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Peregrine Travel Centre

French Polynesia’s Society Islands: Emerald Peaks and Turquoise Lagoons

French Polynesia’s Society Islands: Emerald Peaks and Turquoise Lagoons

From $ 16,040 AUD

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Description

Discover French Polynesia’s idyllic Society Islands, where emerald volcanic peaks rise above turquoise lagoons and Polynesian traditions remain deeply rooted in daily life. From the sacred marae of Ra’iatea and Huahine to the iconic beauty of Bora Bora and the untamed atoll of Tupai, each island reveals its own distinct character shaped by centuries of life connected to the sea. Explore coral reefs and crystalline lagoons, encounter centuries of seafaring history and experience the warmth of Polynesian culture across some of the South Pacific’s most breathtaking islands.

Trip Name
French Polynesia’s Society Islands: Emerald Peaks and Turquoise Lagoons
Days
7
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: 103 metres Passenger Capacity: 102 (in 53 cabins) Built: 2003 / Refurbished 2014 With just 53 cabins, National Geographic Orion offers an intimate and refined platform for exploring some of the world’s most remote and culturally rich regions—from the Pacific Islands and Asia to Antarctica and the Mediterranean. Purpose-built for expedition travel, she boasts an ice-class hull for navigating polar waters and exceptional manoeuvrability that enables access to secluded bays, narrow inlets and winding rivers—places far beyond the reach of larger cruise ships. Life aboard Orion is designed to immerse guests in the natural world, with panoramic deck spaces, a whirlpool hot tub, and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Her public areas include two relaxed dining venues, a lounge with bar, an observation library, fitness centre and spa, as well as the OM System Photo Gear Locker to support photography at all levels. Open-Bridge access allows guests to connect with the ship’s officers and learn about navigation first-hand. Whether sailing through polar pack ice or anchoring off a tropical atoll, Orion delivers a seamless blend of adventure and comfort.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia / Embark Ship
Arrive in Papeete, the vibrant capital of French Polynesia. Transfer from the airport to the meetup hotel for breakfast before embarking the ship.
Day 2 - Day 2 Huahine
Huahine is one of French Polynesia’s lesser-visited islands, where lush mountains, sacred archaeological sites and crystalline lagoons offer a glimpse into the region’s deep history and enduring traditions. Discover ancient marae—ceremonial stone temples that once served as important centers of Polynesian spiritual and community life—and learn about the island’s connection to generations of Polynesian navigators and royalty. There will also be opportunities to explore the island’s dazzling lagoon.
Day 3 - Day 3 Taha’a / Ra'iatea
Arrive in Taha’a and spend the morning snorkeling its turquoise waters, where you may encounter black-tipped reef sharks. Or choose to go ashore and visit a family-run vanilla farm. In the afternoon, visit Ra'iatea, including a stop at one of the most important cultural sites in the Polynesian world: the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Marae Taputapuātea. This large complex was once a center for Polynesian seafarers and the location from which they set out for Hawaii, New Zealand and Rapa Nui (Easter Island). As you explore, you’ll learn about the site’s significance in Polynesian history.
Day 4 - Day 4 Bora Bora
Awake this morning as the iconic crags of Mount Otemanu come into focus. Today, choose to explore Bora Bora either on land or in the water, and enjoy a barbecue dinner accompanied by Polynesian music on a private motu under the stars.
Day 5 - Day 5 Tupai / Bora Bora Outer Lagoon
Awake this morning to the stunning blue waters surrounding Tupai, an uninhabited coral atoll rarely visited by travelers and known for its distinctive heart-shaped lagoon visible from above. Spend a day exploring powder-white beaches, crystalline lagoons and coral gardens. Snorkel alongside tropical fish in remarkably clear water, stroll deserted motus edged with coconut palms or simply relax in one of the most remote corners of the South Pacific.
Day 6 - Day 6 Mo’orea
This morning, arrive at the lush volcanic island of Mo’orea, where towering emerald peaks, deep bays and vibrant lagoons create a breathtaking backdrop for your final day of exploration. Venture inland through tropical forests to panoramic viewpoints overlooking Cook’s and Opunohu Bays, or opt to explore the island's calm turquoise waters, laced with coral reefs that teem with marine life. Back on board this evening, gather with fellow travelers for a farewell dinner as you celebrate your journey through the Society Islands.
Day 7 - Day 7 Mo'orea / Papeete / Disembark Ship
Begin the day with one final opportunity to explore the lush landscapes and crystalline waters of Mo'orea.Disembark in Papeete this afternoon, and enjoy a dinner ashore before transferring to the airport for flights home.
Day 8 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 
Day 9 - DAY 10 County Cork
Arrive in the colorful port town of Cobh, one of the world’s largest natural harbors, which is intimately tied to maritime history and the great Irish emigration. Visit the Cobh Heritage Centre and learn about the momentous events that took place here including the 1912 departure of the Titanic, the rescue of passengers from the torpedoed Lusitania, and the emigration of millions of Irish who departed these shores in search of a better life. Enjoy an afternoon of Irish traditions, from music to sport, with locals.
Day 10 - DAY 11 Dublin / Disembark Ship
Disembark in Dublin after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Day 11 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type

Inclusions

    • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Marae Taputapuātea on Ra'iatea, the spiritual and cultural heart of Polynesian seafaring traditions
    • Explore coral reefs and crystalline lagoons in Taha’a, Bora Bora and the remote atoll of Tupai, home to abundant marine life
    • Discover lesser-visited Huahine, where ancient marae, lush landscapes and quiet lagoons offer a glimpse into traditional Polynesian life
    • Experience Bora Bora from both land and sea, capped off with a private motu barbecue and Polynesian music beneath the stars
    • Hike across the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Mo’orea, one of French Polynesia’s most iconic islands

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