Motu Tapu, French Polynesia
Cruise Port Guide
Upcoming Sailings for Motu Tapu French Polynesia
Motu Tapu French Polynesia Port Overview
Bora Bora, and Motu Tapu as an excursion destination within it, is not a homeport — no cruise ship embarks or disembarks passengers here for the start or end of a voyage. All calls are port-of-call stops only, typically lasting one day, though some luxury itineraries include an overnight stay at anchor in the lagoon. The regional homeport for French Polynesia cruises is Papeete, Tahiti (), where ships such as the Paul Gauguin and Windstar vessels base their roundtrip Society Islands itineraries. Passengers embarking or disembarking in Papeete should note that Port Autonome de Papeete is the only international commercial cruise port in French Polynesia and handles the full range of embarkation logistics including baggage, customs, and inter-island ferry connections.
Port Overview
Motu Tapu is a private, 0.026-square-kilometre islet situated within the lagoon of Bora Bora, Society Islands, French Polynesia, approximately 235 kilometres northwest of Papeete. The name translates to 'Sacred Island' in Polynesian, and it is widely cited as the most photographed islet in the South Pacific. In the 19th century it served as the private beach of Tahitian Queen Pōmare IV. Today, Motu Tapu is not a standalone commercial cruise port — it is a destination accessed exclusively through organised excursions or resort arrangements, specifically in connection with the Conrad Bora Bora Nui (formerly Hilton Bora Bora Nui). Cruise passengers visiting Motu Tapu do so as part of a shore excursion departing from Vaitape Tender Pier on the main island of Bora Bora; they do not tender directly to Motu Tapu from their ship. Shore excursion pricing in the Bora Bora region generally ranges from approximately USD $49 for a Le Truck island tour to $144 or more per person for resort beach day packages, which serves as the benchmark for independent budget planning. You should confirm current excursion pricing and Motu Tapu access arrangements with your cruise line before your visit.
Terminal Assignments
Vaitape Tender Pier (Bora Bora Cruise Terminal)
The sole tender landing point for all cruise ships calling at Bora Bora. Located in Vaitape, the island's main village on the western coast, opposite Teavanui Pass. Small terminal building with souvenir market, occasional tourist information desk, and local tour operators. No formal large-ship berth exists anywhere in Bora Bora's lagoon. All access to Motu Tapu as a destination is by additional boat transfer from this pier or from a resort — it is not a tender destination in itself.
Arrival & Drop-off
Arrival type
tender
Drop-off point
The Drop-Off Point for all logistics in this guide is Vaitape Tender Pier, Vaitape, Bora Bora (). This is the shore location where the ship's tender deposits all passengers. Every distance, walkability assessment, and transport time referenced in this guide is measured from Vaitape Tender Pier. Motu Tapu itself is not accessible on foot from Vaitape Tender Pier — it requires a separate boat transfer of approximately 5 minutes across the lagoon, operated either by the Conrad Bora Bora Nui resort or by excursion operators. Independent passengers should note that Motu Tapu is a private island and access without a confirmed excursion or resort arrangement is not permitted. You should confirm access logistics and booking requirements directly with your cruise line's shore excursion desk or the Conrad Bora Bora Nui before your visit.
Mandatory shuttle
No mandatory shuttle operates between Vaitape Tender Pier and Motu Tapu through any public or port authority service. Access to Motu Tapu is controlled exclusively through the Conrad Bora Bora Nui resort, which offers a five-minute private boat transfer for its guests and for passengers on pre-booked day experiences. Some cruise lines include Motu Tapu access as part of a packaged shore excursion. There is no independent, walk-up boat service to Motu Tapu available at Vaitape Tender Pier. A passenger who arrives at Vaitape Tender Pier without a pre-booked excursion or confirmed resort arrangement has no means of independently accessing Motu Tapu and risks spending their entire port day in Vaitape or elsewhere on the main island of Bora Bora. You should confirm all Motu Tapu booking and transfer details with your cruise line or the Conrad Bora Bora Nui before your visit.
Ship size context
Bora Bora, and by extension any excursion to Motu Tapu, is served almost exclusively by small and mid-size expedition or luxury ships — vessels in the 100 to 700 passenger range such as the Paul Gauguin (~330 guests), Windstar's Wind Spirit (~148 guests), and Ponant expedition ships. Occasionally larger vessels of up to 2,000 passengers have called here on transpacific itineraries. Because Motu Tapu itself is a private islet accessible only via organised boat transfer, the number of passengers who can visit on any given day is inherently limited by resort capacity and excursion group size — not by port infrastructure. On days when a larger ship is in the lagoon, competition for Motu Tapu excursion slots is high, taxi and water taxi availability at Vaitape will be strained, and the tender queue for re-boarding can extend significantly in the final 90 minutes before All Aboard. You should confirm your Motu Tapu excursion booking well in advance of arrival.
Drop-off point details
Vaitape Tender Pier is a compact waterfront landing area at the edge of Vaitape village. Upon stepping off the tender, passengers enter a small cruise terminal building that houses a local souvenir and craft market, occasional tour operator desks, and — on busier ship days — a tourist information presence. The pier is on the western coast of Bora Bora's main island, directly opposite Teavanui Pass, the only navigable entrance through the outer reef into the lagoon. Circle Island Road runs immediately adjacent to the terminal, and it is from this road that Le Truck buses, taxis, and water taxis can be sourced. There is no beach within walking distance of Vaitape Tender Pier. To reach Motu Tapu, passengers must arrange a separate boat transfer — typically via a pre-booked excursion or resort day-pass — departing from the pier or from the Conrad Bora Bora Nui resort jetty. You should confirm current transfer logistics before your visit.
No shuttle required
No public shuttle, Le Truck route, or port authority water taxi service connects Vaitape Tender Pier to Motu Tapu. The islet is private property. Independent access by kayak, chartered local boat, or any uninvited means is not appropriate given the island's private status. For all transport beyond Vaitape on the main island — including Le Truck buses to Matira Beach (approximately $5 USD one way), taxis, and bicycle hire — passengers depart from Circle Island Road immediately outside the terminal. You should confirm current transport rates and availability before your visit.
Terminal Environment
Stepping off the tender at Vaitape Tender Pier, passengers emerge onto a modest waterfront with a small terminal building directly ahead. A local craft and souvenir market operates inside the terminal; vendors sell pearl jewellery, pareos, shell items, and handmade crafts. Outside the terminal, Circle Island Road presents the immediate choice of direction: walk north or south along the flat coastal road, or negotiate transport. The village of Vaitape is small — an ATM, a post office, a few shops, a supermarket, and an internet café are within easy walking distance — but the overall environment is quiet and low-key rather than a bustling port town. There is no beach here, no resort-style amenity cluster, and no walkable access to Motu Tapu; passengers targeting that destination must proceed immediately to their pre-arranged boat transfer point. Wi-Fi is unreliable at the terminal; do not rely on connectivity here to manage last-minute bookings.
Re-boarding
Gate location
The re-boarding tender departs from Vaitape Tender Pier — the same location where passengers were dropped off. There is no separate re-boarding gate; passengers queue at the pier for the next available tender back to the ship.
Documents required
Passengers must present their ship cruise card and a valid government-issued photo ID (passport recommended) to board the tender for return to the ship. You should confirm your ship's specific document requirements with Guest Services before going ashore.
Security queue estimate
In the final 60–90 minutes before All Aboard, the tender queue at Vaitape Tender Pier can extend to 30–45 minutes or longer on days when a larger or second vessel is in the lagoon. Factor this wait into your return plan. Do not treat All Aboard as the moment to arrive at the tender pier — allow a minimum of 60 minutes before All Aboard to clear the queue and board. Factor re-boarding security time into your return plan. Do not treat All Aboard as the moment to arrive at the terminal gate.
Customs pre-clearance
French Polynesia is a French overseas collectivity; there is no pre-clearance or US Customs processing at Bora Bora. Immigration and customs formalities, if applicable to your itinerary, are handled at designated ports only. You should confirm with your cruise line whether any documentation or declaration is required upon re-boarding at this specific port of call.
Getting Around Motu Tapu French Polynesia
Walkability
Motu Tapu is a small, private coral islet (motu) on the western side of the Bora Bora lagoon, approximately 1.6 nautical miles from Vaitape, Bora Bora's main town and tender drop-off point. This is not a conventional cruise terminal with a pier and road network — it is an uninhabited, privately controlled islet accessible only by boat. There are no roads, no ground transport, no ATMs, no shops, and no public infrastructure of any kind on Motu Tapu itself. The islet is owned and managed privately and is associated with the Conrad Bora Bora Nui (formerly Hilton Bora Bora Nui) resort. Cruise passengers access Motu Tapu exclusively via ship-organized excursions or pre-arranged lagoon boat transfers — it cannot be reached independently on foot from any tender drop-off point. All walkability assessments below are measured from the Vaitape tender pier, which is the standard cruise ship drop-off point for Bora Bora, as Motu Tapu itself has no accessible shore infrastructure from which to measure pedestrian routes. The environment is tropical, exposed, and extremely hot between November and April; UV exposure on open lagoon and motu paths is severe year-round. No free public transit, rideshare apps, or metered taxis operate on the motu. Currency throughout French Polynesia is the CFP Franc (XPF); many vendors at Vaitape accept USD and major credit cards, but smaller operators and market stalls are cash-only. You should confirm accessibility details before your visit.
Robert Wan Pearl Museum & Boutique, Vaitape
WALKABLE FROM DROP-OFF — Located within close walking distance of the Vaitape tender pier along the main waterfront. This is one of French Polynesia's premier black pearl retailers and a short, flat walk on paved path from the pier. Stroller-accessible: yes. Wheelchair-accessible: you should confirm interior accessibility before your visit. Mobility-assisted accessible: yes on the flat waterfront approach.Transport Options
Pickup location
Taxis wait near the Vaitape tender pier. Availability is limited — supply shrinks quickly when multiple ships are in port simultaneously.
Rate structure
Negotiated fixed rate per trip — taxis in Bora Bora are not metered. Always agree on the fare before entering the vehicle.
Payment
Cash (XPF preferred; USD often accepted). Card acceptance varies by driver — carry XPF cash.
Notes
Taxi supply at Bora Bora is genuinely limited. On busy cruise days with two or more ships in port, taxis at the pier can sell out quickly. Agree on fare in advance, always. There is no dispatch system — taxis are hailed at the pier or arranged through a hotel or resort.
Pickup location
Le Truck stops are located along the main coastal road near Vaitape. Ask locally for the current stop nearest the tender pier as route placement can vary.
Rate structure
Fixed low-cost fare per trip. Le Truck is the local public bus system of French Polynesia — open-air converted truck beds on a coastal circuit route.
Payment
Cash only (XPF).
Notes
Le Truck is infrequent and operates on no fixed published timetable for cruise passengers. It circles the main island coastal road. Service gaps can exceed 30–45 minutes between trucks. Not recommended as the sole return transport if you have a tender deadline to meet. Useful for short hops toward Matira Beach or Bloody Mary's if timing is flexible.
Pickup location
Water taxis and private lagoon boat operators are staged at or near the Vaitape tender pier. Some resort operators (e.g., Conrad Bora Bora Nui / formerly Hilton Nui) run a dedicated pier-to-resort shuttle from a small dock a short walk behind the Robert Wan pearl shop at Vaitape.
Rate structure
Negotiated or operator-fixed rate per trip. Resort shuttles operate on a scheduled basis for pre-booked guests.
Payment
Cash (XPF or USD) or pre-paid with resort/tour booking.
Notes
Water taxis are the only independent means of reaching Motu Tapu, motu resorts, and lagoon snorkeling sites without a ship excursion. Pre-booking any lagoon boat activity is strongly advised on cruise days. Motu Tapu access via Conrad Bora Bora Nui is limited to resort guests and pre-booked day visitors — independent walk-up arrival at the motu is not permitted.
Pickup location
Departure from the ship via tender; excursion boats staged at or adjacent to Vaitape tender pier or directly from the ship's tender platform.
Rate structure
Pre-paid through the cruise line at fixed rates per person.
Payment
Cruise ship account or pre-paid online booking.
Notes
For Motu Tapu specifically, the ship excursion is the most operationally reliable access method. The excursion guarantees a reserved time window, coordinated boat departure, and — critically — a confirmed return schedule timed to the last tender. Independent lagoon operators do not guarantee return timing in coordination with ship schedules.
Pickup location
Bicycle hire shops are located in and around Vaitape village, a short walk from the tender pier. You should confirm current operator locations before your visit.
Rate structure
Hourly or daily flat rate.
Payment
Cash (XPF) or card depending on operator.
Notes
Bora Bora's coastal road is largely flat and follows the shoreline of the main island, making cycling a popular option for fit passengers. The full coastal circuit is approximately 32 km (19.9 mi). For a cruise day, a partial ride south toward Matira Beach (approx. 9–10 km (5.6–6.2 mi)) is the most practical use. Note: the coastal road receives vehicle traffic and has no dedicated cycle lane for most of its length. Cycling is not appropriate for all passengers.
Congestion buffer
Bora Bora is one of the most sought-after ports in the South Pacific and regularly hosts multiple cruise ships simultaneously during peak season (May–October). When two or more ships are in port on the same day, add 15–20 minutes to every transport estimate — taxi queues at Vaitape pier lengthen significantly, Le Truck fills up, and lagoon boat operators become heavily booked. On high-traffic days, tender queues back to the ship also extend by 15–30 minutes beyond normal. Factor this buffer into every excursion and return plan.
Port agents
Independent port agents do not operate at Motu Tapu, which is a private, uninhabited islet with no shore infrastructure. At Vaitape (the Bora Bora tender drop-off point), some local operators and tour coordinators positioned near the tender pier offer day-of bookings for lagoon excursions, island tours, and water activities. These individuals are not port agents in the traditional sense — they are independent commercial operators selling tour products on behalf of local operators. They are not affiliated with your cruise line and any arrangement made with them is entirely at your own discretion and risk. You should independently verify operator legitimacy, confirm return-time guarantees in writing or verbally before committing, and ensure any lagoon excursion booked pier-side will have you back at Vaitape with sufficient time to make your tender. For Motu Tapu specifically, the Conrad Bora Bora Nui resort is the primary legitimate access gatekeeper — contact them directly in advance if you wish to visit the islet outside a ship-organized excursion.
Known scams
No specific, confirmed scam patterns uniquely targeting cruise passengers at Bora Bora/Motu Tapu were identified from live sources during research for this guide. However, the following practices are common knowledge among experienced Polynesia cruisers and should be treated as advisory: (1) Unnegotiated taxi fares — because taxis are not metered in Bora Bora, passengers who board without first agreeing on a price may be quoted inflated fares on arrival. Always negotiate and confirm the fare before entering a vehicle. (2) Lagoon boat operator overselling — on busy multi-ship days, independent lagoon operators near the pier may overbook time slots, causing delays that put tender return times at risk. Pre-book with reputable operators and confirm they will have you back at Vaitape pier with sufficient time to meet your tender. (3) Pearl quality misrepresentation — French Polynesian black pearls vary significantly in quality and price. Purchasing from established boutiques (e.g., Robert Wan) rather than informal pier-side vendors reduces the risk of misrepresented quality. You should confirm current conditions before your visit.
Food & Dining in Motu Tapu French Polynesia
Food Culture
Motu Tapu is a privately held islet within Bora Bora's lagoon in the Society Islands of French Polynesia — widely cited as the most photographed motu in the South Pacific and historically the personal beach of Queen Pomare IV of Tahiti. It has no permanent resident population, no commercial kitchen, and no public-access restaurants. The food experience on Motu Tapu itself is therefore inseparable from the broader Bora Bora culinary tradition: meals prepared and served on the island are either catered by resort staff from adjacent properties (historically the Hilton Bora Bora and, more recently, the Conrad Bora Bora Nui, which currently controls exclusive guest access to the motu) or brought as part of organized private picnics and excursions. That culinary tradition is rooted in ancient Polynesian subsistence — fish caught from the lagoon, parrotfish and tuna prepared over coral-heated fires, coconut harvested from the palms that shade the beach, and feast foods cooked in the ahima'a (underground earth oven) — layered over centuries with French colonial influence, a significant Chinese immigrant foodway, and, most recently, the demands of international luxury tourism. The signature dishes passengers encounter on and around Motu Tapu reflect this stratified history: Polynesian raw fish technique survives virtually unchanged as poisson cru; the Sunday ahima'a feast called Maa Tahiti remains a communal ritual on the nearby main island of Bora Bora; French baguettes stuffed with Chinese chow mein persist in Vaitape market stalls; and resort chefs translate local vanilla, lagoon fish, and coconut cream into high-end French-Polynesian cuisine. Because Motu Tapu has no walk-in dining infrastructure, passengers visiting independently or on ship-organized excursions will access cuisine through resort experiences, lagoon tour operators offering motu picnics, or the handful of verified restaurants in Vaitape and along the Bora Bora main island road — all reachable by tender or boat transfer from the cruise pier at Vaitape.
Signature Dishes to Try
Poisson Cru (Ia Ota) — Raw Fish in Coconut Milk and Lime
Poisson cru is the de facto national dish of French Polynesia and holds particular resonance around Bora Bora's lagoon motus, where freshly line-caught tuna has been prepared this way for generations. On Motu Tapu specifically, the former President of French Polynesia was documented preparing freshly caught parrotfish over heated coral on the island's beach — a direct expression of the same catch-and-eat lagoon culture that underpins this dish. It is the single most requested item on motu picnic menus organized by Bora Bora resort operators and tour boats.
Bloody Mary's Restaurant & Bar, Povai Bay, Bora Bora (4.0+ on TripAdvisor; long-standing Bora Bora institution). You should confirm current availability and rating before your visit.
Maa Tahiti — Traditional Ahima'a Earth-Oven Feast
Maa Tahiti is the ceremonial feast food of the Society Islands, prepared on Sundays and for tamaaraa (feast days). Bora Bora locals travel to the motus — including areas adjacent to Motu Tapu — specifically to prepare ahima'a feasts. Coconut-leaf plates and serving baskets are woven fresh on site. This is the foundational food ritual of the lagoon motu culture passengers glimpse when visiting Motu Tapu.
Resort luau-style cultural evenings at Conrad Bora Bora Nui and through organized Bora Bora lagoon tour operators offering motu picnic packages. You should confirm current availability and scheduling before your visit.
Poulet Fafa — Chicken Braised with Taro Leaves and Coconut Milk
Poulet fafa is a fixture of the ahima'a feast and one of the most specifically Tahitian preparations — taro leaf cookery with coconut milk is not replicated in the same form elsewhere in the Pacific. It appears on virtually every cultural feast menu in Bora Bora and the Society Islands and represents the indigenous integration of taro cultivation with the coconut economy that has sustained island communities for over a thousand years.
Available at resort cultural feast evenings and at local snack restaurants (casual diners) in Vaitape, Bora Bora. You should confirm current availability and ratings before your visit.
Po'e — Taro or Banana Pudding with Coconut Cream
Po'e is the traditional dessert of the Tahitian feast table and the dessert most associated with the Sunday family gathering culture of the Society Islands. Tahitian vanilla — grown primarily on Raiatea and Tahaa, islands visible on a clear day from Bora Bora's higher ground — is among the most prized vanilla in the world and distinguishes the local version of this pudding from any regional approximation. It is considered the national dessert of French Polynesia.
Served at cultural feast evenings at Bora Bora resorts and at local snack restaurants and roulottes (food trucks) in Vaitape. You should confirm current availability before your visit.
Parrotfish Grillé sur Corail — Coral-Grilled Parrotfish
This is the most Motu Tapu-specific preparation documented in connection with the island. The technique — coral as cooking medium, tau leaves as a natural non-stick layer — is an ancient Polynesian method practiced by local fishermen who have worked Bora Bora's lagoon for centuries. It was documented on Motu Tapu itself when the former President of French Polynesia prepared a freshly caught parrotfish in exactly this manner on the beach of the island. It is not a restaurant dish; it is a living subsistence and cultural practice.
Experienced through organized motu fishing-and-cooking excursions departing Bora Bora's main pier at Vaitape. Catch & Cook tour operators in Bora Bora offer versions of this experience. You should confirm operator ratings and availability before your visit.
Firi Firi — Coconut Doughnut
Firi firi is the street-food breakfast of French Polynesia, sold from roulottes (food trucks) and market stalls every morning across the Society Islands. In Bora Bora, they appear at the Vaitape waterfront market — the first commercial food stop passengers reach after tendering ashore. The coconut dough recipe reflects the central role of the coconut palm in Polynesian food culture: every part of the nut, from water to cream to pressed oil, is integrated into the daily diet.
Sold at roulotte food trucks and the morning market at Vaitape Wharf, Bora Bora. You should confirm current vendor hours before your visit.
Recommended Restaurants
Distance & transport
Approximately 4 km (2.5 mi) south of Vaitape Wharf along the coastal road; accessible by bicycle rental, taxi, or lagoon shuttle.
Hours
You should confirm hours before visiting. Historically lunch and dinner service; closed certain days of the week. Confirm directly or via your ship's shore excursion desk.
What to order
Fresh-grilled lagoon fish selected from an iced display board (mahi mahi, parrotfish, tuna) cooked to order over an open charcoal grill; poisson cru served in a half coconut shell with vegetables; the signature mahi mahi burger with local garnishes cited frequently in recent visitor reviews.
Why it's worth visiting
Bloody Mary's has operated continuously since 1979 and occupies a singular position in Bora Bora's food culture: sand floors, coconut-trunk bar stools, thatched-roof dining room open to the lagoon breeze, and a guest board that has included heads of state and global celebrities. It is the reference point for Bora Bora casual dining and one of very few establishments on the island where locally caught lagoon fish is presented raw at the counter for guests to select before grilling. The atmosphere is genuinely local despite international fame.
Operational notes
Accepts credit cards. Reservations recommended for dinner; walk-ins typically accommodated at lunch. Located on Povai Bay on the western lagoon side of Bora Bora main island — requires transport from Vaitape. Not walkable from the cruise tender pier. Check current opening days before visiting as the restaurant has historically closed on certain weekdays. Port-day timing: lunch service aligns well with standard all-aboard windows.
Restaurant St. James (Conrad Bora Bora Nui)
Motu To'opua, Bora Bora 98730, French Polynesia (accessible by resort boat transfer from Vaitape)
Distance & transport
Approximately 2–3 km (1.2–1.9 mi) across the lagoon from Vaitape Wharf; 5–8 minutes by hotel water taxi.
Hours
You should confirm hours and day-visit dining access directly with the Conrad Bora Bora Nui before your visit.
What to order
French-Polynesian fusion seafood plates featuring locally caught lagoon fish; poisson cru prepared with premium coconut cream and Tahitian lime; resort-signature desserts incorporating Tahitian vanilla sourced from Raiatea.
Why it's worth visiting
The Conrad Bora Bora Nui holds the current exclusive guest-access rights to Motu Tapu itself, making its dining venues the closest thing to an on-island culinary experience available. Resort restaurants benefit from proximity to the lagoon fishery and French-trained kitchen staff working with local ingredients. For cruise passengers specifically, a day-visit or lunch reservation at the Conrad places you within the immediate geographic orbit of Motu Tapu.
Operational notes
Non-resort guests wishing to dine should contact the Conrad Bora Bora Nui reservations team in advance; day-visit access is not guaranteed for walk-in cruise passengers. Resort operates its own water taxi from the Vaitape area. Credit cards accepted. Smart-casual dress standard for restaurant dining. Timing note: coordinate with your ship's all-aboard time, as lagoon transfers add meaningful transit time in both directions.
Distance & transport
Approximately 1–2 km (0.6–1.2 mi) from Vaitape Wharf.
Hours
Dinner service only. You should confirm current hours before visiting. Important timing note: dinner-only service will only be practical for cruise passengers whose ship departs Bora Bora in the late evening. Confirm your ship's all-aboard time before booking.
What to order
Chef's tasting menu built around daily lagoon catch; French-Polynesian fusion preparations incorporating Tahitian vanilla, local coconut cream, and fresh-caught reef fish; dessert courses featuring po'e-inspired compositions with premium Tahitian vanilla.
Why it's worth visiting
La Villa Mahana is consistently cited among the finest intimate dining experiences in all of French Polynesia, operating with a limited nightly cover count in a private villa setting. The kitchen applies classical French technique to Society Islands ingredients with precision uncommon outside Papeete. For passengers seeking a refined meal rather than a casual beach lunch, it represents the clearest expression of Bora Bora's French-Polynesian fusion culinary identity.
Operational notes
Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance — the restaurant accepts a very small number of covers per evening. Credit cards accepted. Smart dress required. Dinner-only: not suitable for standard port-day visits unless the ship has a late-evening or overnight call. Passengers on ships with all-aboard times before 6:00 PM should not attempt this reservation.
Distance & transport
Under 500 meters (0.3 mi) from Vaitape Wharf.
Hours
You should confirm hours before visiting. Historically open for lunch and dinner daily. Confirm current operating hours directly.
What to order
Grilled fish of the day sourced from local lagoon catch; poisson cru served in traditional style with fresh vegetables and coconut milk; cold Hinano beer (the local Tahitian lager brewed in Papeete) paired with grilled seafood platters.
Why it's worth visiting
The Bora Bora Yacht Club sits on the Vaitape waterfront with direct lagoon views toward Motu Tapu and Mount Otemanu, making it the most geographically and logistically convenient quality dining option for cruise passengers who tender into Vaitape. The casual open-air setting is authentically local rather than tourist-packaged, and the kitchen works with the same lagoon fish supply that underpins the entire island's culinary culture.
Operational notes
Cash and card typically both accepted; confirm on arrival. No formal reservation required for lunch walk-ins. Direct waterfront location means full sun at midday — outdoor seating; bring sun protection. Best suited for lunch during a standard port call. Arrive early to secure lagoon-view seating. Hinano lager is the local beer of choice.
Roulottes du Vaitape (Waterfront Food Trucks)
Vaitape Wharf Waterfront, Vaitape, Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Distance & transport
Under 200 meters (0.1 mi) from the cruise tender pier.
Hours
You should confirm hours before visiting. Morning and lunch service is typical; some trucks operate into early evening. Hours vary by individual vendor and day of week.
What to order
Poisson cru in a coconut shell; firi firi (coconut doughnuts) with coffee for morning arrivals; grilled mahi mahi plate with rice and ratatouille Tahitienne; chao mein (Chinese-Tahitian fried noodles) in a baguette — the definitive local fusion snack.
Why it's worth visiting
Roulottes are the most authentic and affordable food experience in French Polynesia. Tahiti Tourisme identifies them as culturally equivalent to ukuleles and flower shirts — core to island identity, not a tourist construct. The Vaitape waterfront roulottes serve the same food that locals eat daily, priced for a local economy, with the added context of lagoon views and the silhouette of Motu Tapu visible across the water. This is the closest most cruise passengers will come to eating as residents of Bora Bora eat.
Operational notes
Cash preferred at most roulottes; some may accept card. No reservations — counter service only. Highest variety and freshest supply at lunchtime. Arrive before 12:30 PM for best selection. Outdoor standing and bench seating. No dress code. Ideal for passengers with limited time ashore as the location is steps from the tender dock. Port-day timing: perfectly suited to standard port-call windows.
Shore Excursions & Tours
16,500ft Skydive over Abel Tasman with NZ's Most Epic Scenery
by Skydive Abel Tasman
Meeting point
Note: This tour is operated out of Motueka, New Zealand — not Taha'a Island, French Polynesia. This listing does not match the port of Motu Mahana, Taha'a. Verify location before booking. Typical meeting point would be at the dropzone facility.
What's included
Tandem skydive from 16,500ft, professional instructor, harness and jump equipment, certificate of completion
Not included
Gratuities, photo/video packages (typically available at extra cost), transport to/from dropzone
Children & accessibility
Minimum age and weight restrictions typically apply; generally suitable for ages 12+ with parental consent — confirm with operator
Weather contingency
Skydiving is highly weather-dependent; free cancellation typically available up to 24 hours in advance. Operator may reschedule or cancel due to wind, cloud cover, or poor visibility. Check operator policy carefully, especially for cruise-day bookings where rescheduling may not be possible.
Reviewer summary
This tandem skydive offers a breathtaking freefall experience over the stunning scenery of Abel Tasman, New Zealand. Rated a perfect 5 stars, the operator is praised for professionalism and delivering an unforgettable thrill. However, cruise passengers should be strongly aware that this tour is based in Motueka, New Zealand, and does not correspond to the port of Motu Mahana on Taha'a Island in French Polynesia. Passengers should verify tour location carefully before booking to ensure it matches their itinerary.
Shopping in Motu Tapu French Polynesia
Shopping Overview
Motu Tapu is a small, privately managed uninhabited islet in the Bora Bora lagoon, French Polynesia, used almost exclusively as a cruise ship excursion beach destination. It has no permanent retail infrastructure, shops, or market stalls of its own. Any shopping opportunity tied to a Motu Tapu call occurs either aboard the ship, through vendor tables that may be set up on the motu upon arrival (a practice confirmed at comparable private motu stops such as Motu Mahana on Taha'a), or by arranging a separate excursion to Vaitape, Bora Bora's main village. Vaitape () is the commercial center of Bora Bora and sits roughly 20–30 minutes by boat from the Bora Bora lagoon anchorage area. If your ship offers a combination excursion that includes time in Vaitape, that is where genuine local shopping happens. French Polynesia is expensive across the board — pricing is significantly higher than most home markets — but certain categories of goods represent authentic cultural provenance that justifies the cost.
What's Worth Buying
Tahitian Black Pearls — Bora Bora and the surrounding Society Islands are among the world's principal sources of cultured Tahitian black pearls (Pinctada margaritifera). These pearls are cultivated in the lagoons of French Polynesia and are subject to strict grading standards. Purchasing directly from a reputable pearl dealer or farm in Vaitape provides genuine provenance at prices that, while high, are typically lower than equivalent pieces sold in Paris, New York, or on board luxury ships. Look for the Polynesian Pearl Quality Charter certification label. Insist on a written receipt stating pearl origin, size, grade, and luster rating for U.S. Customs and insurance purposes. Confirm vendor credentials before purchasing.
Monoi Oil and Tiare-Based Body Products — Monoi de Tahiti is a macerated oil produced by soaking gardenias (tiare flowers) in refined coconut oil, and it holds a protected appellation of origin (Appellation d'Origine) that requires production within French Polynesia. Genuine Monoi de Tahiti carries the official quality mark and is distinct from generic coconut oil products sold at other Pacific ports. It is used as a moisturizer, hair conditioner, and massage oil. Small bottles travel well and are far less expensive in local pharmacies and market stalls than in export retail. Verify the official Monoi de Tahiti label on packaging.
Tahitian Vanilla Beans — French Polynesia, particularly the islands of Taha'a and Raiatea nearby, produces some of the world's most prized vanilla (Vanilla tahitensis). The beans are thicker, more floral, and lower in vanillin than Mexican or Madagascar varieties, making them a genuinely distinct culinary product. If your ship includes a Taha'a or Raiatea call on the same itinerary, vanilla is best purchased there; if Bora Bora / Motu Tapu is your only stop, vanilla beans can be found at artisan vendors in Vaitape. Prices are significantly lower buying directly from growers or local markets than purchasing Tahitian vanilla in U.S. or European specialty stores.
Pareos and Handcrafted Tapa/Fabric Work — Hand-dyed pareos (sarongs) using traditional Polynesian patterns are produced locally and sold at artisan tables near cruise tender drops and in Vaitape's craft center. Machine-printed versions from overseas are also common — ask vendors directly whether the fabric was hand-dyed or printed, and whether the pattern work is local. Locally made pareos are a practical, lightweight purchase with genuine cultural connection to the destination and represent real value compared to resort boutique pricing.
Duty-free & Customs Allowance
U.S. Customs duty-free allowance is $800 per person for goods purchased abroad and accompanying the traveler on return (confirmed general CBP allowance — you should verify any changes at cbp.gov before your voyage). Purchases above $800 are subject to a flat 3% duty on the next $1,000 in value, then standard rates above that. Tahitian black pearls must be declared and are subject to duty if their total value combined with other purchases exceeds the $800 threshold. Loose pearls and pearl jewelry are dutiable items if over threshold. Vanilla beans are generally admissible for personal use quantities but must be declared on your CBP form — U.S. Customs and USDA APHIS restrict certain agricultural products; confirm current admissibility at aphis.usda.gov before purchasing large quantities. Monoi oil in commercial quantities may require declaration. No VAT refund system applies: French Polynesia is a French overseas collectivity but operates under its own tax regime and is outside the EU VAT framework. There is no VAT refund process for departing visitors equivalent to the European Tax Free Shopping scheme. Prices paid are the final prices — no refund mechanism exists at departure. French Polynesia uses a local consumption tax (TVA) but does not operate a tourist refund program. You should confirm current CBP admissibility rules for all purchased goods before your visit.
Practical Notes
French Polynesia is among the most expensive destinations in the South Pacific — budget accordingly. Prices are fixed in virtually all shops and market stalls; bargaining is not customary and is generally considered disrespectful. USD and Euros are widely accepted at most tourist-facing shops and resort boutiques in Bora Bora, though the official currency is the CFP Franc and change may be returned in CFP. Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at established pearl dealers, boutiques, and resort shops in Vaitape. Small artisan vendor tables at tender landings and beach motu setups typically require cash — CFP Francs preferred, USD may be accepted but often at a less favorable rate. If shopping in Vaitape, there are ATMs on the main street near the ferry dock (). Most stores in Vaitape observe a midday closure from approximately noon to 1:30–2:00 PM and are closed on Sundays — plan accordingly if your ship allows independent time ashore.
Known scams
No specific predatory shopping operations targeting cruise passengers have been confirmed from live sources for Motu Tapu specifically, which is consistent with the motu's character as a low-infrastructure, largely controlled beach excursion site. However, for the broader Bora Bora / French Polynesia cruise context, the following risks are consistently reported: Pearl quality misrepresentation is the most documented issue — lower-grade pearls with thin nacelle, poor luster, or dyed surface coloration are sometimes presented as higher-grade stones, particularly at informal vendor tables near tender docks. Always request written documentation of pearl grade, nacelle thickness, and origin. Vendor tables at tender landings throughout French Polynesia are known to carry a mix of locally made items and mass-produced imports labeled as handmade — examine workmanship carefully and ask directly where items were made. No gem scam operations, fake duty-free shops, or organized fraud patterns specific to Motu Tapu have been confirmed from a live source at time of writing.
Practical Information
General Information
Peak season
Peak season for French Polynesia and Bora Bora falls between May and October, coinciding with the dry season (austral winter). This is the most popular period for cruise itineraries in the Society Islands. During peak months, tender queues at the Bora Bora lagoon anchorage can be significant — 30–45 minutes or more for popular lines. Vendor tables on the motu can become crowded when multiple ships are in the lagoon simultaneously; confirm whether other vessels are scheduled the same day via your ship's daily program or CruiseMapper. Water visibility for snorkeling is best during dry season (May–October). Humpback whales migrate through French Polynesian waters roughly July–November, which increases demand for lagoon excursions and fills tour operator capacity quickly during that window. Book any independent lagoon or shark/ray excursion in advance if traveling during July–September.
Weather
French Polynesia has two distinct seasons. Dry season (May–October): Average temperatures 75–82°F (24–28°C), lower humidity, trade winds, occasional brief showers but predominantly clear skies. Ideal conditions for beach and water activities with little disruption risk. Wet/humid season (November–April): Temperatures rise to 86–90°F (30–32°C) with higher humidity. Short but intense tropical rain showers are common, particularly in the afternoon. Cyclone risk exists but is low — French Polynesia sits at the southern edge of the cyclone belt, and direct strikes are rare, though tropical depressions can bring choppy lagoon conditions. For cruise passengers: Wet season afternoon showers are typically short and intense, clearing within 30–60 minutes. Morning tours are strongly recommended during November–March to maximize dry weather windows. Tender suspension due to weather at Bora Bora's inner lagoon anchorage is uncommon — the lagoon is well-protected by the reef — but swell and wind events can delay or suspend tendering. If tender operations are suspended, the ship will make announcements; do not attempt to arrange private water transport independently during a suspension.
Language
The official languages of French Polynesia are French and Tahitian. In Vaitape and all tourist-facing businesses in Bora Bora, basic to intermediate English is widely spoken at pearl shops, hotel boutiques, tour operators, and restaurant front desks — English availability is strong by South Pacific standards given Bora Bora's high volume of American and Australian visitors. At smaller artisan vendors and local food stalls, French or Tahitian may be the only languages spoken — a translation app is useful. WhatsApp is the standard communication method for local tour operators, transport providers, and many independent businesses throughout French Polynesia — save local operator numbers and communicate via WhatsApp for any pre-arranged independent excursions.
Currency & payments
The official currency of French Polynesia is the CFP Franc (XPF — Franc Pacifique). It is pegged to the Euro at a fixed rate (1 EUR = 119.33 XPF). USD is widely accepted at resort shops, pearl dealers, and most tourist-facing boutiques in Vaitape and Bora Bora, but change is typically returned in CFP at a rate that may be slightly less favorable than the official exchange. For smaller purchases, vendor tables, and any cash-only transactions, XPF is strongly preferred. ATMs: There are ATMs in Vaitape on the main waterfront street, including at Banque de Tahiti and Banque Socredo (). Non-bank ATMs and ATMs at hotel resorts may charge surcharges — use bank-branded ATMs where possible. Credit cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted at established shops, pearl dealers, and resort boutiques. American Express acceptance is limited. Small vendor tables at the motu and tender dock are cash only. No VAT refund program exists in French Polynesia for departing tourists — see Duty-Free and Customs section.
Connectivity
Motu Tapu itself has no Wi-Fi infrastructure — it is an uninhabited beach motu with no permanent facilities. Do not rely on connectivity on the motu. Ship Wi-Fi is your primary connectivity option while at anchor. Vaitape (if going ashore): Mobile signal from local carriers (Vodafone French Polynesia and Vini/Office des Postes et Télécommunications) covers Vaitape's main waterfront area with 4G service. Rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft) do not operate in French Polynesia — local boat taxis and pre-arranged transfers are the only transport options. Local SIM cards are available from Vini and Vodafone French Polynesia outlets in Papeete (Tahiti) and to a limited extent in Vaitape — you should confirm current availability and pricing before your visit, as retail hours are limited and stock may not always be available on Bora Bora. A local SIM provides data coverage adequate for maps and messaging on Bora Bora's main island. Coverage does not extend to Motu Tapu or uninhabited motu in the lagoon.
Photography restrictions
No confirmed photography restrictions apply on Motu Tapu itself. Photography of the lagoon, beach, and ship is unrestricted. On the Bora Bora main island: Photography inside Protestant and Catholic churches is generally discouraged during services — ask permission before photographing inside any church. No confirmed restrictions with stated penalties have been identified from live sources for Bora Bora at time of writing. Standard courtesy guidelines apply: ask permission before photographing local residents, particularly on main-island excursions. No military installations, government buildings, or heritage sites with posted photography bans have been confirmed specifically for Motu Tapu or the immediately adjacent lagoon area.
Dress codes
Motu Tapu is a beach motu — beach attire including swimwear, cover-ups, and sandals is entirely appropriate for the motu itself. No dress code restrictions apply on the beach. If you travel to Vaitape or any church or religious site on the Bora Bora main island: Covered shoulders and covered knees are expected when entering churches and any religious building. Arriving in a swimsuit or bikini top will result in entry being denied at churches. Cover-ups (pareos) can be purchased at vendor tables near the tender landing in Vaitape for a few hundred CFP and serve as an adequate cover-up for religious site visits. No confirmed dress code restrictions apply at Vaitape's open-air market or pearl shops — standard tourist attire is acceptable.
Closures & pre-booking
Motu Tapu itself has no independently operated attractions, monuments, or ticketed sites — the entire experience is controlled by the cruise line or contracted operator. Access is exclusively via the ship's organized tender or excursion program; there is no independent public access to Motu Tapu. No advance timed-entry tickets exist. Vaitape (Bora Bora mainland), if your itinerary includes time ashore: Shops and boutiques are generally open Monday–Saturday, approximately 7:30 AM–noon and 1:30–5:30 PM. All shops except hotel and resort boutiques are closed on Sundays. Most shops observe a midday closure of approximately 1.5–2 hours around noon. Public holidays in French Polynesia on which shops and services close include: New Year's Day (January 1), Good Friday and Easter Monday (dates vary), Labor Day (May 1), Victory in Europe Day (May 8), Ascension Day, Pentecost Monday, Bastille Day / Heiva Festival (July 14 — a major local celebration with some closures and events), Assumption (August 15), All Saints' Day (November 1), and Christmas Day (December 25). You should confirm current public holiday dates before your visit. No advance booking is required for Motu Tapu beach access as it is cruise-line managed — however, lagoon excursions (shark/ray feeding, outrigger canoe, private catamaran tours) operated from Bora Bora fill quickly in peak season and should be pre-booked through the ship or a confirmed local operator.
Pier Runner Protocol
Motu Tapu is a tender port — there is no dock. The ship anchors in the Bora Bora lagoon and all passenger movement to and from the motu is by tender or excursion boat on a controlled schedule. LAST TENDER WARNING: The last tender from Motu Tapu back to the ship is NOT the same as the All Aboard time. The last tender typically departs the motu 60–90 minutes before the published All Aboard time. Confirm the exact last tender time directly from the ship's daily program before going ashore — this information is printed on the program and announced by the shore excursions desk. If you miss the last tender, you miss the ship. There is no alternative public water transport from Motu Tapu to the ship — the motu is uninhabited and has no independent boat services. The ship will not hold for passengers on independent arrangements. It may hold for passengers on the cruise line's own organized excursions — confirm this policy at the shore excursions desk before going ashore. Port agent contact: You should locate the cruise line's port agent contact before going ashore — ask at the ship's shore excursions desk. Port agent details vary by cruise line and are not confirmed from a live public source at time of writing. If the ship departs without you: You are responsible for all costs to reach the next port of call. The nearest major transport hub is Motu Mute Airport, Bora Bora (), which operates Air Tahiti inter-island flights to Papeete's Faa'a International Airport (approximately 50-minute flight). From Papeete you can connect onward by air to most subsequent French Polynesia ports of call or international destinations. Budget a minimum of 3–4 hours from the Bora Bora lagoon to being airside in Papeete, accounting for the boat transfer from Motu Tapu or the ship tender area to the Vaitape dock, ground transfer to Vaitape ferry, ferry to Motu Mute Airport dock, and flight. Air Tahiti inter-island seats are limited — availability is not guaranteed, especially during peak season. Travel insurance covering missed ship departure is strongly recommended for any passenger spending time on Motu Tapu, given the tender dependency and the complete absence of independent return transport from the motu. Return journey minimum timing from Motu Tapu to ship: Motu Tapu beach to tender boarding point (5–10 min walk) + tender queue and crossing to ship (20–35 min) + re-boarding security queue (10–15 min) = minimum 35–60 minutes total. Add your personal buffer of at least 30 minutes beyond this minimum. Do not leave the beach within 90 minutes of the last tender time without a confirmed plan. *Build your personal All Aboard countdown from this information, not from the published schedule alone. The published All Aboard time is the ship's deadline, not yours.*
Medical & Safety
Nearest hospital
There is no full hospital on Bora Bora. The nearest medical facility is the Centre Médical de Bora Bora, located in Vaitape: BP 1075, Vaitape, Bora Bora 98730, French Polynesia (). This is a medical clinic — not a full hospital — capable of handling minor emergencies and stabilization. For serious medical emergencies, patients are evacuated by air or helicopter to Centre Hospitalier Territorial de Papeete, Avenue Georges Clemenceau, Mamao, Tahiti 98713, French Polynesia (), phone: +689 40 46 62 62. Motu Tapu to Vaitape medical clinic involves a boat transfer from the motu to the Bora Bora main island ferry dock (approximately 15–25 minutes by boat depending on conditions), then a short taxi ride to the clinic. Emergency number in French Polynesia: 15 (SAMU/paramedics), 17 (police), 18 (fire). Dial 15 for medical emergencies. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential for this destination given the remote location and the need for air evacuation for serious cases.
Nearest pharmacy
Pharmacie Lafayette Bora Bora, main street, Vaitape, Bora Bora 98730, French Polynesia, phone: +689 40 67 70 30 (). This is the principal pharmacy serving Bora Bora. It stocks standard over-the-counter medications including seasickness remedies, sunscreen, insect repellent, basic first aid supplies, and common prescription medications. Hours: Typically Monday–Friday approximately 7:30 AM–noon and 2:00–5:30 PM; Saturday morning hours apply; closed Sunday. You should confirm current hours before your visit as pharmacy hours in French Polynesia follow the standard midday closure pattern and may vary on public holidays. Reaching the pharmacy from Motu Tapu requires a boat transfer to the Vaitape ferry dock (15–25 minutes) plus a short walk or taxi to the main street — allow at least 45–60 minutes total transit time from the motu.
Petty crime patterns
French Polynesia, including Bora Bora, has a low overall crime rate. No specific organized pickpocket operations, distraction crime rings, or predatory scam networks targeting cruise passengers have been confirmed from live sources near Motu Tapu or the Bora Bora lagoon tender area at time of writing. Standard precautions apply: do not leave valuables unattended on the beach, keep bags closed and in sight at vendor tables near the Vaitape tender dock, and avoid displaying expensive camera equipment or jewelry unnecessarily. The Vaitape waterfront area near the tender landing is a controlled tourist zone and is generally considered safe during daylight hours. No areas to specifically avoid near the motu or Vaitape waterfront have been confirmed from a live source.
Returning to Your Ship
Back to Ship — Critical Timing Info
Missing ship departure means being stranded at port. Review the warnings below and plan your return time carefully.
Final Departure Warning
Leave no later than LAST TENDER WARNING — MANDATORY READ: Motu Tapu and all Bora Bora lagoon destinations are served by tender only. Your cruise ship does not dock at a pier — it anchors in the lagoon. The last tender departure from Vaitape shore is operationally earlier than the published All Aboard time — typically 45 to 90 minutes earlier. Missing the last tender means missing the ship. Confirm the exact last tender time directly from the ship's daily program or from the gangway officer before going ashore. Do not use the published All Aboard time as your tender deadline. RETURN SCENARIO — FARTHEST PRACTICAL DESTINATION (Motu Tapu or Matira Beach): If your farthest point of the day is Motu Tapu (via lagoon excursion) or Matira Beach (via taxi/Le Truck): Leg 1 — Board lagoon return boat or hail taxi at destination: allow 5–10 min wait/boarding time. Leg 2 — Boat or taxi transit back to Vaitape pier: 15–20 min (boat from motu) or 15–20 min (taxi from Matira Beach). Leg 3 — Walk from Vaitape pier arrival point to tender boarding area: 5 min. Leg 4 — Tender queue wait and boarding: 15–30 min (standard); 30–45 min on multi-ship days with congestion buffer applied. Leg 5 — Tender ride to ship: 10–15 min depending on anchor position. TOTAL MINIMUM RETURN TIME: 50–80 minutes from departure of farthest destination under normal conditions. With congestion buffer on multi-ship days: 65–100 minutes. RECOMMENDED PERSONAL BUFFER: Add 30 minutes on top of the minimum return time as your personal safety margin. This means you should be leaving Motu Tapu or Matira Beach no later than 2 hours before the published All Aboard time on a busy day. PORT-SPECIFIC RISK FACTORS: (1) Tender weather dependency — lagoon conditions in French Polynesia can deteriorate quickly; tender service may be suspended or slowed by chop, requiring passengers to queue longer or wait for improved conditions. (2) Limited taxi supply — on multi-ship days, taxis at Vaitape pier are in short supply; independent passengers relying on pier-side taxis for the return may face a wait of 20–40 minutes with no guarantee of availability. (3) Lagoon excursion overruns — independently booked lagoon operators do not coordinate return timing with ship tender schedules; excursions can run late. (4) Motu Tapu access constraint — if accessing Motu Tapu independently (not via ship excursion), you are dependent on a private boat operator for return transport; if that operator is delayed, you have no alternative. Ship excursions guarantee coordinated return. (5) No rideshare fallback — Uber and all rideshare apps are unavailable; if your taxi arrangement fails, alternative transport at Vaitape is not guaranteed. Build your personal All Aboard countdown from this information, not from the published schedule alone. The published All Aboard time is the ship's deadline, not yours.
- Leg 1 — Depart farthest destination (Motu Tapu by boat or Matira Beach by taxi): allow 5–10 min wait/boarding
- Leg 2 — Transit back to Vaitape pier (lagoon boat: 15–20 min; taxi from Matira: 15–20 min)
- Leg 3 — Walk from Vaitape pier to tender boarding area: 5 min
- Leg 4 — Tender queue wait and boarding: 15–30 min standard; 30–45 min on multi-ship congestion days
- Leg 5 — Tender ride from Vaitape to ship at anchor: 10–15 min
(1) Tender weather dependency — lagoon chop can slow or suspend tender service without notice, extending queue times significantly. (2) Limited taxi supply at Vaitape pier on multi-ship days — waits of 20–40 min with no guarantee of availability. (3) Independently booked lagoon excursions do not coordinate return timing with ship tender schedules and can overrun. (4) Motu Tapu private access constraint — if not on a ship excursion, you are fully dependent on a private boat operator for return; no alternative transport exists to leave the islet. (5) No rideshare fallback anywhere in French Polynesia. (6) Le Truck service is infrequent and unreliable as a return vehicle when time is critical.
Build your personal All Aboard countdown from this information, not from the published schedule alone. The published All Aboard time is the ship's deadline, not yours.