How to become a sailing crew member at French Polynesia or Cooks?

Hi, I plan a world trip on a butget and I also would like to see the beautyful islands at French Polynesia. I think maybe one of the interessting and adventures trips for that is by sailing boat (hitchhiking via boat). I am not a specialist in sailing but I know some basics and I can help on the boat for example in washing, cooking and other things.
I would like to do see Bora Bora and Moorea. Mybe I could start at Tahiti.

So my question:
Where can I find a sailing boat / people who are searching for crew members or just a new travel friend for a shorter trip maybe 1-3 weeks.
Are the Cook Istand better or nicer than French Polynesia?
Maybe I could find something like a expedition or so?

I am also willing to pay for the normal costs on the boat trip.

Thanks for every kind of help.

Edited by: heidebimbam

Edited by: heidebimbam

A lot of yachts stop in Tahiti, but not many stop in the Cooks, in comparison. Most yachties do not need help, but it's worth checking out the yacht harbor in Papeete if you really want to do this and have a lot of time.

Hi,
This is a great idea that you have! The only way to see real polinesia. We did it 4 years ago. I wouldn't say that there are a lot yachts in Tahiti and the chance to become a crew there is small. Besides almost all of the boats go from Panama through Galapagos, marquesas toumotus tahiti and further, so the best is to get on the yacht in marquesas.

The best way is to find a boat before. Check out here:
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/thorntree/thread.jspa?messageID=7666864&#7666864
We did it twice, once on polinesia and ones on salomons.

Probably the easiest way to find a boat apart from the website prior the trip is to go to Panama. But then you will have hard sailling to galapagos and then 3-4 weeks of sailing to marquesas.
Good luck, these were our best travels ever.