The journey from Papeete to Bora Bora involves navigating a significant stretch of the Pacific Ocean. Tahiti’s Faa’a International Airport (PPT) serves as the arrival point for nearly all international travelers, but Bora Bora lies approximately 160 miles to the northwest. Since the islands are separated by open water, standard ferry travel is lengthy, making specialized air transport the established method for inter-island movement.
Air Travel Logistics
The flight from Papeete is necessary for most visitors. This domestic route is primarily served by Air Tahiti, the regional airline, departing from Faa’a International Airport (PPT). The destination is Bora Bora’s Motu Mute Airport (BOB), situated on a small outer islet. The short flight usually takes about 50 minutes.
Purchasing the flight involves choosing between individual, one-way fares and the Air Tahiti Multi-Island Pass system. Single tickets for the Papeete to Bora Bora route can be expensive when purchased separately. The Multi-Island Pass, such as the Bora Bora Pass, bundles flights to several islands, often resulting in a substantial cost reduction for tourists visiting multiple destinations.
These passes come with specific conditions, including a maximum validity of 28 days from the first flight. The itinerary must be planned upfront, requiring careful sequencing of the islands. The pass generally prohibits returning to an island already visited. Planning in advance is recommended, as the number of seats allocated to pass holders can be limited, particularly during high season.
The inter-island flight is typically flown on a turboprop aircraft, which provides large windows and low-altitude views. This route is known for its scenic value, offering aerial perspectives of the surrounding atolls. Upon approach, passengers see the famous turquoise lagoon of Bora Bora.
Completing the Journey and Essential Planning
Landing at Bora Bora Motu Mute Airport (BOB) requires a mandatory boat transfer to reach the main island or your resort. The airport is located on a motu, a small, isolated islet with no road connection to the main island. After collecting luggage, travelers must proceed directly to the airport’s dock for the final transfer.
Two options exist for this water transfer: the free public shuttle boat and private resort transfers. Air Tahiti provides a complimentary shuttle, often called the Navette, which transports passengers to the main village dock at Vaitape. This trip across the lagoon takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Many resorts operate private water taxis or boats, picking up guests directly from the airport dock. These transfers take guests straight to the resort’s private pier, bypassing the Vaitape dock. This option is typically arranged and paid for separately through the accommodation. Travelers should confirm and book their required transfer service with their resort before arrival.
Travelers must pay close attention to the regional airline’s baggage policies, which are often more restrictive than international limits. Standard Air Tahiti fares allow for one checked bag up to 23 kilograms. However, those traveling with a Multi-Island Pass may have a reduced allowance, sometimes as low as 9 kilograms. Carry-on luggage is strictly limited to 5 kilograms and is often weighed at check-in.