Aranui 5: Into the Wild Marquesas: An Authentic Polynesian Cruise Adventure (Tour code: 16689)

Upon arrival at Faa’a International Airport, you will be transferred to Maitai Express Tahiti. Perfectly located in downtown Papeete, the hotel offers easy access to the waterfront, local markets, and the city’s lively dining scene. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps sampling dinner from the famous food truck “roulottes” or taking a stroll along the harbor.

Overnight stay in Tahiti at Maitai Express Tahiti in a Standard Room King. 

Maitai Express Tahiti

Enjoy a leisurely morning at the Maitai Express Tahiti before checking out of the hotel.

Depart from Papeete at 12:00 pm, enjoy a welcome from the crew, and begin sailing toward the Tuamotu archipelago.

Credits: Aranui Cruises

A UNESCO‑listed Biosphere Reserve, Fakarava is the second‑largest atoll in French Polynesia. After a buffet lunch on board, the Aranui docks at Rotoava, allowing guests time to wander through the small village, visit the coral‑stone church, browse local handicrafts, and enjoy a demonstration highlighting the many uses of the coconut.

The afternoon is yours to unwind, whether relaxing on the beach, swimming in the crystal‑clear lagoon, or snorkelling among vibrant, multicoloured tropical fish. This peaceful stop offers a perfect introduction to the natural beauty and laid‑back island lifestyle of the Tuamotu archipelago.

Fakarava | Credits: Aranui Cruises

Enjoy a relaxing day on the Pool Deck or in the comfort of the air‑conditioned lounge, or simply take in the views of the South Pacific Ocean during the crossing to the captivating Marquesas Islands. Onboard lectures on the culture and history of the Marquesas transport you back in time, providing a deeper understanding of this ancient civilisation. During the cruise, guests also have the opportunity to learn how to move their hips like a true Tahitian. The vibrant Polynesian crew proudly share their way of life and entertain with traditional songs and lively rhythms played on ukulele, guitars, and drums. Before retiring for the night, remember to set your watch 30 minutes ahead as the ship changes to Marquesas time.

Credits: Aranui Cruises

While the Aranui unloads, explore Taiohae, the small administrative capital of the Marquesas. Taiohae Bay is also where writer Herman Melville, then a 23‑year‑old sailor, jumped ship from a whaler in 1842. After breakfast, passengers disembark and board waiting 4×4 vehicles for the day’s excursion. The first stop is Taiohae Cathedral, with time to visit the church or browse the local market for handicrafts.

The excursion then continues to the archaeological site of Tohua Kamuihei, featuring impressive banyan trees and ancient petroglyphs. Lunch offers a first taste of traditional Marquesan cuisine, accompanied by local music. Travel south to admire Taiohae’s spectacular bay, a vast volcanic amphitheatre framed by towering cliffs and waterfalls. Upon returning to Taiohae village, guests may explore local shops and banks before returning to the ship on foot or by car. At 7:00 pm, enjoy a Polynesian evening with a plancha buffet by the pool on Deck 7 or in the restaurant on Deck 4, weather permitting.

From the bridge, take in views of Ua Pou’s dramatic mountain spires, unique to the island. While the crew unloads supplies such as cement and sugar and loads bags of copra (dried coconuts) and fruit, explore the picturesque village of Hakahau and its church featuring a hand‑carved wooden platform. Meet the island’s talented sculptors and artists, then climb to the Croix for stunning views across the mountains, lush valleys, and the main village.

Another delicious Marquesan lunch is served, showcasing breadfruit—a Marquesan staple—goat curry, a speciality of the Marquesas Islands, raw fish marinated in lemon juice and coconut milk, taro, and red bananas. The visit concludes with an excellent dance performance at Ua Pou, including the traditional and captivating ‘bird dance’.

Ua Pou | Credits: Aranui Cruises

The Aranui anchors early at the Tahauku dock in Atuona, offering time to explore the village, the second largest in the Marquesas. Atuona is where artist Paul Gauguin lived and created some of his works, and you may visit the colonial store where he bought his bread, a replica of his famous ‘House of Pleasure,’ and the local museum. A walk up the hill leads to the cemetery, where breathtaking views open across the motu Hanakee. Beneath a large frangipani tree lies the modest gravestone of Paul Gauguin, dated 1903, and nearby rests another European who fell in love with Hiva Oa, Belgian singer‑songwriter Jacques Brel, who died in 1978.

Hiva Oa (Atuona) | Credits: Aranui Cruises

While the names of Gauguin and Brel are closely linked to Hiva Oa, the true spirit of the island is found in the Puamau Valley. At the archaeological site of I’ipona (also known as Lipona), every corner reveals a sense of wonder. Nestled at the foot of Mount Toea on the island’s northeastern coast, the site is home to several remarkable tiki, including Takaii, the largest tiki in Tahiti and its islands, standing an impressive 2.57 metres tall. Nearby lies Makii Taua te Pepe, a recumbent tiki measuring 1.75 metres in length and 1.20 metres in height.

In the afternoon, the Aranui anchors in the small bay of Tahuata, an island accessible only by sea due to the absence of an airport. Shaped like a leaf, Tahuata is rich in fragrance and history, scented with Tahitian tiare and frangipani. In 1595, Spanish explorers landed at Vaitahu, where a tragic encounter led to the deaths of around 200 islanders, and in 1842, the island became home to the first French colony in the Marquesas. Visit the impressive church built by the Vatican, adorned with fine Marquesan sculptures and striking stained‑glass windows symbolising the Virgin Mary. Tahuata is also renowned for its beautiful helmet shell and bone carvings, with plenty of local handicrafts to discover in the village.

atu Hiva, the lushest and most remote of the Marquesas Islands, is also renowned as a centre of traditional Marquesan craftsmanship. In the village of Omoa, local women demonstrate the making of tapa by pounding the bark of paper mulberry, banyan, or breadfruit trees, along with the preparation of Umuhei, a fragrant herbal blend traditionally used to perfume the hair. After visiting the village, more active guests may choose to embark on a challenging 15‑kilometre hike from Omoa to Hanavave, rewarded with breathtaking views over dramatic cliff faces. Lunch is served at the summit along the way.

Guests not participating in the hike continue by ship as the Aranui sails from Omoa to Hanavave, arriving at Virgin Bay, often considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Ashore, join a village visit and welcome the hikers upon their arrival, bringing the day together in this spectacular and secluded setting.

Fatu Hira | Credits: Aranui Cruises

This largely arid island, home to wild horses, goats, and pigs, was where the first airstrip of the Marquesas was built in 1972. In the early morning, witness an impressive maritime feat as the Aranui performs a full 180‑degree turn in the spectacular ‘Invisible Bay’ of Vaipaee—a manoeuvre showcasing the exceptional skill of the captain and crew and not to be missed.

Set out by 4×4 to explore the island, pausing at scenic viewpoints and visiting the arboretum created through the passion of the island’s former mayor, before reaching the charming village of Hane. Lunch is served in a local family restaurant, followed by time to discover island specialties including handicrafts, wood carvings, and engraved coconut shells. After lunch, return to the ship by 4×4, or for the more adventurous, enjoy a 3‑kilometre walk back from the arboretum. Be sure to be on deck as the Aranui cruises along the Ua Huka coastline, offering even more magnificent views.

Credits: Aranui Cruises

Enjoy a restful day at sea to unwind after the memorable experiences of the Marquesas archipelago. As the Aranui sails toward the stunning Tuamotu Islands, a program of onboard lectures and activities is offered throughout the day. Before retiring for the evening, remember to set your watch back 30 minutes as the ship returns to Tahitian time.

Credits: Aranui Cruises

Watch from the deck as the Aranui approaches Rangiroa, the largest atoll in French Polynesia and the second largest in the world. As the ship enters Tiputa Pass, you may be greeted by playful dolphins. Optional glass‑bottom boat and scuba‑diving excursions are available (registration at reception), with diving here ranked among the world’s best for certified divers. Those who prefer to stay ashore can relax on Rangiroa’s white‑sand beach and admire the crystal‑clear lagoon, while local ‘mamas’ display shell necklaces, chains, keyrings, and other small souvenirs for sale. The Aranui departs at lunchtime, continuing on to the mystical island of Bora Bora.

Rangiroa | Credits: Aranui Cruises

Arrive in Bora Bora’s world‑famous lagoon, shimmering in opalescent shades of blue and green, and be welcomed by the majestic Mount Otemanu, the island’s highest peak. In this breathtaking island paradise, enjoy a relaxing day at the beach and a barbecue lunch on the private motu of Motu Tapu, surrounded by crystal‑clear waters. A range of optional excursions is also available at additional cost, including scuba diving, lagoon cruises by boat or pirogue, and swimming with sharks and rays.

Bora Bora also served as an American military outpost during the Second World War, and remnants such as cannons and bunkers can still be seen during tours. In the evening, the Aranui departs for Papeete.

Bora Bora | Credits: Aranui Cruises

Our journey comes to an end as we bid Nānā (goodbye) to our fellow travellers, the welcoming Polynesian crew, and the Aranui guides who made this voyage unforgettable.

Our representative will be waiting for you as you disembark to transfer you to the Maitai Express Tahiti. Spend a relaxing afternoon, wander through scenic coastal spots, admire local architecture, and explore open-air viewpoints and historic sites that capture the island’s charm.

Overnight stay in Tahiti at Maitai Express Tahiti in a Standard Room King. 

Credits: Aranui Cruises

It's time to wrap up our journey. Please check out and take the transfer to Tahiti International Airport for your international flight back home.