Aranoa Austral Islands Cruise

Travel Type

Cruises

Duration

13 Days/12 Nights

Country

French Polynesia

Discovered by Europeans in the 18th Century, the Austral islands are located 600 km south of Tahiti. Off the beaten track, the Australs are an untouched and mysterious land where white sand clashes with the intense blue of the lagoons. Breathtaking landscapes, from sheer mountains to valleys, these islands are famous for their farming activities. The Austral islands will certainly offer a memorable and unique experience.

Inclusions

– 12 nights in the selected cabin
– Services of expedition staff including lectures, briefings, slide/film presentations, and other group activities
– Group transfers during the cruise
– 36 meals: 12 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 12 dinners with complimentary wine (1 bottle for every 4 guests) onboard
– Shore excursions, these include meals, a picnic lunch or a meal at a local restaurant will be provided
– English-speaking guide
– Landing fees and port taxes

Exclusions

International or domestic flights – Tourist taxes in Papeete – Optional excursions such as scuba diving, horseback riding, fishing and helicopter tours – Beverages not mentioned in the inclusions – Gratuities to hotel personnel and guides – Travel insurance – All other items not mentioned in the Inclusions.

Additional Information

ALTERNATIVE ITINERARY – STOP IN RAPA

This cruise is also available with an alternative itinerary that includes a stop on the island of Rapa, on the following dates: March 6, May 15, June 19, August 7, October 9 and November 27. If you are interested in this itinerary, please contact us for more information.

DAY 1 DEPARTURE FROM PAPEETE, TAHITI - MOOREA

Check-in begins at 9:00 am at the Papeete Cruise Terminal. At 12:00 pm, the Aranoa will cast off, ready to take you to Tahiti’s sister island: Moorea before the Austral Islands. A journey of culture, tradition and unforgettable landscapes awaits you. The Aranoa will arrive in Moorea at around 2:00 pm, allowing passengers to visit and take part in a few optional activities. At 10:00 pm the ship will leave the Society Islands for the Austral Islands.

Meals : Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation : Selected cabin for 12 nights

DAY 2 AT SEA

A day to relax on the Pool Deck or in the comfort of our air-conditioned Salon. Or why not simply enjoy the view of the South Pacific Ocean as we leave the Society Islands. Lectures on the company’s culture and history will give you a complete overview of the values upheld by the company. True to the Polynesian experience, the entertainment remains as traditional as ever: initiation to Polynesian songs and Tahitian dance, not forgetting our shows and dances under the stars.

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 3 RIMATARA, AUSTRAL ISLANDS

The Aranoa disembarks at the “Taanini” quay. A small circular volcanic plateau, Rimatara, the last island in the archipelago to be discovered in the 19th century by Captain Samuel Pinder Henry, has preserved its ancient traditions, including its own dialect. It is home to an endemic bird, the stunning and colorful Lori de Kuhl, the “Ura”, also found in the Cook Islands. After passing through a purification smoke, an ancient welcoming tradition, explore the main villages of Amaru, Anapoto and Motuaura by mini-bus or truck. In the ancient Amaru cemetery, facing the sea, lies the entire lineage of kings and queens who ruled the island of Rimatara. Legend has it that if you make a face in front of the royal tomb, you’ll be disfigured for the rest of your life. A barbecue will be served on Motuaura beach. Its crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkelling and diving. Covered with tarodera and fruit trees, Rimatara is a flowering garden with a freshwater well. The discovery of the red parakeet “Ura” is offered as an optional activity (registration at reception).

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4 RURUTU, AUSTRAL ISLANDS

Rurutu, one of the two largest raised atolls in French Polynesia, is unique for its geological structure, which is surprisingly unusual 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 magnificent bays offer breathtaking panoramas. Rurutu is known throughout Polynesia for the exceptional quality of its basketry, such as magnificent hats, bags and baskets or carpets made from pandanus leaves and other natural materials. With the Aranui at anchor off Rurutu, after lunch on board, passengers disembark in barges at the “Moerai” quay, where they are greeted with a performance of local songs. Enjoy some free time in the peaceful village of Moerai.

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5 RURUTU, AUSTRAL ISLANDS

The second day on Rurutu begins with a musical welcome, featuring ukuleles, drums and flower necklaces. Board the trucks to explore the island: troglodyte caves, lush jungle, impressive cliffs and pristine beaches. A traditional feast with the opening of the “umu’ai” awaits you at the mayor’s house, before a relaxing break on Vitaria beach. From August to September, witness the majestic dance of the humpback whales, a magical option offered with the horseback ride.

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6 TUBUAI, AUSTRAL ISLANDS

Arriving by barge at the Baie Sanglante landing stage, passengers are greeted at the town hall, wreaths of flowers around their necks, to the sound of local music. You can watch demonstrations of the arts and crafts of pandanus leaf weaving and shell necklace making, both unique to the island. The island’s fertile soil and cooler climate are ideal for growing cabbage, lettuce and potatoes. The day’s activities include a truck tour of the island’s cultural sites, the ‘PO TUI TUI’ marae, Fort George, the first refuge of the Bounty mutineers from July to September 1789, and Bloody Bay, witness to the fighting between the islanders and the mutineers. Lunch on board. The beach at Bloody Bay invites you to dive and explore with a mask and snorkel. Certified diving is available as an optional activity (register at reception).

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7 RAIVAVAE, AUSTRAL ISLANDS

Raivavae, nicknamed the “Bora Bora of yesteryear”, seduces with its motu, preserved traditions and authentic charm. From the quay at Rairua, passengers aboard the Aranoa are greeted with music and wreaths of flowers. A tour of the island reveals the “Smiling Tiki”, hidden marae and a stoup tasting. A traditional buffet is served in Rairua, followed by a stroll through the village. The following day, hikers will explore Heirani Point, while others will discover the “Pupu” shell necklaces. Optional: the idyllic motu Vaiamanu and the coral garden.

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8 RAIVAVAE, AUSTRAL ISLANDS

Take advantage of the remaining time to stroll through the village or discover its lush lagoon with a mask and snorkel. A visit to Mount Hiro is optional (please register at reception).

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9 TUBUAI, AUSTRAL ISLANDS

Tubuai is the most populated island in the Austral Islands, with a splendid lagoon and a rich heritage. Welcomed at Bloody Bay with music and wreaths, passengers set off on a truck to discover the Vaitauarii marae, Fort George - refuge of the Bounty mutineers - and the sites of their battles. Barbecues, swimming and optional diving punctuate this day of history and nature.

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 10 MAUPITI OR HUAHINE

Maupiti, the most secluded of the Society Islands, is often compared to Bora Bora in days gone by, before mass tourism transformed its neighbor. Nestled in the heart of a deep blue lagoon surrounded by motu (white sand islets), this small volcanic island welcomes only a handful of visitors, giving it a rare charm and a timeless atmosphere. In Maupiti, you can swim with the manta rays that peacefully inhabit its waters, visit the coral garden, or simply let yourself be carried away by the gentle Polynesian way of life in its villages with their flower-filled gardens.

Huahine, nicknamed the secret island of French Polynesia, is a true unspoiled gem of the Leeward Islands. Still wild and authentic, it appeals to travelers in search of nature and tranquility. You can explore its turquoise lagoons, dive among rays and blacktip reef sharks, or discover its marae (sacred Polynesian temples) hidden in the vegetation. The more curious can stroll through its colorful villages and fragrant vanilla plantations, visit the sacred site of Marae MAEVA, or contemplate the blue-eyed eels, legendary guardians of the area.

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 11 RAIATEA, SOCIETY ISLANDS

The cradle of Polynesian civilization, Raiatea - formerly Havai’i - was the starting point for the great migrations to Hawaii, New Zealand and Easter Island. On the quayside, you’ll be greeted by the sound of to’ere, the tiara in your ear. By bus, explore the Taputapuatea marae, a UNESCO-listed sacred site. Optional: pirogue trip down the Faaroa River or certified diving. In the afternoon, stroll through Uturoa’s boutiques after lunch on board.

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 13 RETURN TO PAPEETE, TAHITI

This is the end of our journey. It’s time to say Nānā! (Goodbye) to your travel companions, to the Polynesian staff and Aranoa guides.

Meals : Breakfast

Rates in CA$, per person, starting from, in double occupancy	Cruise only
Departures 2027	Cabin Standard	Cabin Deluxe	Premium Suite
March 24 April 12 June 2 July 5 August 23 September 22 October 25 November 10	10,819	14,079	15,139
Single supplement	On request

*Additional cabin categories are available upon request. Please contact us for more information.

SPECIAL DEPARTURE ITINERARY ARANOA – DECEMBER 14 “MARQUESAS FESTIVAL” – PLEASE CONTACT US FOR PRICING.
SPECIAL DEPARTURE –JULY 21 AND SEPTEMBER 8 “DISCOVER PITCAIRNS” – PLEASE CONTACT US FOR PRICING.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Deposit of 25% is required at time of confirmation to secure the cabin.
Final payment 100 days prior to departure. All final payments are non-refundable.

**Prices in this document are for information only; they were issued at press time, for the current year. Please note that due to exchange rates and temporary promotions, they can increase or decrease at any time. Contact your travel agent for the price and promotion of the moment. Prices include the contribution of customers to the Compensation Fund for clients of Quebec travel agents.

*** PLEASE CAREFULLY READ OUR TERMS & CONDITIONS. ***

ARANOA

The Aranoa is a mixed cargo and passenger vessel designed to provide all the comfort of a cruise ship. Classified as a small ship, it can accommodate 198 passengers in 91 cabins, including 62 cabins with private balconies. With 8 passenger decks, the Aranoa offers a comfortable and intimate setting for discovering the Austral Islands.

The ship’s interior décor reflects the Polynesian heritage of its owners and crew. On board, passengers have access to two restaurants, a lounge, two bars, two whirlpools with sea views, a boutique, a fitness room, as well as a spa and tattoo area. A library and entertainment area complete the facilities. Accommodation includes cabins with private balconies, outside cabins with portholes or windows, as well as family cabins and dormitories

Aranoa’s registry is France and thus sails under French pavilion. As such, she operates under the strictest building and safety guidelines, including the requirements of international SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations and the French Coast Guard (CCS).

Ship Stats

Technical information:

Flag: France
Length: 116 m – Beam: 21 m – Draft: 5.00 m
Cruising speed: 15 knots
Propulsion: 4 engines
Propellers: 2
Cargo capacity: 800 tonnes
Capacity: 198 passengers – 91 cabins

Facilities:

2 restaurants
1 lounge / dance area
2 bars
1 entertainment area
1 fitness room
1 boutique
1 library
1 massage and tattoo area
2 whirlpools
3 elevators

Cabins and Suites:

25 Standard Cabins, including 23 double cabins ranging from 17 to 20 m² with portholes and no balcony, and 2 family cabins of 33 m² with no balcony.
16 Deluxe Cabins ranging from 15 to 16 m² with a 5 m² balcony.
22 Superior Deluxe Cabins of 17 m² with a 5 m² balcony. Capacity: 2 adults.
12 Premium Suites ranging from 23 to 27 m² with a 5 to 7 m² balcony.
6 Royal Suites ranging from 28 to 31 m² with a 7 m² balcony.
2 Grand Royal Suites ranging from 31 to 33 m² with a 9 to 15 m² balcony.
4 Junior Suites of 18 m² with a 6 m² balcony.
1 Presidential Suite of 41 m² with a 7 m² balcony.
1 Owner’s Suite of 40.5 m² with a 7 m² balcony.
2 Dormitories of 33 m² with portholes, accommodating up to 4 passengers each.