Cruise the Marquesas Islands

Aranui will arrive in Hiva Oa in the morning, where you will have plenty of time to explore Atuona, the second largest village in Marquesas. This is where Paul Gauguin lived and created some of his best work. You can visit the colonial store where he shopped, as well as a replica of his infamous “House of Pleasure” and the adjoining museum. As you walk up the hill to the cemetery, you’ll have sweeping views of the harbour. Beneath a huge frangipani tree is a tombstone with the simple words: Paul Gauguin 1903. In the afternoon, the ship will anchor off the small island of Tahuata. On this leaf-shaped island, the air is thick with the fragrant scent of tiare, frangipani and history. Tahuata is famous for its exquisite bone and helmet shell carvings.

In Puamau, travel by 4WD to the most incredible archaeological site for “tikis” (ancient, human-like religious stone sculptures) outside of Easter Island. Once you reach Mea’e Iipona, the knowledgeable guides will tell you the stories of these haunting statues of ancient times. Surrounded by beautifully lush grounds, the site is overwhelming and has a lot of what Polynesians call “mana” (spiritual power). Only a small part of the site has been restored and most of it is still buried under massive trees and rocks. After lunch on board, set sail for Tahuata, where you can enjoy a lazy afternoon relaxing at the beach or taking a refreshing dip in the Pacific Ocean.

In Puamau, travel by 4WD to the most incredible archaeological site for “tikis” (ancient, human-like religious stone sculptures) outside of Easter Island. Once you reach Mea’e Iipona, the knowledgeable guides will tell you the stories of these haunting statues of ancient times. Surrounded by beautifully lush grounds, the site is overwhelming and has a lot of what Polynesians call “mana” (spiritual power). Only a small part of the site has been restored and most of it is still buried under massive trees and rocks. After lunch on board, set sail for Tahuata, where you can enjoy a lazy afternoon relaxing at the beach or taking a refreshing dip in the Pacific Ocean.

In pictures

This is the most lush and remote island of the Marquesas, it is also the island of “tapa” and you will discover all about this traditional cloth. In the tranquil village of Omoa, you will see women pounding mulberry, banyan or breadfruit tree bark on logs. The bark is then dried and used as a canvas where the locals will paint ancient Marquesan designs. Fatu Hiva is also well-known for its hand-painted pareos (sarongs) and monoi, coconut oil infused with “Tiare Tahiti” blossoms, vanilla or sandalwood. You will meet skilled woodcarvers in the large handicraft centre. Before lunch, the Aranui will sail to the other side of the island, to jaw-dropping Hanavave Bay, also known as the Bay of Virgins where you may choose to make the trip on foot. On this unforgettable ten-mile hike you will take in breathtaking views of towering cliffs and majestic waterfalls. For hikers, a delicious lunch will be served at the top of the mountain (scale of difficulty 8/10). This evening the sunset in Hanavave Bay is a moment of pure bliss.

This is the most lush and remote island of the Marquesas, it is also the island of “tapa” and you will discover all about this traditional cloth. In the tranquil village of Omoa, you will see women pounding mulberry, banyan or breadfruit tree bark on logs. The bark is then dried and used as a canvas where the locals will paint ancient Marquesan designs. Fatu Hiva is also well-known for its hand-painted pareos (sarongs) and monoi, coconut oil infused with “Tiare Tahiti” blossoms, vanilla or sandalwood. You will meet skilled woodcarvers in the large handicraft centre. Before lunch, the Aranui will sail to the other side of the island, to jaw-dropping Hanavave Bay, also known as the Bay of Virgins where you may choose to make the trip on foot. On this unforgettable ten-mile hike you will take in breathtaking views of towering cliffs and majestic waterfalls. For hikers, a delicious lunch will be served at the top of the mountain (scale of difficulty 8/10). This evening the sunset in Hanavave Bay is a moment of pure bliss.

In pictures

Visit a museum which houses exquisite replicas of Marquesan art before exploring the mountain landscapes, with heart-stopping views of the Pacific, by 4WD vehicle or on horseback. The wild horses (brought from Chile in 1856) thrive here, outnumbering the islands' 476 residents. Back on the Aranui, it is Polynesian night with dancing and a buffet dinner on the decks.

After an enchanting, enriching journey to the heart of Polynesian civilization, unwind or enjoy the various activities and lectures offered.

On lovely Rangiroa, the largest atoll in the world, you will find some of the best diving in the world. "Rangi" is an underwater jewel box with stunning colours of coral and clouds of tropical fish and there are excellent snorkelling and scuba diving activities available for all levels. (Please note you will need to have a divers certificate to dive at Rangiroa). You will also have the opportunity to visit a working pearl farm and purchase the local pearls.

On lovely Rangiroa, the largest atoll in the world, you will find some of the best diving in the world. "Rangi" is an underwater jewel box with stunning colours of coral and clouds of tropical fish and there are excellent snorkelling and scuba diving activities available for all levels. (Please note you will need to have a divers certificate to dive at Rangiroa). You will also have the opportunity to visit a working pearl farm and purchase the local pearls.

In pictures

Reaching the Society Islands, anchor in the magnificent blue lagoon of Bora Bora. Passengers can spend the day on the pristine white sand beaches, perhaps snorkelling or enjoying a picnic. Other excursions are available today (at extra cost). These include a circle island tour by boat or bus, 4WD off-road tour, shark and manta ray feeding, or a helicopter tour.

Reaching the Society Islands, anchor in the magnificent blue lagoon of Bora Bora. Passengers can spend the day on the pristine white sand beaches, perhaps snorkelling or enjoying a picnic. Other excursions are available today (at extra cost). These include a circle island tour by boat or bus, 4WD off-road tour, shark and manta ray feeding, or a helicopter tour.

In pictures

The ship docks this morning back in Papeete (approx 9.00am), at the end of your Marquesan adventure. Perhaps spend a few days exploring Tahiti or set off on the journey home.