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Secret Polynesia: Unexplored Tuamotu, the Gambier Islands and the Austral Islands in Luxury

Secret Polynesia: Unexplored Tuamotu, the Gambier Islands and the Austral Islands in Luxury

From AUD $15,840

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Description

At the edges of the world, set off on an all-new adventure discovering Polynesia’s best-kept secrets. Far off the beaten path, the shores of Tuamotu, the wild Gambier Islands and the Austral archipelago will unveil their sovereign nature and insular culture, which is very much still alive. Atolls just above the water, turquoise lagoons, fine sandy beaches and cliffs sculpted by the ocean serve as a decor for the special ports of call and the activities designed hand-in-hand with the local communities. Sail from island to island, encountering their unique traditions and fascinating ecosystems.  

Trip Name
Secret Polynesia: Unexplored Tuamotu, the Gambier Islands and the Austral Islands in Luxury
Days
15
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Passenger Capacity: 92 cabins Built: 2018/2019 Le Jacques Cartier is the newest vessel in the PONANT Explorers series, blending contemporary French elegance with cutting-edge design and technology. Accommodating just 184 guests across 92 stylish staterooms and suites, the ship offers an intimate and refined cruising experience. Its sophisticated interiors feature open spaces filled with natural light, seamlessly connecting guests to the sea and surrounding landscapes. Expansive lounges, a theatre, and a swimming pool create inviting social areas, while the marina platform allows effortless access to Zodiac excursions and water activities. On board, Le Jacques Cartier embodies the essence of French art de vivre through exceptional gastronomy, fine wines, and attentive service. Wellness facilities provide a sanctuary for relaxation, complementing days of discovery and exploration. Built with the latest environmental innovations, the ship reflects PONANT’s commitment to responsible and sustainable cruising. Whether sailing through tropical islands, ancient coastlines, or polar waters, Le Jacques Cartier delivers a journey defined by comfort, culture, and connection to the natural world.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 - Papeete, Tahiti Island
Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.
Day 2 - Day 2 - Fakarava, Tuamotu Islands
Listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Fakarava’s coral ellipsis is a narrow stretch of land sitting on a crystal-clear sea. Travellers here are surprised by the immensity of the lagoon, whose colours evoke an infinite palette. The atoll, renowned for its immaculate beaches and preserved nature, is home to rare bird species, plants and crustaceans. 
Day 3 - Day 3 - Anaa, Tuamotu Islands
All the beauty of Polynesia is concentrated in Anaa Atoll, somewhere in the waters of the Pacific. Here, the most beautiful shades of blue and green are on display to create a heavenly setting. For the inhabitants of the Tuamotu archipelago, Anaa Atoll is intrinsically associated with the raids conducted by the so-called Parata warriors of old. In 1983, the island was completely destroyed by a cyclone that left behind only the Saint-Etienne de Tematahoa church, which remains standing elegantly on the edge of the beach to this day, against a backdrop of coconut trees. Featuring moments of relaxation and a dive into the history of Polynesia, the stop at Anaa promises to be unforgettable.
Day 4 - Day 4 - Hikueru
An isolated atoll in the Tuamotus, Hikueru’s charm stems from the beauty of its landscapes and the authenticity of its inhabitants. Its crystal-clear lagoon, bordered by beaches of white sand and coral reefs, offers ideal conditions for scuba diving and snorkelling. On land, Polynesian songs, dances and handicrafts set the rhythm of daily life. Facing a calm horizon, explore the island at leisure, from a dugout canoe or by following the many paths.
Day 5 - Day 5 - At sea
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Day 6 - Day 6 - Aukena, Gambier Islands
Located 5 kilometres southeast of Mangareva, Aukena is today the 4th-largest of the Gambier Islands in French Polynesia, with a population of around thirty inhabitants. This port of call will be an opportunity for you to dive into the past, to the era when Aukena was discovered by the sailor James Wilson in 1797. There are several remnants of this missionary period, such as the watchtower serving as a landmark on the southwest of the island or the Church of St. Raphael, constructed in 1839. These buildings nestling in the forest lead to sumptuous white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Take the time to explore this island in the Gambier archipelago, and get a taste of French Polynesia’s gentle way of life.
Day 7 - Day 7 - Rikitea, Gambier Islands
Discover Mangareva, which means “floating mountain” in Polynesian. Located in the Gambier Islands, surrounded by a magnificent coral reef and blessed with generous vegetation, this island, a cradle of Catholicism, has exceptional cultural heritage, with many vestiges of religious buildings dating from the 19th century. Nestling in the heart of this historic site with idyllic landscapes, do not miss the small village of Rikitea, where one of Polynesia’s wonders, Saint Michael’s Cathedral, stands proudly, entirely built from coral and timber.
Day 8 - Day 8 - At sea
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Day 9 - Days 9 - 10 Rapa
Wild and unspoilt Rapa is one of the best kept secrets of the Austral Islands. From majestic mountains to trails winding through lush forests and crystal-clear lagoons, everything here invites contemplation and exploration. In this mysterious land, Polynesian culture vibrates intensely to the rhythm of songs, dances and local traditions, and both the encounters and hikes immerse you in a timeless interlude.
Day 10 - Day 11 - Raivavae, Austral Islands
Situated 730 km to the south-east of Tahiti, Raivavae is part of the Austral Islands. This volcanic island surrounded by a vast emerald-coloured lagoon has fewer than 1,000 inhabitants for four villages and two roads ─ one running around the island and the other through it. It is an island with an original culture and a still untouched environment, known for making sewn dugout canoes that are still used today. Often described as one of the most beautiful islands in the Pacific, Raivavae comprises 28 islets where nest a multitude of seabirds. You will have the possibility of exploring the island during an enchanting ride aboard one of the island’s rare 4-wheel drive vehicles.
Day 11 - Day 12 - Tubuai, Austral Islands
Located in the Austral Islands in French Polynesia, 640 km south of Tahiti, Tubuai is a 45 km2 volcanic island situated just south of the Tropic of Capricorn. Very well preserved, it is ringed by a 85 km2 lagoon, one of the vastest in the Austral Islands. As it is rather shallow, it gives the ocean waters a distinctive shade of turquoise blue. Eight islets surround Tubuai and, with their beaches of fine soft sand, offer a landscape that is unique in Polynesia. You will love basking with your feet in the warm, clear water, or discovering an exceptional underwater world with a multitude of colourful tropical fish as you spend unforgettable moments snorkelling or diving.
Day 12 - Day 13 - Rurutu, Austral Islands
Far from the traditional tourist circuits, you’ll discover the wildest and most surprising parts of French Polynesia. In the heart of the Austral archipelago, over 500 km south-west of Tahiti, your ship will make a port of call at Rurutu, an elevated coral island of absolutely unique beauty. Carved with countless caves and surrounded by spectacular cliffs, this land of volcanic origin will reveal its mysterious and preserved landscapes to you. A real geological phenomenon, the troglodyte island also offers magnificent summits covered in lush vegetation that will delight hiking fans.
Day 13 - Day 14 - At sea
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Day 14 - Day 15 - Papeete, Tahiti Island
Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.
Day 15 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $16,010Deluxe Stateroom
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $17,780Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $41,230Privilege Suite Deck 6
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $41,230Privilege Suite Deck 5
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $45,300Grand Deluxe Suite
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $52,800Owner's Suite
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $18,680Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $19,740Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $27,550Deluxe Suite Deck 6
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $27,550Deluxe Suite Deck 5
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $27,550Deluxe Suite Deck 4
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $27,550Deluxe Suite Deck 3
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $37,320Prestige Suite Deck 5
18-10-202601-11-2026AUD $39,270Prestige Suite Deck 6
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $15,840Deluxe Stateroom
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $17,600Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $18,490Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $19,530Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $27,240Deluxe Suite Deck 3
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $27,240Deluxe Suite Deck 4
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $27,240Deluxe Suite Deck 5
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $27,240Deluxe Suite Deck 6
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $36,870Prestige Suite Deck 5
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $38,800Prestige Suite Deck 6
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $40,730Privilege Suite Deck 6
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $40,730Privilege Suite Deck 5
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $44,760Grand Deluxe Suite
13-12-202627-12-2026AUD $55,150Owner's Suite

Inclusions

    • Discover the Gambier and Austral archipelagos, little-known territories that are among the wildest and the most isolated in Polynesia.
    • Immersion in the heart of typical landscapes (lagoons, coral reefs, atolls, lush mountains) and authentic encounters with insular communities from one little-known port of call to another.
    • Included activities designed and operated with local guides and transport or led by our naturalist guides, subject to capacity.

Map

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