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Cruise in the Austral Islands: the Secret Archipelagoe

Cruise in the Austral Islands: the Secret Archipelagoe

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Description

Discovered by Europeans in the 18th Century, the Australs are located 373 miles (600 km) south of Tahiti’s capital city. The archipelago is made of seven islands, five of which are inhabited – Rimatara, Rurutu, Tubuai, Raivavae and Rapa – and four of which are accessible by air. 6,800 people live in the Austral islands, an off the beaten track archipelago of untouched and mysterious land where white sand clashes with the intense blue of the lagoons.
Breath-taking landscapes, from sheer mountains to valleys and high plains, these islands are famous for their farming activities. Several archaeological remains witness to a well organised, pre-European community of rich cultural and religious practices. The cliffs and caves of the Austral Islands were ancient burial grounds and now provide a platform from which visitors can watch Humpback Whales frolic in the water just offshore as they come here from August to October to give birth.
Passengers will take a guided tour of the island’s colourful, picturesque villages and discover the handiwork of islanders who mainly live off their artwork. During their Polynesian cruise they will also enjoy watching fishermen, farmers and basket weavers at work and are unlikely to leave without purchasing a hat or a woven basket to remind them of their magical time in the Austral Islands.
Not all departures visit Rapa Island. Please check individual departures for more information.

Trip Name
Cruise in the Austral Islands: the Secret Archipelagoe
Days
13
Overview
Vessel Type: Small Ship Length: 116 m Passenger Capacity: 198 Built: 2026 Launching in 2027, Aranoa marks an exciting new chapter for Aranui Cruises, extending its legacy of authentic and sustainable Polynesian voyages. This innovative mixed passenger–freighter vessel will journey through the remote Austral Islands—Rimatara, Rurutu, Tubuai, Raivavae, and Rapa—offering guests an intimate connection to some of French Polynesia’s most unspoiled destinations. With capacity for just 198 passengers across 93 cabins, including 62 with private balconies, Aranoa promises a boutique cruising experience complemented by Polynesian warmth and hospitality. Onboard amenities include two restaurants, two bars, whirlpools, a spa and tattoo area, a boutique, and a fitness centre, ensuring both comfort and cultural immersion as guests explore the lush mountains, turquoise lagoons, and white-sand beaches of the Australs. True to Aranui’s pioneering spirit, Aranoa combines tradition with forward-thinking sustainability. The ship features a diesel-electric propulsion system with azimuth thrusters, an eco-friendly antifouling hull coating, and technology designed to reduce noise and emissions while enhancing fuel efficiency. Continuing the company’s 40-year commitment to inclusive tourism, Aranoa will work closely with local communities to promote inter-island trade and cultural exchange, creating meaningful connections between travellers and the islands. Blending discovery, comfort, and responsibility, Aranoa invites guests to experience a slower, more authentic Polynesia—where every voyage tells a story.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Departure from Tahiti (Papeete)
You will embark on the Aranui 5 between 7:00 and 9:00 am in the morning. Departure around 12:00 pm. You will be warmly welcomed by our Polynesian crew and begin the big journey to the Austral Islands.
Day 2 - Day 2 Rurutu, Austral Islands
Rurutu, one of the two largest raised atolls in French Polynesia, is unique because of its geological structure which is surprising as one does not expect to discover such landscapes in the South Pacific. Basalt and limestone cliffs dotted with caves where islanders once lived, a volcanic interior with lush tropical jungle, white sand beaches and beautiful bays offer breathtaking views. Rurutu is known throughout Polynesia for the exceptional quality of its basketry, such as beautiful hats, bags and baskets or rugs made of pandanus leaves and other natural materials. The Aranui at anchor, off Rurutu, passengers will disembark, after lunch on board, by tender on the “Moerai”
Day 3 - Day 3 Rurutu, Austral Islands
On the second day, a flower welcome accompanied by Polynesian songs and rhythms on their “ukulele”, guitars and drums will captivate you. Board the trucks, it’s time to visit the wonders of the island. Basalt and limestone cliffs dotted with caves where islanders once lived, lush tropical jungle, white sand beaches and beautiful bays offer breathtaking views. The island’s fertile soil and cooler climate are suitable for growing coffee and taro. A traditional and typical Rurutu meal will be served at the mayor’s house with the opening of the “umu’ai”. Enjoy the white sandy beach of Vitaria and its lagoon. Every year, from August to September, humpback whales can be seen and heard in Rurutu where they come to mate and give birth. The Aranui 5 being there in September, it should be a delight for your eyes and ears. This activity is offered as an option with the visit of the Mole’e cave, nicknamed “the mouth of the monster” for experienced hikers (registration at the reception).
Day 4 - Day 4 Rimatara, Austral Islands
The Aranui disembarks at the “Taanini” dock. A small circular volcanic plateau, Rimatara, the last island of the archipelago to be discovered in the 19th century by Captain Samuel Pinder Henry, has preserved its old traditions, including its own dialect. It is home to an endemic bird, the amazing and colorful Kuhl’s Lori, the “Ura”, which is also found in the Cook Islands.After passing through a purification smoke ceremony, an ancient tradition of welcome, discover the main villages, Amaru, Anapoto and Motuaura by mini-bus or truck. In the old cemetery of Amaru, facing the sea, lies the entire lineage of kings and queens who ruled the island of Rimatara. An old legend says that you should never make faces in front of the royal tomb, otherwise you will remain disfigured for the rest of your life. A barbecue will be served on the beach of Motuaura. Its crystal-clear waters invite you to dive in and discover it with a mask and snorkel. Covered with taro plants and fruit trees, Rimatara is a flower garden with a fresh water well. A bird watching excursion to discover the red parakeet “Ura” is offered as an optional activity (sign-up at the reception).
Day 5 - Day 5 Tubuai, Austral Islands
Tubuai is the most populated island of the Austral Islands. Arriving by tender at the landing stage of Bloody Bay, passengers are welcomed at the town hall with a wreath of flowers, to the sound of local music. You will be able to attend art and craft demonstrations of pandanus leaf weaving and shell necklace making, specific to the island. The island’s fertile soil and cooler climate are ideal for growing cabbage, lettuce, and potatoes. Among the day’s activities: the visit of the cultural sites of the island by truck, the marae of “PO TUI TUI”, Fort George, the first refuge of the mutineers of the Bounty from July to September 1789 and Bloody Bay, witness to the fighting between the islanders and the mutineers. Lunch will be served on board. The beach of Bloody Bay invites you to dive in and discover it with a mask and snorkel.
Day 6 - Day 6 At sea
A day to relax on the Pool Deck or in the comfort of our air-conditioned Lounge. Or why not simply enjoy the views of the South Pacific Ocean during our crossing to Rimatara. Lectures on the culture and history of the Austral Islands will give you a complete overview of this civilization. During the cruise, the spirited Polynesian crew will proudly introduce you to their way of life and entertain you with Polynesian songs and rhythms on their “ukulele”, guitars and drums.
Day 7 - Day 7 Rapa, Austral islands
As you approach Rapa, only accessible by sea, the Captain may announce: “Welcome to Rapa. Next stop Antarctica”. As the southernmost inhabited island of French Polynesia, this crescent shaped land mass — with a fjord-like coastline deeply indented by 12 bays —is as remote as it gets. Rapa is Easter Island’s little sister. It has a temperate climate, no coral or coconut trees, but fruits and vegetables other than tropical ones are plentiful here: apples, peaches, nectarines… The Aranui will disembark at the dock in Ahurei. Passengers will be greeted with flower wreaths, to the typical sounds and rhythms of Rapa. Trucks will be waiting for you, heading to the cultural center. You will discover how the “mamas” make local crafts: hats and baskets made of reed (a fragile material) and bamboo crafts. A local meal will be served on land. On Rapa, we propose a two and a half hour walk to Fort Morango Uta. Polynesian evening with a plancha buffet around the pool (Deck 7) or in the Restaurant (Deck 4) depending on the weather conditions.
Day 8 - Day 8 Rapa, Austral Islands
Among the other activities on offer during our one and a half day stopover in Rapa, you will visit Ahurei, the main village of the island, explore ancient fortresses, visit an agricultural production centre, discover local arts and crafts, meet the inhabitants of this isolated island, and share a ma’a over a wood fire in the village.
Day 9 - Day 9 Raivavae, Austral Islands
It is said that Raivavae is the “Bora Bora of yesteryear” and that its lagoon is the most beautiful in Tahiti & her islands. A jewel preserved by its inhabitants; the island is a veritable garden of Eden where visitors fall underher spell. When the Aranui is at anchor, passengers disembark by tender onto Mahanatoa beach where they will be welcomed with wreaths of flowers, to the sound of Raivavae songs and rhythms. Departure by bus for a tour of the island. Do not miss the visit of the “Smiling Tiki” and the marae scattered around the island. Of course, its inhabitants will serve you a typical Raivavaebuffet on Mahanatoa beach. Take advantage of the remaining time to walk around the village or to discover its lush lagoon with a mask and snorkel. The discovery of Mount Hiro will be offered as an option (sign-up at the reception). 
Day 10 - Day 10 At sea
A day to relax on the Pool Deck or in the comfort of our air-conditioned Lounge. Or why not simply enjoy the views of the South Pacific Ocean on our return to the Society Islands. Lectures on the culture and history of the passenger-freighter Aranui 5 will give you a complete overview of the philosophy and valuable contributions made by the company. Faithful to the Polynesian experience, the entertainment remains traditional: initiation to Polynesian songs, Tahitian dance, without forgetting our shows and dances under the stars.
Day 11 - Day 11 Raiatea, Society islands
In the Polynesian triangle, Raiatea, formerly known as Havai’i, is considered the cradle of Polynesian civilization. As the first Polynesian island to be populated by sailors and navigators, it is here that all migrations to the three points of the triangle, New Zealand, Hawaii and Easter Island, began. The Aranui will disembark at the dock, and passengers will be greeted, with a tiare flower, to the sounds of the “to’ere”. Buses will be waiting for you to visit the most spectacular marae in the Polynesian triangle, Taputapuatea, a 1,000-year-old open-air temple now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is considered the religious and spiritual center of all Polynesia. After lunch, you will enjoy your afternoon visiting the town of Uturoa, its stores and crafts on the waterfront. 
Day 12 - Day 12 Bora Bora, Society islands
As you arrive in Bora Bora’s world-famous lagoon of opalescent blues and greens, you will be greeted by the majestic “Mount Otemannu”, the highest peak on the island. You can enjoy a day at the beach and a barbecue on a private Motu surrounded by crystal clear waters, the “Motu Tapu”. You can also choose from a veriety of option excursions at an additional cost: scuba diving, boat and motorized canoe tours of the lagoon, swimming with sharks and rays! Bora Bora was an American military outpost during World War II and remnants of the war such as cannons and bunkers can be seen on a 4X4 tour. Departure in the evening for Papeete. 
Day 13 - Day 13 Return to Tahiti (Papeete)
This is the end of our journey. It’s time to say Nānā! (Goodbye) to your travel companions, to the Polynesian staff and Aranui guides.
Day 14 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
28-03-202609-04-2026Array Array5,935DORMITORY - CLASS C - 4 BEDS
28-03-202609-04-2026Array Array9,099DOUBLE STATEROOM WITH OBSTRUCTED VIEW
28-03-202609-04-2026Array Array9,540DOUBLE STATEROOM
28-03-202609-04-2026Array Array11,322DELUXE
28-03-202609-04-2026Array Array12,501JUNIOR SUITE WITHOUT BALCONY
28-03-202609-04-2026Array Array13,082SINGLE STATEROOM
28-03-202609-04-2026Array Array13,481PREMIUM SUITE
28-03-202609-04-2026Array Array13,593ROYAL SUITE WITH OBSTRUCTED VIEW
28-03-202609-04-2026Array Array14,177ROYAL SUITE
28-03-202609-04-2026Array Array17,872PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
12-09-202624-09-2026Array Array5,935DORMITORY - CLASS C - 4 BEDS
12-09-202624-09-2026Array Array9,099DOUBLE STATEROOM WITH OBSTRUCTED VIEW
12-09-202624-09-2026Array Array9,540DOUBLE STATEROOM
12-09-202624-09-2026Array Array11,322DELUXE
12-09-202624-09-2026Array Array12,501JUNIOR SUITE WITHOUT BALCONY
12-09-202624-09-2026Array Array13,082SINGLE STATEROOM
12-09-202624-09-2026Array Array13,481PREMIUM SUITE
12-09-202624-09-2026Array Array13,593ROYAL SUITE WITH OBSTRUCTED VIEW
12-09-202624-09-2026Array Array14,177ROYAL SUITE
12-09-202624-09-2026Array Array17,872PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
24-10-202605-11-2026Array Array5,935DORMITORY - CLASS C - 4 BEDS
24-10-202605-11-2026Array Array9,099DOUBLE STATEROOM WITH OBSTRUCTED VIEW
24-10-202605-11-2026Array Array9,540DOUBLE STATEROOM
24-10-202605-11-2026Array Array11,322DELUXE
24-10-202605-11-2026Array Array12,501JUNIOR SUITE WITHOUT BALCONY
24-10-202605-11-2026Array Array13,082SINGLE STATEROOM
24-10-202605-11-2026Array Array13,481PREMIUM SUITE
24-10-202605-11-2026Array Array13,593ROYAL SUITE WITH OBSTRUCTED VIEW
24-10-202605-11-2026Array Array14,177ROYAL SUITE
24-10-202605-11-2026Array Array17,872PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
06-03-202718-03-2027Array Array6,603Class C
06-03-202718-03-2027Array Array10,303Stateroom
06-03-202718-03-2027Array Array13,006Deluxe
06-03-202718-03-2027Array Array14,028Superior Deluxe
06-03-202718-03-2027Array Array14,266Junior Suite
06-03-202718-03-2027Array Array15,105Premium Suite
06-03-202718-03-2027Array Array15,890Royal Suite
06-03-202718-03-2027Array Array19,132Grand Royal Suite
06-03-202718-03-2027Array Array20,054Presidential Suite
06-03-202718-03-2027Array Array20,054Owner Suite
06-03-202718-03-2027Array Array0AUSTRAL ISLANDS WITH RAPA
24-03-202705-04-2027Array Array6,388Class C
24-03-202705-04-2027Array Array9,940Stateroom
24-03-202705-04-2027Array Array12,554Deluxe
24-03-202705-04-2027Array Array13,539Superior Deluxe
24-03-202705-04-2027Array Array13,768Junior Suite
24-03-202705-04-2027Array Array14,576Premium Suite
24-03-202705-04-2027Array Array15,332Royal Suite
24-03-202705-04-2027Array Array18,454Grand Royal Suite
24-03-202705-04-2027Array Array19,344Owner Suite
24-03-202705-04-2027Array Array19,344Presidential Suite
24-03-202705-04-2027Array Array0AUSTRAL ISLANDS WITHOUT RAPA
12-04-202724-04-2027Array Array6,388Class C
12-04-202724-04-2027Array Array9,940Stateroom
12-04-202724-04-2027Array Array12,554Deluxe
12-04-202724-04-2027Array Array13,539Superior Deluxe
12-04-202724-04-2027Array Array13,768Junior Suite
12-04-202724-04-2027Array Array14,576Premium Suite
12-04-202724-04-2027Array Array15,332Royal Suite
12-04-202724-04-2027Array Array18,454Grand Royal Suite
12-04-202724-04-2027Array Array19,344Owner Suite
12-04-202724-04-2027Array Array19,344Presidential Suite
12-04-202724-04-2027Array Array0AUSTRAL ISLANDS WITHOUT RAPA
15-05-202727-05-2027Array Array6,603Class C
15-05-202727-05-2027Array Array10,303Stateroom
15-05-202727-05-2027Array Array13,006Deluxe
15-05-202727-05-2027Array Array14,028Superior Deluxe
15-05-202727-05-2027Array Array14,266Junior Suite
15-05-202727-05-2027Array Array15,105Premium Suite
15-05-202727-05-2027Array Array15,890Royal Suite
15-05-202727-05-2027Array Array19,132Grand Royal Suite
15-05-202727-05-2027Array Array20,054Presidential Suite
15-05-202727-05-2027Array Array20,054Owner Suite
15-05-202727-05-2027Array Array0AUSTRAL ISLANDS WITH RAPA
05-07-202717-07-2027Array Array6,388Class C
05-07-202717-07-2027Array Array9,940Stateroom
05-07-202717-07-2027Array Array12,554Deluxe
05-07-202717-07-2027Array Array13,539Superior Deluxe
05-07-202717-07-2027Array Array13,768Junior Suite
05-07-202717-07-2027Array Array14,576Premium Suite
05-07-202717-07-2027Array Array15,332Royal Suite
05-07-202717-07-2027Array Array18,454Grand Royal Suite
05-07-202717-07-2027Array Array19,344Owner Suite
05-07-202717-07-2027Array Array19,344Presidential Suite
05-07-202717-07-2027Array Array0AUSTRAL ISLANDS WITHOUT RAPA
07-08-202719-08-2027Array Array6,603Class C
07-08-202719-08-2027Array Array10,303Stateroom
07-08-202719-08-2027Array Array13,006Deluxe
07-08-202719-08-2027Array Array14,028Superior Deluxe
07-08-202719-08-2027Array Array14,266Junior Suite
07-08-202719-08-2027Array Array15,105Premium Suite
07-08-202719-08-2027Array Array15,890Royal Suite
07-08-202719-08-2027Array Array19,132Grand Royal Suite
07-08-202719-08-2027Array Array20,054Presidential Suite
07-08-202719-08-2027Array Array20,054Owner Suite
07-08-202719-08-2027Array Array0AUSTRAL ISLANDS WITH RAPA
23-08-202704-09-2027Array Array13,768Junior Suite
23-08-202704-09-2027Array Array14,576Premium Suite
23-08-202704-09-2027Array Array15,332Royal Suite
23-08-202704-09-2027Array Array18,454Grand Royal Suite
23-08-202704-09-2027Array Array19,344Owner Suite
23-08-202704-09-2027Array Array19,344Presidential Suite
23-08-202704-09-2027Array Array0AUSTRAL ISLANDS WITHOUT RAPA
23-08-202704-09-2027Array Array6,388Class C
23-08-202704-09-2027Array Array9,940Stateroom
23-08-202704-09-2027Array Array12,554Deluxe
23-08-202704-09-2027Array Array13,539Superior Deluxe
09-10-202721-10-2027Array Array6,603Class C
09-10-202721-10-2027Array Array10,303Stateroom
09-10-202721-10-2027Array Array13,006Deluxe
09-10-202721-10-2027Array Array14,028Superior Deluxe
09-10-202721-10-2027Array Array14,266Junior Suite
09-10-202721-10-2027Array Array15,105Premium Suite
09-10-202721-10-2027Array Array15,890Royal Suite
09-10-202721-10-2027Array Array19,132Grand Royal Suite
09-10-202721-10-2027Array Array20,054Presidential Suite
09-10-202721-10-2027Array Array20,054Owner Suite
09-10-202721-10-2027Array Array0AUSTRAL ISLANDS WITH RAPA
25-10-202706-11-2027Array Array6,388Class C
25-10-202706-11-2027Array Array9,940Stateroom
25-10-202706-11-2027Array Array12,554Deluxe
25-10-202706-11-2027Array Array13,539Superior Deluxe
25-10-202706-11-2027Array Array13,768Junior Suite
25-10-202706-11-2027Array Array14,576Premium Suite
25-10-202706-11-2027Array Array15,332Royal Suite
25-10-202706-11-2027Array Array18,454Grand Royal Suite
25-10-202706-11-2027Array Array19,344Owner Suite
25-10-202706-11-2027Array Array19,344Presidential Suite
25-10-202706-11-2027Array Array0AUSTRAL ISLANDS WITHOUT RAPA
27-11-202709-12-2027Array Array6,388Class C
27-11-202709-12-2027Array Array9,940Stateroom
27-11-202709-12-2027Array Array12,554Deluxe
27-11-202709-12-2027Array Array13,539Superior Deluxe
27-11-202709-12-2027Array Array13,768Junior Suite
27-11-202709-12-2027Array Array14,576Premium Suite
27-11-202709-12-2027Array Array15,332Royal Suite
27-11-202709-12-2027Array Array18,454Grand Royal Suite
27-11-202709-12-2027Array Array19,344Owner Suite
27-11-202709-12-2027Array Array19,344Presidential Suite
27-11-202709-12-2027Array Array0AUSTRAL ISLANDS WITHOUT RAPA

Inclusions

    • Rurutu, Austral Islands
    • Rimatara, Austral Islands
    • Rapa, Austral Islands
    • Raivavae, Austral Islands

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