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Aranui 5
Papeete to Papeete
Overview
Ancient stories tell of the migration of Polynesians from the Society Islands and even as far as the Marquesas to Rarotonga. Bora Bora, the high island; is one of the best-known islands of French Polynesia. If the spectacular landscapes of the white sandy beaches and the beautiful blue and green lagoons will seduce you,the different degrees of development, the different dialects and customs from one island to another will offer you a whole range of Polynesian culture, from the old to the new.
Departures
Cruise Itinerary
You will embark on the Aranui at 5.00 pm, receive a warm welcome from our crew and sail to Society islands.
Within the Polynesian triangle, Raiatea, or Havai’i as it was originally know, is considered the cradle of Polynesian civilization. As the first island to be populated by these seafaring people, this is where all migration to the three points, New Zealand, Hawaii and Easter Island, began. Taputapuatea, a 1,000 year-old large marae complex, or open air temple, and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is regarded as the religious and spiritual center of all of Eastern Polynesia. From here, navigators and sailors would venture out to settle new lands. Appropriately, Raiatea, with its main town of Uturoa, is the base for most yacht charter companies. Mount Temehani, the island’s most sacred mountain, is home to the tiare apetahi, a flower found nowhere else in the world, which only blooms at dawn.
Take advantage of this day at sea to relax by the boat’s pool, to participate in one of our conferences or activities organized by our guides.
Another paradise island in the South Pacific, Aitutaki has it all: gorgeous white sand beaches and a stunning turquoise lagoon surrounded by motus on the barrier reef. Though considered an atoll, it has a significant large area of high land on the north side, providing sweeping views across the lagoon. According to legend, the island was settled by Ru, who sailed from Raiatea in the Society Islands in search of new lands and many Aitutakians believe they are descended from this seafaring warrior. Today, they are known for their charm, easy going attitude and hospitality. Whether relaxing on the beach, snorkeling the crystal-clear lagoon in search of colorful tropical fish and corals, or discovering remnants of an ancient past, Aitutaki offers the best of both worlds.
Home to approximately 400 warrior people, there are few untouched places left in the world like Atiu. Over 8 million years old, Atiu, the 3rd largest island of the Cook Islands is one big adventure playground, ancient and unspoiled. Rich in culture and history, Atiu is an eco-lovers paradise.There are numerous limestone caves dotted around the island, which are continually being carved out by the interaction of fresh and salt water. Life is pretty much the same as it was some 25 years ago and offers therefore a really genuine insight into island living.
The largest and most populous, Rarotonga is the hub of the Cook Islands, with its chief town, Avarua, as its capital. Settled by Polynesians from French Polynesia around the 9th century, the bond with Tahiti and her islands has always remained strong. Today, as modern Pacific people, the high spirited Cook Islanders are a cosmopolitan blend of Western influence and ancient Polynesian heritage. Many important archeological sites can be found here, such as Arai Te Tonga, the most sacred marae in Rarotonga, and nearby, the Ara Metua, a thousandyear-old interior road, paved with basalt or coral slabs, that once circled the island and of which, about two thirds still exists. Highland Paradise, sometimes known as “the lost village” is now a cultural center consisting of old and faithfully rebuilt traditional structures, offering guided tours of the once large settlement site, and re-enactments and cultural demonstrations.
Take advantage of this day at sea to relax by the boat’s pool, to participate in one of our conferences or activities organized by our guides.
Bora Bora. A name that evokes visions of paradise on Earth. A playground known throughout the world. For two days, Aranui 5 will be anchored across from the village of Vaitape, where you will have ample time to discover how and why the island has earned its much-deserved reputation. You will discover the Pearl of the Pacific after a picnic on the paradisiac Motu Tapu.
This is the end of our journey. It’s time to say Nānā! (Goodbye) to your travel companions, to the Polynesian staff and Aranui guides.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Aranui 5
Vessel Type: Passenger ship Length: 126 m Passenger Capacity: 260 Speed: 15 knots The Aranui is a mixed passenger/cargo vessel that operates between Tahiti and the Marquesas. It offers comfortable, air-conditioned accommodations for about two hundred passengers. Passengers will be able to sunbathe on deck, swim in the pool, or enjoy exotic tropical drinks while the Aranui wends her way among the islands of the Marquesas. Accommodations classes are Suites, Deluxe, Standard and C Class. The vessel operates under the French flag, and her crew are all Polynesian, primarily Marquesans. The name “Aranui” means “The Great Highway” in Maori, another great Polynesian culture. The first Aranui was purchased from a New Zealand ship owner in 1959. CPTM kept her original name, because it suited her. Serving as a link between the remote Marquesas and the rest of the world, she truly was a “Great Highway” on which cargo and passengers traveled. The original Aranui was too small to meet the needs of the islands as trade increased. CPTM therefore retired her, and purchased a new vessel, which was also named the Aranui. The second Aranui was originally built as a freighter for the Baltic trades, with unusually thick hull plates because of floating ice often found in that area. She was modified in Germany in 1990. After only a few years in service, it too was getting too small again to meet the islands growing trade needs as well as the increase in passenger travel. CPTM decided this time to built a new vessel in 2000, which was named the Aranui III. The Aranui III was built in Romania as a freighter and passenger vessel. Because of the number of passengers the vessel can carry, she was reclassifed as a passenger vessel. Thus, meeting the strict requirements of international SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations and many safety features including life boats and lifte rafts and fire safety systems. The vessel is French registry, and crewed primarily by Marquesans. They are extremely skillfull and very hospitable. It is often their custom to give an impromptu concert in the evenings, both for their own and our passengers pleasure. The ship features a small boutique where various sundries, clothing and souvenirs are available. There are washing machines and dryers aboard, but dry cleaning is not available. There is also 2 bars and video room, which has a television, VCR and a small collection of videotapes. She also has a swimming pool and sunbathing space. The electrical current in the cabins is 220 volt 50 cycle AC, using French-style plugs. If you have any small appliances, please make sure you have voltage converters and plug adapters needed to use the ship’s standard power. The vessel accepts traveler’s checks and credit cards for on-board purchases. We regret that we cannot honor personal checks. Lock boxes are available on board for passenger convenience. However, we do not accept custody or responsibility for passenger valuables or money. Facilities: * 1 dining room * 2 spacious lounges & 2 conference rooms * 4 bars including 1 panoramic bar (Skybar) * 1 fitness room * 1 outside swimming pool * 1 shop * 1 massage room * 2 lifts
Highlights
• Raiatea, Society Islands • Aitukati, Cook Islands • Atiu, Cook Islands • Rarotonga, Cook Islands • Bora Bora, Society Islands
Map
