Explore French Polynesia's enchanting Marquesas Islands aboard the new freighter Aranui III. The 85 cabin Aranui III is custom designed with space and comfort in mind, but retains the friendly atmosphere and experienced crew that makes it half way between a modern-day cruise ship and an old island trader.
The ship's large, family-style dining room offers French and Polynesian cuisine in a casual atmosphere. On board, you can enjoy the swimming pool and gym, cocktails in the two bars, and a library. Special facilities are offered for fishing, swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. You'll learn about Marquesan history, culture and art from the guest lecturers.
Lifeline for these remote islands, the Aranui III makes monthly 16-day voyages, carrying everything from baguettes to bulldozers, loading copra for the return trip to Papeete. With exhilarating surf landings and fascinating excursions, a cruise aboard the Aranui III offers the rare opportunity to visit islands which remain virtually untouched since the days of the early explorers.
14 Day Cruise Itinerary:
Day 1 - Papeete (departs at 10:30am)
Day 2 - Fakarava, Tuamotu Islands
Day 3 - At Sea
Day 4 - Ua Pou (Hakahau-Hakahetau) Marquesas
Day 5 - Nuku Hiva (Taiohae-Hatiheu-Taipival)
Day 6 - Hiva Oa (Atuona)
Day 7 - Fatu Hiva (Omoa-Hanavave)
Day 8 - Hiva oa (Puamau-Hanaiapa)
Day 9 - Tahuata (Vaitahu-Hapatoni)
Day 10 - Ua Huka (Vaipaee-Hane-Hokatu), Ua Pou (Hakahau)
Day 11 - Nuku Hiva (Taiohae), Ua Pou (Hakahau)
Day 12 - At Sea
Day 13 - Rangiroa, Tuamotu Islands
Day 14 - Papeete, Tahiti (arrives 9:30am)
2010 Dates:
July 20
August 7, 28
September 18
October 9, 30
November 20
December 14
From $2352 US!
The Aranui is a mixed passenger/cargo vessel that operates between Tahiti and the Marquesas.
She offers comfortable, air-conditioned accommodations for about two hundred passengers. Passengers will be able to sunbathe on deck, swim in the pool, or enjoy exotic tropical drinks while the Aranui wens her way among the islands of the Marquesas.
Accommodations classes are Suites, Deluxe, Standard and C Class.
The vessel operates under the French flag, and her crew are all Polynesian, primarily Marquesans. Additional vessel particulars are available.
Prices include three meals daily and excursions. Cruise rates based on sharing a double or twin cabin. Single, add 50%. Not included: Port and tourism taxes, add $290 per person for 16-day cruise and $205 per person for 8-day cruise. Special deposit and cancellation policies apply. Ask for details. See our web site for sailing schedules and additional details on cabin features and amenities. Prices are per person. Rates, itinerary, conditions and availability subject to change.
