Day 1
Departure from Tahiti (Papeete)
Boarding the Aranui between 7:00 and 9:00. Departure around 12:00. You will be warmly welcomed by our Polynesian staff and will get your bearings on the boat before the big trip to the Austral Islands.
Day 2
Rurutu, Austral Islands
Rurutu, one of the two largest raised atolls in French Polynesia, is unique in its geological structure, which is surprising because you would not expect to find such landscapes in the South Pacific. Basalt and limestone cliffs dotted with caves where the islanders once lived, a volcanic interior with lush tropical jungle, white sand beaches and magnificent bays offer breathtaking panoramas. Rurutu is known throughout Polynesia for the exceptional quality of its basketwork, such as magnificent hats, bags and baskets or mats made from pandanus leaves and other natural materials. The Aranui at anchor, off Rurutu, passengers will disembark, after lunch on board, by barge on the quay of "Moerai" where they will be welcomed with a performance of local songs. Enjoy free time in the peaceful village of Moerai.
Day 3
Rurutu, Austral Islands
On the second day, a flowery welcome accompanied by Polynesian songs and rhythms on their "ukulele", guitars and drums will fascinate you. Climb aboard the trucks, it's time to visit the wonders of the island. Basalt and limestone cliffs dotted with caves where the islanders once lived, a lush tropical jungle, white sand beaches and magnificent bays offer breathtaking panoramas. The fertile soil and cooler climate of the island are suitable for growing coffee and taro. A traditional and typical Rurutu meal will be served at the mayor's house with the opening of the "umu'ai". Enjoy the white sand beach of Vitaria and its lagoon. Every year, from August to September, you can see and hear humpback whales in Rurutu where they come to mate and give birth. The Aranui 5 is there in September, it should be a delight for your eyes and ears. This activity is offered as an option with a visit to the Taupe'e cave, nicknamed "the monster's mouth" for seasoned hikers (register at reception).
Day 4
Rimatara, Austral Islands
The Aranui disembarks at the "Taanini" wharf. A small circular volcanic plateau, Rimatara, the last island of the archipelago to have been discovered in the 19th century by Captain Samuel Pinder Henry, has preserved its old traditions, including its own dialect. It is home to an endemic bird, the astonishing and colorful Kuhl's Lorikeet, the "Ura", which is also found in the Cook Islands. After crossing a purification smoke, an ancient welcoming tradition, set off to discover the main villages, Amaru, Anapoto and Motuaura by mini-bus or truck. In the old cemetery of Amaru, facing the sea, lies the entire line of kings and queens who ruled the island of Rimatara. An ancient legend specifies that one should never make faces in front of the royal tomb, under penalty of remaining disfigured for the rest of one's days. A barbecue will be served on the beach of Motuaura. Its crystal clear waters invite you to dive and explore with a mask and snorkel. Covered with taro fields and fruit trees, Rimatara is a blooming garden that also has a freshwater well. The discovery of the red parakeet "Ura" is offered as an optional activity (registration at reception).
Day 5
Tubuai, Austral Islands
Tubuai is the most populated island in the Austral Islands. Arriving by barge at the Baie Sanglante landing stage, passengers are welcomed at the town hall, wearing a flower crown around their necks, to the sound of local music. You can attend demonstrations of arts and crafts of weaving pandanus leaves and making shell necklaces, specific to the island. The fertile soil and cooler climate of the island are ideal for growing cabbage, lettuce and potatoes. Among the activities of the day: visiting the cultural sites of the island by truck, the marae of "PO TUI TUI", Fort George, the first refuge of the Bounty mutineers from July to September 1789 and the Baie Sanglante, witness to the fighting between the islanders and the mutineers. Lunch on board. The beach of the Baie Sanglante invites you to dive and explore with a mask and snorkel. Certified diving is offered as an optional activity (register at reception).
Day 6
At sea
A day to relax on the Pool Deck or in the comfort of our air-conditioned Lounge. Or why not simply enjoy the view of the South Pacific Ocean as we sail to Rapa, the most remote island of the Archipelago. Lectures on the Culture and History of the Austral Islands will give you a comprehensive insight into this civilisation. During the cruise, the spirited Polynesian crew will proudly introduce you to their way of life and entertain you with Polynesian songs and rhythms on their ukulele, guitars and drums.
And more!
