Bora Ocean Adventures, Remy Crapet

Established in 2007, Bora Ocean Adventures operates in the heart of French Polynesia, providing access to some of the most iconic coral reef systems in the Bora Bora lagoon. The centre is built around a mission of safe, professional underwater exploration, serving both local residents and international visitors.

The centre is fully accredited by CMAS, SSI, PADI, and FFESSM, ensuring that training and guided dives meet rigorous international standards. Whether you are looking for a shallow introduction to the water or deeper reef explorations, the team provides structured environments for every diver.

The team at BOA is composed of certified instructors holding qualifications across CMAS, SSI, PADI, and FFESSM. They operate with a strict diver-to-guide ratio, ensuring a maximum of four divers per guide for all outings.

Communication is seamless for international divers, as the staff is proficient in both French and English. The centre is also equipped to handle various group dynamics, offering private boat charters and private instructors for those seeking a more bespoke experience.

Bora Ocean Adventures provides a comprehensive range of training programmes through PADI and SSI. Beginners can start with the SSI Basic Diver course, which includes two dives on different sites at a maximum depth of 12 metres.

For those looking to build their credentials, the centre offers the Open Water Diver course and various Advanced Specialty courses. All certifications are issued on-site, allowing you to progress through your training levels during your stay in Polynesia.

The fleet consists of six specialised vessels, including semi-rigid boats and aluminium boats designed for lagoon navigation. The TE ATUA and EEVA II are both 300 CV outboard vessels with a capacity for 12 divers each, while the MAREVA is a larger 14-passenger boat powered by a 300 CV engine.

For smaller groups or specific needs, the ARIITAIA II (8 passengers, 150 CV) and the MANU MERI (12 passengers, 250 CV) are available. The TI AI MOANA offers a 15-passenger capacity with twin 90 CV motors. All boats are equipped to facilitate various trip types, including day trips, half-day excursions, and night dives.

Onboard amenities include water, snacks, towels, and a freshwater shower to rinse off after your dive. The centre also offers private boat charters for up to five people, providing a more intimate way to explore the reef.

The centre maintains a high standard of equipment, with all kit being Mares brand and subject to regular technical inspections. They provide full equipment hire, including long and shorty 3 mm wetsuits, and they use aluminium cylinders in 12-litre and 15-litre capacities, available in both Din and AIT (étrier) configurations.

On the shore, the facility is supported by three compressors, including models from Compair (63 m3/hr) and Bauer (43 m3/hr and 12 m3/hr). Safety is reinforced by the presence of oxygen therapy and first aid equipment on site.

The lagoon is a haven for large pelagics and reef inhabitants. You can regularly expect to see manta rays, blacktip reef sharks, and various species of turtles. Tropical fish, including parrotfish, are a constant presence around the coral structures.

Between July and November, the area becomes a significant habitat for humpback whales, offering the chance to observe these giants in their natural environment. The reef itself is a living landscape of corals and tropical marine life.

For those interested in macro life, the ecosystem supports a variety of smaller creatures, including rays and a diverse array of reef fish that inhabit the crevices of the coral gardens.

Diving in the Bora Bora lagoon is influenced by the local reef structure and seasonal patterns. The centre offers night diving, allowing for a completely different perspective on the nocturnal activity of the reef.

While the lagoon is generally well-protected, divers should always be aware of local conditions during their specific excursion. The centre's fleet is well-suited to navigate the various environments of the lagoon, from shallow reef flats to deeper sections.