Tahiti & the Austral Islands with an Aranui cruise

Today, you'll explore Tahiti Nui’s northeast coast, known as the "Jurassic Coast", where you'll discover volcanic peaks, forested valleys and waterfalls. The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy as you wish. You could take a gentle stroll along the black volcanic sand beach or enjoy a spa treatment at your hotel.

This morning, your driver will collect you from the hotel for your transfer to Aranoa. Once settled into your cabin, you'll set sail for the remote Austral Islands.

Spend the day at sea while travelling between the islands. Onboard performances of traditional Tahitian music and dance provide insight into the customs and heritage of French Polynesia.

Your next stop is Rimatara, a secluded volcanic island known for its long-held traditions, distinctive dialect, and the endemic ‘Ura’ bird. After taking part in a traditional smoke purification ceremony to welcome you to the island, you'll explore historic royal villages before enjoying a beachfront barbecue lunch. There will also be time to swim or snorkel in the surrounding waters.

Explore Rurutu, a raised atoll where basalt cliffs and hidden caves contrast with a green, forested interior. The island is known throughout Polynesia for its basketry, in which pandan leaves and other natural materials are woven into intricate designs.

Known as “the breadbasket” of the archipelago for its more temperate climate, Tubuai produces crops ranging from lychees and papayas to cabbages and potatoes. You may wish to visit Po Tui Tui marae, an ancient Polynesian ceremonial site, or explore Fort George, once a refuge for the Bounty mutineers. After lunch on board, enjoy time at leisure in the bay, where you can swim or snorkel in the clear waters.

Raivavae is one of the quieter Austral Islands, known for its lagoon, cultural heritage, and slower pace of life. On arrival, you'll be welcomed with local music and flower wreaths before visiting the Smiling Tiki and ancient marae, sampling local giant clams and learning about the tradition of making pupa shell necklaces.

The remainder of your time in Raivavae is yours to spend at leisure. You might choose to explore the local village, snorkel in the lagoon, or discover Mount Hiro as part of an optional activity.

Rapa, the southernmost and most isolated of the Austral Islands, is accessible only by sea and is often referred to as Easter Island's little sister. On arrival in Ahurei, you'll be welcomed with flower wreaths and traditional island music before visiting the cultural centre, hiking to the hilltop fortress of Morongo Uta, and enjoying a traditional ma'a lunch. Along the way, you'll learn about local traditions and meet island residents.

Today, you'll return to Tubuai, where a broad lagoon and rich cultural heritage have shaped life on the island for generations. Visit Bloody Bay and learn about the events that shaped this chapter of Tubuai's history before spending the afternoon exploring the lagoon by water, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, or dive.

As you sail back toward the Society Islands, the day offers time to relax on board, whether on the pool deck or taking in the sweeping views of the South Pacific. Traditional music and dance performances continue into the evening, offering a glimpse into Polynesian culture beneath the stars.

Considered the cradle of Polynesian civilisation, Raiatea was the historic launching point for the great migrations to Hawaii, New Zealand, and Easter Island. Alongside a visit to Taputapuatea, the island's sacred UNESCO World Heritage Site, you may wish to explore the Faaroa River by traditional pirogue or spend time diving in the surrounding waters.

As you sail into Bora Bora, views of its lagoon and the distinctive peak of Mount Otemanu come into sight. Spend the day as you wish, whether that's enjoying a beachside barbecue on Motu Tapu, joining an optional lagoon activity, or exploring the island's World War II history on a 4x4 tour. In the evening, the ship begins its return voyage to Papeete.

Today, you'll return to Papeete before transferring to the airport for your flight to Tikehau. Following a short shared boat transfer, you'll reach Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts, where you'll spend the next three nights. Located on a pink-sand motu, the resort is surrounded by coconut groves, tropical gardens, and the clear waters of the lagoon.

Today is all about unwinding. Choose to spend time by the infinity pool, snorkel with manta rays, visit Bird Island, explore the lagoon on a guided tour, or enjoy a sunset cruise.

Today is yours to do as you wish. Stroll along the pink sand beach or enjoy kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling gear. Lunch can be taken at the Poreho Restaurant, overlooking the water.

Today, you'll take a short boat ride to Tikehau Airport for your flight to Papeete, before connecting with your onward flight home. Your return flight will arrive the same day.