Moorea Maharepa
Maharepa anchorage · Moorea east bay
17°29.3'S 149°48.1'W
Depth
4–12m
Bottom
sand
Alarm Radius
75m
Holding
Good
Recommended Anchor Alarm Radius
75m
75m for good holding in 4–12m sand. S/SE exposure — check trade wind direction before overnight; SE trades can push swell into the anchorage. In settled conditions reduce to 60m.
About This Anchorage
Maharepa is a small bay on Moorea's northeast coast — quieter than the famous Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay but with similar access to the island's facilities. The Vaiare ferry dock (for the Papeete ferry) is 1nm east, making Maharepa a practical arrival anchorage if coming from Papeete. The village of Maharepa has a small supermarket (the best-stocked on Moorea's eastern side), a pharmacy, and a few restaurants. The anchorage is comfortable in trade wind conditions and provides a quieter alternative for those who find Cook's Bay too busy. The pass entry from the northeast is straightforward in good light.
Protected From
N · NE · NW · E
Exposed To
S · SE
Anchoring Rules
- Anchoring fee
- Free anchoring.
- Permit required
- No
Restrictions: No anchoring on coral. Keep clear of the ferry approach at Vaiare (1nm east). Navigate the pass in good light only.
Hazards
- !Pass entry — coral reef on approach; use chart and enter in good light (10:00–14:00)
- !SE trade wind exposure — in strong trades the anchorage can have a gentle chop
- !Ferry traffic at Vaiare — stay clear of the ferry approach channel
Skipper's Tips
- →Maharepa is the best alternative to busy Cook's Bay — similar facilities but significantly fewer boats
- →The Maharepa supermarket is the best-stocked on Moorea's eastern coast — stock up here
- →The Vaiare ferry dock (1nm east) offers daily services to Papeete — useful for crew changes or airport transfers
- →Cook's Bay (1.5nm west) is a short dinghy ride — access all Cook's Bay restaurants without the crowd
Facilities
Small supermarket and pharmacy in Maharepa village. Several restaurants nearby. Ferry dock at Vaiare (1nm) for daily services to Papeete.
Nearest provisions: Maharepa village (small supermarket) (0.2nm)
Best Months & Season
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
May–October. A practical and quiet alternative to Moorea's more famous bays — good for those wanting the island experience without the crowds.
Recommended Anchor Types
Nearby Anchorages
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