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One of the most unique and unforgettable journeys in the world!
Known as the ‘Freighter to Paradise’, the Aranui III is surely one of the most unique and unforgettable journeys in the world. A cruise unlike any other, the Aranui III is a cargo vessel, which carries supplies – and a limited number of passengers – to the most remote group of islands on earth – the wild and mystical Marquesas! The 14 day round-trip voyage begins in Papeete and makes its first stop in the low-lying atoll of Fakarava in the Tuamotu Islands before continuing on to the far-flung Marquesas. These enchanting islands are so remote that the Aranui III is their lifeline to the outside world – the ship visits all six inhabited islands in the archipelago, delivering supplies and picking up copra, dried coconut and noni fruit. Visitors are very rare, but very welcome in this part of the world – you will be warmly greeted by the friendly locals on each island who await the Aranui’s arrival with anticipation. Time seems to have stood still in the Marquesas, where roads and cars are few and far between. Their beauty lies in the welcoming people, the wild horses which roam freely, the mysterious tiki statues and of course – the awe-inspiring scenery. This is a land where nature runs wild, towering volcanic mountain peaks dominate the landscape, and majestic waterfalls await your discovery. Whilst supplies are being unloaded, you have plenty of time to explore these spectacular islands. Led by experienced guides, you will be able to explore by 4WD or horseback, hike to ancient archeological sites, or visit charming villages where Marquesan artists will delight in opening their studios for you. There will also be time for swimming and relaxing on the black sand beaches. The Aranui III is not a luxury cruise ship – her magic lies in the islands you will visit on her voyage, most of which simply can not be visited in any other way! Accommodation is provided for up to 180 passengers in comfortable ensuite cabins with picture windows. We recommend booking early for one of the 12 suites which have their own balcony – perfect for relaxing and enjoying the stunning panoramas! There is a swimming pool and gym on board, as well as a guest lounge, library, shop and bar. A programme of talks by onboard lecturers provides a fascinating insight into the islands’ rich culture and history. Meals are served in the restaurant – and in the evenings, the crew will often provide entertainment by singing and playing the ukulele. Day 1 ? Depart Tahiti
Depart Tahiti at 11am and set sail for the Tuamotu Islands. Day 2 ? Fakarava
Spend a few hours swimming and snorkelling before continuing the journey to the Marquesas. Day 3 ? At sea Day 4 ? Ua Pou
Ua Pou provides a dramatic first impression of the Marquesas, with its soaring mountain spires. Meet talented woodcarvers and hike up a hill for a breathtaking view of the distant mountains. Taste your first Marquesan lunch – breadfruit, curried goat, barbecued rock lobster, poisson cru, taro and sweet red bananas. Day 5 ? Nuku Hiva
Sail into Taiohae Bay, a volcanic ampitheatre with towering cliffs streaked with waterfalls. Once ashore, explore Taiohae – the tiny administrative capital of the Marquesas. Visit an archaeological site in the beautiful village of Hatiheu and enjoy lunch at one of the archipelago's best restaurants - the speciality is pig baked in an underground oven! Day 6 ? Hiva Oa
Explore Atuona, the second largest village in the Marquesas, where artist Paul Gauguin lived and created some of his best work Day 7 ? Fatu Hiva
The centre for Marquesan crafts – this is the most lush and remote of all the islands. Day 8 ? Hiva Oa
Travel by foot or jeep to the most important archeological site for tikis other than Easter Island. Day 9 ? Tahuata
This is the site of the first French settlement in the Marquesas. Day 10 ? Ua Huka
Explore the island’s mountainous landscape by 4WD – or the more adventurous can ride the famed Marquesan horses (the wild horses thrive here, outnumbering the islands 476 residents). Day 11 ? Nuku Hiva / Ua Pou
Time to explore Taiohae at leisure this morning, before sailing back to Ua Pou. A last chance to buy Marquesan handicrafts before leaving this fascinating group of islands. Day 12 ? At sea Day 13 ? Rangiroa
Swim and snorkel in the world’s largest atoll and enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach. Day ? 14
Arrive back in Papeete by 9am. Prices from £3560 per person, based on 2 people sharing including all meals (onboard and in local restaurants), wine, water and most activities (excluding scuba-diving and horse-riding).
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