Diving Tahiti
The lagoon and ocean waters surrounding the island of Tahiti offer spectacular underwater attractions as well as a variety of diving sites. There are sunken shipwrecks, steep drop-offs covered with colored coral fans, coral gardens, and much more. There is also a rich fauna. Divers at all levels will easily find plenty to satisfy their curiosity. French Polynesia will provide you with a wide variety of diving adventures. From the exploration of the Nordby shipwreck in Raiatea to the strong waves of Nuku Hiva, diving in Tahiti is never uninspiring. There are many tropical fish, moray eels, napoleon fish, five kinds of sharks (up to 10 feet long during feedings), three kinds of rays, sea turtles, and many other pelagic life.
Best time to dive
Year-round diving is great in Tahiti.
Visibility
Visibility averages 50 to 150+ feet.
Water temperatures
Water temperature averages 78 to 88 °F.
Weather and climate
The tropical climate has two distinct seasons. The wet season, between November and April, has average temperatures around 80 to 86 °F with high humidity, ample rain (75% of the annual rainfall) and brief, violent storms. The dry season, between May and October, has little rain, drier air and slightly cooler temperatures. There are prevailing winds that can blow with a force. The maraamu is a southeasterly that is common in the dry season, and the toerau is a north northeasterly that blows occasionally in the wet season.
Language
French and Tahitian are the official languages, though English is widely spoken.
Passport/Visa requirements
A passport valid for six months beyond duration of stay is required. Visas are not required for stays up to one month. Extensions for up to three months may be granted locally by applying to the Haut Commissionaire (The French High Commissioner).
Currency
Cour de Franc Pacifique – Get exchange rates at http://www.xe.com/ucc/
Electrical current
110 volts, 60 Hz
Capital
Papeete
General information
The islands are a mixture of volcanic high islands and coral atolls. The 118 islands of French Polynesia are specks in the vast South Pacific Ocean. They are divided into five groups: the Society Islands (which include Tahiti), the Tuamotus, the Marquesas, the Australs, and the Gambiers. The largest and most populated island is Tahiti. Tahiti extends over such a large area that it took explorers several years to discover and chart all 118 islands. The total area covers more than 1.5 million square miles.
Map
Get a map of Tahiti from WorldAtlas.com.