Cruise liners dock at Papeete, the capital city of Tahiti, and one of the first things to greet passengers as they arrive is the charming French Riviera style esplanade. Upon leaving the ship passengers should head for the areas main attractions, all walkable from the port.
The Marche du Papeete should be on the itinerary – this is Tahiti’s main marketplace where passengers can buy crafts and souvenirs, or flowers and fruit. Other shopping facilities can be found at the Valma Centre on Boulevard Pomare.
The Museum of Tahiti features Polynesian displays and exhibits, and fans of the artist Paul Gauguin can visit the Gauguin Museum which is around an hour from Papeete – and a stop here is often included on an organised round trip excursion of the island.
The nearest beach is Sofitel Maeva where kayaks and jet skis can be hired, plus there are a number of bars and restaurants here.
