Rich culture
Immerse yourself in spectacular scenery, rich culture and history.
Cruise the remote and little visited Marquesan Islands where little has changed in thousands of years and few roads or cars exist. Visitors are rare and joyfully welcomed by the friendly Polynesian people.
Key Highlights of this Itinerary
1
Underwater World
Snorkel in turquoise lagoons among colourful tropical fish.
3
Jungle Ruins
Visit mysterious jungle ruins on the little visited Marquesas Island.
Aranui 5
Cruise aboard a comfortable working freighter – lifeline to these remote communities.
Why Steppes?
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Why we like it
This exceptional cruise is really the only way to explore this remote part of the world. Including 14 stops around French Polynesia and the Marquesan Islands there is plenty of time to disembark and explore. See the largest tiki gods outside Easter Island, sacred ritual sites and enigmatic boulder carved petroglyphs of birds, fish and sacred turtles. swim in turquoise waters, meet local people and retrace the escape route of Herman Melville who jumped his whaling ship here in 1842, a decade before he wrote Moby Dick.
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Day 1
Papeete
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Days 2 - 5
Marquesas Islands
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Days 6 - 9
Marquesas Islands
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Days 10 - 13
Marquesas Islands
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Day 14
Papeete
Day 1
Papeete
Cruise aboard a comfortable working freighter – lifeline to these remote communities.
Days 2 - 5
Marquesas Islands
Visit mysterious jungle ruins on the little visited Marquesas Island.
Days 6 - 9
Marquesas Islands
Immerse yourself in spectacular scenery, rich culture and history.
Days 10 - 13
Marquesas Islands
Snorkel in turquoise lagoons among colourful tropical fish
Day 14
Papeete
Why Cruise The Marquesas Islands?
One of the most remote groups of islands in the world, a cruise is the only way to experience the best of the Marquesas Islands. Made up of 12 islands, only six are inhabited and Aranui 5 has been their lifeline for over four decades. Delivering supplies to these remote islands as well as allowing guests the chance to experience the charm and magic of this hidden part of the world.
Guides And Specialists Onboard Aranui 5
The Polynesian crew onboard Aranui 5 are incredibly knowledgeable, many with ancestry rooted in the islands and have been the company for over thirty years. They are charming and friendly and introduce guests to their homeland offering access to the islands in a manner that is unique to Aranui 5. Daily presentations are given to guests on the history, wildlife and traditions of the islands.
Unique Experiences on and Off The Ship
Aranui 5 serves as the island’s link to the outside world, both in terms of eagerly awaited provisions as well as tourism. As such, the arrival of the ship is met with great enthusiasm and a warm welcome from the locals, both young and old. This unique relationship with the people of the islands allows visitors access to tiny communities and experiences not available to others. From interacting with locals to fishing for your lunch, hiking the wild island interiors and snorkelling in hidden waters. Every day allows time to be as active or relaxed as you wish.
Pre And Post Cruise Suggestions
- Stopover in Los Angeles with time to explore the bright lights of the city or venture further afield; learn to surf on the Californian coast, experience the cool vibe of San Francisco or the wilds of Yosemite National Park
- With direct flights from Auckland to Tahiti, New Zealand marries perfectly with this cruise; Spend time exploring the North Island, home to Maori culture, stunning beaches and geothermal parks
- Fly via Tokyo and immerse yourself in this fascinating, modern and quirky city before continuing directly to Tahiti
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A note on price
Prices will vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. Prices do not include international flights. Please ask one of our Travel Experts for an accurate quote. Flights purchased through Steppes Travel departing from the UK are ATOL protected.
Why Choose Steppes?
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