Permit· Raivavae· French Polynesia: Tuamotus, Marquesas, Gambier & Australs
Gendarmerie Raivavae (Port of Entry)
23° 52.2′ S · 147° 41.5′ W
Raivavae is a port of entry, and every yacht must report to the gendarmerie in Rairua, which doubles as the island's best tourist office.
Practical
Walk from the dock past the mairie and turn right. Closed 12 pm to 2 pm (Moana 2023). Even boats already cleared into French Polynesia must check in. Ask for a copy of the island map and hiking tips (Pitufa); visiting the mayor is also useful (Chugach). The gendarmes welcomed Moana with grapefruit. They decide on stay extensions in bad weather (3-day limit).
Best for
Check-in, rules and the island map