Aranui 5 South Sea Cruise ship in the bay of Bora Bora

Aranui 5 South Sea Cruise

Your round trip from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands awaits!

Aranui 5 South Sea Cruise

Your round trip from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands awaits!

Aranui 5 cruise in french polynesia

Aranui 5 South Sea Cruise

Your round trip from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands awaits!

Marquesas native dancers during Aranui 5 cruise excursion

Aranui 5 South Sea Cruise

Your round trip from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands awaits!

Aranui 5 South Sea Cruise

Your round trip from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands awaits!

Aranui 5 South Sea Cruise

Your round trip from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands awaits!

Aranui 5 South Sea Cruise

Your round trip from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands awaits!

Aranui 5 South Sea Cruise ship in the bay of Bora Bora
Aranui 5 cruise in french polynesia
Marquesas native dancers during Aranui 5 cruise excursion
Offers

Aranui 5 South Sea Cruise

South pacific cruise from Tahiti through French Polynesia

Overview

South Sea Cruise aboard the Aranui 5

A remarkable cruise through French Polynesia, from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands


The mail ship Aranui 5 in front of a South Seas panorama of the Marquesas island Fatuiva in French Polynesia with sea and green hills

Round trip (PO1-115):
Papeete/ Tahiti - Fakarava - Nuku Hiva  (Taiohae –
Hatiheu – Taipivai) - Ua Pou (Hakahau)  Ua Huka
(Vaipaee – Hane – Hokatu) - Tahuata (Vaitahu) –
Hiva Oa (Atuona) – Fatu Hiva (Omoa – Hanavave) – 
Rangiroa/ Makatea – Bora Bora – Papeete

Departures: monthly

Price: from 3.315 EUR


"My trip on the Aranui 5 was incredible! I had such an amazing experience: The Marquesas were so interesting, the crew was wonderful & the food was true French cuisine. I met many interesting people & made new friends!"

- Sharon E.

The Aranui 5 South Sea Cruiser is a special combination of a cruise ship and a cargo ship. Especially designed to offer all the comforts of a cruise ship while still being able to fulfill her role as a supply vessel. She sails from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia on a 12-day South Sea cruise that includes meals and excursions, while she delivers cargo, which drastically improves the CO2-footprint of these voyages. The Aranui 5 is classified as a small ship and has capacity for about 230 passengers in 103 cabins.

The Aranui has been a lifeline for the islanders for almost four decades, supplying them with everything that can´t be sourced on the islands. In this remote world, the arrival of the Aranui 5 is always awaited with excitement, since she represents an important link to the outside world. The longed-for deliveries - from sacks of sugar to sewing machines, sandals for the children to new pickup trucks - create a festive mood every time. Citrus fruits, fish and barrels full of noni juice are loaded up in return and shipped back to Papeete.


Here you can find a more comprehensive description of the Aranui 5 South Sea cruise:


Itinerary

South Sea Cruise aboard the Aranui 5

A remarkable cruise through French Polynesia, from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands


A land that has attracted famous adventurers, writers, artists and painters. A breathtaking landscape of majestic mountain peaks, deep valleys, lush green jungles, vast plateaus and impressive cliffs overlooking the ocean. A society of natives who cherish and maintain their own rich culture and language. The Marquesas Islands form their own very unique world, discover it on your Aranui 5 South Sea cruise! 

The following itinerary may change slightly at the discretion of the captain.

Day 1: Departure from Papeete/Tahiti

Day 2: Fakarava

 View of Nuku Hiva Bay during Aranui 5 South Seas cruise

The second largest atoll in French Polynesia, a UNESCO biosphere reserve to protect rare species. An unspoiled natural landscape can be experienced on Fakarava, and the stunning lagoon and white sand beaches are home to a rich ecosystem of unique birds, plants and diverse marine life.

Aranui guests here have the opportunity to explore the small village of Rotoava, whose church was built from coral. In this charming place you can find diverse local crafts. For those who wish to visit the historic lighthouse at the airport, bicycle rental is available. Or you can simply sit back and enjoy the sun, sand, and swimming and snorkeling in the South Pacific ocean amidst the vibrant tropical fish life.

Day 3: At sea

Day 4 & 5: Hiva Oa (Puamau/Atuona) - Tahuata (Vaitahu/Kokuu)

Church on Tahuata on Aranui 5 South sea cruise to the Marquesas

Atuona, the largest village on Hiva Oa and the second largest in the entire Marquesas, was once the capital of the archipelago. After breakfast aboard the Aranui you travel to Puamau to view Mea'e Iipona, the region's most important archaeological site with its ancient, human-like stone figures (tiki). The Aranui guides will lead you through the mysterious ruins of Puamau and tell you the stories of the fabled statues and a bygone civilization. Back in Atuona, you will enjoy the view of the harbor during a walk up the hill where the cemetery with the graves of Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel is located. Visit the Gauguin Museum, a replica of his "House of Joy," and also pay a visit to the Brel Museum. 

On the fifth day of your South Pacific cruise, visit Tahuata Island, the smallest inhabited island in the Marquesas.
The natives of Tahuata are known for their outstanding skill in carving tiki figures and jewelry. After lunch aboard the Aranui, you will have the afternoon to relax on a picturesque white sand beach and swim in the South Pacific.

Day 6 : Fatu Hiva (Omoa - Hanavave)

Baie des Vierges bay on Aranui 5 South Seas cruise to the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia

Fatu Hiva is the most lush and remote island of the Marquesas that you will explore on your South Pacific vacation in French Polynesia. It is a center for arts and crafts and offers a wealth of cultural experiences.

In the village of Omoa, locals will show you how they make "tapa" by pounding the bark of trees on wooden blocks. This treated bark is carefully dried and then painted with ancient designs. You will also learn how the locals make kumuhei, which are typical bundles of herbs used by women to perfume their hair. The coconut oil monoi from Fatu Hiva is among the best of its kind and is world famous.

For adventurous Aranui passengers, there is the opportunity to walk the breathtaking 16 km route from Omoa to Hanavave, enjoying impressive views of steep cliffs and majestic waterfalls. A picnic lunch at the summit is the reward and highlight of this excursion. If hiking is not your thing, continue your journey on the Aranui 5 and reach Hanavave, the famous Bay of Virgins, one of the most beautiful places in the world. Here you can stroll through the village on land and watch the arrival of the hikers.

Day 7: Nuku Hiva (Taiohae - Hatiheu - Taipivai)

Marquesas dancer in folklore dress against dense jungle background, French Polynesia

Your South Pacific cruise takes you to the island of Nuku Hiva, the administrative center of the Marquesas. The picturesque village of Taiohae is located directly on the beach of a breathtaking bay, which stretches out like a huge volcanic amphitheater in front of the majestic mountains.

Your stay on Nuku Hiva during your Aranui cruise includes a guided tour of the impressive Notre Dame Church, the Tohua Kamuihei archaeological site, the gigantic stone platforms (paepae) on which houses were built and traditional songs and dances from Nuku Hiva. For lunch, a traditional Marquesas meal prepared in an underground oven, the umu, awaits you.

Day 8: Ua Huka (Vaipaee - Hane - Hokatu)

Bay on Ua Huka during the Aranui 5 South Seas cruise to the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia

On Ua Huka, a less populated island in French Polynesia, the climate is arid and the wildlife is dominated by wild horses, goats and pigs. But this Marquesas island also holds unique treasures, like the home of two endemic bird species, the pati'oti'o and the pihiti, found nowhere else in the world. In the early morning hours, the Aranui performs an impressive point turn in the famous "Baie Invisible" of Vaipaee, a masterstroke by the captain and his crew, due to limited space. Another impressive performance during your South Sea cruise!

Afterwards, Aranui guests will continue the exploration by four-wheel drive vehicle and head to Hane. On the way, you will have the opportunity to visit the Botanical Garden, the Te Tumu Cultural Center with its small museum and the workshops of talented woodcarvers in the fishing village of Hokatu.

In Hane, the Marine Museum awaits, where you can learn more about the fascinating underwater world of the Marquesas and French Polynesia. A delicious Marquesas lunch will also be served here. In the afternoon there is the possibility of a relaxing hike on your South Pacific cruise.

Day 9: Ua Pou (Hakahau)

Basalt mountains on Ua Pou during the Aranui 5 South Sea cruise to the Marquesas Island, French Polynesia

During your South Seas cruise in the Marquesas, Ua Pou embodies the majestic pillars of this archipelago and is often referred to as the "Cathedral Island." Once the Aranui 5 docks in the picturesque bay of Hakahau, you'll understand why this name is so appropriate. The harbor is surrounded by twelve impressive basalt peaks, some of which tower over 1,000 meters. Each Marquesas island has its own unique atmosphere, Ua Pou is known for its mystical aura.

For those Aranui guests who are full of energy in the morning, there is an opportunity to take a hike to the summit cross. From there you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the valleys and villages. If you prefer a quieter pace, you can take a walk to the crafts center to be enchanted by an impressive dance performance, including Ua Pou's signature bird dance, before your Marquesan lunch. Your South Seas cruise to the Marquesas promises an unforgettable experience on this fascinating island.

Day 10: At sea

Day 11: Rangiroa (Otohu)

Coastal view during the Aranui 5 South Seas cruise to the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia

Rangiroa, the largest atoll in French Polynesia, also known as "wide skies", attracts many visitors during their Aranui South Seas cruise due to its natural beauty and fascinating underwater worlds. This Marquesas island offers a true paradise for recreation seekers and adventurers alike.

In the lagoon of Rangiroa, you can experience unforgettable moments snorkeling or diving, surrounded by a colorful variety of fish. The majestic manta rays that inhabit the waters of this South Seas atoll are a highlight for nature lovers and divers alike.

In addition to wildlife, Rangiroa is also known for its stunning pearls in every shade imaginable. The intricate mother-of-pearl jewelry, made by talented local artisans, is a unique souvenir that will remind you of your South Pacific cruise.

During your stay in Rangiroa, you will have numerous opportunities to explore the breathtaking underwater world, swimming, snorkeling or diving, or admiring the colorful diversity from a glass-bottom boat. Towards the end of the year there´s even a chances to see whales. Your South Seas cruise will undoubtedly be enriched with unforgettable experiences by visiting Rangiroa.

Day 12 : Bora Bora (Vaitape)

View of rugged coastline during the Aranui 5 South Seas cruise to the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia

Apart from Tahiti probably the most famous island in French Polynesia, Bora Bora impresses with its breathtaking lagoon. The majestic backdrop of the imposing mountain Otemanu, framed by the fascinating shades of blue and green, is an unforgettable highlight of your Aranui cruise in the South Pacific. This island is surrounded by a ring of enchanting islets called motus, whose palm-fringed white sand beaches will delight you.
In this perfect island paradise, a relaxing day awaits you on the beach of a private motu while the attentive crew prepares a delicious picnic of traditional Tahitian dishes for you. The afternoon is at leisure, and you can choose from a variety of optional excursions and activities. This gorgeous island is the final stop on your South Pacific cruise vacation and will undoubtedly be an unforgettable adventure amidst the natural beauty of the region.

Day 13 : Return to Tahiti (Papeete)

If you would like to extend your trip, we recommend a visit to Pitcairn, the most remote inhabited island in the world, with the supply ship Silver Supporter! Click here for the travel page.

Ship & Cabins

South Sea Cruise aboard the Aranui 5

A remarkable cruise through French Polynesia, from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands


Aranui 5 ship description

Flag: French
Year Built: 2014
average Speed: 15 knoth
Length: 413,4 feet
Breadth: 72,2 feet
Draught: 5,20 m
Freight Capacity: 2.300 to
Capacity: 254 passengers

Cargo and cruise ship Aranui 5 on supply route to the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia

Ship Amenities

1 Restaurant, 2 Indoor Lounges, 2 Conference rooms, 1 Outdoor Lounge, 4 Bars, 1 Sky-Bar, 1 Gym, 1 Massage room, 1 Pool, 1 Gift shop,  2 Elevators

Cabin description

  • Dormitory:
    4 x 4-berths cabins (12,5 m²), 1 x 8-berths cabins (26,5 m²), shared facilities
  • Standard:
    Outside cabin (11 m²) with a porthole, private facilities with a shower, Safe, Flat screen TV
  • Deluxe:
    Outside cabin (13 m²) with private balcony,  private facilities with a shower, Safe, Flat screen TV, Refrigerator, Hair dryer
  • Superior Deluxe:
    Outside cabin (14,5 m²) with private balcony,  private facilities with a shower, Safe, Flat screen TV, Refrigerator, Hair dryer
  • Suite without balcony:
    Outside cabin (18 m²) private facilities with a shower, Safe, Flat screen TV, Refrigerator, Hair dryer
  • Premium Suite:
    Outside cabin (18 m²) with private balcony,  private facilities with a shower, Safe, Flat screen TV, Refrigerator, Hair dryer
  • Royal Suite:
    Outside cabin (22 m²) with private balcony,  private facilities with a shower, Safe, Flat screen TV, Refrigerator, Hair dryer
  • Presidential Suite:
    Outside cabin (41 m²) with private balcony,  private facilities with a shower, Safe, Flat screen TV, Refrigerator, Hair dryer
Dates 2024

South Sea Cruise aboard the Aranui 5

A remarkable cruise through French Polynesia, from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands


Voyage N° Dates Notes
V18/2024 05.10.2024-16.10.2024  
V19/2024 19.10.2024-30.10.2024  
V21/2024 16.11.2024-27.11.2024  
V22/2024 30.11.2024-11.12.2024  
V23/2024 16.12.2024-27.12.2024  

Fares 2024 - Marquesas Voyages

einschl. atmosfair CO2-Kompensation (23 €/to CO2).
Typing errors in prices may occur.
Cabin Type Fare p.p. (incl. taxes & fees)
Multi-bed cabin 3.314,03 €
Standard/obstructed view (double) 5.012,15 €
Standard/obstructed view (children 3-15 years) 2.676,58 €
Standard/obstructed view (Doppelkabine als Einzel) 7.347,73 €
Standard (single) 7.714,52 €
Standard (double) 5.256,68 €
Standard (children 3-15 years) 2.798,84 €
Standard (single use double) 7.222,95 €
Deluxe (double) 6.234,80 €
Deluxe (children 3-15 years) 3.287,90 €
Deluxe (single) 9.181,70 €
Superior Deluxe (double) 6.722,82 €
Superior Deluxe (children 3-15 years) 3.531,91 €
Superior Deluxe (single) 9.913,72 €
Suite Junior no balcony (double) 6.956,90 €
Suite Junior no balcony (children 3-15 years) 3.648,95 €
Suite Junior no balcony (single) 10.264,84 €
Premium Suite (double) 7.239,05 €
Premium Suite (children 3-15 years) 3.790,02 €
Premium Suite (single) 10.688,07 €
Royal Suite/obstructed view (double) 7.572,40 €
Royal Suite/obstructed view Sicht (children 3-15 years) 3.956,70 €
Royal Suite/obstructed view (single) 11.188,10 €
Royal Suite (double) 7.897,40 €
Royal Suite (children 3-15 years) 4.119,20 €
Royal Suite (single) 11.675,59 €
Presidential Suite (double) 9.972,77 €
Presidential Suite (children 3-15 years) 5.156,88 €
Presidential Suite (single) 14.788,65 €
Dates 2025 & 2026

South Sea Cruise aboard the Aranui 5

A remarkable cruise through French Polynesia, from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands


Voyage N° Dates Notes
V01/2025 22.02.2025-05.03.2025 10% Low Season discount
V02/2025 08.03.2025-19.03.2025  
V03/2025 22.03.2025-17.04.2025  
V05/2025 19.04.2025-30.04.2025  
V06/2025 03.05.2025-14.05.2025  
V07/2025 17.05.2025-28.05.2025  
V08/2025 31.05.2025-11.06.2025 10% Senior discount
V09/2025 14.06.2025-25.06.2025  
V10/2025 28.06.2025-09.07.2025  
V11/2025 12.07.2025-23.07.2025  
V12/2025 26.07.2025-06.08.2025  
V13/2025 09.08.2025-20.08.2025  
V14/2025 23.08.2025-03.09.2025  
V16/2025 20.09.2025-01.10.2025  
V17/2025 04.10.2025-15.10.2025  
V18/2025 18.10.2025-29.10.2025  
V20/2025 15.11.2025-26.11.2025  
V21/2025 29.11.2025-10.12.2025  
V22/2025 15.12.2025-26.12.2025 Marquesas Arts Festival
V01/2026 17.01.2026-28.01.2026 10% Low Season discount
V02/2026 31.01.2026-11.02.2026 10% Low Season discount
V04/2026 28.02.2026-11.03.2026 10% Senior discount
V05/2026 14.03.2026-25.03.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V07/2026 11.04.2026-22.04.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V08/2026 25.04.2026-06.05.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V09/2026 09.05.2026-20.05.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V11/2026 30.05.2026-10.06.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V12/2026 13.06.2026-24.06.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V13/2026 04.07.2026-15.07.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V14/2026 18.07.2026-29.07.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V15/2026 01.08.2026-12.08.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V16/2026 15.08.2026-26.08.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V17/2026 29.08.2026-09.09.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V19/2026 26.09.2026-07.10.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V20/2026 10.10.2026-21.10.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V22/2026 07.11.2026-18.11.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V23/2026 21.11.2026-02.12.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V24/2026 05.12.2026-16.12.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024
V25/2026 19.12.2026-30.12.2026 10% early bird discount for bookings before 31.12.2024

einschl. atmosfair CO2-Kompensation (23 €/to CO2).
Typing errors in pricing may occur.
Cabin Type Fare p.p. (incl. taxes & fees)
Multi-bed cabin 3.314,03 €
Standard/obstructed view (double) 5.012,15 €
Standard/obstructed view (children 3-15 years) 2.676,58 €
Standard/obstructed view (double cabin single use) 7.347,73 €
Standard (single) 7.714,52 €
Standard (double) 5.256,68 €
Standard (children 3-15 years) 2.798,84 €
Standard (single use double) 7.222,95 €
Deluxe (double) 6.529,49 €
Deluxe (children 3-15 years) 3.435,25 €
Deluxe (single) 9.623,74 €
Superior Deluxe (double) 6.722,82 €
Superior Deluxe (children 3-15 years) 3.531,91 €
Superior Deluxe (single) 10.391,81 €
Suite Junior no balcony (double) 6.956,90 €
Suite Junior no balcony (children 3-15 years) 3.648,95 €
Suite Junior no balcony (single) 10.264,84 €
Premium Suite (double) 7.239,05 €
Premium Suite (children 3-15 years) 3.790,02 €
Premium Suite (single) 10.688,07 €
Royal Suite/obstructed view (double) 7.572,40 €
Royal Suite/obstructed view Sicht (children 3-15 years) 3.956,70 €
Royal Suite/obstructed view (single) 11.188,10 €
Royal Suite (double) 7.897,40 €
Royal Suite (children 3-15 years) 4.119,20 €
Royal Suite (single) 11.675,59 €
Presidential Suite (double) 9.972,77 €
Presidential Suite (children 3-15 years) 5.156,88 €
Presidential Suite (single) 14.788,65 €
FAQ

South Sea Cruise aboard the Aranui 5

A remarkable cruise through French Polynesia, from Tahiti to the Marquesas Islands



The weather in the Marquesas Islands is relatively constant all year round. The average temperatures are between 25° and 29° Celsius.  The "dry season" is from March/April to October/November and the "rainy season" from November to March. The sea is calmer from September to May than in June, July and August.
 


Citizens of Germany, Canada, USA, Great Britain, Australia, New Zealand and a number of other countries do not require a visa or vaccination to visit French Polynesia/ Marquesas Islands if you are staying for less than 90 days and for tourism purposes. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your arrival date. However, always check the current visa requirements or whether the entry requirements for your country have changed.
 


The Aranui 5 has Wi-Fi on board, but the connection can be slow, especially when many passengers are connected at the same time. Wi-Fi is not available in the cabins, but is available in the Verandah Bar, the lounge, the Sky Bar, the reception area, the dining room and the fitness center. 
Internet is also available in the villages on Takapoto, Taiohae - Nuku Hiva, Hakahau - Ua Poe, Atuona - Hiva Oa, Omoa - Fatu Hiva and Vaitape - Bora Bora. 
You can order a personal Wi-fi hotspot that works without cell towers before you travel to Tahiti. With "Tahiti Wifi" you will receive a router on arrival at the airport. Two data packages are then available on board the Aranui:
- 3500 cfp (US$35) for 150 mb 
- 5000 cfp (US$50) for 300 mb


Ua Po, Hiva Oa, Fatu Hiva and Tahuata:
- Deep-sea fishing (3 hours) 10,000 xpf. Depending on the weather, twice a day on four days, starting at 8 am and 2 pm. Timely reservation at the reception is required, space is limited to 4 persons.

Fakarava: 
- Bike rental 1500 xpf
- Diving for certified divers (2 hours) 9900 xpf
- Guided quad tour (1.5 hours) 28,600 xpf
- Guided jet ski tour (1.5 hours) 15,600 xpf

Rangiroa: 
- Diving 9.900 xpf
- Glass bottom boat 6.000 xpf

Bora Bora: 
-Snorkeling tour in a motorized pirogue (canoe) for 14 passengers 7,000 xpf (3 hours)
- Snorkeling with rays and sharks for 20 to 60 passengers 5,500 xpf (2.5 hours)
- Guided island truck tour for 15 to 40 passengers 6,000 xpf (3 hours)
- Lagoon Island tour by boat (3.5 hours) 8,500 xpf
- beginner diver (1 hour) 11.000 xpf
- certified diver (1 hour) 9.900 xpf
 


The Aranui 5 has a swimming pool, 2 small fitness rooms, 3 bars, various indoor and outdoor lounges, a dining room, a conference room, WLAN in the public areas, a gift store, a library and a games room. 
During the Aranui's 14-day South Seas cruise, there will be five evenings of entertainment from the Aranui Band, playing local Polynesian music on the Veranda Bar on Deck 6. The band of crew members loves to share the traditional songs and sounds of the islands. On certain days, entertainers can be found around the pool area. Other days, movies about the Marquesas Islands and their travel destinations are shown in the main lounge on deck 5.
 


The Aranui 5 is both a cruise ship and a cargo and supply vessel. You have time for shore leaves and excursions while the port authorities and cargo companies go about their business. This varies depending on the port and can range from 3 hours to a whole day.
 


The senior discount of 10% on selected trips applies from the age of 60.
 


Dietary requirements can be catered for if you inform us in advance when making your booking. The Passenger Information Form that you complete and provide to the Aranui will include questions and allow you to provide details of your specific dietary requirements. We recommend that you also discuss your dietary requirements again with the kitchen staff upon embarkation to ensure that everything is catered for accordingly.
 


Meal times may vary depending on the daily schedule, e.g. when longer excursions with picnics ashore take place. Breakfast is usually served between 6:30 and 8:30 am, while lunch and dinner on board are served at two times with a half-hour difference. Passengers who register for early dinner at the reception desk on embarkation day can enjoy lunch at 12:00 noon and dinner at 7:30 pm. For passengers who opt for a late dinner, lunch will be served at 12:30 and dinner at 20:00.
 


Free coffee, tea and cookies are available daily in the ship's lounge area. 1 bottle of wine per 4 guests is included with both lunch and dinner. Soft drinks can be purchased at the bar and mineral water is available in the boutique. At the beginning of the trip, there are also several complimentary bottles of water and cans of locally produced juice in each room. Free juices are offered during breakfast.
To avoid waste, it is recommended that you bring a reusable water bottle. Ice machines with built-in filtered water dispensers are available on most floors, where you can refill your water bottle at any time. This is also particularly recommended for shore excursions.

You can - in reasonable quantities - bring your own alcohol on board.
 


A doctor and a nurse are on board during every voyage on the Aranui 5. This nurse can also assist with everyday needs in the infirmary on deck 3. The infirmary is located in the corridor behind the reception and next to cabin 3502.
 


Unfortunately, the Aranui 5 is not barrier-free; it docks at a pier in at least three ports but all other transfers to the islands are by tender. Unfortunately, Aranui voyages are also not suitable for people with visual or hearing impairments, as navigating through the various areas of the ship or decks can lead to potentially dangerous situations. Please ask about a particular disability to determine if travel aboard the Aranui is safe for you.
 


Casual, comfortable and easy to care for clothing is recommended:
- Shorts/jeans/pants, T-shirts/tops, a swimsuit, a rain jacket or waterproof poncho, water shoes and a light sweater for cooler evenings and if you like a pareo or similar for the singing and dancing activities on board.
- Depending on your preference, something smarter for dinner.
- Sturdy, comfortable and broken-in shoes for shore excursions, water shoes or sandals that can get wet.
- Insect repellent with at least 25% DEET
- a powerful sun screen
- All necessary medication

After applying insect repellent, be sure to apply sunscreen, as insect repellent can facilitate sunburn!

Towels, beach towels, shower cap, soap, shampoo and lotion are provided, a selection of toiletries are available in the on-board boutique or on Tahiti in case you run out or forget something. If you have any particular preferences, please bring them with you.
 


A free laundry service is available to guests on board the Aranui on two days. However, this service does not include socks and underwear. There is a laundry room with 5 washing machines and 5 dryers where guests can do their own laundry. An iron and ironing board are also available. The use of the dryers is free of charge, for the washing machines a token is required, which can be purchased in the gift store for 600 cfp (6 $). Laundry detergent is also available in the gift store or can be brought.

Laundry days may vary, but are scheduled on the first Sunday, Thursday and second Monday for guests in Deluxe cabins and suites, and the first Monday, Friday and second Tuesday for passengers in Standard and Class C cabins.
 


At Faaa International Airport, the arrival point for all flights to Tahiti, travelers will find ATMs and a currency exchange available for all arriving international flights. You can also easily and conveniently withdraw Polynesian francs at a favorable exchange rate from ATMs in Tahiti. Most hotels also exchange money, but at less competitive rates.

Credit cards are widely accepted in stores throughout French Polynesia, but not at local market stalls, street vendors and roulottes (food trucks), where only cash is accepted.

It is not customary to tip in Tahiti and French Polynesia. Therefore, there is no expectation of tipping on board the Aranui. However, if you would like to show appreciation for good service, you can of course do so. When you leave the ship at the end of the cruise, there are two boxes available - one for feedback and one for community tips. The tips received will be divided equally between all staff, from the cargo handlers to the waiters.

All expenses on board are paid by credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, JCB, UnionPay), cash payments are not accepted. Only expenses incurred on board will be charged to the credit card.


Boarding and disembarking conditions on the Aranui can be challenging, depending on the sea conditions. Therefore, it is recommended that persons joining an Aranui voyage be in good physical condition, be able to climb stairs with ease and be able to climb over a 1.5-foot high emergency exit door if necessary. Although there are several elevators on the ship, they may not always be available.

A maximum of 9 passengers may be on the gangway, which is used to board and disembark the ship from a pier, at any one time. Both hands must be free of objects when boarding and disembarking. If you are taking a camera, sunscreen, souvenirs or other items on board or off the ship, these should be securely stowed in a belt or backpack. This allows you to use both hands to board and disembark safely.
 

If you would like to extend your stay in French Polynesia, we recommend a visit to Pitcairn, the most remote inhabited island in the world, with the supply ship Silver Supporter! Click here for the travel page.