Voyage to the Marquesas Islands

Friday 17 July

Depart early evening, cross the International Dateline to arrive in Papeete the same day. After a warm Tahitian welcome, transfer to the Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts. This afternoon visit Tahiti’s East Coast including waterfalls and Venus Point. Tonight delight in an informal dinner at the hotel’s beachside open air restaurant.

Saturday 18 July

After breakfast we board the Aranui 5 and set sail at approx midday. 

Sunday 19 July

Fakarava, 488 km northeast of Tahiti, is a huge atoll that is part of a UNESCO “biosphere reserve” because of its rich eco-system, with an abundance of rare flora and fauna. Kauehi, 40 km north-east of Fakarava will also seduce you by its authenticity as well as by the surrealist hues of its lagoon, which you can enjoy as if you were alone in the world! You will have the possibility to snorkel in Kauehi and Fakarava (weather permitting).

Monday 20 July

A day to unwind and relax on one of the sun decks or in the comfort of our air-conditioned lounge. Or why not simply enjoy the views of the endless South Pacific Ocean as we make our way to the captivating Marquesas Islands? Lectures on Marquesan culture and history will send you back in time and give you full insight into this ancient civilisation. 

Tuesday 21 July

Be out on deck to fully appreciate our arrival into Taiohae’s spectacular bay, a giant volcanic amphitheatre dominated by towering cliffs streaked with waterfalls. As the Aranui unloads its freight, you can explore Taiohae, the Marquesas’ small administrative capital.

Wednesday 22 July

From the decks, you’ll see the soaring mountain spires unique to Ua Pou. While the crew unloads supplies, from cement to sugar, and loads sacks of copra (dried coconut meat) and fruit, explore the quaint village of Hakahau and its church featuring a hand-carved wooden dais. Meet the island’s talented woodcarvers and artists or hike up the hill to the Cross for breathtaking views of the mountains, the lush valleys and the main village.

Thursday 23 July

In the early morning light, the Aranui will arrive in Ua Huka. This is one arrival not-to-be-missed! The manoeuvre of entering the small bay and positioning the vessel for departure is truly impressive. On the dry lands of Ua Huka, visit the small museum of Vaiapee located in the island’s city hall gardens. Continue to explore the island, stopping for stunning views of the Pacific.

Friday 24 July

You will visit the impressive church of Tahuata which was built by the Vatican and decorated with beautiful carvings and a stained glass window featuring the Marquesan cross. The locals carve exquisite tikis, sea creatures, bracelets and necklaces. Atuona, main village of Hiva Oa and the second largest in the Marquesas, was once the capital of this archipelago. Explore the Gauguin Museum, a replica of his “House of Pleasure”, and the Brel Museum, which showcases his plane JoJo, which was often used for medical emergencies.

Saturday 25 July

This is the most lush and remote island of the Marquesas. The only access is by sea, since there is no airport on Fatu Hiva. It is also the island of ‘tapa’ and you will discover all about this traditional cloth.

Sunday 26 July

Enjoy a day at sea to relax by the pool and participate in one of the lectures or activities offered by our guides.

Monday 27 July

From the decks, watch our approach and arrival into French Polynesia’s largest atoll and the second largest in the world. You may spot playful dolphins greeting the ship as we enter Tiputa Pass, one of Rangiroa’s two channels.

Tuesday 28 July

As you arrive in Bora Bora’s world-famous lagoon of opalescent blues and greens, you’ll be greeted by the majestic “Mount Otemanu,” the island’s highest peak. In this perfect island paradise, you’ll have plenty of time to discover how and why the Pearl of the Pacific earned such a well-deserved reputation. You can snorkel or dive and marvel at the turquoise lagoons, among the most beautiful in the world.

Wednesday 29 July

Morning arrival into Papeete, disembark Aranui 5, for your tour of Tahiti’s West Coast before checking into your hotel.

Thursday 30 July

Today is free to relax before a midnight transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

Friday 31 July

Early morning flight to Auckland.  Cross International dateline.

Saturday 01 August