> Itineraries > DISCOVER THE MARQUESAS - Summer 2024
DISCOVER THE MARQUESAS - Summer 2024
From Saturday, July 20 2024 to Wednesday, July 31 2024
12 days / 11 nights
Marquesas, Tuamotu and Society Islands
Mythical and mystical. A land that has attracted explorers, writers, painters and artists. Breathtaking landscapes of mountains, valleys, plateaus and cliffs. A nation of former warriors, with their own language and culture. For 40 years, Aranui, as the main carrier of goods to the Marquesas, has maintained a vital link with its inhabitants and the outside world.
TRIP NOT AVAILABLE FOR SALE
Day 1
THURSDAY – Departure from Papeete (Tahiti)
Depart from Papeete in the late afternoon, receive a warm welcome onboard from our crew and sail to the Tuamotu archipelago.
Day 2
FRIDAY – Fakarava or Kauehi (Voyage 12,13,14 et 23)
Fakarava, 488 km northeast of Tahiti, is a huge atoll that is part of a UNESCO “biosphere reserve” because of its rich eco-system, with an abundance of rare flora and fauna. Kauehi, 40 km north-east of Fakarava, was uninhabited not so long ago. It was gradually populated for the exploitation of copra and for several years, pearl farming has also been developed. Recently opened to tourism, Kauehi will seduce you by its authenticity as well as by the surrealist hues of its lagoon, which you can enjoy as if you were alone in the world! You will have the possibility to snorkel in Kauehi and Fakarava (diving optional).
Day 3
SATURDAY – At sea
There are many ways to while away a day at sea on Aranui 5 from immersing in the Polynesian culture during workshops on weaving, dancing, cooking, wrapping a pareo, playing the ukulele, language, and even ‘tatau’ or relax on deck, in one of the bars, attend a lecture, browse the boutique, work out in the gym, be pampered In Aranui’s Polynesian spa, take a dip in the pool or just gaze out at the sea. When we arrive in the waters of the Marquesas, you will have to set your watches forward by half an hour.
Day 4
SUNDAY – Nuku Hiva (Taiohae – Hatieu – Taipivai)
This island is the administrative centre of the Marquesas. The village of Taiohae stretches along the beach, which is like a magnificent amphitheatre created by the successive eruptions of three concentric volcanoes and dominated by towering cliffs streaked with waterfalls. In the small village, all of the government services and residences, the hospital, bank and schools, are close by. A lovely handicraft centre is located on the beach road. Your adventure in Nuku Hiva will include a tour of the Cathedral Notre Dame, famed for its stonework and wood sculptures. In Hatiheu, you will visit the archaeological site known as Tohua Kamuihei, where public festivities once took place. Here you will see the paepae, immense stone platforms on which houses were built, and huge boulders carved with enigmatic petroglyphs. Under a giant banyan tree, enjoy a performance of traditional songs and dances, including the “Pig Dance”, which originated in Nuku Hiva. For lunch, try a traditional “Umu”, a Marquesan specialty where food is cooked in an underground oven.
Day 5
MONDAY – Ua Pou (Hakahau)
Legend refers to Ua Pou as the “pillars of the archipelago” and it is often called “The Cathedral Island”. These names become clear as the ship docks at Hakahau Bay surrounded by 12 basalt summits soaring as high as 1100 metres. Every island has its own special ambience and Ua Pou’s is one of mystery and magic. You are sure to see familiar looking faces as many of our crew members are from here. Energetic early risers can hike up the hill to the Cross for breathtaking views of the valleys and village below. The artisans’ centre is a short stroll into town and the offerings include works featuring the unique flower stone and a variety of carvings and children’s clothes. Before enjoying a Marquesan lunch, take in an excellent dance show, including the Bird Dance, a traditional Ua Pou performance.
Day 6
TUESDAY – Ua Huka (Vaipaee – Hane – Hokatu)
This island, the least inhabited in the Marquesas, is largely arid and home to many wild horses, goats and pigs. It is also a refuge for two endemic birds: the pati’oti’o and the pihiti, which are only found here. In the early morning, the Aranui will execute a point-to-point 180-degree turn in the narrow mouth of Vaipaee’s Invisible Bay. With only metres to spare on either side, it is a skillful operation undertaken by the captain and the crew and is not to be missed. From the dock, travel by 4WD to the village of Hane. Along the way, you will stop to explore the Botanical Garden, the cultural centre Te Tumu, featuring a small museum with exquisite replicas of Marquesan artifacts, and a petroglyph museum and local woodcarvers’ studios in the fishing village of Hokatu. Look for the unusual carved black and white coconuts. In Hane, where a Marquesan lunch will be served, visit the Marine Museum beforehand and in the afternoon, hike to view red tuff tikis overlooking the bay.
Day 7
WEDNESDAY – Tahuata (Vaitahu) – Hiva Oa (Atuona)
You will visit the impressive church of Tahuata which was built by the Vatican and decorated with beautiful carvings and a stained glass window featuring the Marquesan cross. Though the smallest of the inhabited Marquesan islands, it is historically one of the richest. Tahuata has experienced it all — it was the first island in the archipelago to be discovered by Spanish explorers, who opened fire on a crowd of curious islanders in 1595, saw the arrival of missionaries in 1797 and then became the first French settlement in the Marquesas in 1842. The locals carve exquisite tikis, sea creatures, bracelets, necklaces and more from horse and cow bone, fossilised bone, tusks and pink helmet shell. Atuona, main village of Hiva Oa and the second largest in the Marquesas, was once the capital of this archipelago. Sweeping views of the harbour can be seen after a walk up the hill to the cemetery where Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel are buried. Explore the Gauguin Museum, a replica of his “House of Pleasure”, and the Brel Museum, which showcases his plane JoJo, which was often used for medical emergencies.
Day 8
THURSDAY – Fatu Hiva (Omoa – Hanavave)
Fatu Hiva is the most lush and remote island in the archipelago, and is also a centre of Marquesan crafts. In the village of Omoa, women will demonstrate the making of tapa by hammering mulberry, banyan or breadfruit bark on a log. It is then dried and painted with traditional designs. Another demonstration will show the making of the kumuhei, a bouquet used by the local women to perfume their hair. The adjacent craft centre offers tapa, carvings, hand-dyed pareo and some of the finest monoi coconut oil found in these islands. Following the visit of the village, active passengers may choose to hike from Omoa to Hanavave, a 16 km hike offering spectacular views of towering cliffs. A picnic lunch will be served at the summit. Non-hikers will sail on the Aranui to Hanavave’s Bay of Virgins, considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Go ashore for a visit of the village and to welcome the hikers.
Day 9
FRIDAY – At sea
Enjoy a day at sea to relax by the pool and participate in one of the lectures or activities offered by our guides.
Day 10
SATURDAY – Rangiroa or Makatea (Voyage 12, 13, 14 et 23)
Rangiroa or “huge sky” is the largest atoll in French Polynesia and the second largest in the world. The seemingly endless blue lagoon attracts divers to snorkel, scuba or shoot the pass surrounded by fish of every size, colour and shape. Rangiroa is famous for its majestic manta rays. It is also home to stunning pearls in all shades and local artisans known for their fine shell jewellery. While in Rangiroa, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the magnificent lagoon on a glass bottom boat tour or swimming, snorkelling or diving. You can also visit one of the finest pearl farms in the Tuamotus to learn about these rare gems and see how they are grown. Makatea, 210 km northeast of Tahiti, is an elevated atoll, like a fortress standing on the ocean with its 70 m high cliffs. This raised atoll is home to only 94 inhabitants who have decided not to leave their beloved island and its special history. At the end of the 19th century, large quantities of phosphates were discovered here. Makatea was to have a unique industrial destiny in Polynesia. The island, until then forgotten by the modern world, was equipped with schools, a cinema, religious centres, various industrial installations, including a 100-metre metal jetty and even a railway, which are still today the silent witnesses of its singular history.
Day 11
SUNDAY – Bora Bora
As you arrive in Bora Bora’s world-famous lagoon of opalescent blues and greens, you’ll be greeted by the majestic “Mount Otemanu,” the island’s highest peak. In this perfect island paradise, you’ll have plenty of time to discover how and why the Pearl of the Pacific earned such a well-deserved reputation. You can snorkel or dive and marvel at the turquoise lagoons, among the most beautiful in the world.
Day 12
MONDAY – Return to Tahiti (Papeete)
This is the end of our journey. It’s time to say Nānā! (Goodbye) to your travel companions, to the Polynesian staff and Aranui guides.
Choose your base fare :
PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
Area : 440 sq.ft (41 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 to 3 adults
Situation : Sky Deck - 9.
Consisting of 3 individual rooms, approximately 440 sq. ft. (41 sq.m) of interior space and a 130 sq. ft. (12 sq.m) private balcony, this exterior cabin offers a separate bedroom with a king size bed, a sitting room with a sofa bed, a lounge with a built-in bar, two bathrooms with shower and hair dryer, a walk-in closet, refrigerator and safe.
Information not available
Availability for reference only, to be confirmed by the Reservations Department
ROYAL SUITE
Area : 240 sq. ft. (22 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 to 3 adults
Situation : Sun Deck - 8, Pool Deck - 7, Veranda Deck - 6.
With 240 sq. ft. (22 sq.m) of interior space and a 100 sq. ft. (9 sq.m) private corner 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.
Information not available
Availability for reference only, to be confirmed by the Reservations Department
ROYAL SUITE WITH OBSTRUCTED VIEW
Area : 240 sq. ft. (22 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 to 3 adults
Situation : Boat Deck - 5.
With 240 sq. ft. (22 sq.m) of interior space and a 100 sq. ft. (9 sq.m) private corner 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. In this category, the view of the windows is obstructed.
Information not available
Availability for reference only, to be confirmed by the Reservations Department
PREMIUM SUITE
Area : 200 sq.ft (19 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 to 3 adults
Situation : Pool Deck - 7, Veranda Deck - 6.
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.
Information not available
Availability for reference only, to be confirmed by the Reservations Department
JUNIOR SUITE WITHOUT BALCONY
Area : 200 sq.ft (19 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 persons
Situation : Veranda Deck - 6.
With 200 sq. ft. (19 sq.m) of interior space, without balcony but with picture windows, this exterior cabin offers a bedroom with a king bed or twin beds, a bathroom with shower and hair dryer, refrigerator and safe.
Information not available
Availability for reference only, to be confirmed by the Reservations Department
SUPERIOR DELUXE
Area : 160 sq.ft (15 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 persons
Situation : Sky Deck - 9, Sun Deck - 8.
With 160 sq. ft. (15 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, a bathroom with shower and hair dryer, refrigerator and safe.
Information not available
Availability for reference only, to be confirmed by the Reservations Department
DELUXE
Area : 140 sq.ft (13 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 persons
Situation : Sky Deck - 9, Sun Deck - 8, Pool Deck - 7.
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.
Information not available
Availability for reference only, to be confirmed by the Reservations Department
DOUBLE STATEROOM
Area : 11 m²
Capacity : 2 people
Situation : Boat Deck - 5, Main Deck - 3, Lower Deck - 2.
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.
Information not available
Availability for reference only, to be confirmed by the Reservations Department
DOUBLE STATEROOM WITH OBSTRUCTED VIEW
Area : 120 sq.ft (11 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 adults
Situation : Boat Deck - 5.
With 120 sq. ft. (11 sq.m) of interior space and a picture window with an obstructed view, this exterior cabin offers either, a king size or two single beds, a bathroom with shower and hair dryer.
Information not available
Availability for reference only, to be confirmed by the Reservations Department
SINGLE STATEROOM
Area : 100 sq.ft (9 sq.m)
Capacity : 1 person
Situation : Lower Deck - 2.
The Single Stateroom has 100 sq. ft. (9 sq.m) of interior space with a porthole, a single bed, a bathroom with shower and hair dryer.
Information not available
Availability for reference only, to be confirmed by the Reservations Department
DORMITORY
Area : 140 sq.ft (13 sq.m) to 285 sq.ft (27 sq.m)
Capacity : 4 to 8 persons
Situation : Upper Deck - 4.
The dormitory has 5 units: four units of 140 sq. ft. (13 sq.m) each which can accommodate four passengers per unit with two lower and two upper berths, one bathroom with shower and hair dryer and a unit of 285 sq. ft. (27 sq.m) of shared interior space with four lower and four upper berths, a sitting area, two bathrooms with shower and hair dryer. This category can be mixed.
Information not available
Availability for reference only, to be confirmed by the Reservations Department
What's included
RATES INCLUDE
Cruise transportation and related taxes (tourist tax, port tax, fuel, TDC), shipboard accommodation, 3 meals per day, a bottle of wine to share among 4 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. Rates are per adult, in double or single occupancy. These fares are correct at the time of printing and are subject to change; with or without notice.
RATES DO NOT INCLUDE
Shipboard purchases, liquor, gratuities, port taxes other than those specifically provided for, and other personal items. Rates quoted at the time of printing are based on current costs and are subject to change up to and including the date of sailing.
SCHEDULE & EXTRA COST PROVISION
If, due to weather or other uncontrollable reasons, you are required to spend one or more additional nights, you will be responsible for your own hotel and meal costs. In addition, because the primary function of vessels in the service of Compagnie Polynesienne de Transport Maritime is to carry freight, the departure dates, ports of call, and duration of cruises may be subject to variation both prior to departure and en route. Freighter passengers should have a flexible time schedule and anticipate the foregoing possibilities. While we do everything possible to inform and assist our clients, neither CPTM nor its agents will assume additional expenses, hotel or meal costs associated with delays or changes in itinerary and schedules.
ITINERARY CHANGES
Routes and activities are indicative and can be modified according to weather conditions or availability. CPTM pledges to make every effort to operate all cruises as advertised. CPTM reserves the right to alter or curtail the itinerary, or substitute sightseeing, ports of call or conveyances as deemed necessary.
Speakers
Guest lecturers who specialise in the Marquesas and other fields related to French Polynesia such as history, culture, art or archaeology, will share their knowledge and insights as part of a series of onboard lectures throughout the year. Lectures are held in conference rooms.
Optional excursions
At every port, guests can enjoy an array of included excursions. For a bit more adventure, there are some optional activities to choose from. The following can be booked onboard and at an additional cost:
- 4X4 DRIVES (half-day) in Ua Pou
- PRIVATE TOURS (3 hours) in Fatu Hiva
- DIVING in Fakarava, Rangiroa (certified divers), Hiva Oa (first dive and certified divers) and Tahuata
- GLASS BOTTOM BOAT, in Rangiroa
- BIKE RENTAL in Fakarava
- FISHING
