MARQUESAS IS

THE BEAUTIFUL MARQUESAS ISLANDS

Discover the romance of French Polynesia’s remote Marquesas Islands and explore a world where time stands still and the people and scenery will hold you spellbound.

STEEPED in mystery, fascinating history and intrigue, the spectacularly beautiful Marquesas Islands have inspired many artists including Paul Gauguin and the islands remain uncommercialised and naturally alluring.

Access to this remote area is by ship only and it is a privileged few who visit each year. For the last 50 years, Aranui’s freighter ships have served as a lifeline to the Marquesas Islanders delivering essential supplies. In 1985, the company launched the first passenger/freighter ship Aranui I allowing passengers the opportunity to visit the area whilst also seeing the ship in operation. Initially the freighter was “comfortable” but with the increase in passengers wishing to accompany the ship, the Aranui was replaced and now, three ships later, the custom-built Aranui 5 has been specifically designed to allow passengers to maximise their enjoyment whilst cruising to the Marquesas Islands.

Carrying up to 265 passengers, the 12-day voyage leads you on an unforgettable cruise through some of the most remote islands in the world, including Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou and Ua Huka, Hiva Oa, Tahuata, Fatu Hiva, Takapoto and Bora Bora. Enjoy being welcomed ashore by local villagers and taken on intriguing and enlightening encounters giving you an insight into the natural and untouched Tahiti. Visit pearl farms, learn the history, dance the tamure, enjoy the rich Polynesian culture and marvel at the intricate carvings, paintings and tattooing. Enjoy beach picnics, traditional feasts in local restaurants and the chance to go on glorious mountain hikes, all accompanied by a team of expert and knowledgeable guides.

What makes this voyage different is that the Aranui 5’s main purpose is to deliver freight and guests have the opportunity to watch the crew loading and unloading everything from fruit and vegetables to cars and electrical goods. It’s a finetuned performance and quite fascinating to watch!

On-board the atmosphere is relaxed and unassuming with guests gathering on deck to listen to the crew singing and enjoy each other’s company. There are no glitzy shows or casinos on the Aranui 5 – guests prefer to mingle, relax and share a laugh with other guests and crew.

In addition to their voyage to The Marquesas, the Aranui 5 also sets sail for other remote areas such as Pitcairn Island and the Austral and Gambier Islands, just a couple of times each year. These voyages are highly sought after as the opportunity to visit these regions is rare. It is truly a unique and unforgettable experience!

For more information:

• 0800 485 846 • shar@ultimatecruising.co.nz • www.ultimatecruising.co.nz 

ARANUI 5 ESCORTED

JOIN us on a magical voyage to French Polynesia’s remote Marquesas Islands with a fully escorted trip from New Zealand. This is a voyage like no other, cruising aboard the working freighter, Aranui 5. The ship is a unique and delightful combination of freighter and leisure cruising with plenty of guest space and facilities, yet with the bonus of being able to watch a working freighter in action!

Departing in August 2023, the 17-night escorted tour includes airfares, pre and post cruise accommodation, sightseeing, 12 day cruise on the Aranui 5, shore excursions and transfers throughout. You’ll spend unforgettable days exploring, meeting the locals living on these isolated islands, marvelling at the spectacular scenery and discovering the fascinating history and culture.

Your tour escort, Shar Jones, has worked in the travel industry for many years, is a busy mum of four and is lots of fun! You’ll be sure to have many laughs along the way and she is on hand to assist and make sure everything goes smoothly.

If you’re travelling solo, there are options to have your own cabin or to share with another Kiwi guest to save on costs. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience a unique part of the world, travelling with a group and making new friends. The itinerary has lots of extra inclusions at no extra cost, such as a Welcome To Tahiti cocktail function, a full day trip to Moorea and a Circle Island Tahiti Tour; that’s correct – absolutely free!

Experience the magic of cruising the Aranui way!

For more information:

• 0800 485 846 • shar@ultimatecruising.co.nz • www.ultimatecruising.co.nz 

YOUR 2023 ARANUI 5 ESCORTED

GROUP TOUR

17 Night Package - Departs Auckland 24 August 2023

Join this special escorted tour and cruise package, traveling with like minded New Zealanders, and with the care and attention of your own NZ host. Includes: Flights, Tahiti transfers, Tahiti accommodation, and your 11 night Aranui 5 cruise to the Marquesas. Cruise includes all meals, wine with lunch and dinner aboard, and shore excurions.

Plus exclusive bonus features:

Your own personal tour/cruise Escort Tahiti welcome cocktail Tahiti Half Day Tour Moorea Day tour – with lunch

ARANUI 5 - Unique freight voyages to Tahiti’s remote and spectacular Marquesas. Departs year round - for the voyage of a lifetime

BOOK NOW. LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE.