Rapa Nui & the Remote South Pacific Expedition

Arrive in Papeete and transfer directly to the hospitality room before embarking the ship in the afternoon. This evening, set sail as you acclimate to island time.

An uplifted coral atoll, the island of Makatea is one of the most unique landforms in the Pacific. A makatea is a raised coral atoll that is tilted due to plate tectonics. This specific island of Makatea gives its name to all other uplifted coral atolls worldwide. Spend the day exploring the island's limestone caves and grottos with your expedition team and local guides, or search for endemic fruit doves and myriad seabirds, then swim among colorful fish on the nearby reef.

Arrive at Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This coral atoll is home to many rare species of birds, plants and crustaceans, and you will have the opportunity to explore its protected reefs. Spend time exploring Rotoava, the main village on Fakarava. Take a leisurely bike ride, visit a pearl shop or stroll along the turquoise waterfront with a fresh coconut. Swim through Fakarava's Tumakohua Pass, one of the most famous current drifts in the world. Experience the furthest reaches of the Tuamotu Archipelago, where the captain and expedition leader will determine the next spot for exploration. Spend a day at sea scanning the horizon with naturalists or relaxing on deck with a good book.

Visit Mangareva, the largest of the Gambier Islands, with its interesting history and beautiful lagoon. Venture out on the water for activities, meet islanders to learn about their culture and the missionaries who made their home here or go on a hike with naturalists.

Explore the famed Pitcairn Islands. Many of the mutineers of the legendary HMS Bounty made their home here in the late 18th century, and about 50 of their descendants still live here today. Meet the residents and hear a few words of the unusual Pitkern dialect—a combination of English "sailor speak" and Polynesian phrases. Visit the gravesite of the last surviving Bounty mutineer, John Adams, and see the Bounty's anchor, which was salvaged in 1957. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Henderson Island, an uplifted atoll that is uninhabited and virtually untouched by humans. Discover the island's four endemic bird species, rich flora and fauna and fascinating geology.

As you journey east toward Easter Island, head up to the bridge to watch for wildlife and observe expert navigation at work as the skilled captain and officers sail these historic waters. There is also time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, work out in the gym and browse in the library. Each day, naturalists offer talks that add depth to your experience.

Over the next two days, explore Easter Island’s volcanic calderas, jagged lava fields and sweeping grasslands to discover the colossal moai statues—the astonishing legacy of a long-lost culture. Join archaeologists to examine these statues and discuss their meaning and creation. Visit burial sites, quarries and intricately carved ceremonial altars.

In the morning, transfer to the airport for flights home.