Fakarava Grouper Spawning & Exploration Trip June 2026

Fakarava Grouper Spawning & Exploration Trip June 2026

Guided Group Trip

Join us in the Fakarava Atoll and experience the Grouper Spawning, where female groupers release millions of eggs and the males release clouds of sperm to ensure fertilization and the future of grouper populations. Travel aboard the well-equipped 18.9m Lagoon 620 Catamaran and explore the remote atoll of Toau, a hidden gem of French Polynesian diving.

Why Join This Trip?

• Experience the spectacular event that is the Grouper Spawning, where millions of eggs and sperm are released to ensure fertilization.
• Get the chance to see other pelagics such as sharks and barracudas.
• Travel aboard the luxurious Lagoon 620 catamaran
• Fully refundable deposit until 18 months from departure.

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Trip Overview

Embark on a unique dive cruise through the UNESCO-listed atolls of Fakarava and Toau, famed for their pristine underwater ecosystems. This exceptional journey aboard the Lagoon 620 catamaran offers a private dive exploration of the north and south passes of Fakarava, including the world-class diving in the untouched Tuamotu and the breathtaking underwater landscapes of French Polynesia. With a separate 9.5-meter dive tender serving as a dedicated dive platform, guests enjoy ample space and tranquility onboard the catamaran between dives, with all diving gear and equipment stored on the tender. Guests can also make use of the various amenities and actvities aboard the well-equipped catamaran such as paddle boarding and kayaking, making it perfect for snorkelers and non-divers.

Grouper Spawning

Every year, the Grouper Spawning occurs in Fakarava Atoll, where numerous groupers of different species come together. The primary gathering spot for these groupers is the southern pass, which connects the lagoon to the open ocean. During this event, female groupers release millions of eggs, and the males release clouds of sperm, ensuring successful fertilization.

This spawning event is essential for sustaining grouper populations and also attracts various marine predators and scavengers. Sharks, barracudas, and other predatory fish often gather in large numbers to capitalize on the abundant food available during the spawning season. This remarkable occurrence offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to witness this spectacular event.

After witnessing the spawning event we travel to the Tuamotu Archipelago where guests will have the unique opportunity to dive the pristine reefs and discover this stunning part of French Polynesia rarely visited by tourists. Toau is a remote atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago of French Polynesia, known for its untouched beauty and exceptional diving conditions. Unlike more frequented dive sites, Toau offers a tranquil and secluded environment with crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life. Divers can explore diverse underwater landscapes, from lush coral gardens to deep drop-offs, often encountering a variety of fish species, including colorful reef fish, majestic rays, and occasional sharks. Its relatively isolated location means fewer crowds and a more intimate connection with nature, making it a hidden gem for adventurous divers seeking a unique and serene diving experience.

See what to expect during this trip, with our video recap from our 2024 Fakarava Grouper spawning trip:

Video recap of Bluewater Travel's 2024 Fakarava Grouper Spawning Trip

Read our full 2024 Fakarava Grouper Spawning Trip Recap, and check out Scott Gietler's photo essay from our past grouper spawning trip. There's more than just sharks in French Polynesia!

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Inclusions

• Round-trip transfers between Fakarava and the boat
• Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner + non-alcoholic beverages)
• Bedding, towels & beach towels
• Fuel and water
• Insurance (liability) for the boat and passengers
• 2 Paddle boards / 1 kayak
• Relocation fees included
• 2 Exploration dives / day (8 days of diving) - (3rd dive during a day – extra €70 per diver)
• Aluminum dive tanks and weights, 02 safety kit
• Dive tender and pilot + fuel, private dive guide (English & French speaking)
• Insurance and liability of the tender, pilot & dive guide

Exclusions

• Dive gear: wetsuits, snorkeling gear, BCDs, regulators & octopus
• Underwater photo equipment
• Personal dive insurance / travel insurance / cancellation insurance
• Alcoholic beverages
• Shore-based excursions
• Airport transfers and flights
• Personal expenses
• Crew And dive team gratuity
• Harbour and mooring fees for the catamaran If Any 

Itinerary

Depending on time of pass current, weather and schedule, dives may be arranged while the cataraman is en route to the next destination. Divers will catch up with the catamaran on the dive tender at the end of their dive and enjoy the rest of the crossing on the catamaran.

The itinerary includes 2 dives a day from Day 2 to Day 8 (14 dives), a possible 3rd dive and one night dive during the cruise (with a fee). The dives will be arranged according to the time of pass currents. At the south pass, the dives will be arranged to match as much as possible the groupers’ spawning. Snorkeling safaris will be arranged for the non-divers in the group.

• Day 1 | June 27
• Fakarava north pass / boarding in the afternoon. Refresher dive, lecture about underwater highlights in the Tuamotu.
• Day 2 | June 28
• Fakarava north pass: morning dive. Possibility for shore-based activities, such as an e-bike or pearl farm visit. The boats head to Fakarava’s south pass through the lagoon (about 30NM). Arrival at the south pass with a dive in the afternoon.
• Days 3 - 4 | June 29 - 30
• Fakarava south pass, groupers’ spawning event. Sunset at Tetamanu family pension with a local beer, and a visit to the remnants of the small village built out of coral stone. Discover nearby pink sand beach for a swim and a walk on a secluded islet.
• Day 5 | July 1
• Fakarava – Toau. Early morning dive at the south pass. The boats head their way back to the north pass with a dive at the north pass, then en route to Toau (about 15 NM from Fakarava north pass). Discover the impressive coconut crabs at dusk (note that they won’t be collected).
• Days 6 & 7 | July 2 - 3
• Toau, diving, and a beach picnic on a secluded islet.
• Day 8 | July 4
• Toau – Fakarava north pass. Last morning dive. The boats will cruise during the day to Fakarava for the last night at anchor close to the north pass and village. On the way back to the village, the guests may want to explore new islets by tender, snorkel, and perhaps see marine birds’ nests lying on the ground. Special sunset surprise onboard.
• Day 9 | July 5
• Fakarava north pass departure. Depending on the time of pass current, weather, and schedule, dives may be arranged while the catamaran is en route to the next destination. Divers will catch up with the catamaran on the dive tender at the end of their dive and enjoy the rest of the crossing on the catamaran.

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About the Lagoon 620 Catamaran 

Experience the ultimate in comfort and adventure aboard a fully crewed 18.9m Lagoon 620 catamaran. This luxurious vessel serves as your floating home throughout the journey, offering serene views of the remote archipelago between exploration dives and fresh, delicious meals. The catamaran accommodates up to 10 guests in 5 spacious cabins, each featuring air conditioning and an ensuite bathroom, ensuring privacy and relaxation. The dedicated crew, consisting of a captain and a hostess/cook, attends to your every need, creating a seamless and enjoyable experience.

For your diving convenience, a 9.5m semi-inflatable dive tender accompanies the catamaran, acting as a dedicated dive operation platform. This tender is equipped with a Bauer Mariner compressor, keeping dive tanks and gear onboard, which allows for more space and quietness on the catamaran itself. Designed as a superyacht support vessel, the tender provides ample comfort, space, and shade, ensuring each dive is conducted in optimal conditions.

Please note that the boat only has double bed cabins. Solo travelers or friends sharing a cabin will be given a bed divider for privacy. 

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Trip Type

This trip is a GUIDED GROUP TRIP. It will be led by an experienced Bluewater Trip Leader who will provide  logistical assistance and support throughout the trip. While you are welcome to bring your underwater photography equipment, the Trip Leader is not necessarily a photo expert and is unable to offer much in the way of photography advice. Our Guided Group Trips provide an excellent opportunity for guests who enjoy meeting and traveling with other like-minded individuals or for those who benefit from the additional reassurances of group travel.

 Learn more about what's included in this trip type.

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Flight Information

Guests should fly internationally to Tahiti (PPT), arriving in the evening of Jun 26 or early morning of Jun 27. Direct flights are available from LAX and SFO with United, Air Tahiti Nui, Delta, French Bee, and Qantas. You should then book a domestic flight from PPT to FAV on Jun 27 with Air Tahiti https://www.airtahiti.com/en/. We recommend booking domestic flights early as they book up well in advance. 

Guests will be met at Fakarava Airport and transferred to the boat for embarkation.

Flight Package

Our group trips attract guests from all over the globe and many of our customers prefer to book their own flights to take advantage of mileage points or credit card discounts. For these reasons, flights are not included in our group trip packages. 

However, we are more than happy to work with you to find the best travel itinerary for your trip and will gladly give suggestions and advice, even if you make the final booking. We will check through your travel reservations at any time to ensure they fit with the trip schedule and can give recommendations on transit hotels and day tours where needed. 

If you would like us to book flights, hotels, and transfers for your domestic and/or international travel on your behalf, we are also happy to arrange this. Contact Us for more information.

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Recommended Gear

• Wetsuits. A full-length Lycra skin or a 3mm neoprene suit is recommended. A hood or hooded vest provides additional warmth and sun protection. Browse Wetsuits at Bluewater Photo.
• Strong fins. We recommend the Apeks RK3 Dive Fins. 
• SMB. The Mares Dive Marker Buoy is our choice!
• Travel BCD. Read our Best Travel BCD Article.
• Travel regulator. We suggest Mares Ultra 62X Dive Regulator.
• Dive computer. Take your pick of dive computers at Bluewater Photo. 

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Payment Schedule  

Deposit: $3,000

Second Payment: $3,000 due June 1, 2025

Balance due: December 1, 2025

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Photo Gallery 

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