Overview

If heaven were a place on Earth, Polynesia would probably be it. This part of the world has always fascinated and moved, captivated and seduced anyone who has ever stopped here. And with good reason: here, nature has the power to enchant. It emerges with the jagged cliffs of Moorea, it breathes in the dense forests that are home to flamboyant wildlife, and it bewitches with the surreal colour of the lagoons surrounding the islands and islets. Over the course of an unforgettable 15-day cruise, take your time and soak in the gentleness of Polynesia aboard Le Boréal.

The Windward Islands, the Tuamotus, the Marquesas… the mere mention of these archipelagos is enough to set you off on your journey and have you imagining the heavenly scenery that will soon appear before you. Polynesia is to be experienced and explored to discover lush nature in its raw state. Naturalists will accompany you on hikes on the islands of Fatu Hiva and Nuku Hiva, where flowers in stunning colours abound and the air is filled with the song of local birds. On the Polynesian beaches, another spectacle awaits. It can be discovered by snorkelling or scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of the lagoons or simply from the fine sand of these wild expanses. In Koku’u, on the island of Tahuata, the beach is a dream come true.

The serenity that emanates from Polynesia is intrinsically tied to its unique culture. On your trip, discover the delicate island arts and crafts, as illustrated by the tifaifai, the traditional paintings or the musical instruments. On Rangiroa or Fakarava, the expertise associated with pearl cultivation is revealed during a visit to a pearl farm. In the Marquesas, travel back in time via the Upeke archaeological sites on Hiva Oa or via the ‘petroglyphs’ or ancient rock art on Fatu Hiva, depicting people, gods, animals, and more. Discover the richness of the Polynesian civilisation by exploring its myriad facets.

Trip Highlights

A brand-new expedition cruise in French Polynesia to discover the natural treasures and fascinating civilisation of the archipelagos in the Society Islands, the Tuamotus and the Marquesas.
Zodiac outings and shore visits with your expedition team.
Exploring Polynesian mysteries and lush nature between sporting sporting activities and expeditions off the beaten path thanks to the guidance of naturalists and local naturalist-guides.
Discovering the ancient history of Polynesia by visiting several archaeological sites, particularly in the Marquesas Islands, but also learning about a more recent past with the possibility of visiting the Paul Gauguin museum or the tomb of Jacques Brel on Hiva Oa.
The Fakarava biosphere reserve, the world’s second largest lagoon, home to exceptional plant and wildlife, grey reef sharks and intact coral reefs, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Diving into the Polynesian culture through its ancestral arts and crafts, pearl farming, and vanilla production.
Landscapes: vertiginous peaks, majestic cliffs, lush forests, turquoise lagoons, wild beaches, deserted coves, underwater caves.
The possibility of hiking or horseback riding, but also of taking part in water-based activities such as scuba diving or snorkelling.
Opportunity of diving (PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board and of snorkelling with your expedition team.

Day 1 :

PAPEETE, TAHITI ISLAND

Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.

Day 2 :

RANGIROA, TUAMOTU ISLANDS

A secluded atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago, Rangiroa, meaning “vast sky” in Polynesian, is very aptly named. The lagoon of the largest atoll in Polynesia is reminiscent of the heavens, imprisoned by hundreds of islets formed by sand that veers from immaculate white to pink. But the beauty of Rangiroa, classed by Captain Cousteau as one of the most beautiful diving spots in the world, is most evident in its underwater life: you will have the occasion of admiring all the richness of the site on a snorkeling tour or on a glass-bottom boat tour. Rangiroa is also the high seat of Polynesian pearl culture.

Day 3 :

AT SEA

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Day 4 :

HAKAHAU, UA POU ISLAND

Located in the Marquesas Islands, in the north-east of French Polynesia, Hakahau is the main village and port of Ua Pou (meaning “pillars”), the third largest island in the archipelago. Nestling in the curve of a sheltered bay, Hakahau will charm you with its tranquillity and the wild splendour of its scenery. Lined with a black-sand beach, the village offers an unsettling landscape with volcanic rock peaks that rise up like imposing statues. Inhabited since 150 B.C., Hakahau is home to several churches and the Motu Haka cultural federation. The 2,000 or so inhabitants of the island live primarily off fishing, farming and crafts. Their wooden and stone sculptures are renowned.

Day 5 :

HATIHEU, NUKA HIVA ISLAND

Entering Hatiheu Bay, you will quickly make out the statue of the Virgin, which, standing more than 300 metres high, overlooks this beautiful little village. Located on the north of Nuku Hiva Island, this locality is dominated by impressive basalt pitons. In the past, the fear of tsunamis and attacks from other clans led the tribes to settle in the interior of the valleys. As a consequence, many archaeological sites remain preserved and make for interesting excursions. You will find many of the ceremonial plazas, called tohua, notably those of Kamuihei and Hikokua where you will be able to observe several reconstructed traditional houses.

Day 6 :

TAIOHAE, NUKU HIVA ISLAND

Taiohae Bay welcomes you in a sumptuous setting. Your ship will drop anchor a few kilometres from the black sandy beaches, nestled between majestic valleys. You will find yourself in the middle of the main village on the island of Nuku Hiva. You can follow the footpaths on foot or in an all-terrain vehicle. From the top of the hill of Mount Muake, a breathtaking panorama allows you to clearly identify the rocky islands that emerge on either side of the bay. Further on, the site of Piki Vehine shows its tikis, sacred statues used for religious practices. In addition, do not miss the Notre Dame des Marquises cathedral. Its distinguishing feature is that is was built using stone taken from the six Marquesa Islands.

Day 7 :

PUAMA'U, HIVA OA ISLAND

In the stunning Marquesas Islands, nature reigns supreme. The island of Hiva Oa and the town of Puamau are no exception to this rule. The archaeological site of Meae Lipona, one of the most beautiful places for admiring the famous “tiki” statues, ancient religious stone sculptures depicting men, is itself hidden at the heart of a dreamlike décor. The waters of the nearby stream babble as the only peak in the valley keeps watch from above. The stories and myths you hear will take on a whole new meaning here. Fall under the magical spell of Polynesia.

Day 8 :

ATUONA, HIVA OA ISLAND

You’ll immediately understand why this remote and unusual chain of islands bathing in the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean inspired Jacques Brel’s final album. During your cruise, we will stop at Hiva Oa, considered to be the “garden of the Marquesas Islands.” A special kind of power and charm emanate from its craggy skyline and black sand beaches. This port of call will provide you with an opportunity to visit the small village of Atuona, home to the tombs of Jacques Brel and Paul Gauguin, as well as a cultural centre devoted to the memory of the famous French painter.

Day 9 :

OMOA, FATU HIVA ISLAND

Your ship will take you to Omoa, a peaceful fishing village far from all civilisation, nestling in a magnificent bay on the island of Fatu Hiva. In the valley, you will be able to spot some tohua, former sacred sites, as well as the many burial caves lost in the island’s abundant tropical forest. During your port of call, you’ll be able to discover the Maison Grelet, a museum that houses remarkable wooden sculptures and local works of art. Right in front of you, the village’s artisans will demonstrate how they make tapa, a bark cloth obtained through the technique of beating layers of wood, and explain the manufacturing processes of umu hei, a bouquet garni made from a delicious mix of fragrances.

Day 10 :

HAPATONI, TAHUATA ISLAND

Located on Tahuata, the smallest of the inhabited Marquesas Islands, the village of Hapatoni will open its doors to you. A road built in old stones will lead you from the seashore to the village cathedral. You will also find a craft centre presenting various sculptures and engravings in bone or wood. Marquesan art is, in fact, recognised all over French Polynesia. Further on, vegetation takes over, inviting you to walk among its beautiful green valleys. Here, the population will give you a proper welcome, with traditional singing and dancing. A moment of conviviality you’ll remember!

Day 11 :

AT SEA

Day 12 :

FAKARAVA, TUAMOTU ISLANDS

Listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Fakarava’s coral ellipsis is a narrow stretch of land sitting on a crystal-clear sea. Travellers here are surprised by the immensity of the lagoon, whose colours evoke an infinite palette. The atoll, renowned for its immaculate beaches and preserved nature, is home to rare bird species, plants and crustaceans. You’ll disembark in front of the Veke Veke guesthouse, where you will be welcomed with garlands of flowers and traditional music. You will then be able to go for a walk along the beach or put on flippers, mask and snorkel to make the most of the warm waters of Fakarava and observe its brightly coloured coral.

Day 13 :

MAKATEA, TUAMOTU ISLANDS

Located in the Tuamotu Archipelago, Makatea (from the Polynesian words for rock, “maka”, and white, “tea”) is a raised coral atoll belonging to the Palliser group of islands in French Polynesia. Tikehau, the nearest atoll, is 75 km south and Tahiti is some 200 km north-east. Its cliffs covered in lush vegetation overlook the ocean, whose magnificent underwater world you will be able to explore while snorkelling.

Day 14 :

MOOREA ISLAND

A part of the Windward Island archipelago just to the west of Tahiti, famous Mo'orea will leave you with a series of unforgettable images and memories. Bask on its heavenly beaches, enjoy a dip in the turquoise waters of its lagoon, and soak up its luscious vegetation and the heady flowers that carpet the inland areas. Get the most out of this natural gem with a trip to the Mo'orea Belvedere. Exceptional views of Mount Rotui unfurl before your eyes, with the Opunohu Bay and its valley to the left, and the famous Cook's Bay, surrounded by notched, cathedral-style peaks, to the right.

Day 15 :

PAPEETE, TAHITI ISLAND