Charter & Rent a Lagoon 42 in Tahiti: 2026 Guide, Prices & Routes
Technical Specifications of the Lagoon 42
The Lagoon 42 is widely regarded as one of the most successful catamaran designs in the world, striking a perfect balance between performance and living space. For the 2026 season, our fleet in Tahiti features modern layouts designed to accommodate groups ranging from 6 to 12 guests comfortably. The mast is positioned further aft compared to previous models, which reduces pitching and makes the yacht exceptionally easy to handle in the Pacific swells.
- Overall Length: 12.80 meters (42 feet)
- Beam: 7.70 meters
- Draft: 1.25 meters
- Cabins: 3 or 4 double cabins (plus 2 bow peaks for crew)
- Berths: 6 to 12 (depending on configuration and salon conversion)
- Fuel Capacity: 300 - 600 Liters
- Water Capacity: 300 - 600 Liters (often equipped with a watermaker)
- Engines: 2 x 45 HP or 2 x 57 HP Yanmar
Why the Lagoon 42 is Perfect for Tahitian Waters
Tahiti and its sister islands, such as Moorea and Bora Bora, are defined by expansive coral reefs and shallow lagoons. The Lagoon 42’s shallow draft of just 1.25 meters is a significant advantage here, allowing you to anchor closer to white-sand beaches and navigate narrow passes that deeper monohulls simply cannot access. This model’s wide beam provides a stable platform that minimizes rolling at anchor, ensuring a restful night’s sleep even if the Pacific trade winds pick up.
The seamless transition between the cockpit and the salon is ideal for the tropical climate of French Polynesia. With 360-degree visibility from the helm and the galley, you will never miss a sunset over the jagged peaks of Moorea. The large "sugar scoops" at the transom make it incredibly easy to hop into the water for snorkeling with manta rays or boarding the dinghy for a shore excursion to a local motu (islet).
Weekly and Daily Charter Rates for 2026
Pricing for chartering a Lagoon 42 in Tahiti fluctuates based on the season. The high season typically aligns with the dry winter months (May to October), while the low season occurs during the more humid summer months. Below is an estimated price guide for 2026 in Euros.
| Season | Months | Daily Rate (Estimated) | Weekly Rate (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Season | November - March | €950 - €1,200 | €6,500 - €8,400 |
| Mid Season | April, October | €1,300 - €1,500 | €9,100 - €10,500 |
| High Season | May - September | €1,600 - €2,100 | €11,200 - €14,700 |
Please note that rates may vary depending on the age of the specific vessel and the level of equipment (e.g., air conditioning and generator). You can browse our full range of available boats to find the exact configuration for your dates.
Sample Itineraries from Marina Taina, Papeete
Most charters begin at Marina Taina in Papeete, the primary hub for yachting in Tahiti. From here, the possibilities for exploration are endless, whether you have a single day or a full week.
1-Day Itinerary: The Moorea Crossing
If you are renting a Lagoon 42 in Tahiti for just a day, the most popular route is the 15-nautical-mile crossing to Moorea. Depart early from Marina Taina and head for Vaiare Pass. Spend the afternoon anchored in Cook’s Bay or Opunohu Bay. These dramatic fjords offer breathtaking views of Mount Mouaputa. You can enjoy a lunch on deck before snorkeling at the "Stingray City" sandbank and returning to Papeete by sunset.
7-Day Itinerary: The Leeward Islands Circuit
For a full week charter, many guests choose a one-way trip or a round-trip including the nearby islands.
- Day 1: Check-in at Marina Taina, Tahiti. Short sail to Maeva Beach.
- Day 2: Cross to Moorea. Anchor in Opunohu Bay for paddleboarding.
- Day 3: Sail toward Huahine (overnight passage or early morning departure).
- Day 4: Explore the sacred sites and vanilla plantations of Huahine.
- Day 5: Navigate to Raiatea/Taha'a. Explore the Fa'aroa River by dinghy.
- Day 6: Sail to Bora Bora. Anchor near Motu Tapu for world-class snorkeling.
- Day 7: Final morning in the Bora Bora lagoon before disembarking or beginning the return leg.
Logistics: Marinas, Mooring, and Berthing
The infrastructure for yachting in Tahiti is well-developed but centered around specific hubs. Marina Taina is the most modernized facility, offering fuel, water, and proximity to large supermarkets for provisioning. Outside of the main island, you will find that "berthing" at a dock is rare. Instead, you will primarily use mooring buoys or drop anchor.
In Moorea and Bora Bora, the local government has implemented "mooring zones" to protect the coral reefs. It is essential to use designated buoys where available. When anchoring, always look for sandy patches to avoid damaging the delicate ecosystem. For more information on navigating these waters, explore our destinations guide.
What is Included in Your Charter?
When you rent a Lagoon 42 in Tahiti, the contract structure can vary between "Bareboat" and "Crewed" options. Generally, a luxury charter includes several components, but it is vital to understand the "APA" (Advanced Provisioning Allowance).
- The Yacht: Use of the Lagoon 42 and its standard equipment (dinghy, outboard motor, safety gear).
- Skipper/Crew: If requested, a professional local captain will navigate, while a chef handles meals.
- End Cleaning: Usually a mandatory fee to ensure the boat is sanitized for the next guest.
- Taxes: Local VAT and tourism taxes are typically included in the base price.
- Exclusions: Fuel, fresh water refills, mooring fees, and food/beverages are usually covered by the APA, which is roughly 25-30% of the charter fee.
Best Months and Sea Conditions
The best time to charter a Lagoon 42 in Tahiti is during the "Austral Winter" from May to October. During this period, the Southeast Trade Winds (known locally as the Mara’amu) provide consistent sailing breezes between 15 and 25 knots. The air is cooler and the humidity is significantly lower.
If you choose to visit between November and April, you will encounter warmer waters and calmer winds, but a higher chance of tropical rain showers. Sea conditions inside the lagoons are almost always flat, protected by the outer barrier reefs, making the Lagoon 42 an exceptionally comfortable "floating villa" regardless of the open ocean swell.
Frequently Asked Questions
What license is required for renting a Lagoon 42 in Tahiti?
For bareboat rentals, the base manager will require a sailing resume and potentially a valid ICC or national skipper's license. If you do not have sufficient experience with large catamarans, we highly recommend hiring a professional skipper to ensure safety and local knowledge of the reef passes.
Is it better to charter a Lagoon 42 in Tahiti with a crew?
While the Lagoon 42 is easy to handle, chartering with a crew allows you to focus entirely on relaxation. A local skipper knows the hidden anchorages and the best times to enter the passes, while a chef can prepare local Tahitian delicacies like poisson cru using fresh ingredients from the local markets.
How far in advance should I book for 2026?
Because the Lagoon 42 is one of the most popular models in the South Pacific, we recommend booking at least 8 to 12 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak months of July and August or during the festive December period.