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Explore the Enchanting Marquesas Islands Of French Polynesia – 15 Days

Explore the Enchanting Marquesas Islands Of French Polynesia – 15 Days

From AUD $8,056

Description

Come explore the enchanting Marquesas Islands on one of our voyages of a lifetime. The Aranui 5 is considered by many the ultimate passenger freighter, and will take you to remote seldom visited areas while resupplying tiny communities far from civilization. The unspoiled beauty, the warmth of its people and their culture gives guests a glimpse into the ancient majesty of these islands.
For two full weeks, on this all-inclusive (meals and scheduled excursions) cruise, the Aranui 5 will be your home as you discover the magic that attracted adventurers Paul Gauguin, Robert Louis Stevenson and Thor Heyerdahl.

INCLUSIONS:
Cruise transportation and shipboard accommodations, port taxes, meals, fuel surcharge and excursions fares are based on per adult double occupancy. 2 Nights accommodation at Manava Suite Resort incl, breakfast, taxes and resort fee. These fares are correct at the time of printing and are subject to change; with or without notice.

EXCLUSIONS:
Shipboard purchases, premium liquor, gratuities, port taxes other than those specifically provided for, and other personal items. Dinner at Manava Suite Resort.

PLEASE NOTE: Set AU$ rates available
Stateroom AU$7338 PP
Deluxe Stateroom AU$8404 PP
Premium Suite AU$9761 PP

Trip Name
Explore the Enchanting Marquesas Islands Of French Polynesia - 15 Days
Days
15
Overview
Vessel Type: Passenger ship Length: 126 m Passenger Capacity: 260 Speed: 15 knots The Aranui is a mixed passenger/cargo vessel that operates between Tahiti and the Marquesas. It offers comfortable, air-conditioned accommodations for about two hundred passengers. Passengers will be able to sunbathe on deck, swim in the pool, or enjoy exotic tropical drinks while the Aranui wends her way among the islands of the Marquesas. Accommodations classes are Suites, Deluxe, Standard and C Class. The vessel operates under the French flag, and her crew are all Polynesian, primarily Marquesans. The name “Aranui” means “The Great Highway” in Maori, another great Polynesian culture. The first Aranui was purchased from a New Zealand ship owner in 1959. CPTM kept her original name, because it suited her. Serving as a link between the remote Marquesas and the rest of the world, she truly was a “Great Highway” on which cargo and passengers traveled. The original Aranui was too small to meet the needs of the islands as trade increased. CPTM therefore retired her, and purchased a new vessel, which was also named the Aranui. The second Aranui was originally built as a freighter for the Baltic trades, with unusually thick hull plates because of floating ice often found in that area. She was modified in Germany in 1990. After only a few years in service, it too was getting too small again to meet the islands growing trade needs as well as the increase in passenger travel. CPTM decided this time to built a new vessel in 2000, which was named the Aranui III. The Aranui III was built in Romania as a freighter and passenger vessel. Because of the number of passengers the vessel can carry, she was reclassifed as a passenger vessel. Thus, meeting the strict requirements of international SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations and many safety features including life boats and lifte rafts and fire safety systems. The vessel is French registry, and crewed primarily by Marquesans. They are extremely skillfull and very hospitable. It is often their custom to give an impromptu concert in the evenings, both for their own and our passengers pleasure. The ship features a small boutique where various sundries, clothing and souvenirs are available. There are washing machines and dryers aboard, but dry cleaning is not available. There is also 2 bars and video room, which has a television, VCR and a small collection of videotapes. She also has a swimming pool and sunbathing space. The electrical current in the cabins is 220 volt 50 cycle AC, using French-style plugs. If you have any small appliances, please make sure you have voltage converters and plug adapters needed to use the ship’s standard power. The vessel accepts traveler’s checks and credit cards for on-board purchases. We regret that we cannot honor personal checks. Lock boxes are available on board for passenger convenience. However, we do not accept custody or responsibility for passenger valuables or money. Facilities: * 1 dining room * 2 spacious lounges & 2 conference rooms * 4 bars including 1 panoramic bar (Skybar) * 1 fitness room * 1 outside swimming pool * 1 shop * 1 massage room * 2 lifts

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1: Arrive in Papeete, Tahiti
Transfer to Manava Suite Resort to relax & unwind.
Day 2 - DAY 2: Papeete, Tahiti
After breakfast at our hotel proceed to the Aranui 5 to check in for our morning departure. Departure from Papeete dock at 10:00am.
Day 3 - DAY 3: Fakarava
Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the second largest atoll in French Polynesia, you will have time to discover the small village of Rotoava and the local arts and crafts. Afterwards, enjoy a refreshing swim and snorkel in the translucent lagoon. Optional excursions (at an additional cost), such as snorkelling and diving in the various passes or an outing for bird watching are also available.
Day 4 - DAY 4: At Sea
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 give you an insight into this ancient civilization.
Day 5 - DAY 5: Nuku Hiva (Taipivai - Hatiheu-Taiohae)
Be out on deck to appreciate our arrival into Taiohae’s spectacular bay, a giant volcanic amphitheatre dominated by towering cliffs streaked with waterfalls. Taiohae Bay is where 23-year-old Herman Melville and his buddy jumped a whaling ship in 1842. Follow their escape route by 4-wheel drive along steep, winding dirt mountain roads to the village of Hatiheu to visit the archaeological site of Kamuihei. Enjoy a traditional lunch of “Hima’a”, where food is cooked for hours in an underground oven ashore.
Day 6 - DAY 6: Ua Pou (Hakahau-Hakahetau)
Witness 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. Meet the island’s talented woodcarvers and artists, hike up the hill to the Cross for breathtaking views of the mountains, the lush valleys and the main village.
Day 7 - DAY 7: Hiva Oa (Atuona) & Tahuata (Koku’u)
Aranui will arrive in Hiva Oa in the morning, where you will have plenty of time to explore Atuona, the second largest village in Marquesas. This is where Paul Gauguin lived and created some of his best work.As you walk up the hill to the cemetery, you’ll have sweeping views of the harbour. Beneath a huge frangipani tree is a tombstone with the simple words: Paul Gauguin 1903. In the afternoon, the Aranui will anchor off the small island of Tahuata. On this leaf-shaped island, the air is thick with the fragrant scent of tiare, frangipani and history. Tahuata is famous for its exquisite bone and helmet shell carvings.
Day 8 - DAY 8: Hiva Oa (Puamau) & Tahuata (Vaitahu)
In Puamau, travel by 4WD to the most incredible archaeological site for“tikis” (ancient, religious stone sculptures) outside of Easter Island. Learn the stories of these haunting statues of ancient times, surrounded by beautifully lush grounds, the site is overwhelming and has a lot of what Polynesians call “mana” (spiritual power).
Day 9 - DAY 9: Fatu Hiva (Omoa-Hanavave)
This is the most lush and remote island of the Marquesas. The only access is by sea. It is also the island of “tapa” and you will discover all about this traditional cloth. In the tranquil village of Omoa, you will see women pounding mulberry, banyan or breadfruit tree bark on logs. Before lunch, the Aranui will sail to the other side of the island, to jaw-dropping Hanavave Bay, also known as the Bay of Virgins. Athletic passengers may choose to make the trip on foot with a delicious lunch served at the top of a mountain.
Day 10 - DAY 10: Ua Huka (Vaipaee-Hane-Hokatu)
In the early morning light, the Aranui will arrive in Ua Huka. This is one arrival not-to-be-missed! The manoeuvre entering the small bay and positioning the vessel for departure is truly impressive.Aboard your 4WD, explore the island, stopping for stunning views of the Pacific, visit to the arboretum and botanical garden born from the passion of the island’s former mayor, before reaching the beautiful village of Hane. After lunch, continue discovering the island in the fishing village of Hokatu, or hike up to one of Hane’s viewpoints escorted by the ship’s guides. To end a brilliant day, a sumptuous buffet dinner will be served on deck for our Polynesian evening under the stars.
Day 11 - DAY 11: At Sea
After an enchanting, enriching journey to the heart of Polynesian civilization, unwind or enjoy the various activities and lectures offered.
Day 12 - DAY 12: Rangiora
From the decks, watch our approach and arrival into French Polynesia’s largest atoll and the second largest in the world. Snorkeling and scuba diving excursions are available (an additional cost applies). This will be your opportunity to visit a working pearl farm and learn how Tahiti’s famed jewel of the sea is produced.
Day 13 - DAY 13: Society Islands - Bora Bora
Arriving in Bora Bora’s world famous lagoon of opalescent blues and greens, you will be greeted by majestic Mount Otemanu, the island’s highest peak.In this picture-perfect island paradise, you will enjoy a day at the beach and another delicious picnic, on a private “motu” islet surrounded by crystalline waters.You may also choose from a variety of optional excursions (at additional cost).
Day 14 - DAY 14: Disembarketion Papeete, Tahiti
Morning arrival in Papeete. Transfer to the Manava Suite Resort for a final night in Tahiti.
Day 15 - DAY 15: Papeete, Tahiti
Depart Tahiti & return home or continue your travels.
Day 16 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
07-08-202021-08-2020AUD $8,056Stateroom Twin
07-08-202021-08-2020AUD $9,220Deluxe Stateroom Twin
07-08-202021-08-2020AUD $11,001Premium Suite
07-08-202021-08-2020AUD $10,729Single Premium
07-08-202021-08-2020AUD $9,761Premium Twin Share

Inclusions

    • Experience the richness of the Marquesas, from its people to its history and culture to its breathtaking scenery. This is a soft adventure and cultural immersion at its best in French Polynesia.

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