Sitting 1,500 km (932 mi) northeast of Tahiti, welcome to the Marquesas, the “The Land of Men”. A mythical and mystical land, that has beckoned explorers and has inspired writers, painters and artists for centuries. A rugged and breath-taking landscape of peaks, valleys, plateaus and cliffs. A nation of proud and formidable warriors long ago, distinct from Tahitians, with their own language and culture. The Marquesas islands are a World in themselves.

The Marquesas Islands includes 12 high islands, only six of which are inhabited (Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, Ua Huka, Hiva Oa, Fatu Hiva and Tahuata) as well as one atoll. The 9,350 inhabitants, living on a land surface of 1,000 km² (386 mi²), represents 3.6% of French Polynesia’s population. The landscapes are spectacular: rocky peaks, imposing cliffs, deep bays, and steep valleys. There are many important archaeological remains including striking stone tiki.

The ancient Marquesan culture – for which tattoos are an important symbol of cultural identity – is expressed through traditional dances (haka) as well as through the art of sculpting wood and stone. Famous occidental artists (Melville, Loti, Gauguin, Brel…) have contributed to making the name of these agricultural islands, notable for their citrus production.

The ship features a restaurant catering for dietary restrictions, one lounge, and two conference rooms, providing the perfect environment for our academic sessions. Aranui has three bars including a sky bar with sweeping panoramic views, an outdoor swimming pool, spa, gym, a boutique, and even the first tattoo studio at sea.

Departure from Tahiti (Papeete).

Departure from Papeete in the afternoon, welcome of our crew and navigation to the Tuamotu archipelago.

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 multi-coloured tropical fish.

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 itsgiant 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.
7pm: Polynesian evening with plancha buffet around the pool (Deck 7) or at the Restaurant (Deck 4) depending on weather conditions.

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.

Tahuata (Vaitahu) – Hiva Oa (Atuona)

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 the «tiara Tahiti», frangipani and history. In 1595, Spanish explorers landed in the village of Vaitahu and opened fire on a crowd of curious islanders, killing about 200 people. Tahuata is also the site of the first French colony in the Marquesas in 1842. The large church built by the Vatican is decorated with beautiful Marquesan sculptures and magnificent stained glass windows symbolizing the Virgin Mary. Tahuata is famous for its exquisite bone and helmet shell sculptures. There will be plenty to choose from in the village.
The Aranui will arrive in Hiva Oa after lunch on board, where you will have plenty of time to explore Atuona, the second largest village in the Marquesas. This is where Paul Gauguin lived and created part of his work. By 4×4, you will visit the largest archaeological site of the Marquesas Islands, the «Tohua Ta’oa». You can also visit the colonial store where he bought his bread, as well as a replica of his sad and famous «pleasure house» and the Museum. Walking up the hill to the cemetery, you will have a breathtaking view of the Hanakee motu. Under a huge frangipani tree is a tombstone with simple words: Paul Gauguin 1903. Nearby is the tomb of another famous European who was also seduced by Hiva Oa: Belgian singer-songwriter Jacques Brel, who died in 1978.

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. Visityou land for a visit of the village and to welcome hikers.

Rangiroa or Makatea

RANGIROA:
From the bridges, observe our approach and our arrival in the largest atoll of French Polynesia and the second largest in the world. You can see playful dolphins greeting the Ship as we enter the Tiputa Pass, one of Rangiroa’s passes. Glass bottom boat and scuba diving excursions are available (registration at reception). Scuba diving is here classified as one of the best in the world (certified divers only). If you decide not to visit, enjoy the white sand beach of Rangiroa and the translucent lagoon. The local «mamas» will have an excellent display of shell necklaces, chains and key chains, other small souvenirs for sale on the beach. The Aranui will depart at lunchtime and sail to the mystical island of Bora Bora.

MAKATEA:
The Aranui offers this opportunity to visit the remains of Makatea, phosphate mining and caves, cross the island on foot or by car, picnic under the cliffs or on the beach. A raised atoll or exogenous atoll, Makatea is a type of atoll or coral island whose whole or part of the earth is composed of an ancient coral reef that has emerged. The term Makatea refers to a type of raised atoll with in its center, the remains of the ancient volcanic island. This term is also used to refer specifically to escarpments of coral origin encountered in all types of raised atolls. Makatea is also the name of a coral island located in the Tuamotu archipelago (French Polynesia), where a phosphate deposit was mined from 1917. After a picnic on land, the Aranui will sail along the coast of Makatea before continuing its journey to the islands of the Society.

Included:

• Cruise transportation and related taxes (tourist tax, port tax, fuel, TDC),
• Shipboard accommodation
• 3 meals per day
• A bottle of wine to share amongst four passengers for scheduled onboard meals
• Lunches in local restaurants
• Planned guided shore excursions to remote villages and archaeological sites
• Cultural dance shows
• Lecturers onsite and onboard

Available onboard:

• Wifi is available during the voyage, using your own devices, in cabins and most public areas throughout the ship. Provided by satellite service, the connection may not be as reliable as land broadband, but it is adequate for checking and sending emails. A log-in code can be purchased from the boutique.
• Spa Treatments – a variety of treatments by a fully trained wellness and massage therapist (an extra cost). Pamper yourself with a facial, body scrub and massages using the traditional oils of French Polynesia. Treat yourself to a manicure or pedicure or a relaxing foot massage – perfect after a day exploring.

Area : 41m²
Capacity : 1 to 3 adults
Situation : Sky deck – 9

Composed of three individual rooms of 41 m² interior area and a private balcony of 12 m², this outdoor cabin has a separate bedroom with a large double bed, a living room with a sofa bed, a living room with integrated bar, two bathrooms with shower and hairdryer, dressing room, refrigerator and safe.

Area : 19m²
Capacity : 1 to 3 adults
Situation : Veranda deck – 6, Pool deck – 7

This outdoor cabin of 19 m² with private balcony of 4m² has a bedroom with a large double bed or twin beds, a living room equipped with a sofa bed, separated by a decorative partition of Polynesian style, a bathroom with shower and dryerhair, refrigerator and safe.

Area : 15m²
Capacity : 1 to 2 adults
Situation : Main deck – 3, Upper deck – 4, Sky deck – 9, Sun deck – 8

This 15 m² outdoor cabin with a private balcony of 4 m² has a bedroom with a large double bed or twin beds, a bathroom with shower and hairdryer, a fridge and a safe.

Area : 11m²
Capacity : 1 to 2 adults
Situation : Boat deck – 5, Lower deck – 2, Sun deck – 8, Main deck – 3

This 11 m² outdoor cabin with porthole has a large double bed or 2 single beds and a private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.

Area : 17m²
Capacity : 1 to 4 adults
Situation : Lower deck – 2

This four-bed cabin, 17 m², has a large double bed, two bunk beds and a private bathroom with shower and hairdryer. The displayed fare applies to the first two occupants of the cabin. The third and fourth occupant benefit from discounted prices.