Aranui

ÎLES AUSTRALES

From saturday 18 November 2028 to wednesday 29 November 2028 - 12 days / 11 nights

Starting at 4 731 USD per person (price dormitory - class c, based on double occupancy)

Aranoa

Discovered by Europeans in the 18th century, the Austral Islands lie 600 km south of Tahiti. Off the beaten track, the Australs are an unspoilt and mysterious land of white sands and deep blue lagoons. Breathtaking landscapes, sheer mountains and valleys, these islands are renowned for their agricultural activities. The Austral Islands are sure to provide a memorable and unique experience.

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DAY 1

Departure from Tahiti (Papeete)

Check-in begins at 09:00 am at the Papeete Cruise Terminal. At 12:00 pm, the Aranoa will cast off, ready to take you to the Australs Island.

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DAY 2

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.

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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).

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DAY 4

Tubuai, 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.

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DAY 5

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. Optional: the idyllic motu Vaiamanu and the coral garden.

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DAY 6

Rurutu, 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).

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DAY 7

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 return to 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.

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DAY 8

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. 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.

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DAY 9

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.

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DAY 10

Huahine, Society islands

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

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DAY 11

Moorea, Society islands

Just a few kilometers from Tahiti, Moorea reveals itself as a garden island, shaped by lush green mountains that plunge into a lagoon shimmering with shades of turquoise and opal. Its legendary bays, Cook and Opunohu, offer some of the most iconic panoramas in Polynesia. Moorea is a land of endless discovery: diving and snorkeling in a lagoon teeming with life, hiking through lush valleys, or watching dolphins in their natural habitat. Nestled among mountains, white-sand beaches, and tropical gardens, the island offers a peaceful atmosphere where time seems to slow down.

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DAY 12

Return to Tahiti (Papeete)

After days rich in encounters, grandiose landscapes and shared traditions, the Aranoa returns to the port of Papeete. Between engraved memories and faded necklaces, hearts remain full of emotions and stories to tell.

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