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Hiva oa in the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia

Aranui Cruises

Hiva oa in the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia

Giving you unparalleled access to the outlying Marquesas Islands, Aranui Cruises offers the chance to sail around French Polynesia in a custom-built passenger-freighter. You’ll cruise in an intimate vessel carrying a cargo of vital supplies between the tiny communities of these far-flung islands. Soaking up the vistas of deep inky blue waters, punctuated by the jungle-clad soaring peaks and half-moon sandy bays of the Marquesas, your trip will be interspersed with opportunities to learn about the remote island culture.

This is a real one-of-a-kind adventure, offering access to islands and communities not reached by other cruise companies, offering a genuine and immersive experience. It also filled a deep cultural curiosity in me, giving a unique perspective on the realities of living on a remote island, deep in the South Pacific Ocean.

Trip ideas featuring Aranui Cruises

These trip itineraries are designed to inspire your own ideas for a bespoke adventure, combining time on land and at sea. For example, you could top and tail a sail around the Marquesas Islands with time discovering more about Polynesian culture on Tahiti or some beach time on Vahine Island.

Aranui Cruises destinations

Snorkeling and scuba diving the thriving coral reefs of French Polynesia. Swimming with sharks, turtles, and manta rays in Bora Bora. Unpacking the history behind the largest tikis on the Marquesas. Spending time with remote communities on outlying islands… Aranui Cruises take you deep into the South Pacific.

Aranui Cruises’ ship

Aranui Cruises offers adventures on the dual-purpose Aranui 5. They not only offer the comfort and sophistication of a modern cruise liner, but also function as cargo ships, taking and collecting vital supplies from outlying islands across French Polynesia.

  • Outdoor Lounge and Pool on the Aranui 5

    Aranui 5

    Accommodating 280 passengers within its comfortable and tastefully designed cabins, a cruise on Aranui 5 will include a variety of guided activities, picnics, and meals on shore. On board the ship there are four bars, two lounges, a massage room, a library, a fully equipped fitness room, an outdoor swimming pool and a small shop. There's also a full program of activities allowing you to learn about Marquesan history, culture and art from the guest lecturers.

Aranui Cruises in pictures

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