French Polynesia: The Society Islands and Tuamotus

Arrive in Papeete, the vibrant capital of French Polynesia. Transfer from the airport to the meetup hotel for breakfast before embarking the ship.

Huahine is one of French Polynesia’s lesser-visited islands, where lush mountains, sacred archaeological sites and crystalline lagoons offer a glimpse into the region’s deep history and enduring traditions. Discover ancient marae—ceremonial stone temples that once served as important centers of Polynesian spiritual and community life—and learn about the island’s connection to generations of Polynesian navigators and royalty. There will also be opportunities to explore the island’s dazzling lagoon.

Arrive in Taha’a and spend the morning swimming its turquoise waters, where you may encounter black-tipped reef sharks. Or choose to go ashore and visit a family-run vanilla farm. This afternoon, visit Raʻiātea, including a stop at one of the most important cultural sites in the Polynesian world: the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Marae Taputapuātea. This large complex was once a center for Polynesian seafarers and the location from which they set out for Hawaii, New Zealand and Rapa Nui (Easter Island). As you explore, you’ll learn about the site’s significance in Polynesian history.

Awake this morning as the iconic crags of Mount Otemanu come into focus. Today, choose to explore Bora Bora either on land or in the water and enjoy a barbecue dinner accompanied by Polynesian music on a private motu under the stars.

Awake this morning to the stunning blue waters surrounding Tupai, an uninhabited coral atoll rarely visited by travelers and known for its distinctive heart-shaped lagoon visible from above. Spend a day exploring powder-white beaches, crystalline lagoons and coral gardens. Swim alongside tropical fish in remarkably clear water, stroll deserted motus edged with coconut palms or simply relax in one of the most remote corners of the South Pacific. Later this afternoon, continue toward the outer lagoon of Bora Bora, where the silhouette of Mount Otemanu rises dramatically above the horizon. As the sun sets across the lagoon, enjoy an evening on deck while the ship repositions overnight toward Mo’orea.

This morning, arrive at the lush volcanic island of Mo’orea, where towering emerald peaks, deep bays and vibrant lagoons create a breathtaking backdrop for your final day of exploration. Venture inland through tropical forests to panoramic viewpoints overlooking Cook’s and Opunohu Bays, explore calm turquoise waters, or swim among coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Begin the day with one final opportunity to explore the lush landscapes and crystalline waters of Mo'orea before sailing to Papeete. The vessel will remain in port overnight, offering a rare chance to experience the energy and charm of this vibrant capital after dark. The following afternoon, set sail for continued exploration of the surrounding islands.

An uplifted coral atoll, the island of Makatea is among the Pacific’s most unusual and geologically fascinating landforms. Raised dramatically from the sea by tectonic forces, Makatea stands in striking contrast to the region’s low-lying atolls, with towering limestone cliffs and rugged elevated terrain. So distinctive is this rare formation that the island’s name has become the term used for uplifted coral atolls around the world. Spend the day with your naturalists and local guides, in search of endemic fruit doves and a myriad of seabirds. Explore the island’s limestone caves and swim in the crystal-clear waters of its stalactite- and stalagmite-filled grotto.

The atoll of Rangiroa is a necklace of slender islands surrounding one of the world’s largest lagoons, renowned for its turquoise waters and rich marine ecosystems. Beneath the surface lies large schools of reef fish, dolphins and other marine life. Take in the lagoon's extraordinary beauty, with opportunities to swim in the warm waters of this South Pacific paradise.

Arrive at Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its extraordinary marine life and biodiversity. Go ashore in the village of Rotoava, where there will be opportunities to explore by bicycle, browse local pearl shops or stroll the waterfront.

Arrive at the lush volcanic island of Mo'orea, where towering emerald peaks, deep bays and vibrant lagoons create a breathtaking backdrop for your final day of exploration. Venture inland through tropical forests to panoramic viewpoints overlooking Cook’s and Opunohu Bays, and explore calm turquoise waters teeming with marine life. Back on board this evening, gather with fellow travelers for a farewell dinner as you celebrate your journey through French Polynesia.

Disembark in Papeete and enjoy a dinner ashore before transferring to the airport for flights home.