Luxury news from PATA UK – Is luxury island travel undergoing a quiet evolution?

Luxury island travel is undergoing a quiet but significant evolution. While classic long-haul beach destinations remain highly appealing, luxury operator If Only reports today’s UK and Irish luxury travellers are increasingly seeking more layered itineraries that combine multiple destinations, varied landscapes and richer cultural engagement.  This trend is reflected in If Only’s own booking performance, with French Polynesia bookings trading +53% year-to-date and 2026 arrivals currently pacing at +72% compared to 2025.

While the Maldives may be known for its crystal-clear waters and luxurious overwater villas, it is a difficult time for the region.

Recent insights from a PATA UK & Ireland survey of its travel agent network found that 55% of respondents reported much softer enquiry levels for Maldives itineraries, with agents attributing this to rising airfares and issues with Middle East transit connections.

Is this an opportunity for UK and Irish agents to turn their attention to French Polynesia and lean into the consumer demands for a more luxury experience?  If Only’s booking data suggests the answer may be yes, with French Polynesia bookings up +53% year-to-date and 2026 arrivals already tracking +72% ahead of 2025.

The Islands of Tahiti align beautifully with the shift towards multi-island journeys rather than single-stay holidays. French Polynesia is made up of distinct islands, each offering a different experience.

Alison Haining, PATA UK & Ireland Spokesperson and Senior Product Manager at If Only thinks there is and shares her advice and selling tips to help agents.

“French Polynesia offers something more. Here, the landscapes are dramatic, the culture is vibrant, and each island has a personality of its own. Travelling this far is rarely a one-stop trip. What I love most about the Islands of Tahiti in the south Pacific is the incredible variety and natural beauty you find across each island. While Bora Bora rightly gets a lot of attention, Moorea is full of adventure and charm.”

Raiatea and Taha’a offer sailing and cultural depth, while Bora Bora delivers iconic lagoon luxury. For ultimate exclusivity, Tetiaroa offers a private atoll experience focused on nature and seclusion. “I highly recommend a yacht charter through the lagoons of Taha’a and Raiatea, it’s a truly special and peaceful experience” adds Haining.

What distinguishes The Islands of Tahiti is the ability to combine these experiences within one journey.

Alison’s top tips include: “Target clients with a “where next?” mindset, those wanting more than just a beach stay. If you are new to selling the region, my suggested flow of the islands is Tahiti – Moorea – Raiatea/Taha’a – Bora Bora; this route builds variety, culture, seclusion and iconic luxury. Timing wise, the shoulder months offer the best balance of weather, value, and availability.”

French Polynesia isn’t a replacement for the Maldives, it’s what comes next. For customers who want to diversify beyond traditional beach and island trips and single-centre stays, French Polynesia is a great option.