23 Locations
Superyacht Charter Gambier Islands
A luxury yacht charter is the best way to explore these seemingly untouched landscapes, showcasing a dazzling array of flora and fauna, impressive scenery, and hidden gems around every corner.
The Gambier Islands comprise 14 seemingly unspoiled islands dotted around a crystal-clear lagoon in French Polynesia, radiating all shades of blue. A luxury yacht charter is the best way to explore these pockets of paradise. Colorful fruit trees and a lush landscape are showcased, courtesy of their proximity to the Tropic of Capricorn and balmy tropical climate. These off-the-grid islands are a diver’s paradise, blooming with colorful coral reefs and eye-catching marine life. Keep an eye out for the protruding coral heads and many pearl farm buoys during your Gambier Islands yacht charter.
You can explore the largest of the Gambier Islands, Mangareva, and its capital, Rikitea. The stretch of the main road is lined with century-old oak trees, also called Koueriki, giving this quaint town a picturesque, charming feel. Rikitea is home to St. Michael’s Cathedral, the main attraction in the entire Gambier Island group. It is the largest and arguably the most beautiful church in the South Pacific.
The unique atmosphere of Taravai, Kukena, and Akamaru stands out from the turquoise waters, inviting you to explore their welcoming terrains. This trio of islands shares landscapes that showcase hills that beg to be explored. Their beaches act as the perfect lounging spot under swaying palm trees and, depending on the location, pine trees. After enjoying a late morning breakfast on the deck of your yacht, you can spend the afternoon exploring these different islands, which all offer a unique aesthetic, from strolling the charming, manicured village of Akamaru to enjoying unbeatable sunsets on the western side of Taravai at the two uninhabited bays, Baie Anganui and Baie Onemea.
For charterers seeking adventure ashore, you may find a hike up Mount Duff will do the trick. It is the highest peak in the Gambier Islands, with an average hike of 1.5 hours to reach the summit. We promise the views at the top are worth the trek. If you’re keener to lay out and lounge on the sands of the most beautiful beach in the Gambiers, we recommend you head to Tai O Ra’a Beach, located on the north side of Aukena. The soft white sand and peaceful, quiet atmosphere will have you in complete serenity.
Finally, take an afternoon to tour the Robert Wan Pearl Farm, a fascinating and educating experience where you can learn about this bustling industry and delicate process that is so sacred to the Gambiers.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking Gambier Islands with our exclusive Tahiti yacht charter service. The Gambier Islands, nestled within French Polynesia’s radiant Society Islands, offer a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural delights. Sail across the azure waters, exploring the Leeward Islands and beyond aboard our luxurious charter yachts. Dive into the rich history of the region as you visit archaeological sites and quaint villages, where bamboo huts dot the landscape. Spend tranquil nights anchored in the serene Cook Bay or Opunohu Bay, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle lapping of the shallow lagoon. Experienced sailors can navigate the pristine waters, while novice adventurers can relax and indulge in fine dining onboard. Take in the awe-inspiring scenery of vertical peaks and pristine beaches, kayaking through hidden coves and secluded bays. With Air Tahiti flights conveniently connecting the main islands, you can easily extend your voyage to include the Marquesas Islands and other remote gems of French Polynesia. Whether you choose to explore Tahiti’s vibrant culture or simply unwind in nature’s embrace, a Gambier Islands charter promises an unforgettable journey filled with discovery and relaxation. So, set sail, soak in the French charm, and cruise through paradise with our expert skipper at the helm.
If you want to experience a luxury vacation aboard a private yacht in the Gambier Islands, French Polynesia, contact Northrop & Johnson. As a leading yacht brokerage, we excel at creating incredible vacations aboard some of the world’s finest vessels. We have access to a superb selection of yachts for charter in the Gambier Islands, including motor yachts, sailing yachts, expedition vessels, and catamarans. Contact our Gambier Islands yacht brokers or browse our luxury crewed boats for charter.
The Gambier Islands are part of French Polynesia, which is an overseas collectivity of France in the South Pacific Ocean. Specifically, the Gambier Islands are located in the southeastern part of French Polynesia and are a group of volcanic islands and atolls, with Mangareva being the largest and most populous island in the Gambier archipelago. The Gambier Islands are the most remote archipelago of French Polynesia.
Geographically, the Gambier Islands are approximately 1,600 kilometers (about 1,000 miles) southeast of Tahiti, the capital of French Polynesia, and are known for their stunning natural beauty, rich history, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes. The Gambier Islands offer a unique blend of Polynesian culture and French influence, with a tranquil and picturesque environment, making them an ideal location for those seeking adventure, exploration, and relaxation in a paradise setting. The archipelago is a haven for marine life, scuba diving, snorkeling, and sailing, surrounded by coral reefs and blue lagoons, providing a perfect backdrop for a luxury yacht charter experience.
Yacht charters in the Gambier Islands with Northrop & Johnson start from US$50,000 per week and rise to over a million for the world’s most luxurious superyachts. Contact the French Polynesia charter broker at Northrop & Johnson if you want to book a luxury yacht charter in the Gambier Islands.
The Gambier Islands generally have a tropical maritime climate characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year.
Temperature
Temperatures in the Gambier Islands typically range from around 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) year-round, providing a consistently warm and inviting climate. There is not much variation in temperature between the two seasons due to the islands’ proximity to the equator, making them an ideal location for those seeking a tropical paradise with beautiful islands and turquoise waters. The South Pacific setting of the Gambier Islands ensures a perfect backdrop for various activities such as sailing, snorkeling, and enjoying the lush landscapes and abundant marine life.
Rainfall
Rainfall in the Gambier Islands is evenly distributed throughout the year, with some variations leading to slightly wetter and drier periods. The wettest months typically range from December to March, aligning with the Southern Hemisphere’s summer and the wet season. Despite this, rain showers can occur at any time due to the islands’ tropical climate, ensuring the lush landscapes and beautiful islands remain vibrant and teeming with abundant marine life. This climate contributes to the Gambier Islands being an ideal location for yacht chartering exploring the turquoise waters and coral reefs.
Humidity
Humidity levels are generally high in the Gambier Islands, particularly during the wet season. The combination of warm temperatures and high humidity can make the climate feel quite hot and sticky at times, emphasizing the islands’ tropical ambiance. This high humidity, coupled with the beautiful islands, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes, contributes to the unique environment that makes the Gambier Islands a distinctive destination within French Polynesia in the South Pacific Ocean.
Winds
The islands may experience occasional strong winds, especially during storms or the cyclone season. However, the Gambier Islands are relatively sheltered, offering a degree of protection compared to other areas in French Polynesia. This relative shelter contributes to the islands’ allure as a yacht charter destination in the South Pacific Ocean, providing sailors and visitors with a somewhat calmer and more stable environment, even while allowing for the exciting possibility of sailing and exploring the beautiful islands, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes that define this tropical paradise.
The Gambier Islands feature two seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The optimal period for embarking on a luxury yacht charter in the Gambier Islands aligns with the drier and cooler months, typically coinciding with the Southern Hemisphere’s winter and early spring, spanning from May to October. Additionally, from June to October, the islands become a prime spot for whale watching, as this timeframe marks the annual migration of humpback whales, adding a unique adventure to the yacht charter experience in this South Pacific paradise.
The Gambier Islands are part of French Polynesia, and, as such, the currency is the French Pacific Franc (XPF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
The main airport is Totegegie Airport on the island of Totegegie. When you charter a luxury yacht with Northrop & Johnson, our charter experts will help arrange transportation to and from your boat.
Yes, the exceptional weather conditions, outstanding underwater visibility, and abundant marine life make the Gambier Islands an idyllic spot for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Your private yacht’s captain and crew are well-equipped to identify the premier diving and snorkeling destinations within this beautiful archipelago, ensuring you anchor at the most spectacular spots during your yacht charter journey in this South Pacific paradise.
The official language is French, however, English is widely spoken, especially at larger hotels, resorts, spas, shops, and restaurants.
The local Polynesian cuisine in the Gambier Islands uniquely mirrors the islands’ distinct geography and rich history. Traditional culinary creations leverage locally sourced produce and freshly harvested seafood, such as mahi mahi and tuna, from the surrounding Pacific Ocean. Culinary highlights include poisson cru, emblematic of French Polynesia’s national cuisine, featuring raw fish delicately marinated in lime juice and coconut milk. Additionally, the islands’ culinary repertoire is renowned for its sumptuous coconut-based desserts, offering a taste of authentic Polynesian culture and French influence in every bite.
