Charter & Rent a Lagoon 42 in Moorea: 2026 Guide, Prices & Routes
Lagoon 42 Technical Specifications
The Lagoon 42 is widely regarded as one of the most successful catamaran designs in history, striking a masterful balance between performance and living space. For groups of 2 to 12 passengers, it provides ample room without sacrificing the agility needed to navigate the coral-rich waters of Moorea.
- Length Overall: 12.80 meters (42 feet)
- Beam: 7.70 meters
- Draft: 1.25 meters
- Cabins: Typically 3 or 4 double cabins (plus optional crew berths)
- Berths: 6 to 10 + salon conversion
- Engines: 2 x 45 HP or 2 x 57 HP Yanmar
- Fuel Capacity: 300 - 600 Liters
- Water Capacity: 300 - 600 Liters
The 2026 models available through our boat collection feature modern ergonomics, including a single-level cockpit and salon, and a mast moved further aft to increase the sail plan efficiency while making the boat easier to handle for a skipper.
Why the Lagoon 42 is Perfect for Moorea’s Waters
Moorea is characterized by its dramatic volcanic peaks and its protective coral reef. The Lagoon 42 is uniquely suited for this environment for several reasons. Firstly, its shallow draft of just 1.25 meters allows you to glide over sandy shallows where deeper monohulls cannot venture. This means you can anchor closer to white-sand beaches like those found near the Motu Tiahura.
The sea state inside the Moorea lagoon is generally calm, but the passages between islands can involve Pacific swells. The Lagoon 42’s wide beam provides exceptional stability, minimizing roll and ensuring comfort for those who may not have "sea legs." Furthermore, the expansive trampoline area at the bow serves as the best seat in the house for spotting spinner dolphins in Opunohu Bay or humpback whales during the migration season.
2026 Rental and Charter Pricing for Moorea
When renting a Lagoon 42 in Moorea, pricing varies based on the season and the duration of the charter. High season typically aligns with the dry months (May to October) and the December holiday period. Below is an estimated price range in EUR for a standard Lagoon 42 charter.
| Season | Daily Rate (EUR) | Weekly Rate (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Low Season (Nov - Mar, excl. Xmas) | €1,100 - €1,400 | €6,500 - €8,200 |
| Mid Season (April & October) | €1,300 - €1,600 | €7,800 - €9,500 |
| High Season (May - Sept, Dec) | €1,600 - €2,100 | €10,500 - €14,000 |
Note: Prices for 2026 are subject to early booking discounts and may fluctuate based on local VAT adjustments or specific yacht configurations.
Itineraries: Exploring Moorea and Beyond
Most charters depart from the Vaiare Marina, the main nautical hub of Moorea, located on the eastern side of the island near the ferry terminal. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore the island's most iconic landmarks.
1-Day Itinerary: The Northern Bays
- Morning: Depart Vaiare Marina and sail north toward Cook’s Bay (Paopao). Marvel at the jagged peaks of Mount Rotui.
- Midday: Continue to Opunohu Bay for a quiet lunch at anchor. This bay is deeper and less developed, offering a serene atmosphere.
- Afternoon: Navigate to the "Sandbank" between Motu Tiahura and Motu Iriiru. This is the premier spot for snorkeling with stingrays and blacktip reef sharks in crystal-clear water.
- Evening: Return to Vaiare as the sun sets behind the silhouette of the island.
3-7 Day Itinerary: The Society Islands Loop
For those chartering a Lagoon 42 in Moorea for a longer duration, the island serves as a magnificent starting point for a multi-island voyage. You can view more details on our destinations page.
- Day 1-2: Circumnavigate Moorea, spending nights in the protected anchorages of Opunohu Bay and the western lagoons.
- Day 3: An adventurous open-ocean sail (approx. 8-10 hours) to Huahine, known as the "Garden Island."
- Day 4-5: Explore the bays of Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti, visiting ancient Polynesian marae (temples).
- Day 6-7: Sail toward Raiatea and Taha'a, sharing the same lagoon. Taha'a is famous for its vanilla plantations and incredible coral gardens.
Logistics: Marinas, Moorings, and Berthing
Moorea is a natural paradise, which means marina infrastructure is limited compared to the Mediterranean. The Vaiare Marina is the only formal facility with berths, water, and electricity. It is essential to book your slip in advance, especially during the 2026 peak season.
Outside of Vaiare, you will primarily be using moorings or anchoring. The local government has implemented strict mooring zones to protect the coral reefs. There are designated mooring buoys in both Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay. In the shallower lagoon areas, you must ensure you are anchoring in sandy patches ("fond de sable") to avoid damaging the delicate ecosystem.
What is Included in Your Charter?
Understanding the inclusions is vital for budgeting your 2026 trip. Most luxury charters on a Lagoon 42 are offered as "Skippered" or "Fully Crewed" to ensure safety and local expertise.
- Professional Skipper: Essential for navigating the reef passes and finding the best hidden spots.
- End Cleaning: A standard fee to ensure the boat is sanitized for the next guests.
- Starter Pack: Usually includes basic toiletries, water, and some local fruit.
- Taxes & VAT: Local French Polynesian taxes are typically included in the base quote.
APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance): For crewed charters, an APA of 25-35% is usually required. This covers fuel, food, beverages, and any specific requests you may have. Any unused portion is refunded at the end of the trip.
Best Time to Visit: Weather and Sea Conditions
Moorea enjoys a tropical climate, but for the best experience on a Lagoon 42, timing is everything. The Dry Season (May to October) offers the most consistent trade winds (Mara’amu), which are excellent for sailing. The humidity is lower, and visibility underwater is at its peak. The Whale Season (July to October) is a magical time to be on a catamaran, as humpback whales frequently visit the outer slopes of Moorea’s reef. The Wet Season (November to April) brings warmer water but also higher humidity and occasional heavy tropical rain showers. However, the lagoons remain calm, and the island is at its most lush and green.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between renting a Lagoon 42 in Moorea and a full charter?
Renting typically refers to a bareboat arrangement where you provide your own license and crew, whereas chartering a Lagoon 42 in Moorea usually implies a more comprehensive service including a professional skipper, a cook, and a pre-planned itinerary for a stress-free luxury experience.
Do I need a special license for chartering a Lagoon 42 in Moorea?
If you are renting the boat as a bareboat, you must provide a sailing CV and a valid international skipper's license recognized in French Polynesia. For most visitors, we recommend a skippered charter, which removes the liability and allows you to enjoy the scenery without worrying about navigation through the reef passes.
How many people can comfortably fit on a Lagoon 42?
While the boat is licensed for up to 12 people for day trips, for overnight charters, the sweet spot is 6 to 8 guests. This allows everyone to have a private cabin and ensures the common areas like the cockpit and trampoline remain spacious and comfortable.