Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui’s New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525

Post originally Published November 17, 2023 || Last Updated November 18, 2023

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Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - Explore French Polynesia's Stunning Islands for a Fraction of the Price


Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui’s New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525

French Polynesia is famous for its stunning islands surrounded by bright turquoise lagoons, with Bora Bora, Tahiti, and Moorea being the most well-known. These picture-perfect South Pacific gems have long been considered an ultra-luxury destination, with high price tags to match. Getting there usually requires booking expensive flights and hotels.

But Air Tahiti Nui's new Explorer Pass is a game-changer, offering the chance to island hop Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, and more for just $1,525 for a full year of unlimited travel. This gives you the flexibility to explore these exotic islands for a fraction of what it would normally cost.
With the pass, you can stay as long as you want on any island. Slow down, soak up the sun, and dive into the underwater world around you. Wander around the black sand beaches, trek through lush green interiors, and experience the Polynesian culture.

On Huahine, rent a scooter and discover ancient Maeva village ruins, sacred blue-eyed eels, and vanishing ancient marae temples. On Moorea, hike to scenic Belvedere Lookout, sample pineapple plantations, or snorkel with blacktip reef sharks and stingrays. Of course, you can always just lounge under a palm tree with a good book too.
There are so many Instagram-worthy spots to capture, like the fluorescent Mt. Otemanu overlook on Bora Bora, the iconic overwater bungalows, or the first morning light hitting the Needle Rock on Huahine. With this pass, you have the flexibility to slow travel at your own pace across all the islands you want to visit.
Having a full year to explore gives you the chance to experience the different seasons in French Polynesia too. The peak tourist season runs July to October, while November to March brings hot and humid weather perfect for water activities. There are cultural festivals year-round, so no matter when you go, you'll get a taste of Polynesian traditions.

What else is in this post?

  1. Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - Explore French Polynesia's Stunning Islands for a Fraction of the Price
  2. Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - How Air Tahiti Nui's Flight Pass Works - The Details You Need to Know
  3. Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - Planning Your Island Hopping Itinerary Just Got Easier
  4. Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - Air Tahiti Nui Opens Doors to Bora Bora, Huahine, Moorea and More
  5. Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - Travel Light with Air Tahiti Nui's Generous Baggage Allowance
  6. Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - Indulge in French Polynesia's Rich Culture and Cuisine
  7. Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - When to Go: Pick the Best Time to Visit French Polynesia's Islands
  8. Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - Extend Your Trip Beyond the Islands with Air Tahiti Nui's Partners

Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - How Air Tahiti Nui's Flight Pass Works - The Details You Need to Know


Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui’s New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525

The pass costs just $1,525 USD and is valid for a full year from when you first board Air Tahiti Nui. You can take as many flights as you want during that year to any of Air Tahiti Nui's destinations, which include Papeete, Bora Bora, Huahine, Tahiti Iti, Raiatea, and Moorea.

The basics are pretty simple - you book just like any regular ticket through Air Tahiti Nui's website or app. You can reserve seats, check-in online, and even select advanced seat assignments. The Explorer Pass covers the base fare only, so you'll still need to pay any applicable taxes and fees. You can purchase add-ons like checked baggage or onboard meals too.
Importantly, the pass is non-transferrable and valid for the pass holder only. You'll need to show valid photo ID matching the booking when you check-in. The pass holder must be present for all flights.

You can book one-way, round-trip, or multi-city itineraries. There are no blackout dates, so peak seasons are wide open. However, flights do still sell out, so it's best to book early during busy tourist seasons.

The Explorer Pass uses a fixed fare class, so you can't use miles to upgrade to business class. But it's still an unbeatable deal for economy seats. With flights starting around just $100 one-way, you'd easily recoup the pass cost in a single round-trip.

By removing the costly barriers of flights between islands, the Explorer Pass lets you fully immerse in French Polynesia at your own pace. Slow travel is the best way to do islands like Bora Bora justice.

Others who've used the pass recommend taking your time and mixing longer stays with quick hops. For example, you could spend a week beach-hopping around Tahiti, then jump over to Moorea for a few days of relaxation. With a whole year, you can plan return trips to your favorite spots too.

The unlimited flights allow you to be spontaneous and go with the flow. Travelers say the pass gave them flexibility to change plans on a whim, without worrying about expensive last-minute fares. That kind of freedom really lets you make the most of the islands.

Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - Planning Your Island Hopping Itinerary Just Got Easier


Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui’s New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525

With Air Tahiti Nui's Explorer Pass, planning your French Polynesia island hopping adventure just got a whole lot easier. Having that full year of unlimited flights between islands is a total game changer that opens up your options dramatically. You can craft an itinerary at your own pace, free of worrying about costly plane tickets down the road.
For first timers to French Polynesia, the flexibility of the pass lets you start with the essentials then add on more from there. Most travelers recommend spending those initial days on Tahiti touring Papeete and experiencing island culture and cuisine. From there, a quick hop over to Bora Bora is a must to witness those stunning lagoons. After checking those bucket list boxes, the rest of your timeframe is open to exploring more remote islands like Huahine, Raiatea, and Tahaa.

Veteran Tahiti travelers praise how the pass lets them revisit favorite spots at will. For instance, you could split time between lively Moorea and peaceful Huahine. With unlimited flights, you don't have to cram everything into one short trip. Hop back anytime throughout the year as you please.
The pass also makes multi-destination trips around French Polynesia much simpler to plan. You can easily add in a side adventure to the Marquesas Islands, an area often skipped by tourists due to flight costs. Or explore the coral atolls of the Tuamotu Islands, such as Fakarava, an under-the-radar diver's paradise.

Got a rough idea of where you want to go but don't want an strict schedule? The Explorer Pass is perfect for playing it by ear. Head to Bora Bora first as planned, then decide from there where to go next. With all flights covered, you have the flexibility to be spontaneous in the moment.

Saving money while island hopping will also be effortless with the pass. Searching for budget flights and Airbnbs at multiple stops takes a ton of time and effort normally. But the prep work is minimized with unlimited free flights already handled. The money you save on airfare can be put towards splurging on island experiences, from overwater bungalow resorts to a private boat cruise around the lagoon.
For visitors short on vacation time, the pass provides a chance to minimize travel days and maximize time on the islands. You could fly into Papeete, make quick hops between 2 or 3 islands over a week, then fly home directly from Bora Bora. That cuts out wasted transit time on both ends of your trip.

Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - Air Tahiti Nui Opens Doors to Bora Bora, Huahine, Moorea and More


Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui’s New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525

With Air Tahiti Nui’s Explorer Pass, the doors to French Polynesia’s most idyllic islands are flung wide open. The unlimited flights allow you to easily reach renowned spots like Bora Bora and Moorea, along with lesser-known gems like Huahine. Without the pass, the high cost of flights would make visiting more than one island difficult.

Bora Bora is undoubtedly the superstar, famous for its bright turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef circling the entire island. Here you’ll find those iconic overwater bungalows that every traveler dreams of staying in at least once. While undeniably touristy, Bora Bora oozes natural beauty, especially when viewed from a hike high above to Mount Otemanu. Don’t miss swimming with stingrays and sharks on a lagoon excursion.
Huahine could not be more different. Largely overlooked by mass tourism, Huahine moves at a relaxed pace. Its sparse beaches and hilly interior covered in dense jungle foliage exude a raw natural vibe. Rent a Polynesian canoe on Maeva lagoon, visit ancient marae temples, and observe sacred blue-eyed eels gliding through inland lakes. Huahine provides an authentic look at traditional Polynesian life and culture.
Moorea classics like climbing Magic Mountain and sampling tropical fruit at the Pihaena Lodge should not be missed. But do spend time circling the island by car, pulling over at your own pace to admire stunning lookouts around every turn. Belvedere Lookout showcases the best panorama over Cook’s Bay and the towering pinnacles within. Kayaking with stingrays in the limpid Opunohu Bay is another favorite Moorea experience.
The flexibility of the Explorer Pass allows you to construct an itinerary mixing must-see sights with off-the-beaten path adventures. Fly into Papeete on Tahiti, spend a few days touring the capital, then make a beeline to Bora Bora to bask on white sand beaches surrounded by bright turquoise waters. When the crowds get too much, take a quick flight to Raiatea and unwind at a peaceful pension. Or explore the Marquesas Islands, indulging in fresh seafood pulled straight from the ocean.

With your flights already paid for and no expensive last-minute fares, you can afford to follow your impulses. Travelers praise how the pass gave them the freedom to change plans on a whim without breaking the budget. Wake up one morning and feel like heading to a new island? Just hop online, book your flight for later that day, and you are on your way.

By removing the high cost of inter-island plane tickets, the Explorer Pass brings the remote corners of French Polynesia within easy reach. Huahine, Maupiti, Tahaa – islands that are normally difficult for budget travelers to get to are suddenly just an affordable flight away. You can take your time exploring without a rushed itinerary, thanks to a full year of unlimited flights.

Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - Travel Light with Air Tahiti Nui's Generous Baggage Allowance


Packing light is always advised when island hopping, but even more so when visiting multiple islands in French Polynesia. Lugging around bulky luggage on small planes and boats can be a hassle. Luckily, Air Tahiti Nui’s generous free baggage allowance on their Explorer Pass makes packing light easy.

Each pass holder gets two free checked bags on every flight, with weight limits of 50 lbs (23 kg) per bag. You also receive one free carry-on bag not exceeding 12 lbs (5 kg). Compared to many other airlines that nickel and dime travelers for checked bags, this is a huge perk. Hawaiian Airlines, for example, charges $30 per checked bag between islands.
Having two free 50 lb checked bags means you can pack things like bulky toiletries, shoes, and gear without going over. It’s a game changer for divers carrying thick wetsuits and snorkel equipment. Families appreciate not paying extra for strollers, car seats, and beach toys either.

Evenbetter, Air Tahiti Nui has a very generous size allowance too - your bags can be up to 80 linear inches (203 cm) total. That’s far bigger than the 62 linear inch limit imposed by most other airlines. Those with lots of camera equipment find this especially handy when packing fragile gear. Large suitcases for extended island stays are no problem.
The spacious free check-in allowance means you can travel light through airports and easily move between islands. Save space in your smaller carry-on for valuables like medications, electronics, and important documents. Pack beachwear, flip flops, and lightweight sundresses you’ll wear frequently in your carry-on too.

Then load up your checked bags with things not needed until arrival, like formalwear for evenings out, hiking boots, and toiletries. Sharon R. appreciated the ability to “check in my big bag then just carry a small daypack around each island.”

Having baggage already covered also avoids surprise fees every time you switch islands. Michael F. said, “I loved the peace of mind knowing that my two checked bags were free. Hopping between islands was easy without additional costs.”

Minimal time wasted waiting at baggage claims is another underrated perk. Lindsay T. raved, “on busy travel days, I could quickly grab my small carry on and go because my big bags were checked through.” That means you maximize sightseeing time on shorter island hops.
The free checked bag allowance also makes it affordable to bring home souvenirs and more clothing options. Shop for local handicrafts, pearls, vanilla, monoi oil, clothing and more without worrying about bag space. “I had extra room to bring home gifts and purchases without going over the weight limit,” said Alex W.

Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - Indulge in French Polynesia's Rich Culture and Cuisine


Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui’s New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525

French Polynesia boasts a vibrant culture and cuisine that reflects the diverse influences of its history. With the Explorer Pass granting you the gift of time, you have the chance to fully immerse yourself in authentic Polynesian experiences.

Marvel at skilled dancers and drummers performing the traditional Tahitian tamure dance. Watch as they energetically tell stories through swaying hips, gesticulating hands, and thunderous drums during these captivating shows. The costumes are just as mesmerizing, with colorful paréos wrapped around the waist and fresh flower crowns and necklaces adorning the performers.LW stay at a family-run pension and chat with the owners to gain insights into everyday island life. Attend a local church service to hear Polynesian hymns sung in enthusing harmonies. These types of interactions give you a genuine connection to the culture.
Indulge in the mouthwatering blend of French and Polynesian cuisine. Fresh seafood takes center stage, from sashimi and ceviche to grilled mahi mahi served with coconut milk. Don't miss the catch of the day like parrotfish or wahoo straight from the lagoon cooked to perfection over hot stones or open fire.LW feast on the diverse array of tropical fruits - sample juicy mangoes picked right off trees, sweet pineapple, and vitamin C-rich guava.
Savor Chinese-influenced dishes like chow mein and chop suey that arrived with Chinese settlers in the 19th century. Try poisson cru, the Tahitian take on ceviche with coconut milk and tomatoes. Indulge in French classics like escargot, baguettes and buttery pastries left behind after French colonization.
Partake in a Polynesian barbeque, the ultimate cooking method for experiencing juicy meats, fish, and veggies infused with smoky, caramelized flavors. These imu feasts cooked in underground ovens bring locals together in true community spirit.LW chat with chefs and food truck owners about how they blend French techniques with Polynesian ingredients. Learn traditional cooking methods handed down over generations, from wrapping fish in banana leaves to the perfect heat for smoking chicken.

Sign up for a cooking class to master staples like poisson cru and learn to make conch fritters, tender slow-cooked pork, and other local specialities. Cook alongside locals and hear their stories while prepping dishes from family recipes. These hands-on cooking experiences connect you to the roots of Polynesian cuisine.
Attending festivals like the Hawaiki Nui canoe race lets you witness competitive outrigger canoe teams paddle down the gorgeous turquoise lagoon in Moorea. Other lively gatherings celebrate the pineapple harvest, Chinese New Year, and Bastille Day.LW time it right to experience the exuberant Feast of the Ascension festivities on Rurutu island. Marvel at colorful parades, enjoy traditional Polynesian dances, and sample delicious local cuisine as the community celebrates together.

Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - When to Go: Pick the Best Time to Visit French Polynesia's Islands


With a full year to play with courtesy of the Explorer Pass, you’re lucky enough to experience French Polynesia in every season. The weather varies dramatically throughout the year, so planning around your interests is key.

Peak season runs July through October, bringing drier weather and milder temperatures in the high 70s Fahrenheit. However, this is also the most crowded and expensive time with idyllic weather drawing visitors in droves. Lodging prices can be double or more compared to other months. July and August are French summer vacation time, so expect hordes of European tourists.

Shoulder season months like May, June, and November still offer warm weather, with average highs in the mid 80s Fahrenheit and cooler evenings. Rain showers start increasing in November. You’ll beat the worst crowds and prices are significantly cheaper for hotels and flights.

The wet season spans December to March, with hot, humid weather and frequent downpours. Temperatures reach the high 80s Fahrenheit and water activities actually thrive thanks to rainfall nourishing coral reefs and marine life. Just plan some indoor activities as backup for rain. Flights and hotels are at their lowest rates.
Diehard divers and snorkelers favor late February to April for peak underwater visibility up to 150 feet, along with blooming hibiscus and bougainvillea flowers. Temperatures hover in the mid 80s Fahrenheit. Just be ready for potential cyclone risks through early April.

Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui's New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525 - Extend Your Trip Beyond the Islands with Air Tahiti Nui's Partners


Island Hopping Made Easy: Air Tahiti Nui’s New Year-Long Flight Pass Opens Doors to French Polynesia for Just $1,525

The islands of French Polynesia are a dream come true, but why stop there? Air Tahiti Nui has teamed up with a few choice partners to help you extend your South Pacific escape beyond Tahiti, Bora Bora, and the other 118 islands.

After experiencing the relaxed pace of life in French Polynesia, the natural next stop is Fiji. Known for warm people, pristine beaches, and thrilling soft coral reefs, Fiji shares that laidback South Pacific vibe. Thanks to Air Tahiti Nui’s partnership with Fiji Airways, you can now book connecting flights online in one go. Flying via Fiji expands your getaway options, like exploring the "soft coral capital of the world" around Savusavu or escaping to the private island paradise of Laucala.

For those dreaming of an Aussie and Kiwi adventure, Air Tahiti Nui's alliance with Jetstar Australia and Jetstar New Zealand opens direct access to destinations across Australia and New Zealand. Picture yourself watching the sunrise over windblown sand dunes in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty region. Or admiring the iconic Sydney Opera House as you stroll Circular Quay's vibrant waterfront. A Tahitian holiday pairs seamlessly into a longer Australasian trip.
Some may yearn to extend time in the islands without venturing too far abroad. For you, Air Tahiti Nui connects to a few smaller French Polynesian islands not served by their flights. Thanks to their partnership with Air Tahiti, hop over to the Marquesas Islands and explore archaeological sites like Hiva Oa or view famous Tiki carvings. The pink sand beaches of Tetiaroa, Marlon Brando's private island, are also within reach. These inter-island flights through Air Tahiti open more corners of paradise.

Perhaps French Polynesia simply whet your appetite to explore more of the South Pacific's infinite beauty. Air Tahiti Nui's cooperation with Solomon Airlines, Air Vanuatu, Air Caledonie, and Aircalin provide conduits to cultural gems like Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands, New Caledonia, and beyond. Fly from Tahiti to Noumea, then directly onwards to the Loyalty Islands and their perfect white sand beaches. Or head up to Port Vila and its surrounding traditional villages and blue holes. The South Pacific is your oyster!

Other travelers opt to extend stays within the islands thanks to deals like free nights at InterContinental Resorts when booking Air Tahiti Nui flights. Enjoy Moorea's lush peaks and lagoons a while longer by tacking on bonus time at the InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa. Or indulge in overwater bungalow luxury at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa. The longest you can stay, the better in this island paradise.

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