Papeete Roadstead
Papeete outer anchorage · Passe de Papeete anchorage
17°31.7'S 149°33.4'W
Depth
8–20m
Bottom
sand
Alarm Radius
90m
Holding
Good
Recommended Anchor Alarm Radius
90m
90m for good holding in 8–20m sand/mud. The deep water requires generous scope — calculate 5:1 or more for security. S/SW/W exposure means swell can enter in non-trade conditions. 90m alarm is appropriate; reduce only in very settled conditions.
About This Anchorage
The Papeete Roadstead is the outer anchorage area off the Papeete waterfront — used when the marina is full (common during Heiva Festival in July and at peak season) or when sailors prefer a free anchorage rather than paying marina fees. The roadstead is exposed to the south and southwest, which is the non-prevailing direction under SE trade wind conditions, so it is typically comfortable. Commercial vessels, inter-island ferries, and cruise ships use the main port immediately to the west — maintain a wide berth from commercial traffic and use anchor lights at night. Access to the Papeete waterfront by dinghy is straightforward via the small dinghy dock near the marina entrance.
Protected From
N · NE · E
Exposed To
S · SW · W
Anchoring Rules
- Anchoring fee
- Free anchoring in the roadstead.
- Permit required
- Yes
- Permit details
- Entry formalities apply — clear customs at Papeete Marina office even when anchoring in the roadstead.
Restrictions: Maintain clear passage for commercial vessels and ferries. Display anchor light (all-round white) at night. Customs and immigration must still be cleared at the marina office on arrival.
Hazards
- !Commercial vessel traffic — cruise ships, freighters, and inter-island ferries; maintain clear distance and use anchor light
- !Deep water (8–20m) — long scope required; calculate carefully
- !S/SW/W exposure — uncommon under SE trades but exposed in any southerly conditions
- !Surge from passing ship wakes — commercial vessels create significant wake in the roadstead
Skipper's Tips
- →The roadstead is the best option during Heiva Festival (July) when the marina is completely full
- →Use a stern anchor or tie to a nearby vessel to reduce swing in the commercial traffic
- →Dinghy dock at the marina is freely accessible — easy access to all Papeete facilities from the roadstead
- →The roadstead provides a good view of the container port operations and the inter-island vessels — interesting if you enjoy watching commercial maritime traffic
Facilities
All Papeete facilities accessible by dinghy — roulettes, Carrefour, marina services. Dinghy dock at the marina entrance.
Nearest provisions: Papeete Marina/waterfront (0.5nm by dinghy) (0.5nm)
Best Months & Season
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
May–October. An overflow anchorage for Papeete Marina — useful during busy periods. Not as comfortable as the marina but free and functional.
Recommended Anchor Types
Nearby Anchorages
Set Your Anchor Alarm to 90m
In French Polynesia, coral bommies invisible at night can destroy a hull in minutes. Safety Anchor Alarm monitors your GPS position continuously — protecting your vessel in the most beautiful waters on Earth.
Download Free for iOS