Charter & Rent a Leopard 45 in Tahiti: 2026 Guide, Prices & Routes
Technical Specifications of the Leopard 45 Catamaran
The Leopard 45, built by Robertson & Caine, is one of the most sought-after vessels in the global charter market. Renowned for its robust build and innovative use of space, it is a versatile platform for groups ranging from 6 to 10 guests. When you choose this model for your 2026 voyage, you are stepping onto a vessel engineered for both stability and speed.
- Length Overall (LOA): 13.72 meters (45 feet)
- Beam: 7.36 meters (24 feet 2 inches)
- Draft: 1.5 meters (4 feet 11 inches)
- Cabins: Typically 4 double cabins plus 4 ensuite heads (some versions offer a 3-cabin owner layout).
- Berths: 8 to 10 (depending on salon conversion and crew quarters).
- Engines: 2 x 45 hp Yanmar Diesel.
- Fuel Capacity: 700 liters.
- Water Capacity: 780 liters (often supplemented by a watermaker on luxury charters).
The standout feature of the Leopard 45 is the forward cockpit, which is accessible directly from the main salon. This provides an additional social area that catches the breeze while at anchor, a vital feature in the tropical climate of French Polynesia.
Why the Leopard 45 is Perfect for Tahiti Waters
The geography of Tahiti and its sister islands, such as Moorea and Raiatea, demands a vessel with a shallow draft. The Leopard 45 draws just 1.5 meters, allowing it to glide over shallow sandy patches and anchor closer to the white-sand beaches than most monohulls. This proximity is essential when visiting spots like the "Sandbar" in Moorea or the secluded motus surrounding Taha'a.
The sea state in the Society Islands can vary from the glassy calm of protected lagoons to the rolling swells of the Pacific during inter-island crossings. The Leopard 45’s stepped hull design increases interior volume without sacrificing underwater performance, ensuring a dry and stable ride even when the trade winds pick up. Furthermore, the expansive flybridge provides a 360-degree vantage point, which is crucial for skippers navigating through the narrow coral passes (passes) that lead into the lagoons.
Estimated Costs for Chartering a Leopard 45 in Tahiti (2026)
Pricing for a Leopard 45 charter varies based on the time of year and the level of service requested (bareboat vs. crewed). In French Polynesia, the high season aligns with the dry winter months of the Southern Hemisphere. Below are the estimated weekly and daily rates in EUR.
| Season | Months | Daily Rate (Est.) | Weekly Rate (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Season | November - March (excl. Xmas) | €950 - €1,200 | €6,650 - €8,400 |
| Mid Season | April - June / October | €1,300 - €1,600 | €9,100 - €11,200 |
| High Season | July - September / Christmas | €1,700 - €2,200 | €11,900 - €15,400 |
Please note that these rates typically cover the yacht rental. Additional costs such as the Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA), skipper fees, and local taxes are calculated separately.
Sample Itineraries from Marina Taina, Papeete
Most adventures begin at Marina Taina in Puna'auia, located just a short drive from the Faa'a International Airport. From here, you can explore the diverse destinations within the Society Archipelago.
1-Day Experience: The Moorea Crossing
If you are renting a Leopard 45 in Tahiti for a single day, the primary goal is usually the island of Moorea. Departing early from Marina Taina, you cross the Sea of the Moon (approximately 15 nautical miles). Spend the afternoon anchored in Cook’s Bay or Opunohu Bay. The Leopard’s large aft deck is perfect for a catered lunch before snorkeling with stingrays and blacktip reef sharks at the "Stingray City" sandbank.
7-Day Society Islands Circuit
- Day 1: Departure from Marina Taina, Tahiti. Overnight sail or afternoon hop to Moorea.
- Day 2: Exploring Moorea’s north coast. Anchor at Baie d'Opunohu for hiking or paddleboarding.
- Day 3: Blue water passage to Huahine (approx. 80-90 nm). This is where the Leopard 45’s blue-water capabilities shine.
- Day 4: Discovering the sacred sites and vanilla plantations of Huahine.
- Day 5: Short sail to Raiatea and Taha'a. Explore the Fa'aroa River by dinghy.
- Day 6: Drift snorkeling at the Coral Garden in Taha'a.
- Day 7: Final leg to Bora Bora. Drop anchor at the world-famous turquoise lagoon near Motu Tapu before disembarking or returning the vessel.
Logistics: Marinas and Mooring in French Polynesia
While Tahiti offers modern facilities at Marina Taina and the Port de Papeete, the charm of chartering in this region lies in the remote anchorages. In many areas, mooring buoys have been installed to protect the delicate coral floor. It is mandatory to use these in designated zones around Moorea and Bora Bora.
Fresh water and fuel are readily available at the main marinas in Tahiti, Raiatea (Uturoa), and Bora Bora (Vaitape). However, when you are out in the Tuamotu or the quieter side of the Society Islands, self-sufficiency is key. The Leopard 45’s generous tankage and solar panel arrays make it an ideal choice for those looking to spend several days "off-grid" without needing to return to a dock.
What is Included in Your Leopard 45 Charter?
When browsing our boats for your next trip, it is important to understand the breakdown of a luxury charter agreement. Most Leopard 45 rentals in Tahiti are offered on a "Plus Expenses" basis or as a Bareboat rental with optional add-ons.
- The Skipper: Unless you hold a valid ICC or equivalent and pass a sea trial, a professional local skipper is recommended. They handle navigation and local permits.
- VAT and Taxes: Local French Polynesian taxes (CP) are usually added to the base charter rate.
- End Cleaning: A mandatory fee to ensure the yacht is sanitized and prepared for the next guests.
- APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance): This usually represents 25-35% of the charter fee and covers fuel, food, beverages, and mooring fees.
- Equipment: Standard inclusion usually involves snorkeling gear, sea kayaks or stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), and bed linens.
Best Months and Sea Conditions
The prime window for chartering a Leopard 45 in Tahiti is between May and October. During this period, the "Mara’amu" (southeast trade wind) blows consistently, providing excellent sailing conditions and cooler, less humid evenings. The water temperature remains a consistent 26°C to 28°C year-round.
The "wet season" from November to April brings more rain and higher humidity, but also calmer winds, which some snorkelers and divers prefer. While Tahiti is outside the main cyclone belt, tropical depressions can occur during these months, so monitoring weather forecasts is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a license required for renting a Leopard 45 in Tahiti?
If you intend to rent the boat as a bareboat (without a skipper), you must provide a comprehensive sailing resume and, in many cases, a valid skipper’s license. If you are chartering a Leopard 45 in Tahiti with a professional captain provided by the agency, no license is required from your side.
How many people can comfortably fit on a Leopard 45?
The Leopard 45 is legally rated for up to 12 people for day trips. However, for overnight charters, we recommend a maximum of 8 guests in the 4 double cabins to ensure everyone has ample space and privacy. If you have a skipper and a chef, they will require their own cabin space.
What is the difference between renting and chartering a boat in Tahiti?
In the yachting industry, the terms are often used interchangeably. Generally, "renting" might refer to a shorter, bareboat arrangement, while "chartering" often implies a more structured, luxury service including a crew, a tailored itinerary, and full provisioning. Both options are available for the Leopard 45 in 2026.
Are there hidden costs when chartering in French Polynesia?
Transparency is key. The main costs beyond the base price are fuel consumption, which depends on how much you use the engines versus the sails, and the grocery provisioning. Communication via satellite (if used) and premium alcohol are also typically extra. We provide a full breakdown of the APA to ensure no surprises.