Elite Traveler Fall 2019

INSPIRE TOP YACHT ITINERARIES

FOR THE FAMILY SURI IN FRENCH POLYNESIA

With more than 100 islands dotted across 1,240 miles of ocean, the best way to visit French Polynesia is by yacht. SuRi is a fine vessel for gliding through the aquamarine waters of the South Pacific, and there is something to suit even the most devoted ocean enthusiast on board: extensive dive equipment, wakeboards, Zapata hoverboards, surfboards, kayaks, rowboats, Seabob underwater scooters, an inflatable water slide and gear for trawling, jigging and big- game fishing. There’s a two-person seaplane and a five-person helicopter on board, should you prefer to explore from the skies. The adventure begins at the island of Moorea: Characterized by jagged volcanic peaks, lush rain forest and sandy beaches, it is home to the sheltered anchorage of Opunohu Bay. At the head of the bay, there is a track to an exceptional viewpoint that overlooks the Pacific; from there, you can hike through the rain forest or scooter through pineapple plantations and local farms. A short tender ride from the anchorage is a special spot for feeding stingrays in the wild (not to be missed), or you can view the kite surfers at Les Tipaniers (and join in for a lesson). Travel downwind to Huahine Island to marvel at humpback whales nursing their young — you can even snorkel among these gentle giants. Launch one of her tenders to access the southern anchorage of Parea and dock alongside the most serene turquoise blue waters. Visit the local pearl farm near Port Bourayne, or take a trip to see the Sacred Blue-Eyed Eels. The main town of Fare is a seafood lover’s dream: full of fresh fish, crabs and lobster. Some of the best traditional tattoo artists reside here, should you want a permanent and authentic memento of your trip. Following a short sail across to Raiatéa into another pristine and wonderfully calm lagoon, head up the Faaora River in a kayak to visit the most sacred marae (Maori meeting grounds) in French Polynesia. Then hike the river trails of the three cascades, buy some local carvings from the township of Utoroa or take a horseback tour. The lagoon is home to the Island of Tahaa (also known as vanilla island because of the many plantations — the sweet scent fills the air). Tour the vanilla plantations on a 4x4 or quad bike, following by a chilled picnic on the beach. Sail on to Bora Bora for more water adventures: catamaran sailing, diving with lemon sharks and encounters with manta rays, or head onto solid ground to shop for pearl jewelry. From $350,000 per week. Contact Jackie Guenther, charter fleet manager, jackie@yacht-zoo.com, +1 954 767 1035, yacht-zoo.com LOA 211 ft Number of guests 12 in 7 cabins Crew 20 Builder Halter Marine Year of build 1978/2016 Outstanding features Extensive water toys and tenders

Photo Christopher Scholey