Ahe

Before Any Water Activity

• Snorkel only in a zone cleared by the lodge or guide; the inner pass must never be approached independently.
• Check incoming and outgoing tide, wind and sea state with a qualified local guide, not a general month guide or a map marker.
• Use a buddy, appropriate flotation, boat lookout and clear pickup plan. Stay clear of pearl lines and working craft.
• No guided tourist scuba, technical/overhead dive or coached freedive program was verified. An older commercial listing does not prove current legal authorization, insurance or oxygen provision.
• Never attempt depth breath-holds or hyperventilation, and do not assume snorkeling is a freediving lesson.

If a licensed scuba service is independently confirmed, check certification, oxygen/first aid, cylinder service, site approval, rescue plan, dive computer and conservative flying intervals. DJS rules; DAN advice.

The Polynesian health directory identifies Infirmerie de Ahe at Tenukupara, phone +689 40 96 44 03, with weekday patient reception and emergency care outside regular hours; it also lists a local first-aid contact +689 40 96 41 68. This is not proof of 24-hour specialist or hospital capability. For urgent illness or diving-related symptoms, call SAMU 15 and follow their instructions. The CHPF SAMU service coordinates inter-island medical evacuation when clinically needed, but timing, aircraft access and costs for visitors cannot be guaranteed. Carry adequate medical and evacuation insurance. Treat suspected decompression sickness as urgent; do not fly without medical advice.

Ahe's lagoon is a living ecological and pearl-farming workplace, not an empty aquarium. Remain neutrally buoyant when snorkeling, never stand on or collect coral, do not take shells or wildlife, and do not feed or chase sharks, rays, turtles or other protected species. Tahiti Tourisme wildlife rules; marine guidance. Ask permission before motu landings, farm visits, fishing or entering working gear. Polynesian marine-resources rules regulate fishing and spearfishing; a rule covering spearfishing proximity to farms is not itself a public snorkeling permit. No Ahe-specific marine park boundary, local rahui, current water quality testing result or visitor permit could be confirmed through the reviewed primary sources. Ask the operator and local authority for any current site restrictions. Follow health advice on ciguatera before eating lagoon fish.