In this episode, we talk about Moorea—one of the most accessible and lagoon-rich islands in French Polynesia—and a snorkeling experience that’s built to be both exciting and approachable. Normand interviews Nico from Moorea Water Games at the Sofitel Nautical Center, and if you want help planning a Tahiti itinerary with the right island order, resort choices, and lagoon experiences, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com. This conversation is packed with the kind of on-the-ground detail that helps you choose the right tour for your comfort level and your travel style.
Normand opens with what many travelers picture when they say “Tahiti”: electric-blue water, stingrays cruising through the shallows, and a lagoon framed by green peaks. Nico introduces Moorea Water Games as a nautical center operating from inside the Sofitel resort, facing a bay they consider one of the best snorkeling zones on the island. That location matters because Moorea can offer both postcard beauty and practical convenience—especially for travelers who want a high-impact lagoon day without overly complex logistics.
Nico shares how the operation grew over time. When he took over the nautical center, the focus was on rentals—kayaks and paddleboards. But after spending time in the lagoon and seeing the coral and fish life up close, he decided to create something new: guided snorkeling with sea scooters, using a small boat and small groups. The intention was to keep the experience uncrowded and calm, while still letting guests explore multiple sites and see real variety in the lagoon environment.
The sea scooter—branded in their tour as Scooter Jet—is the centerpiece. Nico describes it as an underwater version of an e-bike, and Normand agrees that it changes what you can see in a session because you can move efficiently without exhausting yourself. That’s especially helpful for beginners, cautious swimmers, and travelers who want to snorkel but worry about stamina or technique. Nico also explains how full-face mask options can make breathing and comfort easier for some guests, helping people relax and focus on the reef instead of the gear.
You’ll also hear about the marine life that makes Moorea famous. The episode mentions friendly stingrays, abundant reef fish, and the possibility of turtles at a cleaning station—Nico’s “turtle spa,” where fish clean the turtle’s shell while it holds position in the water. They talk about how different stops can feel, too: shallow zones near the island that are warmer and calmer, and deeper areas near a drop-off that can feel cooler. That temperature change is a small detail with a big impact on comfort, especially if you’re sensitive to cooler water or planning longer snorkel time.
Reef protection is a major theme. Nico explains that the lagoon area is described as a marine reserve, including rules like no anchoring to protect coral, plus limits on boats and activities. Before each departure, their team delivers a safety briefing that includes reef etiquette—don’t step on coral, follow the guide, and avoid fin damage in shallow sections. Normand emphasizes why this matters: coral growth takes time, and damage can take years to regenerate.
If you’re deciding what to do in Moorea, this episode points to a simple recipe: choose small-group outings with attentive guides, gear that supports beginners, and practices that respect the lagoon. When you’re ready to map out a French Polynesia plan—Moorea plus other islands, resort pairings, transfers, and how to fit lagoon time into the rhythm—connect with a Far and Away Adventures specialist at Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com.
