Country
French Polynesia
Duration
11 Days/10 Nights
Travel Type
Cruise
Discovered by Europeans in the 18th Century, the Austral islands are located 600 km south of Tahiti. Off the beaten track, the Australs are an untouched and mysterious land where white sand clashes with the intense blue of the lagoons. Breathtaking landscapes, from sheer mountains to valleys, these islands are famous for their farming activities. The Austral islands will certainly offer a memorable and unique experience.
A Polynesian legend tells that the gods created the Marquesas Islands to be the roof of French Polynesia. On the Aranui’ voyages, we take travelers to the heart of Polynesian culture and traditions, to islands that have remained untouched and where time seems to have stopped. It is the journey of a lifetime.
Inclusions
10-night accommodation in the selected cabin
29 meals: 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners with complimentary wine (1 bottle for every 4 guests) onboard
Services of expedition staff including lectures, briefings, slide/film presentations, and other group activities
Excursions as per itinerary
Group transfers during the cruise
Shore excursions, these include meals, a picnic lunch or a meal at a local restaurant will be provided
English-speaking guide
Landing fees and port taxes
Exclusions
International or domestic airfare and airport taxes – Beverages – Gratuities to hotel personnel and guides – Tourist taxes in Papeete – Optional excursions such as scuba diving, horseback riding, fishing and helicopter tours (with supplement $)
1
DAY 1 DEPARTURE FROM PAPEETE (Tahiti)
Embark on the Aranui. Depart from Papeete, receive a warm welcome onboard from our crew and sail to the Austral Islands.
Meals : Dinner
Accommodation : Selected cabin for 10 nights
2
DAY 2 RURUTU
Rurutu, one of the two largest raised atolls in French Polynesia, is unique because of its geological structure which is surprising as one does not expect to discover such landscapes 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 beautiful bays offer breathtaking views. From August to October each year, humpback whales can be seen and heard in Rurutu, where they come south to mate and give birth.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
3
DAY 3 RURUTU
The Aranui is adrift – tenders to the pier of Moerai. Welcome in the village of Moerai. Visit of the Mitterand cave, the handicraft center with weaving demonstrations. Local coffee for sale. Visit to the Royal House, well known for the confection of local patchwork quilts, the “tifaifai”, followed by a demonstration of “stone lifting” (traditional custom). Circle island tour by “truck”, starting from the Northern or Southern coast. In the North, visit to the “cave Mitterand”, the marae in Vitaria’s village. In the South, swimming at Naairoa’s beach, taro plantation visit with explanation about the cultivation system, old houses made of lime stone.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
4
DAY 4 RAIVAVAE
Raivavae’s white sand beaches, large emerald lagoon and 28 motus encircling the lush green main island, have earned it the title of the “Bora Bora of the Austral Islands”. Giant stone tikis, including an unusual smiling tiki, resembling those in the Marquesas and on Easter Island, wood sculptures, an open-air marae temple and Polynesian canoes are some of the archaeological elements you will discover during a circle island tour. If you wish, you can relax on one of the motus and swim in the crystal-clear lagoon. An excursion by speed boat is available. A beach barbecue featuring local dishes will be served for lunch. Enjoy the beautiful beach at Mahanatoa while tasting delicious fruits.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
5
DAY 5 RAPA
As you approach Rapa, only accessible by sea, the Captain may announce: “Welcome to Rapa. Next stop Antarctica”. As the southernmost inhabited island of French Polynesia, this crescent shaped land mass — with a fjord-like coastline deeply indented by 12 bays —is as remote as it gets. Rapa-Iti, or “small Rapa” as the island is also called, has a strong cultural connection to Easter Island, known as Rapa-Nui or big Rapa to the Polynesians. Legend tells of the settlement of Rapa-Nui by the people of Rapa-Iti. Once home to fierce warriors who lived in fortified settlements built on terraces among volcanic peaks, the islanders now live off farming and fishing. During our visit, you will be greeted by the unique dances of Rapa. You may choose one of two different hikes offered. The first goes from the village of Area around the stunning bay to the main village of Ahurei and the second ends at the ruins of an old mountaintop fort. A traditional lunch will be served on shore.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6
DAY 6 RAPA
Among the other activities on offer during our one and a half day stopover in Rapa, you will visit Ahurei, the main village of the island, explore ancient fortresses, visit an agricultural production centre, discover local arts and crafts, meet the inhabitants of this isolated island, and share a ma’a over a wood fire in the village.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
7
DAY 7 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.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
8
DAY 8 RIMATARA
The Aranui is adrift – tenders to the dock. Welcome with a walk through purification smoke (ancient tradition of Rimatara’s inhabitants). Although Rimatara is the smallest of the Austral Islands, it charms the visitors with its hidden treasures. In the hollow of this circular island, one has the impression that time has stopped. Departure for a circle island tour by bus and visit to the villages of Amaru, Anapoto and Matuaura. Visit of handicraft centers. In Rimatara, the main occupation of the inhabitants, apart from agriculture, is basket weaving and especially the preparation of fara pae’ore leaves (a variety of pandanus without thorns) which are used to make cloth.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
9
DAY 9 TUBUAI
Tubuai is the largest island of the archipelago and is the administrative and economic capital of the Australs. The huge lagoon, nearly twice as large as the island itself, offers 33 sq. mi. (85 km²) of pure aquatic fun. The mild climate also makes these islands ideal for farming. The first explorers were struck by the island’s beauty. Toward the end of the 19th Century, explorers Wallis and Cook took a liking to the lush vegetation and crystal-clear water of the island. However, the area did not look appropriate for good anchorage given the large barrier reef around the coast. This disadvantage turned into an incredible advantage in the eyes of the famous mutineers of the HMS Bounty.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
10
DAY 10 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.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
11
DAY 11 TAHITI - DEPARTURE
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.
Meals : Breakfast
| Rates in CA$, per person, starting from, in double occupancy | Cruise only |
| Departures March 30, November 2, 2024 | |
| Class C (Dorm) | 6169 |
| Standard Stateroom | 9499 |
| Deluxe | 11399 |
| Superior Deluxe | 12299 |
| Junior Suite | 12999 |
| Premium Suite | 13579 |
| Royal Suite | 14799 |
| Presidential Suite | 18699 |
| Single supplement | On request |
| Rates in CA$, per person, starting from, in double occupancy | Cruise only |
| Departures April 5, September 6, November 1 , 2025 | |
| Class C (Dorm) | 6339 |
| Standard Stateroom | 9799 |
| Deluxe | 11999 |
| Superior Deluxe | 12959 |
| Junior Suite | 13399 |
| Premium Suite | 13969 |
| Royal Suite | 15249 |
| Presidential Suite | 19269 |
| Single supplement | On request |
Note
Rates for other itineraries are available.
The Aranui will not be transporting freight during this voyage.
Deposit of 25% is required at time of confirmation to secure the cabin.
**Prices in this document are for information only; they were issued at press time, for the current year. Please note that due to exchange rates and temporary promotions, they can increase or decrease at any time. Contact your travel agent for the price and promotion of the moment. Prices include the contribution of customers to the Compensation Fund for clients of Quebec travel agents.
ARANUI 5
Aranui 5 is a custom-built, dual-purpose passenger/freighter ship designed to offer all of comforts of a cruise liner, while operating as a supply ship. Aranui 5 is classified as a small vessel, accommodating approximately 230 passengers in 103 cabins.
With eight different guest decks, the interior decor reflects the Polynesian heritage of her owners and crew. The ship features a restaurant where all the meals onboard are served in a casual setting; one lounge; two conference rooms, where guest lecturers will offer presentations on various topics related to Marquesas three bars, including the Sky Bar with sweeping panoramic views, an outdoor swimming-pool, a boutique, a spa, a gym and the first tattoo studio at sea.
Passenger accommodations range from Premium exterior staterooms, of which more than 90% have a private balcony; to standard exterior staterooms with a picture window or porthole; and Class C, shared dormitory style cabins with occupancy for four or eight people. Aranui 5’s registry is France and thus sails under French pavilion. As such, she operates under the strictest building and safety guidelines, including the requirements of international SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations and the French Coast Guard (CCS).
Ship Stats
Vessel particulars:
Flag: France
Length: 126 m. Breadth: 22 m. Draught: 5.2 m.
Cruising speed: 15 knots
Propellers: 2
Freight: 3000 tons
Capacity: 230 passengers – 103 cabins
Facilities:
1 dining room
1 spacious lounge and 2 conference rooms
3 bars including 1 panoramic bar (Skybar)
1 fitness room/gym
1 outdoor swimming-pool
1 shop, 1 library, 1 spa, 1 tattoo studio
2 elevators
Cabins and Suites:
38 Staterooms with porthole including 30 Double Staterooms of 11 sqm, 2 Single Staterooms and 6 Quadruple Staterooms.
28 Deluxe and Superior Deluxe from 13 to 14.5 sqm with a 4 sqm balcony. Capacity of two adults.
31 Suites from 18 to 22 sqm + balcony from 4 to 12 sqm (including 2 Junior Suites without balcony and 1 Junior Suite with balcony). Capacity for up to three adults.
1 Presidential Suite of 41 sqm with a 12 sqm balcony. Capacity for two to three adults.
Dormitories:
4 dormitories of 4 persons with porthole
1 dormitory of 8 persons with porthole
DOUBLE STATEROOM
Cabin located on Boat Deck 5, Lower Deck 2, Main Deck 3.
Area : 11 m²
Capacity : 2 people
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.
QUADRUPLE STATEROOM
Cabin located on Lower Deck 2.
Area : 180 sq.ft (17 sq.m)
Capacity : 4 people
The four-passenger staterooms, with approximately 180 sq. ft. (17 sq.m), are equipped with a queen size bed and two single bunk beds. The published rate applies to the first two occupants of the cabin. The third and fourth occupants receive a 25% discount.
SINGLE STATEROOM
Cabin located on Lower Deck 2.
Area : 100 sq.ft (9 sq.m)
Capacity : 1 person
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.
DOUBLE STATEROOM WITH OBSTRUCTED VIEW
Cabin located on Boat Deck 5.
Area : 120 sq.ft (11 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 adults
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.
DELUXE
Cabin located on Pool Deck 7, Sky Deck 9, Sun Deck 8.
Area : 140 sq.ft (13 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 persons
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.
JUNIOR SUITE WITH BALCONY
Cabin located on Pool Deck 7.
With 160 sq. ft. (15 sq.m) of interior space and a balcony of 45 sq. ft. (4 sq.m), this exterior cabin offers a bedroom with a king bed or twin beds, a bathroom with shower and hair dryer, refrigerator and safe.Area : 160 sq.ft (15 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 adults
SUPERIOR DELUXE
Cabin located Sky Deck 9, Sun Deck 8.
Area : 160 sq.ft (15 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 persons
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.
JUNIOR SUITE WITHOUT BALCONY
Cabin located on Veranda Deck 6.
Area : 200 sq.ft (19 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 persons
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.
PREMIUM SUITE
Cabin located on Pool Deck 7, Veranda Deck 6.
Area : 200 sq.ft (19 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 to 3 adults
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.
ROYAL SUITE
Cabin located on Pool Deck 7, Sun Deck 8, Veranda Deck 6.
Area : 240 sq. ft. (22 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 to 3 adults
ROYAL SUITE WITH OBSTRUCTED VIEW
Cabin located on 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.Area : 240 sq. ft. (22 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 to 3 adults
PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
Cabin located on Sky Deck 9.
Area : 440 sq.ft (41 sq.m)
Capacity : 2 to 3 adults
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.
Aranui Austral Islands Cruise 2024 – Promotional flyer
Aranui Austral Islands Cruise 2024 – Promotional flyer
