Aranoa: Austral Islands & Rapa - A True Polynesian Escape (Tour code: 16688)

Upon arrival at Faa’a International Airport, you will be transferred to Maitai Express Tahiti. Perfectly located in downtown Papeete, the hotel offers easy access to the waterfront, local markets, and the city’s lively dining scene. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps sampling dinner from the famous food truck “roulottes” or taking a stroll along the harbor.

Overnight stay in Tahiti at Maitai Express Tahiti in a Standard Room King. 

Hotel Lobby | Maitai Express Tahiti

Enjoy a leisurely morning at the Maitai Express Tahiti before checking out of the hotel.

Check‑in opens from 9:00 am at the Papeete Cruise Terminal, with departure at 12:00 pm aboard the Aranoa. The journey begins with a visit to Tahiti’s sister island, Moorea, before heading south to the remote Austral Islands—promising a memorable mix of culture, tradition, and stunning scenery.

The Aranoa is scheduled to arrive in Moorea at around 2:00 pm, giving guests the chance to explore the island or join optional shore activities.

At 10:00 pm, the ship departs the Society Islands and sets course for the Austral Islands, marking the start of the expedition proper.

Moorea | Credits: Aranui Cruises

Enjoy a leisurely day at sea, whether you choose to unwind on the Pool Deck, relax in the comfort of the air‑conditioned lounge, or simply take in the sweeping views of the South Pacific as the ship makes its way back to the Society Islands. Enrich your journey with onboard talks highlighting the company’s culture and history, offering insight into the values at the heart of the experience. Staying true to Polynesian tradition, evening entertainment features introductions to Polynesian songs and Tahitian dance, capped off with vibrant performances and starlit shows on deck.

The Aranoa docks at the Taanini quay, welcoming you to Rimatara, a small circular volcanic plateau and the last island of the Austral archipelago to be discovered in the 19th century. Remarkably unspoilt, Rimatara has preserved its ancient customs and even its own local dialect. The island is also home to the colourful Kuhl’s lorikeet, known locally as the Ura, a rare endemic bird also found in the Cook Islands.

After a traditional smoke purification ceremony, you’ll explore the island’s main villages—Amaru, Anapoto, and Motuaura—by minibus or truck. In Amaru, visit the historic seaside cemetery where generations of Rimatara’s kings and queens are laid to rest, along with local legends tied to the royal tombs.

Enjoy a relaxed beachside barbecue at Motuaura Beach, where crystal‑clear waters invite swimming, snorkelling, and diving. Lush with taro plantations and fruit trees, Rimatara feels like a natural garden, complete with a freshwater well. For wildlife enthusiasts, an optional guided outing to observe the rare Ura parakeet is available (registration required onboard).

Rimatara | Credits: Aranui Cruises

Rurutu is one of the two largest raised atolls in French Polynesia and stands out for its unusual geological formation. Dramatic basalt and limestone cliffs are dotted with caves once used as homes by early islanders, while the island’s volcanic heart is covered in lush tropical forest. White‑sand beaches and sweeping bays provide stunning coastal views at every turn.

Rurutu is renowned across Polynesia for its outstanding handicrafts, particularly traditional basketry. Locally made hats, bags, baskets, and mats crafted from pandanus leaves and natural fibres are a highlight of the island.

With the Aranui anchored offshore, guests disembark by barge after lunch and arrive at the Moerai quay, where they are welcomed with a performance of local songs. Enjoy free time to wander through the quiet village of Moerai and soak up the relaxed island atmosphere.

Rurutu | Credits: Aranui Cruises

Arriving by barge at the Baie Sanglante landing stage, guests are welcomed at the town hall with flower garlands and local music. Discover the island’s unique traditions through demonstrations of pandanus‑leaf weaving and shell necklace making, as well as the agricultural side of island life, made possible by fertile soil and a cooler climate ideal for growing vegetables such as cabbage, lettuce, and potatoes.

The day continues with a truck tour of key cultural and historic sites, including the Po Tui Tui marae, Fort George—the first refuge of the Bounty mutineers in 1789—and Bloody Bay, a site of historic conflict. After lunch on board, enjoy time at Bloody Bay’s inviting beach, perfect for swimming and snorkelling, with optional certified diving available for those who wish to explore further (registration required onboard).

Tubuai | Credits: Aranui Cruises

Raivavae, often called the “Bora Bora of yesteryear,” captivates visitors with its pristine motu, preserved traditions, and authentic island charm. On arrival at the quay in Rairua, guests aboard the Aranoa are welcomed with local music and fragrant flower garlands. A guided island tour reveals cultural highlights including the iconic Smiling Tiki, hidden marae, and a tasting of traditional stoup, offering a deeper insight into the island’s heritage. A traditional buffet lunch is served in Rairua, followed by free time to wander through the village and enjoy the laid‑back local lifestyle.

The following day presents a choice of experiences, from a scenic hike to Heirani Point for sweeping panoramic views, to a more relaxed discovery of locally made “pupu” shell necklaces. Optional excursions include a visit to the idyllic Vaiamanu motu and its colourful coral garden, showcasing Raivavae’s natural beauty both above and below the crystal‑clear lagoon waters.

Raivavae | Credits: Aranui Cruises

Make the most of your remaining time by wandering through the village or exploring the lush lagoon with mask and snorkel. An optional visit to Mount Hiro is available for those interested (registration required onboard).

Raivavae | Credits: Aranui Cruises

As the Aranoa approaches Rapa, accessible only by sea, the captain may announce, “Welcome to Rapa. Next stop, Antarctica.” Known as Easter Island’s little sister, Rapa is the southernmost and most isolated of the Austral Islands. Crescent‑shaped and carved by twelve deep bays, the island has a cool, temperate climate unlike the rest of Polynesia—there are no coral reefs or coconut palms, but instead apple, peach, and nectarine trees thrive. The ship docks at Ahurei, where passengers are welcomed with flower garlands and the distinctive rhythms and songs of Rapa. From here, trucks transport guests to the cultural centre to discover local craftsmanship, including hats and baskets made from delicate reed, as well as bamboo creations crafted by the island’s “mamas.”

During the stopover, guests can explore Ahurei, the island’s main village, visit ancient hilltop fortresses, tour an agricultural production centre, and meet the warm and welcoming residents of this remote community. A highlight for active travellers is the optional 2.5‑hour hike to Fort Morongo Uta, offering remarkable views over the bays. The experience is rounded out with a traditional wood‑fired ma’a shared in the village, providing a genuine taste of daily life on one of Polynesia’s most secluded islands.

Rapa | Credits: Aranui Cruises

Tubuai, the most populated island in the Austral Islands, boasts a beautiful lagoon and a fascinating historical legacy. Guests are welcomed at Bloody Bay with local music and flower garlands before setting off by truck to explore key sites, including the Vaitauarii marae and Fort George, once a refuge of the Bounty mutineers and the setting for their battles. The day blends history and nature with time for a barbecue lunch, swimming in the lagoon, and optional diving for those keen to explore below the surface.

Enjoy a leisurely day at sea, whether you’re unwinding on the Pool Deck, relaxing in the comfort of the air‑conditioned lounge, or simply taking in sweeping views of the South Pacific as the ship returns to the Society Islands. Informative onboard talks offer insight into the company’s culture and history, highlighting the values behind the journey. Staying true to the Polynesian spirit, evening entertainment features introductions to Polynesian songs and Tahitian dance, rounded off with lively performances and starlit shows on deck.

Known as the cradle of Polynesian civilisation, Raiatea—formerly Havai‘i—was the departure point for the great migrations to Hawaii, New Zealand, and Easter Island. On arrival at the wharf, you’ll be welcomed to the rhythmic beat of the to‘ere drums and adorned with a fragrant tiaré flower. A guided bus tour takes you to the Taputapuatea marae, a UNESCO World Heritage–listed sacred site of immense cultural significance. Optional activities include a traditional pirogue journey along the Faaroa River or certified diving. After lunch onboard, enjoy free time to browse the boutiques and cafés of Uturoa at your own pace.

Raiatea | Credits: Aranui Cruises

As you arrive in Bora Bora’s world‑famous lagoon, shimmering in shades of blue and green, the striking peak of Mount Otemanu, the island’s highest point, rises dramatically before you. Spend the day relaxing on a pristine beach with a barbecue lunch on the private Motu Tapu, surrounded by crystal‑clear waters.

A range of optional excursions is available at an additional cost, including scuba diving, lagoon cruises by boat or motorised canoe, and unforgettable encounters swimming with sharks and rays. Bora Bora also played a role as an American military outpost during World War II, and remnants such as cannons and bunkers can still be seen on a 4WD island tour. The ship departs in the evening, returning to Papeete.

Bora Bora | Credits: Aranui Cruises

After days filled with meaningful encounters, spectacular landscapes, and shared traditions, the Aranoa makes its return to the port of Papeete. Though flower garlands may fade, memories remain etched in the heart, leaving travellers rich with emotion and stories to share.

Our representative will be waiting for you as you disembark to transfer you to the International Airport for your lunchtime flight to Sydney.