It may be atoll order to regenerate our oceans but you’ve got to start somewhere and the Polynesians are helping by encouraging us to adopt a coral on Tahiti.
And for those of us who aren’t natural sea dwellers and are clumsy on our feet then this probably applies to us.
Because if floating on the surface of the sea to snorkel and watch the fishies has you floundering then you’ve probably ended up spoiling the coral.
The natural inclination is to try to stand up on the seabed.
And not even the hurt of cut feet comes close to the real damage, that you’re destroying the coral.
Thankfully there are proper snorkellers out there, and conservationists.
Coral group
Located on Moorea, the Coral Gardeners have made giving back much easier for travellers through their Adopt a Coral programmes.
Where guests can adopt, personalise, track and plant a coral in the nurseries scattered through the atoll.
Additionally Te Mano o Te Moana has carried out incredible work to rescue and rehabilitate species of tea turtles which can be visited at the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre in Moorea.
A word to the wise too, and you will be reminded constantly if you visit an atoll anywhere, do not take any of it home as a souvenir, even in your foot.
Rather purchase home-made products, like here in the South Seas Made in Fenua keepsakes produced by the artisans and craftspeople.
Tahiti holds a prominent place in the world of sustainability with the largest marine sanctuary in the world.
While they also encourage give-back-packer tour operators which offer beach clean-ups.
As well as various coral reef preservation experiences, solar-powered boats and even resorts which run on coconut oil.
Native charms
The best way to enjoy your Tahitian trip is by staying in a native guesthouse managed by a local family.
Guesthouses provide a unique opportunity for visitors to get immersed into a more authentic visit, a personalised experience.
And a chance to connect with local people and the islands.
Owners and on-site managers assist with guiding through local excursions.
Such as pearl diving, snorkelling hiking and more.
And a reminder for those who remember Tahiti from The Bounty but are trying to place it again our Polynesian pals helpfully sent us their USP.
South Pacific
Like straight out of a film, they’re located in the South Pacific and consist of 118 islands and atolls.
Made up of the Society Islands including Tahiti and Bora Bora, Tuamotu Islands, Gambier Islands, Austral Islands and Marquesas Islands.
All of which drew the attentions of artists Paul Gauguin and Henri Matisse.
The current Embraced by Mana campaign highlights their diversity.
Access from the UK is usually via Paris or Los Angeles with connections from Air Tahiti Nui.