Aranui 5 South Sea Cruise

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.