Travel Type
Cruises
Duration
13 Days/12 Nights
Country
French Polynesia
About a 3-hour flight from the Society Islands and the Tuamotu Atolls, the Marquesas, or Henua Enata meaning “Land of Men”, are seemingly lost at the end of the earth. Even now, some of the islands are virtually untouched since the era of European exploration. Their isolation has created an immense pride among the people and a fascinating culture. The language is unique to Tahiti, as the lilting Marquesan dialect is traced directly to the ancient Polynesian tongue of Maohi.
Natural wonders abound as 1000-foot waterfalls cascade down sheer volcanic cliffs, and towering mountains disappear into the clouds.
A Polynesian legend tells that the gods created the Marquesas Islands to be the roof of French Polynesia. On the Aranui voyages, we take travelers to the heart of Polynesian culture and traditions, to islands that have remained untouched and where time seems to have stopped. It is the journey of a lifetime.
Inclusions
– 12-night accommodation in your selected cabin category
– 35 meals: 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches and 12 dinners with complimentary wine (1 bottle for every 4 guests) onboard
– Services of expedition staff including lectures, briefings, slide/film presentations, and other group activities
– Group transfers during the cruise
– Shore excursions, these include meals, a picnic lunch or a meal at a local restaurant will be provided
– Landing fees and port taxes
– English-speaking guide
Exclusions
International flights – optional excursions such as scuba diving, horseback riding, fishing and helicopter tours – beverages – gratuities to hotel personnel and guides – city tax in Papeete – All other items not mentioned in the Inclusions.
1
DAY 1 DEPARTURE FROM PAPEETE, TAHITI
Embark on the Aranui. Depart from Papeete, receive a warm welcome onboard from our crew and sail to Fakarava atoll in the Tuamotu archipelago.
Meals : Dinner
Accommodation : Selected cabin for 12 nights
2
DAY 2 FAKARAVA
Classified as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO for the preservation of rare species, Fakarava is the second largest atoll in French Polynesia. After a buffet on board, the Aranui will disembark at the dock of “Rotoava”. Passengers will have time to discover its small village, the church built of coral, local crafts and a demonstration of the virtues of coconut. Enjoy a day of relaxation, sun and beach, swimming or snorkeling among multicolored tropical fish.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
3
DAY 3 AT SEA
A day to relax at the Pool Deck or in the comfort of our air-conditioned lounge. Or why not just enjoy the view of the South Pacific Ocean during our crossing to the fascinating Marquesas Islands. Lectures on the Culture and History of the Marquesas Islands will make you go back in time and give you a complete overview of this ancient civilization. During the cruise, you will also have the opportunity to learn how to move your hips like a true Tahitian! The fiery Polynesian crew, proudly present their way of life and entertain you with Polynesian songs and rhythms on their ukulele, guitars and drums. Before going to bed, set your watch 30 minutes in advance, we switch to Marquesas time.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
4
DAY 4 NUKU HIVA (TAIOHAE – HATIHEU – TAIPIVAI)
While the Aranui is unloading, you can explore Taiohae, the small administrative capital of the Marquesas. Taiohae Bay is where writer Herman Melville then a 23-year-old sailor and buddy jumped off a whaler in 1842. After breakfast, passengers will disembark and will take the 4×4 that will be waiting for them for the day’s excursion. Our first stop will be a visit to Taiohae Cathedral. You can visit the Cathedral or go to the market to buy handicrafts. Then, we will visit the archaeological site of “Tohua Kamuihei” with its giant banyan trees and petroglyphs. Your first introduction to traditional Marquesan cuisine will be served for lunch. Local music during the meal will provide a great atmosphere. Your excursion will continue south to Taiohae with its spectacular bay, a giant volcanic amphitheater dominated by towering cliffs dotted with waterfalls. Back to Taiohae village, you will also find banks and shops. You can return to the ship from the village on foot or by car. At 7pm, enjoy a Polynesian evening with plancha buffet around the pool (Deck 7) or at the Restaurant (Deck 4) depending on weather conditions.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
5
DAY 5 UA POU (HAKAHAU)
From the bridges, you will see the mountain spits unique to Ua Pou. As the crew unloads supplies, cement, sugar, and loads bags of copra (dried coconuts) and fruit, explore the picturesque village of Hakahau and its church with a hand-carved wooden platform. Meet the island’s talented sculptors and artists, climb to the Croix for stunning views of the mountains, lush valleys and the main village. Another delicious Marquesan lunch will be served: breadfruit, a staple of the Marquesan with goat curry (a specialty of the Marquesas Islands), raw fish marinated in lemon juice and coconut milk, taro and red bananas. Enjoy an excellent dance performance, including the traditional “bird dance”, at Ua Pou.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6
DAY 6 HIVA OA (ATUONA)
The Aranui will anchor early at the Tahauku dock in Atuona, where you’ll have time to explore the village, the second largest in the Marquesas. This is where Paul Gauguin lived and created some of his work. You can also visit the colonial store where he bought his bread, as well as a replica of his infamous “House of Pleasure” and the Museum. As you walk up the hill to the cemetery, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the motu Hanakee. Beneath a huge frangipani tree is a gravestone with the simple words: Paul Gauguin 1903. Nearby is the grave of another famous European who also fell in love with Hiva Oa: Belgian singer-songwriter Jacques Brel, who died in 1978.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
7
DAY 7 HIVA OA (PUAMAU) - TAHUATA (VAITAHU)
While the names Gauguin and Brel are inseparable from Hiva Oa, the soul of the island is to be found in the Puamau valley. At the archaeological site of I’ipona (also known as Lipona), every nook and cranny is an enchantment. Located at the foot of the Toea peak at the island’s northeastern tip, the site is home to several tiki. Among them is the largest tiki in Tahiti Et Ses Îles: Takaii, standing 2.57 metres high. You’ll also come across Makii Taua te Pepe, a recumbent tiki measuring 1.75 metres long and 1.20 metres high. In the afternoon, the Aranui will anchor in the small bay of Tahuata. The only access is by sea, as there is no airport on Tahuata. On this leaf-shaped island, the air is thick with the scent of Tahitian tiare, frangipani and history. In 1595, Spanish explorers landed in the village of Vaitahu and opened fire on a crowd of curious islanders, killing around 200. Tahuata was also the site of the first French colony in the Marquesas in 1842. The large church, built by the Vatican, is decorated with fine Marquesan sculptures and magnificent stained-glass windows symbolizing the Virgin Mary. Tahuata is famous for its exquisite helmet shell and bone carvings. There’s plenty to choose from in the village.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
8
DAY 8 FATU HIVA (OMOA – HANAVAVE)
Fatu Hiva, the most lush and remote of the Marquesas Islands, is also a Marquesan craft centre. In the village of Omoa, the women will show you how to make tapas by crushing the bark of paper mulberry, banyan or bread tree but also the making of ‘Umuhei, an island herbal blend used to perfume their hair. After visiting the village, the most sporty passengers can opt for a 15km hike that will take them from Omoa to Hanavave, offering breathtaking views of the high cliffs. Lunch will be served at the top. Non-hikers will sail aboard the Aranui, from Omoa to Hanavave to Virgin Bay, considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Meet ashore for a tour of the village and to welcome hikers.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
9
DAY 9 UA HUKA (VAIPAEE - HANE - HOKATU)
This island, which saw the construction of the Marquesas’ first airstrip in 1972, is largely arid and home to numerous wild horses, goats and pigs. In the early hours of the morning, the Aranui will perform an impressive maneuver, a 180-degree turn in the magnificent “Invisible Bay” of Vaipaee. A maneuver requiring the full dexterity of captain and crew, it’s not to be missed. Back in your 4×4 to explore the island, stopping for breathtaking views, visit the arboretum born of the passion of the island’s former mayor, before reaching the beautiful village of Hane. Lunch will be served in a local family restaurant. Discover some of the island’s specialties, including handicrafts, wood carvings and engraved coconut shells. After lunch, return on board by 4×4. For the more adventurous, a 3 km walk back from the arboretum awaits. Make sure you’re on deck, as the Aranui will sail all along the Ua Huka coast for more magnificent views.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
10
DAY 10 AT SEA
A day to recover from the emotions of the Marquesas archipelago. During our crossing to the magnificent Tuamotu islands, conferences and activities will be offered throughout the day. Before going to bed, set your watch back 30 minutes to Tahitian time.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
11
DAY 11 RANGIROA
Watch from the decks as we approach and arrive at the largest atoll in French Polynesia, and the second largest in the world. You may spot playful dolphins greeting the ship as we enter Tiputa Pass, one of Rangiroa’s passes. Glass-bottom boat and scuba diving excursions are available (registration at reception). Scuba diving here is rated among the best in the world (certified divers only). If you decide not to visit, enjoy Rangiroa’s white sandy beach and translucent lagoon. The local “mamas” will have an excellent display of shell necklaces, chains and key chains, and other small souvenirs for sale on the beach. The Aranui will depart at lunchtime and sail to the mystical island of Bora Bora.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
12
DAY 12 BORA BORA
Arriving in Bora Bora’s world-famous lagoon of opalescent blues and greens, you’ll be greeted by the majestic “Mont Otemanu”, the island’s highest peak. In this perfect island paradise, 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 variety of optional excursions at extra cost: scuba diving, lagoon tours by boat and pirogue, swimming with sharks and rays! Bora Bora was an American military outpost during the Second World War, and remnants of the war such as cannons and bunkers can be seen on the tour. Evening departure for Papeete.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
13
DAY 13 PAPEETE, TAHITI
This is the end of our journey. It is time to say Nānā! (goodbye) to your fellow travelers, the Polynesian staff and the Aranui guides.
Meals : Breakfast
| Rates in CA$, per person, starting from, in double occupancy | Cruise only | ||
| Departures 2027 | Cabin Standard | Cabin Deluxe | Premium Suite |
| January 23 February 11, 27 March 16 April 3, 20 May 6, 22 June 8, 24 July 10, 27 August 12, 28 September 18 October 5, 21 November 6, 23 | 10,719 | 13,579 | 15,379 |
| Single supplement | On request | ||
The departures of November 7, 21 and December 5, 19, 2026 are available upon request. The 2026 itinerary differs from the one presented online. Please contact us for more details.
*Additional cabin categories are available upon request. Please contact us for more information.
SPECIAL DEPARTURE – DECEMBER 13 “MARQUESAS FESTIVAL” – 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. ***
ARANUI 5
Aranui 5 is a custom-built, dual-purpose passenger/freighter ship designed to offer all of comforts of a cruise liner, while operating as a supply ship. Aranui 5 is classified as a small vessel, accommodating approximately 230 passengers in 103 cabins.
With eight different guest decks, the interior decor reflects the Polynesian heritage of her owners and crew. The ship features a restaurant where all the meals onboard are served in a casual setting; one lounge; two conference rooms, where guest lecturers will offer presentations on various topics related to Marquesas three bars, including the Sky Bar with sweeping panoramic views, an outdoor swimming-pool, a boutique, a spa, a gym and the first tattoo studio at sea.
Passenger accommodations range from Premium exterior staterooms, of which more than 90% have a private balcony; to standard exterior staterooms with a picture window or porthole; and Class C, shared dormitory style cabins with occupancy for four or eight people. Aranui 5’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
Vessel particulars:
Flag: France
Length: 126 m. Breadth: 22 m. Draught: 5.2 m.
Cruising speed: 15 knots
Propellers: 2
Freight: 3000 tons
Capacity: 230 passengers – 103 cabins
Facilities:
1 dining room
1 spacious lounge and 2 conference rooms
3 bars including 1 panoramic bar (Skybar)
1 fitness room/gym
1 outdoor swimming-pool
1 shop, 1 library, 1 spa, 1 tattoo studio
2 elevators
Cabins and Suites:
38 Staterooms with porthole including 30 Double Staterooms of 11 sqm, 2 Single Staterooms and 6 Quadruple Staterooms.
28 Deluxe and Superior Deluxe from 13 to 14.5 sqm with a 4 sqm balcony. Capacity of two adults.
31 Suites from 18 to 22 sqm + balcony from 4 to 12 sqm (including 2 Junior Suites without balcony and 1 Junior Suite with balcony). Capacity for up to three adults.
1 Presidential Suite of 41 sqm with a 12 sqm balcony. Capacity for two to three adults.
DOUBLE STATEROOM
Cabin located on Boat Deck 5, Lower Deck 2, Main Deck 3.
Area : 11 m²
Capacity : 2 people
With 120 sq. ft. (11 sq.m) of interior space and a porthole or a picture window, this exterior cabin offers, either, a king size or two single beds, a bathroom with shower and hair dryer.
DELUXE
Cabin located on Pool Deck 7, Sky Deck 9, Sun Deck 8.
Area : 140 sq.ft (13 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 persons
With approximately 140 sq. ft. (13 m²) of interior space and a 45 sq. ft. (4 m²) private balcony, this exterior cabin offers a bedroom with a king size bed or twin beds, a bathroom with shower and hair dryer, refrigerator and safe.
PREMIUM SUITE
Cabin located on Pool Deck 7, Veranda Deck 6.
Area : 200 sq.ft (19 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 to 3 adults
With approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq.m) of interior space and a 45 sq. ft. (4 sq.m) private balcony, this exterior cabin offers a bedroom with a king size bed or twin beds and a sitting room with a sofa bed, divided by a decorative filigree screen, a bathroom with shower and hair dryer, refrigerator and safe.
Aranui Marquesas Adventure Cruise – Detailed itinerary
Aranui Marquesas Adventure Cruise – Detailed itinerary
