Cruises visiting Fakarava, Tuamotu Islands (French Polynesia)
Points Of Interest
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
The Tuamotus are a unique string of coral ringlets that form protective
circles around interior lagoons, allowing for the proliferation of rare
species of both plant and marine life. Their ecosystems are so pristine
that UNESCO designated the atoll of Fakarava a Biosphere Reserve.
Snorkel or drift-dive the Garuae Pass to see some of the world’s most
beautiful coral formations. Snorkeling and diving excursions are
available from The Gauguin.
Rotoava
One of the liveliest towns in the Tuamotus, Rotoava, on the northern
coast of Fakarava, is also home to most of this atoll’s population. You
can easily explore it on foot or by bicycle. Here, you’ll find two
churches, a few shops, the town hall, and the village school.
Phare de Topaka
Just outside of town, on a spit of land jutting into the ocean, stands
this unique stone lighthouse, shaped like a pyramid. Although no longer
operational, it is distinctive as one of the oldest lighthouses in
French Polynesia. The lighthouse lies on a dirt track reached from PK3.1
off the road to the airport. “Rue Flosse” Nicknamed for former French
Polynesian President Gaston Flosse, this 18-mile stretch of roadway
parallels the coast and passes some beautiful beaches. Rent a bicycle
and go exploring!
Tetamanu
Located at the southern tip of the atoll, Tetamanu, now a tiny village,
was once the capital of the Tuamotus. Built in 1874, the remarkable
Catholic church here is the oldest in the archipelago and was built by
European missionaries entirely of coral. Tetamanu is also the gateway to
Fakarava’s other iconic pass, Tumakohua Pass. The south pass is
accessible only by boat.
St. John of the Cross Catholic Church
Located off the main road 1km south of the wharf, this lovely
white-washed church is worth pulling your bicycle over to check out.
It’s roof and shutters are painted a vivid red and if you peek inside
you’ll see a lovely lagoon-blue vaulted ceiling adorned with coral and
shells. Not the oldest church on Fakarava (the oldest is in the village
of Tetamanu) its cheerful interior is full of music and locals on Sunday
mornings.
Local Information
Population: 806 (2012)
Language: French, Paumotu
Currency: XPF
Scheduled Docking Location: Anchored, tender to the pier in the village of Rotoava.
Shopping: Local vendors are set up on the pier upon the ship’s arrival.
Banks / ATMs: There is no bank on Fakarava, but there is an ATM just outside the post office.
Internet/Wi-Fi: Internet is available at the tourism office.
Post Office: The Rotoava post office is located just up the road from the pier. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am to 11:30am.
Airport Transportation: The airport is located at the north end of the island; daily flights to Papeete are available.
Taxis: 1 available at the pier, Fakarava Yacht Services: +689 (87) 75-34-84
Bicycling: Rental available on the pier, Fakarava Yacht Services: +689 (87) 75-34-84
Port Agent Contact:
City Hall: +689 (40) 93-40-40