Reviewed · BORA BORA
Private Boat Rental on Cap Camarat 25ft
The best part of this Bora Bora outing is the freedom. You get a private 25-foot Cap Camarat and a captain who can shape the three-hour trip around swimming, snorkeling, views, or simple time on the water. Black tip sharks, stingrays, eagle rays, and Coral Gardens may all fit into the plan.
I like the included hotel or port transfers, which remove one small but tiresome task from a beach holiday. I also like the boat’s size: it feels personal without being a tiny open skiff, and the rear ladder makes swimming easy. The main caution is the captain’s style. Some captains, including Rumahei, are praised for warmth and fun, while Nicholson is described as more hands-off. That can be ideal for independent people, but less so if you want a lively guide.
Key points
- Private Cap Camarat boat: Your group has the 25-foot Jeanneau vessel to itself.
- Three hours on Bora Bora’s lagoon: The captain can plan stops around your interests.
- Marine life encounters: Snorkeling may include black tip sharks, stingrays, eagle rays, and reef fish.
- Hotel and port transfers: Pickup and return are included, along with drinks and water.
- Flexible morning or afternoon departure: You can choose the time that fits your day.
- A captain-led experience: Rumahei is praised for music and energy, while a quieter captain may leave more of the planning to you.
A Private Boat Made for Bora Bora’s Lagoon

Bora Bora is best appreciated from the water. The lagoon gives you broad views of the island, access to swimming areas, and a close look at the marine life around the reef. A private boat lets you enjoy all three without adjusting your day to a large group’s pace.
The Jeanneau Cap Camarat measures about 25 feet, or 7.5 meters. That is a useful middle ground. You have more room and comfort than on a small personal watercraft, but the boat remains compact enough for a relaxed private outing.
You are not locked into a rigid sequence of stops. The captain can suggest snorkeling spots and scenic areas, or you can explain what matters most to you. If your priority is marine life, ask for time in the water. If you prefer photographs, swimming, and sun, say so early.
That flexibility is the real reason to choose this outing over a standard shared boat trip. You are paying for control as much as transport.
Other boats you can have to yourself around Bora Bora:
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What Three Hours on the Cap Camarat Feels Like

The experience lasts about three hours, with morning and afternoon departure options. Pickup is available from your Bora Bora hotel or from the port, followed by a short transfer to the boat.
Once aboard, the captain helps shape the route. The supplied description allows for a circle of the island and stops at snorkeling areas, but the exact pattern depends on what you want to see and how long you wish to stay in the water.
The boat is equipped for a simple day outside. You can sit back, watch the lagoon, and use the rear ladder when you want a swim. Soda, beer, juice, and water are included, though lunch is not. For a three-hour trip, that arrangement makes sense, but eat beforehand if you tend to get hungry after swimming.
Snorkel equipment is provided. The operator recommends bringing your own for comfort, a useful suggestion if you care about a familiar fit. A poorly fitting mask can distract from an otherwise fine morning.
Coral Gardens and the Search for Marine Life

The main draw is the chance to see Bora Bora below the surface. Black tip sharks, stingrays, eagle rays, and other sea life are all mentioned as possible sightings. These encounters give the trip more purpose than simply riding around the lagoon.
Coral Gardens is a particular highlight. The name refers to a snorkeling area, not a formal park with marked paths or facilities. Expect time in the water, looking around the reef and watching fish move through the coral.
The captain can guide you to favored snorkeling spots, but this is not presented as a formal lesson. If you are new to snorkeling, tell the captain. If you already know what you want, ask for more time at the site that interests you most.
You should also keep expectations realistic. Marine life is wild, and no captain can promise a shark, ray, or exact species on demand. The strength of a private boat is that you may be able to stay longer at a good spot rather than being pulled away on a fixed schedule.
The boat’s rear ladder is a practical touch. You can get back aboard without hauling yourself over the side, which matters after repeated swims. It also makes the boat a good fit for people who want a mix of water time and relaxation.
The Value of a Captain Who Gives You Choices

A private captain changes the mood of the outing. Instead of following a large boat and its timetable, you can discuss your priorities directly. You may ask for the best available snorkeling location, a scenic ride around the island, or a quiet stretch of water for swimming.
That freedom works best when you speak up. At the start, tell the captain how much time you want in the water, whether you care about marine life or views, and if anyone in your group is nervous about snorkeling.
Captain personality can shape the day. Rumahei is associated with a joyful style, singing, laughter, and a warm presence. That can make the boat feel festive, especially if you want your three hours to feel like a celebration.
Nicholson is associated with a quieter approach. A captain who asks what you want and then gives you room may suit people who prefer privacy and independence. If you want island stories, detailed explanations, or constant conversation, ask for that directly rather than assuming it will happen.
This is an important distinction. A private tour is not automatically a private performance. You may get a highly social captain, or you may get someone who lets the lagoon do most of the talking.
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Transfers Keep the Day Simple

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, as are port transfers. That is valuable in Bora Bora, where a water-based activity can otherwise involve extra coordination before you even reach the boat.
The exact pickup details are not specified, so confirm the meeting point and timing when you book. The same applies if you are arriving through the port rather than staying at a hotel.
The transfer is not the main attraction, but it makes the experience easier to fit into a short stay. You do not have to arrange separate transport to and from the marina or port. Choose the morning or afternoon slot that leaves enough room for your other plans.
Since the activity lasts around three hours, it works well as one part of a full day. You could use the remaining time for lunch or a quiet afternoon, but lunch is not included in this outing.
Price: When the Private Boat Makes Sense

The listed price is $346.08 per person. That is a serious cost for three hours, so the value depends heavily on the size of your group and what you want from the day.
For one or two people, the price can feel steep. You are paying for a private boat, captain, transfers, drinks, and flexibility rather than a long full-day cruise. If your main goal is simply to snorkel once, a shared trip may cost less.
For a group sharing the private experience, the calculation improves. You are not paying for a seat in a large boat and waiting for other people to finish swimming. You can set the tone, adjust the stops, and spend more time where your group is having fun.
The private format also matters for mixed interests. One person can swim while another relaxes on board. The captain can balance snorkeling with sightseeing instead of forcing everyone into the same activity at the same time.
Group discounts are offered, though the amount is not provided. Check the final price for your party before booking. The key question is not simply how much three hours costs. Ask how much you value privacy, flexible timing, and a route built around your own group.
Who Will Enjoy This Boat Most

I would choose this experience if you want a compact, personal outing rather than a large organized cruise. It suits couples, families, and small groups who want the freedom to decide how the time is used.
It is especially appealing if you care about snorkeling with marine life. The possibility of seeing black tip sharks, stingrays, and eagle rays gives the trip a clear focus, while the boat still leaves room for sun, views, and swimming.
Families should note that children must be accompanied by an adult. Most people can participate, and service animals are allowed. The information provided does not describe specific mobility facilities, so ask the operator about any access needs before booking.
This is less suitable if you need a guaranteed species encounter, a long guided lesson, or a full meal. It is also not the best match if you want a busy group atmosphere and constant narration. The private format can be social and lively with the right captain, but it can also be calm and self-directed.
Practical Tips for a Better Three Hours

Bring your own snorkel equipment if you have gear that fits well. Equipment is supplied, but the operator specifically suggests your own for comfort.
Tell the captain your priorities before leaving. A clear request can make the private format work harder for you. Ask for marine life, scenic views, swimming, or a balance of all three.
Choose the departure time with the rest of your day in mind. Morning and afternoon options are available, so think about meals, port timing, and how much sun exposure you want.
Do not count on lunch aboard. Soda, beer, juice, and water are included, but lunch is not. Eat before departure if that will help you enjoy the boat without distraction.
Keep the cancellation deadline in mind. You receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations or changes made within 24 hours are not refunded or accepted.
Should You Book the Cap Camarat?

Book it if you want private control of a Bora Bora boat and are willing to pay for that freedom. The strongest reasons are the flexible route, easy transfers, comfortable boat, and chance to spend time around sharks and rays without a large group setting the clock.
Think twice if your budget is tight or if you want a full-day experience with lunch included. Also consider your preferred guide style. Rumahei’s lively personality may suit you perfectly, while a quieter captain such as Nicholson may require you to take the lead.
For a special half-day on the lagoon, this is a strong choice. Just set your expectations clearly, bring a well-fitting mask if you have one, and remember that the marine life is wild rather than guaranteed.
FAQ
How long does the private boat rental last?
The tour lasts approximately three hours.
Is the boat private?
Yes. This is a private activity, so only your own group participates.
What type of boat is used?
The experience uses a Jeanneau Cap Camarat measuring 25 feet, or about 7.5 meters.
Is a captain included?
Yes. The boat is always operated with a captain.
Can I choose what to do during the trip?
Yes. The captain can guide you to snorkeling spots, or you can express your own interests and help shape the route.
Are hotel transfers included?
Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Port pickup and drop-off are also available.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes. Snorkel equipment is included, though bringing your own is recommended for comfort.
Are drinks included?
Yes. Soda, beer, juice, and water are included. Lunch is not included.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel at least 24 hours before the experience starts for a full refund. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not accepted, and the payment is not refunded.
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