Crystal-clear lagoon and leaning palm trees on a sunny tropical beach in Raiatea, French Polynesia.

Raiatea, French Polynesia

Cruises to Raiatea, French Polynesia

View cruises

Things to do in Raiatea

Raiatea offers an authentic glimpse into the heart of Polynesia, where history, culture and natural beauty come together. Explore ancient temples, cruise the tranquil lagoon and experience the island’s quiet charm that feels both grounding and unforgettable.

Explore things to do in Raiatea
01 / 04
  • Stone courtyard of Taputapuātea Marae in Raiatea, surrounded by large trees and overlooking the blue South Pacific.

    Visit the Taputapuatea Marae —Raiatea’s most famous landmark.

  • Aerial view of Taha’a in French Polynesia, showing a coastal road lined with palm trees, turquoise lagoon and distant green mountains.

    Board a boat for a scenic ride to Taha'a, passing a pristine blue lagoon and islets on the way to the mainland.

  • Close-up of green vanilla pods growing on a vine at a plantation in Taha’a, surrounded by vibrant tropical foliage.

    Set out on a walk to reach the vanilla plantation that makes Taha'a so famous.

  • Aerial view of Raiatea’s lagoon showing deep blue ocean, turquoise shallows and green mountains under a bright tropical sky.

    Board a covered motorized catamaran for an exciting lagoon cruise across the turquoise lagoons of this majestic island once called “HAVAIKI” by the original Polynesian settlers.

01 / 04

Shore excursions to explore in Raiatea

Raiatea’s shore excursions invite you to experience the island’s natural beauty and cultural depth at an easygoing pace. Whether on land or water, every outing captures the spirit and authenticity that make this island so special.

01 / 06
  • Underwater view of colorful butterflyfish swimming over coral reefs in Taha’a’s lagoon, with blue sky and island visible above the surface.

    Tahaa Coral Gardens Drift Snorkel

    Float through clear, shallow waters filled with colorful coral and tropical fish. After a short boat ride from the main island, you’ll drift gently along the reef near a small motu, surrounded by the calm beauty and vibrant marine life that make this spot one of Raiatea’s most memorable experiences.

    Learn More
  • Shallow turquoise lagoon with crystal reflections, backed by green mountains and palm-fringed shores on Raiatea.

    Easy Raiatea

    Set out across Raiatea’s calm lagoon to take in sweeping views of emerald peaks and turquoise waters. Along the way, enjoy peaceful moments surrounded by nature before stepping ashore to explore the island’s historic sites and lush landscapes.

    Learn More
  • Tranquil river surrounded by dense tropical vegetation and palm trees, with forested hills and blue sky in the background on Raiatea Island.

    Kayak the Faaroa River

    Journey along a peaceful river surrounded by dense tropical foliage and the sounds of island wildlife. As you move through calm waters, you’ll discover Raiatea’s lush interior from a new perspective—where nature, history and serenity come together in one unforgettable experience.

    Learn More
  • Wooden thatched-roof hut on stilts over clear turquoise water, with Raiatea’s green mountains and cloudy sky in the background.

    Best of Raiatea: Land & Sea of Taha’a

    This excursion begins with a scenic boat ride across the tranquil lagoon, followed by an off-road drive through lush valleys and rainforest. You’ll stop at a hillside viewpoint, learn about vanilla and pearl farming and explore vibrant coral gardens on a snorkeling stop — blending nature, culture and island charm into one adventure.

    Learn More
  • Aerial view of Raiatea’s coastline showing coral reefs, turquoise shallows and lush green landscape bordered by a winding road.

    Raiatea Reef Discovery

    Set out on a shaded catamaran across the calm lagoon northwest of the island, where a naturalist guide introduces you to vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish. With easy water access, this relaxed adventure offers a peaceful way to experience the island’s spectacular underwater world.

    Learn More
  • Aerial view of Taha’a’s barrier reef curving through turquoise and deep blue waters with small palm-covered islets scattered beyond.

    Local Connections: A Taste of Vanilla & Tahaa Motu Picnic

    Travel across the turquoise lagoon to a nearby island to learn how vanilla is grown and harvested. Then relax on a peaceful motu, where you can swim, enjoy the clear water and share a fresh picnic surrounded by stunning island views.

    Learn More
01 / 06
Explore all shore excursions

Explore itineraries with cruises to Raiatea

Cruise itineraries to Raiatea reveal one of French Polynesia’s most culturally rich and naturally stunning destinations. Often called the “sacred island,” Raiatea offers a peaceful escape with lush valleys, calm lagoons and deep historical significance. Many Tahiti and South Pacific cruise itineraries include this hidden gem—perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and authentic Polynesian heritage.

01 / 06
view Hawaii

39-Day Hawaii, Tahiti & South Pacific Crossing

View cruise
Circle Pacific Liner - Sydney to Tokyo

57-Day Circle Pacific Liner - Sydney to Tokyo

View cruise
Suva view of water

93-Day Circle Pacific - Roundtrip Auckland

View cruise

Discover Raiatea on your next cruise

Discover the spirit of Polynesia on your next cruise to Raiatea, an island known for its quiet beauty and cultural depth. Surrounded by turquoise lagoons and lush mountains, it offers a serene escape from the everyday. Whether you’re exploring its sacred sites or simply taking in the views, Raiatea captures the true essence of the South Pacific.

Cruises to Raiatea
Steep, green mountain peak rising sharply from dense tropical forest with tall palm trees and mist drifting across the slopes.

Towering above lush valleys, Raiatea’s sacred Mount Temehani stands shrouded in mist and legend.

Small rainforest waterfall cascading over dark rocks, framed by lush green foliage and warm sunlight filtering through the trees.

Delicate streams of water cascade down a dark rocky cliff face into a tranquil pool below, framed by lush green foliage and dappled sunlight filtering through the forest canopy above.

a smiling couple stands at the railing of a Princess® cruise ship, enjoying the open sea and blue sky.

A couple stands together on the wooden deck of a Princess® cruise ship, gazing out at the open sea beneath a bright blue sky dotted with clouds.

Front-facing view of a Princess® cruise ship sailing through calm ocean waters.

Cut through the world’s waterways and experience the planet’s most exciting coastlines from a sea-side perspective; our fleet is your luxury-and-entertainment-packed transport to adventure.

Discover Our Ships

Step aboard any Princess® ship and discover your new favorite way to travel. Each vessel is a floating playground of flavor, comfort and top-deck experiences. Enjoy freshly prepared local dishes, Broadway-caliber entertainment, oceanview fitness and wellness studios, family programming and beds so comfortable they’ve won awards. 


No two ships are identical, but they all share one mission: turn your vacation into a standing ovation.

Explore ships visiting this port

Cruises to Raiatea FAQs

*The port location is subject to change. Please check itinerary details after you book for more information.

Let Princess get you there with travel, airfare & hotels

01 / 03
  • Princess EZair

    Princess EZAir® Flights

    Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time, and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair® flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airline, allow you to book early and pay later with no penalty, and protect you if your flight is late or canceled. Princess EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages. Please note: Princess EZair® is only available in certain markets.

    Learn more about Princess EZAir
  • airplane to ship transfer

    Airplane to Ship Transfer

    Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

    Learn more about transfers
  • Cruise Plus hotel packages

    Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

    Extend your cruise vacation and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the representative’s services.

    View Cruise Plus Hotel Packages
01 / 03

Cruise deals and promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you can win prizes.

View all deals and promotions
Aerial view of a large cruise ship's top deck, featuring multiple pool areas, lounge chairs, and glass-domed structures, sailing through deep blue ocean waters.

Escape to the open sea with Princess Cruises.

A couple stands together on the deck of a cruise ship, smiling as they enjoy the ocean view under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.

You may also like

Hawaii view

Hawaii cruises

Set sail on a Hawaii cruise with Princess. Explore four iconic islands, from the lush rainforest of Kauai to the famous beaches of Oahu and much more.

LEARN MORE
panama

Panama Canal cruises

Experience a Panama Canal cruise with Princess. Stroll the cobbled streets of colonial towns and journey through the fabled Panama Canal. Book now!

LEARN MORE
South Pacific Cruises

South Pacific cruises

On South Pacific cruises you’ll explore the paradise, cultures and unspoiled beaches of Tahiti, French Polynesia, Fiji & other South Pacific islands.

LEARN MORE
01 / 06