familiar with the area, have chosen the most comfortable catamarans, and now invite you on a new New Year sailing adventure — because French Polynesia is an absolutely extraordinary and incredible place. Names such as Tahiti, Raiatea, Huahine, Bora Bora, and Taha’a make the hearts and souls of travelers tremble with excitement. We will be able to see these amazing islands with our own eyes.
French Polynesia attracts visitors with the beauty of its nature — picturesque atolls and equally colorful volcanic islands, lush greenery, a rich underwater world with an incredible diversity of marine life, and endless beaches of the purest coral and volcanic sand.
Please note that French Polynesia is located in the Pacific Ocean, exactly on the opposite side of our planet from Europe. The flight there is long and quite expensive. The most optimal air route is via the USA (Los Angeles) or via Japan. Both options require visas, either a US visa or a Japanese transit visa. Therefore, when submitting your application to participate in this beautiful journey, carefully weigh all the pros and cons.
Andrii
Andreiev
Founder and head of the company, expedition leader, photographer, camera operator, and filmmaker.
.jpg)
ROUTE
🛬 ➙ Tahiti ➙ Raiatea ➙ Taha’a ➙ Huahine ➙ Bora Bora ➙ Taha’a ➙ Raiatea ➙ Tahiti ➙ 🛫
Country: French Polynesia
Type of trip: Travel. Yachting. Adventure. Immersion into authentic cultures.
Requirements: Normal physical fitness
Group size: Paganel flotilla - 6 catamarans
-
Participation fee: 4290 euros included:
-
necessary transfers airport Raiatea - marina - airport Raiatea;
-
catamaran rental;
-
double cabin accommodation;
-
final yacht cleaning; bed linen;
-
towels; outboard motor for the dinghy;
-
fuel according to the route;
-
rental of necessary equipment;
-
moorings in marinas and on buoys;
-
services of local English-speaking skippers;
-
services of local cooks;
-
services of Paganel Studio tour leaders).
-
international flight from your city to French Polynesia and back;
-
visas required for the flight;
-
New Year celebration on Bora Bora island;
-
meals and drinks;
-
refundable security deposit for the catamaran (100 euros per person);
-
2 one-way domestic flights (397 euros per person);
1. Our company operates as an international travel organizer, therefore groups are formed from travelers from Ukraine, the Baltic countries, the EU, Israel, North America, and other countries. The working languages of the trip are Ukrainian, Russian, and English, depending on the group composition and translation arrangements. Each guide speaks Ukrainian, and in personal communication we respond in the language of the inquiry. If a 100 percent Ukrainian-language trip is essential for you, please уточнюйте this before booking. The company does not cooperate with citizens of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus.
2. Due to the fact that our expeditions do not include international flights to the starting point of the program, we cannot be held responsible for changes in flight conditions by airlines or airport requirements. Since our travelers fly from many different countries and cities, we never participate in the purchase of air travel and limit ourselves exclusively to advisory services in the selection of flights. Air agents or airlines from which tickets were purchased are responsible for the purchase and technical support.
TRAVEL PROGRAM
Day 1
26.12.2026
Arrival in the city of Papeete on the island of Tahiti, the capital of French Polynesia. Meeting at the airport with the tour leaders of the Paganel Studio team. Check-in for the local flight of Air Tahiti Nui. Flight to Raiatea Island, where our catamarans are located and from where our New Year sea journey will begin.
Upon arrival on Raiatea Island, we meet our captains and the local host team. We are assigned to pre-approved crews.
Transfer to the marina to receive our catamarans, which will become your home for the next ten days. We get acquainted with our boats and crew, listen to the captain's briefing, check the availability of the ordered provisions and, if necessary, go for additional shopping to the nearest supermarket. In the evening, around 5:00 PM, we make our first passage to the eastern part of Taha'a Island. The crossing takes several hours, and we drop anchor deep in Haamene Bay near the Tahaa Maitai restaurant or close to a small private island.
The passage takes a few hours, but the first vivid impression is already there, we meet the sunset in the boundless Pacific Ocean!
In the evening, we have dinner prepared by our local cooks. We visit each other by dinghy, swim in the ocean, and recover after the long journey.
Day 2
27.12.2026
While all crews are resting after the previous day, the captains already at 6:00 in the morning take our beautiful catamarans toward Huahine Island. The passage to Huahine takes 5 to 6 hours. According to the plan, by noon we arrive at the island.
Huahine consists of two islands in French Polynesia, Greater Huahine (Nui) and Lesser Huahine (Iti). They are connected by a bridge and protected from waves by coral reefs. Locals call this place "mystical" and believe in a legend that Huahine appeared when the god Hiro once struck this shore with his canoe, thus forming Maroe Bay.
There is indeed something mystical about these places. The two islands still preserve traces of ancient civilizations, and ancient beliefs remain alive among the indigenous population to this day. These places are considered the most beautiful in French Polynesia. The reason lies not only in the luxurious beaches and views of the bay and coral reefs.
On Huahine, we enter the channel between the reefs on the western side and head south. We drop anchor in Baie Avea. Those who wish board our inflatable motorboats, dinghies, and head to the reefs, where excellent snorkeling is possible. There are many fish here, and stingrays are often seen.
In the evening before dinner, we again board our inflatable dinghies and head to a designated spot, where we all gather together on the shore for the Paganel meet-and-greet evening, during which expedition T-shirts and badges are presented.
In the evening, dinner is served on board our catamarans. We exchange photos and impressions. Rest after a full and exciting day.
Day 3
28.12.2026
We spend a full day on Huahine. In the morning, we swim and explore the reefs. Those who wish stay on the catamarans for relaxation and to enjoy a Polynesian tan, while others go to explore the island.
We can try renting cars or quad bikes or come up with any other activities. The island is well worth exploring and getting to know closely. Everything is optional and at your discretion.
Huahine is the most mystical place in French Polynesia and one of the largest archaeological centers in the Polynesian Triangle. It was on this island that the most famous traces of ancient Polynesian cultures were found, including the oldest known sites of the Maui civilization, Fa'ahia and Vaito'otia, dating back to 800-900 AD.
In 1972, during the construction of the Bali Hai Hotel near Fare, a large collection of Maui artifacts buried in an ancient swamp was discovered. They are now displayed in the hotel's exhibition. On the shore of Lake Fauna Nui, on the Matairea hill, there are about thirty marae, distinctive pyramid-shaped platforms built of shell limestone.
We will spend the evening in the town of Fare, where our catamarans will approach and anchor not far from the waterfront.
After watching the sunset and enjoying a walk, we happily return to our catamarans. Rest.
Day 4
29.12.2026
Early departure in the morning. We need to return to Raiatea Island. At 6:00 AM, the captains take us out of the cozy bay, we say goodbye to Huahine Island, and sail for six hours back to the marina from which we started.
We need to replenish our water supplies and, if necessary, buy additional provisions. Of course, we will have time to explore the island itself, which we previously saw only briefly. Raiatea, the second largest island in French Polynesia, is not as popular as Tahiti or Bora Bora, which makes it even more attractive for us, as nothing will prevent us from discovering the charms of this wonderful place.
Raiatea, or the "sacred island", is rightly considered the birthplace of all Polynesian civilizations. Long ago, the Maori tribe lived on the land of Raiatea, then called Havaiki or Havaii Nui, and it was the religious and cultural center of all ancient Polynesia. According to ancient legends, it was from this island that Maori navigators, considered first-class seafarers, set out on their journeys and discovered many islands in the Pacific Ocean, from the Hawaiian Islands to New Zealand. From those times, remarkable archaeological and historical monuments have been preserved on Raiatea.
Among them is the ancient Taputapuatea marae, dedicated to the god of war and considered the most famous and largest marae, a sacred site, in all of French Polynesia. Here, on the western side of the island, there is another marae, Tainu.
In addition to visiting historical sites, Raiatea offers many other ways to spend your leisure time. For example, you can choose a cruise along the only navigable river, the Faaroa. During it, you will become acquainted with unique plants and animals that grow and live in the coastal zone, including the exotic flower tiare apetahi.
This beautiful four-petaled white flower blooms only at dawn and produces sounds similar to crackling. Many locals come here specifically to spend the night in order to "hear" how the tiare apetahi blooms.
In the evening, we gather on our catamarans, exchange impressions and photos, and have dinner. We prepare for tomorrow's passage to Bora Bora. Rest.
Day 5
30.12.2026
Another early departure, a 7-hour passage to Bora Bora from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM. On the way, we have breakfast, enjoy the Pacific Ocean, and sunbathe. Upon arrival at the island, we have lunch on the yachts and then spend the rest of the day snorkeling, as Bora Bora is famous for this like no other place.
In the evening, we arrive at the anchorage in MaiKai Marina. Those who wish go for an evening promenade to stroll around the town of Vaitape.
The main town and port of the island, Vaitape, is built at the foot of the impressive Mount Paia cliff, directly opposite the only passage through the reef wall, Teavanui. Here are concentrated all public institutions, the post office, the gendarmerie, and schools, as well as several hotels and the local museum.
In the southwestern part of the lagoon lies the "Coral Garden" or "Lagoonarium", an amazing natural underwater park where almost all species of local fish live, including nearly tame stingrays, moray eels, and sharks, which are calmly hand-fed here, as well as a large population of dolphins.
Just a few meters from Matira Point, on the southern shore of the island, are the luxurious beaches of Piti Uta and Toopua, whose waters abound with manta rays. Very close by, near the Teavanui passage, is the "singing rock" Hiros Bell, and in the passage itself, with a depth of about 55 meters, one can observe a never-ending "ballet" of dozens and hundreds of grey sharks and barracudas.
If time and weather permit, it may be possible to take a flight over Bora Bora in a small airplane or helicopter to enjoy breathtaking aerial views.
In the evening, we gather on our vessels. Socialize. Have dinner. Rest.
Day
31.12.2026
On this day, we have big plans to explore the beauties of Bora Bora Island.
The most popular of the islands of French Polynesia, Bora Bora, is located 280 km northwest of Tahiti. Bora Bora covers an area of only 29 sq km, but its lagoon is three times larger, about 83 sq km, and is considered the most beautiful lagoon on the planet.
The main island, of a rather intricate shape, lies in the center of this vast lagoon, which in turn is encircled by a chain of small islets called motu, forming only one entrance to the lagoon from the southwestern side. The highest point of the island, Mount Otemanu, 727 m, is the cone of an extinct volcano estimated to be 4 million years old.
About 6,000 people permanently live on the island, yet there are more luxury hotels here than on all the other islands of French Polynesia combined. At the same time, all beaches are considered public, and access to them is completely free.
Everything here is designed for tourists, yet the locals strive to preserve the natural environment of Bora Bora. About 700 species of tropical fish inhabit the lagoon, around 60 species of plants grow on the green slopes, and the diversity of bird species is among the richest in the archipelago.
(The program does not include free time in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. Therefore, if you would like to explore the city, we recommend arriving a few days earlier or, even better, staying after the program — see the final day of the journey).
Arrival on our first island — São Miguel.
Self-transfer to the hotel.
All day long, we make short passages between beaches, reefs, and scenic spots, and by evening we arrive at an anchorage.
In the evening, we dress up. We prepare to welcome the New Year almost among the last people on the planet. We board our dinghies and land at the Bora Bora Yacht Club, where a festive New Year dinner awaits us.
There will be a buffet prepared by a French chef. There will be Polynesian traditional dances. There will be our favorite game, Secret Santa, with the exchange of gifts and souvenirs.
Overnight on the yachts.
Day 7
01.01.2027
We sleep in after the New Year celebrations. We also give our local captains time to rest and recover. We say goodbye to beautiful Bora Bora, promising ourselves to return here someday.
Our sailing expedition through French Polynesia continues, and we move on. The captains take our vessels out into the ocean, and if the weather allows, we set the sails. We enjoy nature, the sun, the ocean, fishing, and swimming. We head toward Taha'a Island.
Upon arrival at the island, we continue for about an hour to the anchorage near Restaurant chez Louise, which serves traditional Polynesian cuisine.
Relaxation and rest. Sea. Sun. Snorkeling. Swimming. Sunbathing. In the evening, dinner. Sharing impressions and photos.
Day 8
02.01.2027
Full day on Taha'a. In the morning, without rushing, we have breakfast and go exploring the surroundings. Not far from us lies an amazing place, the famous coral gardens of Taha'a. We board our dinghies and spend a couple of hours exploring the underwater world of Oceania.
Then, as on previous island excursions, you can rent a quad bike, a car, go trekking through the island’s tropical jungles, visit a pearl farm, go to a botanical garden, or tour a vanilla plantation.
Taha'a, also known as the "Vanilla Island", lies in the same lagoon as Raiatea. The island covers an area of about 89 sq km, and its highest point is Mount Ohiri, 590 m, an ancient volcano whose numerous secondary cones form a deeply indented coastline.
The reef surrounding the island stretches for almost 160 km, forming more than 60 small motu islets in the northern and northeastern parts, on which several hotels are located. The main attraction of the island is its eight relatively isolated and very distinct villages, the main one being Patio.
Another traditional point of attraction is the numerous pearl farms, among which the most picturesque are the Vaipoe and Poerani farms in Haamene Bay and Motu in Faaha Teuri. In Polynesia, black pearls have always been synonymous with purity and magic, so it is no surprise that the Polynesian islands are now the leading exporters of black pearls in the world.
Alternatively, you can stay on the catamarans and, after plenty of swimming, return again to the coral paradise of Taha'a to take amazing photos surrounded by dozens of colorful fish.
By evening, we gather on the catamarans. Dinner. Evening socializing. Rest and deep sleep to the gentle rocking of the waves.
Those who wish can organize a farewell bonfire party late in the evening on a small islet near the coral river. There will be time to share impressions of the day and the Paganels' adventures as a whole.
Day 9
03.01.2027
We continue exploring Taha'a, focusing on its main treasure, snow-white beaches and the crystal-clear, gentle waters of the lagoon. One can indulge in carefree leisure, basking in the sun on the beach and swimming in the azure water endlessly.
Local beaches are free from crowds of large resorts and tightly closed private properties along the shore. In this freedom and slight wildness lies a special charm. The life of both the native islanders and visitors to Taha'a flows slowly and peacefully, as if everyone who comes here gains a secret knowledge that life and beauty are eternal, and that after one happily lived day, another, even happier, will surely follow.
We want to swim to our heart’s content and remember everything in advance. We make the final day unhurried, swimming and moving from one beach to another around Taha'a Island. The sailing part lasts 3 to 4 hours and is divided into 2 to 3 short passages.
In the evening, we return to the marina on Raiatea Island, where our journey began. Farewell dinner with the whole team at one of the local restaurants.
Day 10
04.01.2027
We have breakfast. We tidy up our catamarans. In the morning, by 9:00 AM, we leave the boats. Our journey comes to an end. We say goodbye to each other and to the captains. Tears of farewell to new and old friends. We bid farewell to beloved French Polynesia. Transfer to the airport, check-in for the local Air Tahiti Nui flight, and departure to Tahiti Island.
In the evening, departure home.
Please note that this itinerary is preliminary. Weather always has the final say. The route is planned to allow sufficient time at the end of the expedition in case of any delays related to weather conditions. If necessary, the expedition route may be changed by the captain or the group leader depending on external circumstances.
WHY WITH PAGANEL?
We are unique
For many years, we have been traveling the world to our small planet's most remote and unusual places. We do not use the services of domestic travel agencies. The trips we invent and carry out are always unique and have their unique zest, charm, and adventurous spirit.
Creation
The first thing that interests us is creativity in everything. During the expeditions, we shoot a lot of videos, take pictures, write stories, draw pictures. If you are interested in a creative approach to life and travel, then WELCOME... we are very happy to meet you!
Interest
By joining our team, you join a kind of club family, which already consists of several hundred people who are interested in discovering the world with us.
Since most of the expenses for organizing a trip – air tickets and travel documents for other modes of transportation, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. – are made by us in advance, long before the trip, the prepayment or payment for the trip is non-refundable in the event of cancellation.
Since most of the expenses for the organization of the trip are air tickets and travel documents for other types of transport, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. are not refundable in case of your cancellation of the trip. We simply have no way to return it.
Please note that this itinerary is tentative. The weather always has the last word. The itinerary is designed to allow sufficient time at the end of the Expedition in case of any weather-related delays. If necessary, the captain can change the expedition route depending on external conditions!
.png)