Interview with our Mo'orea Expedition Captain: Patea Alexandre

Introducing you to our captain of the Mo’orea expeditions, Patea Alexandre. He’s been working with whales for over 25 years and his expertise shows when we’re on the water.

One thing different about Wander Out Expeditions is we only hire local guides and captains that know the land, water and share our values. Patea is one of those people.

What first pulled you to the ocean?

I grew up with my grandfather who was a fisherman. I liked being with him to learn about the water. He taught me about fishing, taught me how to surf, and I think I was swimming before I was walking. We were always in the ocean. It’s a part of us. To me the islands are a canoe, a canoe is surrounded by ocean, so it’s natural to us.

Can you share one moment on the water that's stayed with you?

A long time ago, around 2004, one of my first seasons filming the whales. That day it was just my friend and I. That moment we were surrounded by 8 whales spyhopping all around me and all underneath me. I couldn’t go left, right, or dive down. That was a nice moment. 

What makes a “good day” for you out there? Even if the wildlife doesn’t show up.

Everyday is a good day in the ocean. No bad days. When the weather is nice I’m at peace in the ocean, when the weather is bad I’m at peace in the ocean.

What's something you notice about the ocean that most people miss? 

Like most fisherman, we notice the wind, the waves, the currents, the birds, footprints of the fish like splashes and sparkling. 

What do you wish every visitor understood before getting in the water here?

It’s a privilege so we need to respect it.

What does Mo’orea mean to you?

The roots, it’s where my family is from. It’s my canoe and my home.

How have the ocean and the islands changed here over the years?

More boats, more people, more pollution, less fish. The wind has changed too. Before the wind would blow for long periods and now they’re very short periods. The colors have changed. And people have changed.

I miss the times where we could play on the roads, one car every half hour or 45 minutes.  When the wild pigs come to the beach. When we go fishing and in 20 minutes you have fish. I miss those moments.

Sunrise or sunset?

Sunrise. 

What’s one word to describe the ocean?

A temple.

What do you hope people take with them after a week on the water with you?

More memories than photos.

Spending time on the water with someone like Patea changes the entire experience. His knowledge, respect for the ocean, and deep connection to Mo’orea are felt in every moment, from reading whale behavior to sharing stories about the island he calls home. It’s guides like Patea that make these expeditions so meaningful and why supporting local expertise will always be at the heart of Wander Out Expeditions.