Aranui Cruises
The Aranui Experience
Soft adventure. The road less travelled. Cultural immersion. The trip of a lifetime. The heart and soul of Polynesia. This is the Aranui experience. As the original cruise company in French Polynesia, Aranui Cruises has been introducing the enchanting Marquesas Islands to avid adventurers for more than 40 years. Aranui 5, a custom-built passenger-freighter which launched in 2015, is unique in every way. Combining the comforts and modern conveniences of a cruise ship while providing a cargo service to remote areas, the ship acts as a lifeline for tiny communities far removed from civilisation. This boutique vessel accommodates just 230 passengers, offering an intimate and casual setting for guests to explore French Polynesia.
Aranui Cruises
SHIPS
Aranui 5
The flagship of our fleet, Aranui 5 is a purpose-built, dual-role passenger–freighter designed to deliver supplies while hosting up to 254 guests in comfort.
126 cabins: dormitories to luxury suites with balconies
French & Polynesian cuisine
Swimming pool, gym, spa, bars, and lounges
Daily cultural activities and lectures
Known as “the freighter to paradise”
Aranoa
Our newest addition, the Aranoa is a more intimate vessel, offering a boutique cruising experience for travellers seeking discovery with fewer fellow passengers.
Smaller capacity for a more personal atmosphere
Refined cabins and common areas
Same unique dual-role: delivering cargo + carrying guests
Perfect for explorers who want an exclusive journey
Aranui Cruises
VOYAGES & PACKAGES
Explore French Polynesia aboard Aranui 5 with a 12-day Marquesas Islands cruise. Departing from Tahiti, discover remote islands, vibrant Polynesian culture, Bora Bora and Rangiroa on this unique passenger-freighter adventure.
Discover the untouched beauty of the Austral Islands on a 13-day Aranui 5 cruise through one of French Polynesia’s most remote regions. Explore pristine beaches, vibrant lagoons, rugged mountains, and authentic island communities while enjoying immersive cultural experiences, guided excursions, and exceptional onboard comfort.
Discover the remote beauty of French Polynesia’s Austral Islands on an exclusive 13-day Aranoa inaugural voyage. Explore untouched landscapes, ancient Polynesian traditions, and rarely visited islands including mystical Rapa, with authentic cultural experiences and unforgettable island encounters.
Discover the remote Austral Islands and idyllic Maupiti aboard Aranoa on a 13-day voyage combining untouched landscapes, authentic Polynesian culture, and a special 20% Aranoa Launch Special on selected limited sailings.
Discover the breathtaking Marquesas Islands on a 13-day Aranui 5 cruise – an extraordinary adventure through one of French Polynesia’s most remote and captivating regions. Experience authentic Polynesian culture, dramatic volcanic landscapes, ancient traditions and the unique opportunity to travel aboard a working passenger freighter that combines cargo operations with comfortable cruising. With expertly guided shore excursions, warm island hospitality and unforgettable encounters along the way, the Aranui 5 offers a truly immersive journey beyond the ordinary.
Discover the remote wonders of the South Pacific aboard Aranoa on a rare 12-day cruise to the Pitcairn and Gambier Islands. Explore legendary history, untouched landscapes, vibrant cultures, and authentic island experiences far beyond the usual travel routes.
Journey beyond the familiar to the remote Austral Islands, a secluded archipelago located 600 km south of Tahiti. Renowned for...
Explore the untouched beauty of the Austral Islands and the idyllic island of Huahine on a 13-day Aranoa cruise. Discover remote landscapes, authentic Polynesian culture, and unforgettable island experiences far beyond the usual tourist routes.
Join Aranui 5 on a special 14-day Marquesas Islands cruise in December 2027, celebrating the renowned Marquesas Art Festival. Experience traditional Polynesian dance, music, crafts, and culture while exploring one of French Polynesia’s most remote and beautiful regions.
Experience the remote Marquesas Islands aboard Aranoa on a special 13-day cruise featuring the vibrant Marquesas Art Festival. Discover spectacular landscapes, authentic Polynesian culture, guided shore excursions, and one of French Polynesia's most celebrated cultural events.
Aranui Cruises
Destinations
The Marquesas Islands
Rising dramatically from the Pacific Ocean, the Marquesas are the cultural and spiritual heart of every Aranui voyage. Towering volcanic peaks draped in lush valleys, waterfalls plunging into hidden pools, and ancient stone tikis tell the stories of Polynesia’s past. The villages here are vibrant and welcoming, where traditional woodcarving, tattoo art, and dance are still very much alive. Shore excursions take you to sacred sites, local craft markets, and breathtaking lookouts, offering a true immersion into Marquesan heritage.
Austral Islands
Remote and rarely visited, the Australs offer an authentic glimpse into traditional Polynesian life. These islands remain largely untouched by modern tourism, with quiet villages, pristine lagoons, and unique wildlife, including the endangered humpback whales that migrate through the area. Guests can explore caves adorned with ancient petroglyphs, meet artisans preserving age-old crafts, and experience the serene beauty of landscapes where time seems to stand still.
Tuamotu Atolls
A paradise for ocean lovers, the Tuamotus are famed for their endless turquoise lagoons and rich underwater world. These coral atolls boast some of the world’s finest snorkeling and diving, with dazzling coral gardens, manta rays, and schools of tropical fish. Life here moves at a slower pace—palm-fringed beaches, pearl farms, and traditional fishing villages invite you to unwind and connect with nature.
Pitcairn Island
One of the most isolated communities on Earth, Pitcairn is famous as the final refuge of the HMS Bounty mutineers. With only a handful of residents, visiting this remote island is like stepping into a living museum of maritime history. Steep cliffs, rugged coastlines, and fertile valleys provide stunning backdrops for guided hikes and village encounters. Guests can meet the descendants of the Bounty crew, learn their unique history, and experience life on this storied island.Unwind with complimentary snorkeling and windsurfing gear, or relax in private beachside cabanas. Explore the vibrant marine life or simply soak in the beauty of the turquoise lagoon.
Gambier Islands
Nestled at the far edge of French Polynesia, the Gambier Islands are a hidden jewel of turquoise lagoons and pearl farming traditions. Surrounded by protective reefs, the archipelago is home to dramatic mountains, ancient Catholic cathedrals, and some of the most beautiful black pearls in the world. Guests can explore local pearl farms, wander through sleepy villages, and soak in views of lagoon waters that shift between jade and deep sapphire.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Aranui Cruises
What meals are included during the cruise?
All meals are included and served in an informal, family-style setting. Special dietary needs (for medical reasons) must be requested when booking or at least three weeks before departure. A bottle of wine is also shared between every four passengers at scheduled onboard meals.
Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship, including cabins and most public areas. As it’s satellite-based, connections may be slower and less stable than land broadband. Access codes can be purchased from the boutique.
What should I pack for the cruise?
Bring casual, comfortable, and easy-to-wash clothing. Essentials include shorts, T-shirts, swimwear, a light sweater for cooler evenings, and a rain poncho. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are recommended for going ashore. A pareo (colorful wrap) is also a versatile option and can be purchased onboard or in port.
What is included in the cruise fare, and what is not?
Your Cruise fare covers three meals per day, wine at meals, some guided shore excursions, cultural performances, and port/tourist taxes. Additional costs include shipboard purchases, alcohol (outside what’s provided at meals), gratuities, optional shore excursions, and personal expenses. Cruise packages also includes airfare, pre and post nights stay in Papeete and all transfers
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation policy for all cruises:
- Any cancellation after the official confirmation of a cabin and cancellations made more than 91 days before departure will be subject to an administrative fee of AUD 300 per person.Non-refundable or non-commissionable.
- If cancelled from 90 to 61 days prior to scheduled departure: the initial deposit of 25% of the cost of the full fare of the voyage, including charges, will be retained.
- If cancelled 60 to 45 days prior to departure: 50% of the cost of the full fare of the voyage, including charges, will be retained.
- If cancelled 44 to 30 days prior to scheduled departure: 75% of the cost of the full fare of the voyage, including charges, will be retained.
- If cancelled less than 30 days or no-show: the full fare (100%) of the voyage, including charges, will be retained