Question 1

What is the "Rental Car Hidden Insurance Fees" scam in Tahiti?

Accepted Answer

Car rental companies at Faa'a Airport add mandatory local insurance charges not included in online quotes, with some charging daily rates 30-50% above the advertised price once local taxes and CDW waivers are added at the counter. Damage claims are sometimes made for pre-existing scratches. Photograph every panel of the rental car at pickup with a timestamp. Ask the total all-in price including all taxes and insurance before signing. International CDW coverage on credit cards may reduce add-on costs.

Question 2

What is the "Moorea Ferry Ticket Reselling" scam in Tahiti?

Accepted Answer

Unofficial ticket sellers approach tourists at the Papeete ferry terminal on Boulevard Pomare before sailings to Moorea, offering pre-purchased tickets at a nominal markup claiming the boat is nearly full or tickets are unavailable at the counter. The ferry rarely sells out except during public holidays, and official tickets are available directly at the Aremiti or Terevau ferry windows at the terminal. Purchase ferry tickets directly at the official counters inside the Papeete ferry terminal. Do not engage with anyone selling tickets outside the terminal building, especially those claiming imminent departure or limited availability.

Other Tourist Scams in Tahiti

Rental Car Hidden Insurance Fees

Moorea Ferry Ticket Reselling

Experienced a scam here?