Tahaa – Pearl farm

Taha’a

From the sea Taha’a is very different from Raitera, the passage between the two is short and the shallows make for fabulous shades of blue all around us. The reef all around us ensure that the sea is calm which is nice and we have enough wind to sail. We arrive in the anchorage by the resort in the afternoon and there are a few boats there, but no-one we know. The resort is big, with bungalows build over the water on the main island. Another three islands are near by and in the distance Bora Bora looms, what a sight in the sunset. The day tripper boats gives us a good idea of where the coral garden is. So late morning we take the dinghy there. Probably the best we have seen in terms of coral, colours and diversity... As for fishes, it is just outstanding, the sheer number of them is amazing. We even saw a morray heel. Going at low tide puts you right in the action, fishes swarm around you, not the least bothered. Brilliant place. We loved it. Got to see a few rays also in the shallow sandy bottom.

We take the dinghy across to the other side of the bay to visit the pearl farm. It is a hive of activity; between the boats coming back from the sea discharging catch and the cleaning and grafting of the pearl. It is fascinating to watch. And the best bit is at the end, the shop with beautiful pieces.

After three days, the weather is set to deteriorate so back to Raitera for a bit more shelter.