French Polynesia tourism expands with new flights and activities

French Polynesia is seeing increased accessibility and diverse tourism opportunities. New air services between Australia and Tahiti are scheduled to launch in September, complementing existing direct connections from New Zealand to facilitate deeper exploration of the region's five archipelagos.

Travelers can explore various island groups, including the Society Islands, the Tuamotus, the Marquesas, the Gambier, and the Austral islands. Activities in the region range from cultural visits to the Musée de Tahiti et des Îles to marine excursions such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and lagoon boat tours. During the migration period from July to November, whale and dolphin watching is also possible.

In the luxury cruise sector, PONANT EXPLORATIONS is operating two vessels in the region: the m/s Paul Gauguin, which sails year-round from Papeete, and Le Jacques Cartier, which is set to begin a new season of exploration-focused journeys in October 2026.