February
Stage 1
Panama, the start line
Most crews prepare at Shelter Bay and transit the canal. Last big chance for parts, provisioning and checks, and where buddy boats find each other.
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Pacific Crossing Planning GuidePDF · departure windows, clearance checklist, provisioning, timeline
Weather & routingWhen to go, the ITCZ, finding the trades
FormalitiesSix steps to clear into French Polynesia
Video libraryEngine, rigging, provisioning, safety
Meet other crewsBuddy boats, crew wanted, departures
Rally archives 2005–2016Latitude 38 recaps and crew profiles
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Pacific Crossing Planning GuidePDF · departure windows, clearance checklist, provisioning, timelinePDFWeather & routingWhen to go, the ITCZ, finding the tradesFormalitiesSix steps to clear into French PolynesiaVideo libraryEngine, rigging, provisioning, safetyMeet other crewsBuddy boats, crew wanted, departuresRally archives 2005–2016Latitude 38 recaps and crew profiles
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The route
The season, month by month
March
Stage 2
Galápagos, the wild stopover
Incredible nature, unique wildlife and spectacular diving. Rules are strict and permits take time, so contact an agent well in advance.
April
Stage 3
Marquesas, the landfall
After three to four weeks at sea, volcanic cliffs plunge into the blue. Clear in at Nuku Hiva or Hiva Oa and take time ashore.
May
Stage 4
Tuamotus, the atolls
Passes, lagoons and secret anchorages. Time the passes with the tide and enjoy some of the clearest water on the planet.
July
Stage 5
Tahiti and Moorea
Papeete for parts, yards and crew changes; Moorea for anchorages and the Heiva festival. Where most crews pause and celebrate.
October
Stage 6
What comes next
West to Fiji, Tonga or New Zealand? Leaving the boat for cyclone season, selling it, or shipping it home? Sail Tahiti can help.
Need a hand with your boat?
Preparation before you leave, repairs on arrival, a safe place for cyclone season, or the right boat for the crossing: Sail Tahiti can help.