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. ... Read More
Wednesday - Oct 9, 2024
Day 2
Rangiroa, French Polynesia
A secluded atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago, Rangiroa, meaning "vast sky" in Polynesian, is very aptly named. The lagoon of the largest atoll in Polynesia is reminiscent of the heavens, imprisoned by hundreds of islets formed by sand that veers from immaculate white to pink. But the beauty of Rangiroa, classed by Captain Cousteau as one of the most beautiful diving spots in the world, is most evident in its underwater life: you will have the occasion of admiring all the richness of the site on a snorkeling tour or on a glass-bottom boat tour. Rangiroa is also the high seat of Polynesian pearl culture. ... Read More
Thursday - Oct 10, 2024
Day 3
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 center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. 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. ... Read More
Friday - Oct 11, 2024
Day 4
Hakahau, French Polynesia
Located in the Marquesas Islands, in the north-east of French Polynesia, Hakahau is the main village and port of Ua Pou (meaning "pillars"), the third largest island in the archipelago. Nestling in the curve of a sheltered bay, Hakahau will charm you with its tranquillity and the wild splendour of its scenery. Lined with a black-sand beach, the village offers an unsettling landscape with volcanic rock peaks that rise up like imposing statues. Inhabited since 150 BC, Hakahau is home to several churches and the Motu Haka cultural federation. The 2,000 or so inhabitants of the island live primarily off fishing, farming, and crafts. Their wooden and stone sculptures are renowned. ... Read More
Saturday - Oct 12, 2024
Day 5
Hatiheu, French Polynesia
Entering Hatiheu Bay, you will quickly make out the statue of the Virgin, which, standing more than 300 metres high, overlooks this beautiful little village. Located on the north of Nuku Hiva Island, this locality is dominated by impressive basalt pitons. In the past, the fear of tsunamis and attacks from other clans led the tribes to settle in the interior of the valleys. As a consequence, many archaeological sites remain preserved and make for interesting excursions. You will find many of the ceremonial plazas, called tohua, notably those of Kamuihei and Hikokua where you will be able to observe several reconstructed traditional houses. ... Read More
Sunday - Oct 13, 2024
Day 6
Taiohae, French Polynesia
Taiohae Bay welcomes you in a sumptuous setting. Your ship will drop anchor a few kilometers from the black sandy beaches, nestled between majestic valleys. You will find yourself in the middle of the main village on the island of Nuku Hiva. You can follow the footpaths on foot or in an all-terrain vehicle. From the top of the hill of Mount Muake, a breathtaking panorama allows you to clearly identify the rocky islands that emerge on either side of the bay. Further on, the site of Piki Vehine shows its tikis, sacred statues used for religious practices. In addition, do not miss the Notre-Dame des Marquises cathedral. Its distinguishing feature is that is was built using stone taken from the six Marquesas Islands. ... Read More
Monday - Oct 14, 2024
Day 7
Puamau, French Polynesia
In the stunning Marquesas Islands, nature reigns supreme. The island of Hiva Oa and the town of Puamau are no exception to this rule. The archeological site of Meae l'Ipona, one of the most beautiful places for admiring the famous "tiki" statues, ancient religious stone sculptures depicting men, is itself hidden at the heart of a dreamlike decor. The waters of the nearby stream babble as the only peak in the valley keeps watch from above. The stories and myths you hear will take on a whole new meaning here. Fall under the magical spell of Polynesia. ... Read More
Tuesday - Oct 15, 2024
Day 8
Atuona, French Polynesia
You'll immediately understand why this remote and unusual chain of islands bathing in the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean inspired Jacques Brel's final album. During your cruise, we will stop at Hiva Oa, considered to be the "garden of the Marquesas Islands". A special kind of power and charm emanate from its craggy skyline and black-sand beaches. This port of call will provide you with an opportunity to visit the small village of Atuona, home to the tombs of Jacques Brel and Paul Gauguin, as well as a cultural center devoted to the memory of the famous French painter. ... Read More
Wednesday - Oct 16, 2024
Day 9
Omoa, French Polynesia
Your ship will take you to Omoa, a peaceful fishing village far from all civilisation, nestling in a magnificent bay on the island of Fatu Hiva. In the valley, you will be able to spot some tohua, former sacred sites, as well as the many burial caves lost in the island's abundant tropical forest. During your port of call, you'll be able to discover the Maison Grelet, a museum that houses remarkable wooden sculptures and local works of art. Right in front of you, the village's artisans will demonstrate how they make tapa, a bark cloth obtained through the technique of beating layers of wood, and explain the manufacturing processes of umu hei, a bouquet garni made from a delicious mix of fragrances. ... Read More
Thursday - Oct 17, 2024
Day 10
Hapatoni, French Polynesia
Located on Tahuata, the smallest of the inhabited Marquesas Islands, the village of Hapatoni will open its doors to you. A road built in old stones will lead you from the seashore to the village cathedral. You will also find a craft centre presenting various sculptures and engravings in bone or wood. Marquesan art is, in fact, recognised all over French Polynesia. Further on, vegetation takes over, inviting you to walk among its beautiful green valleys. Here, the population will give you a proper welcome, with traditional singing and dancing. A moment of conviviality you'll remember! ... Read More
Friday - Oct 18, 2024
Day 11
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 center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. 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. ... Read More
Saturday - Oct 19, 2024
Day 12
Fakarava, French Polynesia
Listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the coral atoll of Fakarava is a narrow stretch of land sitting on a crystal-clear sea. Travelers here are surprised by the immensity of the lagoon, whose colors evoke an infinite palette. The atoll, renowned for its immaculate beaches and preserved nature, is home to rare bird species, plants, and crustaceans. You'll disembark in front of the Veke Veke Guesthouse, where you will be welcomed with garlands of flowers and traditional music. You will then be able to go for a walk along the beach or put on flippers, mask, and snorkel to make the most of the warm waters of Fakarava and observe its brightly colored coral. ... Read More
Sunday - Oct 20, 2024
Day 13
Makatea, French Polynesia
Located in the Tuamotu Archipelago, Makatea (from the Polynesian words for rock, "maka", and white, "tea") is a raised coral atoll belonging to the Palliser group of islands in French Polynesia. Tikehau, the nearest atoll, is 75 kilometres north and Tahiti is some 200 kilometres south-west. Its cliffs covered in lush vegetation overlook the ocean, whose magnificent underwater world you will be able to explore while snorkelling. ... Read More
A part of the Windward Islands archipelago just to the west of Tahiti, famous Mo'orea will leave you with a series of unforgettable images and memories. Bask on its heavenly beaches, enjoy a dip in the turquoise waters of its lagoon, and soak up its luscious vegetation and the heady flowers that carpet the inland areas. Get the most out of this natural gem with a trip to the Mo'orea Belvedere. Exceptional views of Mount Rotui unfurl before your eyes, with the Opunohu Bay and its valley to the left, and the famous Cook's Bay, surrounded by notched cathedral-style peaks, to the right. ... Read More
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. ... Read More
Cruise and Land Value Offers that combine with this sailing.
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