Aranoa: Pitcairn & Gambier Islands – 12-Day Cruise 2027

At the Papeete Cruise Terminal, passengers embark in a typically Polynesian floral and musical atmosphere. Wreaths, ukuleles and smiles punctuate this moment, while the mountains of Tahiti slowly fade away, giving way to adventure in the Pacific.

A former stronghold of the Pomare family, Anaa boasts a jade lagoon, white sand motus and impressive coral feo. Inhabitants make their living from fishing and copra, in a sustainable way. Visitors to Tukuhora can explore the village on foot or by bus. Fly-fishing is available in the shallow lagoon. A picnic awaits you on the beach.

Optional: swimming at the “Ogoogo” pito, excursions to Temarie and Putuahara, or a bike ride.

Between crystal-clear lagoons, coconut palms and a friendly village, you’ll be welcomed to Ikitake by children’s dances and wreaths of flowers. On the program: shell crafts, old lighthouse, Saint-Paul churches, fish park and coral building from the XIXᵉ century. Under the century-old “Tou”, enjoy a local buffet to the sound of traditional music.

Don’t forget: sun cream (SPF 40+), sunglasses, hat, light clothing and swim sandals.

Relax on the Pool Deck or in the air-conditioned Lounge while enjoying views of the South Pacific Ocean. Lectures on Pitcairn Island culture reveal the fascinating history of the descendants of the Bounty mutineers. In the evening, enjoy a convivial evening in the bar with your fellow passengers. The Polynesian crew proudly share their way of life to the sound of ukuleles, guitars and drums.

Rikitea, capital of the Gambiers archipelago, welcomes you to the shores of a blue-green lagoon renowned for its black pearls. Enjoy a flowery welcome and a tasting of local specialties at the Karorua quay. Don’t miss the renovated Saint-Michel cathedral, adorned with mother-of-pearl, the symbol of Polynesian Catholicism. Lunch served on board before departure for Pitcairn.

While the names Gauguin and Brel are inseparable from Hiva Oa, the soul of the island is to be found in the Puamau valley. At the archaeological site of I’ipona (also known as Lipona), every nook and cranny is an enchantment. Located at the foot of the Toea peak at the island’s northeastern tip, the site is home to several tiki. Among them is the largest tiki in Tahiti Et Ses Îles: Takaii, standing 2.57 metres high. You’ll also come across Makii Taua te Pepe, a recumbent tiki measuring 1.75 metres long and 1.20 metres high.

In the afternoon, the Aranoa will anchor in the small bay of Tahuata. The only access is by sea, as there is no airport on Tahuata. On this leaf-shaped island, the air is thick with the scent of Tahitian tiare, frangipani and history. In 1595, Spanish explorers landed in the village of Vaitahu and opened fire on a crowd of curious islanders, killing around 200. Tahuata was also the site of the first French colony in the Marquesas in 1842. The large church, built by the Vatican, is decorated with fine Marquesan sculptures and magnificent stained-glass windows symbolizing the Virgin Mary. Tahuata is famous for its exquisite helmet shell and bone carvings. There’s plenty to choose from in the village.

On the second day, enjoy free time in the village or a walk to the “Highest Point”, the highest point in the territory. Lunch will be served on board and return to the village of Rikitea in Mangareva.

In Karorua, the “PE’I” dance show welcomes you. By truck or on foot, explore the island’s key sites: the Collège Saint-Raphaël, which introduces young people to mother-of-pearl engraving, and for the adventurous, a hike to the belvedere and the tomb of the kings.

Lunch on board, followed by an afternoon of relaxation and swimming at Teauopapa.

Enjoy a peaceful day on the Pool Deck or in the comfort of the air-conditioned Lounge, while admiring the South Pacific Ocean. Enriching lectures and activities punctuate this trip to Hikueru.

A former Tuamotu pearl reserve, Hikueru was marked by the cyclone of 1903, recounted by Jack London in South Sea Tales. Now a copra-growing island, Hikueru welcomes you to the marina to the sound of music and wreaths of flowers. By truck or on foot, visit the village and the abandoned church of Saint-Michel, the tallest in the Tuamotus. You can rent a bike to explore the island at your own pace. Listen to local legends told by the locals.

Lunch on board before returning to the Society Islands.

A day to recover from your emotions. On our way to Papeete, you’ll be able to take part in a number of conferences and activities throughout the day.

This is the end of our journey. It is time to say Nānā! (goodbye) to your fellow travellers, the Polynesian staff and the Aranoa guides.