Exploring Moorea with the Snorkeling & Sailing on the Catamaran Taboo
If you’re looking for a way to see Moorea’s stunning waters without the crowds, this half-day snorkeling and sailing tour aboard the Catamaran Taboo offers a relaxed, authentic peek into the island’s marine world. With a solid reputation backed by over 500 reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, it’s clear many travelers find this trip memorable.
What sets this experience apart? First, the small-group size ensures you’re not crowded or rushed, and the knowledgeable guides add a layer of insight that makes each snorkeling stop more meaningful. Second, the combination of sailing, snorkeling, and delicious drinks — including fruit juice and mai tais — makes for a laid-back day on the water.
One thing to keep in mind is the weather dependency. As with any ocean activity, rough conditions can lead to cancellations or adjustments. That said, for those who love marine life and a touch of adventure, this tour hits the sweet spot for genuine Moorea magic. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to explore the island’s underwater beauty in an intimate setting.
Key Points
- Small-group experience with a maximum of 8 travelers ensures personalized attention
- Multiple snorkeling stops with chances to see sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish
- Expert guides and friendly crew enhance safety and knowledge
- Relaxed sailing pace with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and socialize
- Includes transfers from your Moorea hotel, adding to the convenience
- Excellent reviews highlight the professionalism and hospitality of the guides
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Moorea
Why This Tour Is a Great Choice
This tour offers a balanced mix of sailing, snorkeling, and relaxation. We loved how it combines adventure with comfort, especially with the small group that feels more like a private outing. The boat, called the Taboo, is described as the perfect vessel for small groups, providing ample space to lounge and enjoy the views. The crew’s friendly and informative approach shines through in reviews, with mentions of guides like Louis and Max making the experience both educational and fun.
Pricing at $157.46 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the all-inclusive aspect — transfers, snorkeling gear, drinks, and fruits — the value becomes clearer. You’re paying for not just the activity but the ease of door-to-door service and the chance to avoid the hassle of organizing transportation.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Sailing Lagoon: The tour starts with a sail into Moorea’s protected waters, giving passengers a chance to enjoy the calm, scenic lagoon. This is not just a ride but a chance to soak in the peaceful, postcard-worthy views of the island’s coastline. According to reviews, the early departure allows for a tranquil experience before crowds arrive, which many travelers appreciate.
Stop at Pnohu Bay: The first snorkeling spot is at Pnohu Bay, known for its diverse marine life and beautiful scenery. Visitors often rave about seeing sea turtles, tropical fish, and sometimes even sharks and rays, thanks to the protected reef ecosystem. One reviewer said, “The scenery was beautiful, and we saw sea turtles and swam with blacktip sharks, stingrays, and a lot of colorful fish.” It’s a highlight for snorkelers eager to see marine creatures in their natural habitat.
Underwater Tiki Site: A unique feature of the tour is the visit to an underwater tiki statues site. While some reviews mention the difficulty in spotting all tiki statues, many appreciate the innovative underwater art and coral gardens. This adds an element of fun and discovery to the snorkeling experience.
Wildlife Encounters: Multiple reviews mention seeing blacktip sharks, stingrays, and even dolphins, which adds excitement to the trip. The guides are praised for their knowledgeability and ability to make snorkeling safe and rewarding, especially for those who may feel nervous around sharks or rays.
The Experience Onboard
Passengers consistently highlight the comfortable sailing boat, the friendly crew, and the delicious refreshments. The fruit juices and mai tais are served at various points, giving you a chance to relax while taking in the stunning scenery. Some reviews mention the nice music and overall relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after snorkeling.
The small group size — often just 6 to 8 people — means you get plenty of time at each stop and personalized guidance. Guides like Mai and Leo are praised for their enthusiasm, professionalism, and ability to share interesting facts about Moorea’s marine life and culture.
Practical Details
The tour lasts approximately four hours, so it fits well into a morning schedule, leaving you plenty of time to explore other parts of Moorea afterwards. The round-trip transfers are included, which is a big plus in terms of convenience and cost-saving. The booking process is straightforward, with confirmation within 48 hours and the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
Group size is limited to 8 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate. That means less waiting, more snorkeling, and better opportunities to chat with guides and fellow travelers. Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult, making this suitable for families or small groups.
You can also read our reviews of more sailing experiences in Moorea
What Travelers Are Saying
The reviews are almost unanimously glowing, with many describing the trip as “unforgettable” or “the highlight of their Moorea stay.” One frequent compliment is about the knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the marine environment and local culture.
For example, one reviewer said, “Our guides Louis and Max were amazing and very knowledgeable,” and added that they swam with sharks and rays comfortably thanks to the guides’ help. Another shared, “The boat had shelter for those who didn’t want to be in the sun, and we enjoyed the beautiful scenery and good company.”
A few travelers mentioned rough weather or poor conditions that led to cancellations or less viewable snorkeling—these are natural risks with ocean activities. However, most felt the safety measures and communication were excellent, and many appreciated the early departure for calmer waters.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who prioritize personalized service and marine wildlife encounters. It’s perfect for those who want a more relaxed, intimate adventure rather than a large, crowded boat ride.
If you’re interested in snorkeling with sharks and rays, this tour delivers that in a friendly, safe environment. It also appeals to those wanting a scenic sailing with plenty of time to enjoy the views and good company.
However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more structured, less flexible schedule, you might want to prepare accordingly or consider other options. And always remember, weather can influence the experience, so keep a flexible mindset.
The Sum Up
This moorea snorkeling and sailing tour aboard the Catamaran Taboo offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of the island’s underwater beauty combined with a leisurely sailing experience. The small group size, friendly guides, and high praise from past travelers make it a standout choice for those wanting a personal touch and genuine marine encounters.
The value is solid, given the all-inclusive nature—transfers, gear, drinks, and snacks are part of the experience. It’s especially good for travelers who love marine life, small-group adventures, and relaxing on the water. While weather can affect the day, the overall feedback indicates a high-quality, memorable experience that’s worth considering during your time in Moorea.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a manageable morning activity that leaves plenty of time for other adventures.
Are transportation and transfers included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from your Moorea hotel are part of the package, adding convenience and reducing planning stress.
What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and plenty of time at each snorkeling spot.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear and fruit are included, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer specific equipment.
Can children participate?
Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for small families.
What kind of marine life will I see?
Guests often see sea turtles, colorful fish, stingrays, blacktip sharks, and even dolphins in the protected waters of Moorea.
How’s the weather impact?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are too rough, it might be canceled or modified, but the operator offers full refunds or rescheduling options.
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling requires comfort in the water, guides are friendly and professional, and many travelers say they felt safe, even if they aren’t confident swimmers.
In the end, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy Moorea’s underwater treasures in a relaxed setting, this tour offers a blend of fun, comfort, and authentic exploration that many travelers cherish.
