When people ask me how to get around French Polynesia, the honest answer is that the flights shape the whole trip, so it pays to understand the options early. Air Tahiti is the domestic airline, and the Air Tahiti Pass bundles its inter-island flights into named versions covering different island groups. I've used the pass to reach the close-in Society Islands and to make the longer push out to the Marquesas, and the planning is quite different for each. Here's how I weigh the choices. None of this replaces checking the current details, which can change.
Start with the Society Islands
For a first trip, the Society Islands — Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea and Taha'a — are the easiest to string together, sitting close enough that the hops are short. A pass built around this cluster usually covers them, though coverage varies and can change, so I confirm the current details with Air Tahiti. It's the option I recommend when someone wants a smooth introduction.
Reach further with the right pass
The Tuamotu atolls, the Marquesas and the Austral Islands sit much further out, and reaching them needs more time and the pass version that includes them. The flights are less frequent and the distances longer, so these archipelagos reward a slower trip. Routes and frequencies to the outer islands vary and can change, so I always check before planning around them.
Match the pass to your priorities
I choose the pass version by what I most want to do, whether that's lagoon time in the Societies or culture and landscape in the Marquesas. Because the named passes cover different clusters, the choice really comes down to your islands. Confirm current coverage and schedules with Air Tahiti at booking, since the specifics can change between seasons.
Frequently asked questions
Which pass covers Bora Bora?
Passes built around the Society Islands generally include Bora Bora, but coverage varies and can change. Confirm the current details with Air Tahiti when you book.
How hard is it to reach the Marquesas?
The Marquesas are a longer haul with less frequent flights, so they suit a slower, longer trip. Routes and schedules vary and can change, so check before planning around them.
Can I mix island groups on one pass?
Some pass versions span more than one cluster, but combinations vary and can change. I confirm exactly which islands are included with Air Tahiti before booking.
Planning a trip to French Polynesia? Tell us your islands and dates and we'll help you build the right Air Tahiti Pass flight pass and itinerary.