Call Expedition Cruise Specialists today on 1800 90 20 80 to take advantage of these big savings!
For a limited time, you can save thousands when you join the unique Aranui 5 on her 2024 Discovery Cruises to both Pitcairn Island and the Austral Island group. When you book either of these expeditions by 30 November 2023, there’s savings of 50% for the second traveller in a twin share cabin, or solo travellers can cruise in their own cabin without having to pay a single supplement!
Departing from Papeete, these discovery cruises are designed to reach the furthest corners of French Polynesia and the South Pacific. For example, if you’re considering the Austral Islands Discovery Cruise, Aranui 5 offers the only way to visit all five inhabited Austral islands as Rapa Iti is only accessible by sea. Aranui 5 is the only cruise ship currently permitted to visit this remote island, located more than 1,200 kilometres south of Tahiti.
These great offers are available when you book through Expedition Cruise Specialists before 30 November 2023, or until sold out. These deals are sure to be popular so don’t delay in securing your place!
Pitcairn & Gambier – In the Footsteps of the Bounty Mutineers!
11 Days Papeete to Papeete
A twin-share Stateroom is priced from AUD $14,134 for two guests, a saving of more than $4,000 per couple.
Single travellers can secure their own Stateroom from $9,234, a saving of around $6,000 per traveller.
This special cruise will head south to Pitcairn Island via the Gambier Islands. Following in the footsteps of the famous Bounty Mutineers, the Aranui 5 will take you to the most beautiful and unspoiled islands of the region, via three Polynesian archipelagos.
Austral Islands Discovery Cruise
11 Days Papeete to Papeete
A twin-share Stateroom is priced from AUD $13,038 for two guests, a saving of around $4,000 per couple.
Single travellers can secure their own Stateroom from $8,502, a saving of around $4,000 per traveller.
Discovered by Europeans in the 18th Century, the Austral islands are located 600 km south of Tahiti. Off the beaten track, the Australs are an untouched and mysterious land where white sand clashes with the intense blue of the lagoons. Breathtaking landscapes, from sheer mountains to valleys, these islands are famous for their farming activities. The Austral islands will certainly offer a memorable and unique experience and there’s no better way to discover them than aboard the unique Aranui 5.
Aranui 5 is a unique, custom-built, dual-purpose passenger/freighter that sails from Tahiti and throughout the South Pacific. Designed to offer all of the comforts of a cruise liner, while operating as a supply ship, Aranui 5 is classified as a small vessel, accommodating approximately 254 passengers and 103 cabins.
Redesigned and custom built with passenger comfort in mind, you will embark the Aranui 5 on a voyage of discovery following the paths of Paul Gauguin, Robert Louis Stevenson, Thor Heyerdahl and Jacques Brel. The Polynesian staff and crew will welcome you to these exotic, captivating islands they call home.
The Aranui 5 continues a relaxed, friendly tradition with space to meet new friends in the bars and lounge or while relaxing on the deck or by the pool, as the islands seem to float by. If you are looking for privacy or romance, retreat to your balcony in suites and deluxe staterooms. Watch the infinite colours of the sunset play in the sky and sea as another day draws to a close in the South Pacific.
Last Minute Swan Hellenic 2023/24 Antarctica Cruises
Call Expedition Cruise Specialists today on 1800 90 20 80 to secure SAVINGS of up to 60%
Have you always wanted to visit Antarctica on a luxury expedition cruise, but the prices have seemed a little out of reach? Well, now's the chance to tick this incredible destination off your bucket-list with some incredible last-minute cruise fares we’ve just received from our partner Swan Hellenic cruises.
If you’re quick, you can SAVE up to 60% off the regular brochure prices on selected Antarctica cruises departing in December 2023 and January 2024, but there’s limited staterooms available and you do need to book and pay by 10 November 2023.
Cruising to Antarctica with Swan Hellenic
Swan Hellenic Cruises operates a fleet of modern expedition ships, all launched in the past two years. SH Vega accommodates just 152 expeditioners in a range of suites and cabins, will the brand-new and slightly larger SH Diana maxes out at 192 travellers. Both boutique ships feature the same distinctive comfort and Scandi-design interiors, extensive deck space and dedicated expedition facilities, including a dedicated presentation and lecture theatre, and an expedition mud room.
There’s also three dining venues from which to choose – the Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge and Pool Bar & Grill, and there’s also a state-of-the-art gym, spa, panoramic sauna, club room and swimming pool.
Last Minute Savings with Expedition Cruise Specialists
You will need to be quick to secure these outstanding savings of up to 60% off regular fares. To reserve your cabin call the expert team at Expedition Cruise Specialists while there’s still space available on 1800 90 20 80.
These great deals apply on the following expedition cruises:
9 Night Antarctica Peninsula Discovery aboard SH Diana
Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 11 to 20 December 2023
Oceanview Stateroom – Normally $19,358 per person – NOW $9,599 per person
Balcony Stateroom – Normally $24,555 per person – NOW $10,399 per person
Travel across the legendary Drake Passage to the frozen Antarctic Peninsula - where you'll discover mesmerising icy wonders like the Gerlache Strait and the magnificent Antarctic Sound. Step ashore, meet curious penguins and explore otherworldly frozen landscapes. Sail on Zodiac boats through ice-choked waters, searching for seals, whales and seabirds, and journey alongside polar specialists as you share in their vast knowledge of these isolated regions.
10 Night Antarctica Peninsula Odyssey aboard SH Vega
Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 12 to 22 December 2023
Oceanview Stateroom – Normally $21,187 per person – NOW $9,599per person
Balcony Stateroom – Normally $24,288 per person – NOW $10,399 per person
Sail across the Drake Passage to discover the unforgettable frozen wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula. Explore the White Continent’s breathtaking landscape, with its free-floating tabular icebergs, massive glaciers, and awe-inspiring ice cliffs. Watch out for extraordinary wildlife in this icy world too, including elephant seals, humpback whales, and thousands of Adélie penguins. This voyage lets you live your Antarctic dream, and visit places where few people go.
9 Night Antarctica Peninsula Discovery aboard SH Diana
Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 20 to 29 December 2023
Balcony Stateroom – Normally $24,555 per person – NOW $10,399 per person
Travel across the legendary Drake Passage to the frozen Antarctic Peninsula - where you'll discover mesmerising icy wonders like the Gerlache Strait and the magnificent Antarctic Sound. Step ashore, meet curious penguins and explore otherworldly frozen landscapes. Sail on Zodiac boats through ice-choked waters, searching for seals, whales and seabirds, and journey alongside polar specialists as you share in their vast knowledge of these isolated regions.
10 Night Antarctica Peninsula Discovery aboard SH Diana
Ushuaia to Ushuaia –29 December 2023 to 08 January 2024
Balcony Stateroom – Normally $26,961 per person – NOW $10,399 per person
Travel across the legendary Drake Passage to the frozen Antarctic Peninsula - where you'll discover mesmerising icy wonders like the Gerlache Strait and the magnificent Antarctic Sound. Step ashore, meet curious penguins and explore otherworldly frozen landscapes. Sail on Zodiac boats through ice-choked waters, searching for seals, whales and seabirds, and journey alongside polar specialists as you share in their vast knowledge of these isolated regions.
11 Night Antarctica Peninsula Odyssey aboard SH Vega
Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 13 to 24 January 2024
Balcony Stateroom – Normally $26,427 per person – NOW $10,399 per person
Sail across the Drake Passage to discover the unforgettable frozen wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula. Explore the White Continent’s breathtaking landscape, with its free-floating tabular icebergs, massive glaciers, and awe-inspiring ice cliffs. Watch out for extraordinary wildlife in this icy world too, including elephant seals, humpback whales, and thousands of Adélie penguins. This voyage lets you live your Antarctic dream, and visit places where few people go.
You will need to be quick to secure these outstanding savings of up to 60% off regular fares. To reserve your cabin call the expert team at Expedition Cruise Specialists while there’s still space available on 1800 90 20 80.
Please note all prices depart from and return to Ushuaia in Argentina. The cruise prices do not include transport to and from Argentina, visa fees or pre/post programme accommodation. All prices are in Australian Dollars and reflect the last-minute discount. This offer is not combinable with any other discount, is cruise only and is subject to availability. The offer is valid for new bookings only made with Expedition Cruise Specialists between 01 and 10 November 2023 or until sold out / withdrawn.
Our polar expedition partner Swan Hellenic has just released their 2024/25 Antarctica season with discounts of up to 40% off regular brochure fares on selected cruises when you book your expedition to the White Continent before 18 November 2023.
A leading name in travel dating back almost eighty years, Swan Hellenic now focuses on expedition and cultural cruising, with one of the newest fleets in the field. Launched in 2022 and 2023 respectively, Swan Hellenic’s newbuilds SH Vega and SH Diana are both rated to Polar Class 5 and have been specially designed to maximise the expedition experience while also providing 5-star luxury surrounds in a boutique environment.
While Swan Hellenic’s fleet – which will soon be expanded with the return of SH Minerva – is deployed on a year-round schedule to all corners of the globe, Antarctica remains the drawcard for many travellers, and with great savings on offer now is the ideal time to secure your place.
Perhaps the highlight Antarctic cruise available as part of Swan Hellenic’s 2024/25 Earlybird Savings is the 18-day, all-encompassing ‘In Shackleton’s Footsteps’ expedition cruise which combines the three ‘jewels in the crown’; Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. There’s two departures on offer aboard the flagship SH Diana, 22 December 2024 and 19 January 2025. Prices for the 18-day expedition start at AUD $28,288 per person, twin share in a spacious Oceanview Stateroom.
Expeditioners joining this voyage will follow in the wake of one of history’s greatest explorers on this extraordinary cruise. They will be able to experience the incredible endless icy wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula, just as Ernest Shackleton and his crew would have done as they commenced their quest to cross the ice to the South Pole.
There will also be the opportunity to step ashore on Elephant Island, where Shackleton’s men would survive two Antarctic winters. Along the way, there will be the chance to observe penguins, seals, whales and seabirds that, unlike Shackleton’s ship, Endurance, have no issues thriving in this formidable environment.
Before crossing the infamous Drake Passage back to Ushuaia, SH Diana will stop at the Falkland Islands, allowing travellers to discover a haven for a host of endemic birdlife, and meet the proud, resilient locals.
Other Swan Hellenic 2024/25 Antarctica Earlybird Cruises
In addition to the ‘In Shackleton’s Footsteps’ expedition, Earlybird Savings of up to 40% are also available on the following cruises:
18 Day Long Arc to Antarctica aboard SH Vega
Buenos Aires to Ushuaia – 18 November to 05 December 2024
Earlybird Prices from AUD $28,288 per person, twin share
11 Day Antarctica Peninsula Odyssey aboard SH Diana
Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 03 to 13 December 2024
Earlybird Prices from AUD $17,536 per person, twin share
14 Day Antarctica Peninsula in Depth aboard SH Vega
Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 15 to 28 December 2024
Earlybird Prices from AUD $22,144 per person, twin share
13 Day Antarctica Peninsula In Depth aboard SH Diana
Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 15 to 27 February 2025
Earlybird Prices from AUD $20,608 per person, twin share
All prices are in Australian Dollars in an Oceanview Stateroom. Please enquire with our team for 40% savings on other cabin and suite types.
Swan Hellenic’s Fleet
Swan Hellenic Cruises operates a fleet of three modern expedition ships, all launched in the past two years. Sister-ships SH Vega & SH Minerva accommodate just 152 expeditioners in a range of suites and cabins, will the slightly larger SH Diana maxes out at 192 travellers. All three of these boutique ships feature the same distinctive comfort and Scandi-design interiors, extensive deck space and dedicated expedition facilities, including a dedicated presentation and lecture theatre, and an expedition mud room.
All three ships feature three dining venues from which to choose – the Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge and Pool Bar & Grill, and there’s also a state-of-the-art gym, spa, panoramic sauna, club room and swimming pool.
To find out more about Swan Hellenic’s 2024/25 Antarctica Earlybirds and how you can save up to 40% off brochure fares when you book by 18 November 2023, contact the knowledgeable team at Expedition Cruise Specialists today on 1800 90 20 80.
Please note that Earlybird prices are subject to availability and limited to new bookings only made between 18 September and 18 November 2023 or until sold out.
While the Kimberley Coast might be the most instantly recognisable expedition cruising destination in Western Australia, the lesser-known Houtman Abrolhos Islands should also be on any adventure traveller’s bucket list!
Located approximately 70 kilometres off the coast of Geraldton (around 400 kilometres north of Perth), the Abrolhos abound with natural wonders, spectacular marine and bird life and nautical history. Consisting of 122 islands, travellers can enjoy diverse experiences in the Abrolhos, from swimming up close to Australian sea lions, meeting the local crayfisherman, and some great snorkelling over pristine coral reefs and the wreck of the legendary Batavia.
Perhaps the best way to experience the Abrolhos Islands is on a five-day cruise with Eco Abrolhos Cruises. When you explore this region aboard the classic catamaran Eco Abrolhos you’ll cruise in a group of no more than 32 travellers, while being expertly looked after by a team of locals who will make sure you experience the best that these rarely-visited islands have to offer.
There’s five grades of accommodation to choose from aboard Eco Abrolhos, starting with the budget-conscious Lower Deck cabins up to the top-of-the-range King Bed Deluxe Staterooms. There’s also plenty of deck space, including the Top Deck Lounge which offers panoramic views and a spacious dining room.
Cruises operate over the summer months, and usually sell out well in advance, however we do have a small number of cabins available for the coming 2023/24 season, making it an ideal time for you to experience the incredible Abrolhos Islands for yourself.
5-Day Abrolhos Islands Highlights
Experience Marine Life
The Abrolhos Islands lie in the flowing Leeuwin current which provides the perfect environment for spectacular coral outcrops and marine life. Watch the Australian sea lions frolic in the waters alongside bottle nose dolphins and huge Samson fish.
Sea Bird Sanctuary
The birdlife is amazing with over 90 specific and rare species identified and often cited as the world’s most important sea bird breeding colony. September and October is the peak breeding season and the best time to witness hatchlings.
Whale Of A Time
Migratory whales such as the humpback whale, are frequent visitors and can often be seen breaching, and at play in the warm waters and are a site to behold. Whales typically migrate for breeding in the months from May through December.
Dive Into History
Discover the fascinating and gruesome history of the Batavia shipwreck - the mutiny, the savagery, the maritime skill, and the rescue. Eco Abrolhos will visit up to four different locations!
Discover Island Culture
Learn about the rich history based around Crayfishing and fishing, visit the fishing camps and meet the locals. Try your hand at catching the iconic Baldchin Groper!
Seafood Bounty
Eco Abrolhos's onboard chef prepares the freshly caught local crayfish and reef fish for you to enjoy. Eco Abrolhos serves buffet style meals and dietary requirements can be catered for.
To book your Abrolhos Islands eco-cruise give the expert team at Expedition Cruise Specialists a call today on 1800 90 20 80.
2023 / 24 Abrolhos Islands Schedule
Itinerary Details
To allow for maximum time in the Abrolhos, on most cruises you will cruise from Geraldton to the Abrolhos at the start of the itinerary, and then fly back to Geraldton at the conclusion (or vice versa). See details against each departure date.
This 5-day Abrolhos Islands expedition is the ultimate way to explore and experience the very best of the Abrolhos Islands. From sunrise to well after sunset your days will be filled with a variety of activities. Each expedition is tailor made to make the best of the weather, tidal and seasonal conditions.
Availability shown below is accurate as at 03 August 2023.
26 to 30 September 2023
5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,265 per person
Single Traveller: $3,685 per person
03 to 08 October 2023
5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,410 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,265 per person
Single Traveller: $3,685 per person
10 to 14 October 2023
5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,410 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,265 per person
Single Traveller: $3,685 per person
17 to 22 October 2023 – Astronomy Cruise
5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back
Learn about the night sky on this themed cruise. The Guest speaker will take you on a Stargazing Space Adventure.
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,530 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $4,015 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,385 per person
Single Traveller: $3,805 per person
24 to 28 October 2023
5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,530 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $4,015 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,385 per person
Single Traveller: $3,805 per person
01 to 06 February 2024 - SPECIAL
5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,530 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $4,015 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,385 per person
Single Traveller: $3,805 per person
08 to 12 February 2024 - SPECIAL
5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,410 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $3,895 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,265 per person
Single Traveller: $3,685 per person
15 to 20 February 2024 – WA Wine & Seafood - SPECIAL
5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back
Sample WA Wine & local Seafood on this culinary themed cruise.
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,630 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $4,115 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,485 per person
Single Traveller: $3,905 per person
22 to 26 February 2024 - SPECIAL
5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Fly back
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,530 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $4,015 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,385 per person
Single Traveller: $3,805 per person
28 February to 03 March 2024 - SPECIAL
5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,410 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $3,895 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,265 per person
Single Traveller: $3,685 per person
06 to 11 March 2024
5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,710 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $4,170 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,510 per person
Single Traveller: $3,950 per person
13 to 17 March 2024
5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Fly back
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,960 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $4,420 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,760 per person
Single Traveller: $4,200 per person
19 to 23 March 2024
5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,710 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $4,170 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,510 per person
Single Traveller: $3,950 per person
26 to 31 March 2024
5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,710 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $4,170 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,510 per person
Single Traveller: $3,950 per person
02 to 06 April 2024
5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Fly back
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,710 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $4,170 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,510 per person
Single Traveller: $3,950 per person
08 to 13 April 2024 - Pearls & Plates (Extra Day)
6 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back
Includes a special long table lunch.
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $5,960 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $5,310 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $4,515 per person
Single Traveller: $5,040 per person
16 to 21 April 2024
5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $4,710 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $4,170 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $3,510 per person
Single Traveller: $3,950 per person
08 to 13 April 2024 – ANZAC Discovery Tour (Extra Day)
6 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back
Coincides with ANZAC Day and includes a special long table lunch.
King Bed Deluxe Cabin
Twin Share: $6,300 per person
Queen / Double Stateroom
Twin Share: $5,650 per person
Lower Deck Cabin
Twin Share: $4,855 per person
Single Traveller: $5,380 per person
To book your Abrolhos Islands eco-cruise give the expert team at Expedition Cruise Specialists a call today on 1800 90 20 80.
See what Steve H from Perth thought of this expedition:
“I can’t recommend this trip enough. I’ve done four small ship expeditions off the WA coast and this one was the best. The boat is the perfect size for the Abrolhos. Big enough to be stable and comfortable but small enough to get in and out of all the best places. So many activities every day and different options. Snorkel. Fish. Walk. Pull the cray pots. History tour. Take it easy and read a book. It’s up to you how much you lean in or out of the experience. What was an absolute standout was the skipper’s knowledge of the area - having lived and worked there his whole life - which have the whole trip an intimate insider perspective on the history and life on the islands. Brilliant crew who looked after us and made sure that we got the most out of every experience. Did I mention that I got to dive the 400 year old Batavia wreck?”
Marilyn & Bob from Queensland, Australia travelled on Aranui 5’s 12-day Marquesas Islands Cruise in June 2023.
Aranui 5, is the cruise ship with a difference. Actually, it has more than one difference. Firstly, it is small, no more than 250 travellers. Secondly, it also carries cargo as well as passengers. Thirdly, it goes to islands that few other ships visit. Fourthly, it has what must be the happiest crew to be found on any ship afloat.
Aranui 5 takes its cargo and passengers to various islands in French Polynesia. Our 12-day Marquesas islands cruise took us to Rangiroa and Makatea, which are part of the Tuamotus and then on to six of the Marquesan Islands: Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, Ua Huka, Hiva Oa, Tahuata and Fatu Hiva. We will start with the first and last islands we visited, Rangiroa and Makatea. You could not get a greater contrast in two islands that are only 30 kilometres apart. Rangiroa is the world’s second largest atoll, just a string of small islands (motus) strung around a lagoon. This lagoon is so large in fact that I did not realise we were in one. The islands on the far side are out of sight. The one that the ship stopped at was typical of atoll islands; low, only a few metres above sea level and narrow. It was only a short walk from the lagoon to the ocean.
And now the contrasting Makatea, an ex-phosphate mining island with the reef around it only extending a few metres from the shore. The bottom drops away so sharply that ships cannot anchor there. Aranui 5 drifted gently offshore with the skipper keeping it in more or less in the same place with gentle touches to the throttles and bow thrusters. Where we landed there is only a narrow stretch of flat land. Next comes the cliffs. For most of the island these rise around 200 metres, straight up. Makatea looks quite well covered from the water but I thought it would be less so when we progressed inland. This wasn’t the case and our walk across the island, just over four kilometres, was in shade most of the way. The excursion offered the choice for passengers to walk across and back, walk across and get a ride back or go over and back in a car.
Next stop the Marquesas Islands. High, rugged and spectacular, the only variation is in the amount of green coverage.
First up, Nuku Hiva, the island which has the main town of the group. Compared with some of our later ports this was a very easy job for the skipper to bring Aranui 5 alongside the wharf. Once we loaded into a fleet of (mostly) Toyota four door utes, with extra seating in the back for another four, our convoy set off, up and down and around the island. When we were not weaving up hairpin bends, we were weaving down.
Not to be missed on this island is the archaeological site Kamuihei, where there is a giant banyan tree with a stage below. It is where a Marquesan group performed for us, and what a performance. It is not to be missed. Lunch was typical island fare of pork, goat, chicken, fish with salads and breadfruit. This was a worthwhile excursion, as long as you are not prone to car sickness.
On to the island of Ua Pou. Impress your friends by giving this island’s name the correct pronunciation. It is called "Wapoh”. Once docked, it was all action stations for the cargo handling crew. Two small and two large forklifts were lowered to the dock and then the cargo was craned off. Numerous containers and various bits and pieces were taken ashore. Plenty of locals gathered on the dock to collect their goods. We found it very easy to just sit and watch the activity.
But we couldn’t sit for too long as there was walking to be done. First it was up to the cross for a good view over the village and the bay. Then down in the bay, where young school children were getting lessons on paddling the outrigger canoes. Later in the day, when school was over, a bunch of older kids came down to the dock to swim. The ship had three hawsers (thick ropes) leading from the stern to the same bollard. This gave the kids a wonderful opportunity for some fun. They would walk out on one line while hanging on to another for support. And then fall in. As I have observed on other islands, the children are lousy swimmers but are drown proof. It was good to see that the Aranui skipper was quite happy to let the kids have a lot of fun with these mooring lines.
Next stop, Ua Huka. Definitely only a daylight manoeuvre to moor in the bay here. Two cargo barges were lowered into the water, one on either side, with the ship’s stern mooring lines on them. These barges then headed to the shore, allowing a crew member from each barge to leap ashore with the mooring lines to drop the loop over the bollard before jumping back on the barge. Not an easy task. The ship was now anchored securely in the middle of the bay. After watching a car being delivered ashore by barge it was time for the day’s activities. Into the 4WD utes for a drive to an arboretum (small botanic garden). Here we were introduced to some of the local trees and fruits. From there we were driven to a cultural museum and also a small sea museum. The latter I found very interesting. Then lunch and walk/drive back to the ship.
After Ua Huka we went to the Island of Hiva Oa. The day’s main activity was a visit to a cemetery, getting there either by bus or foot. Here we could see the graves of both Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel. Then, back to the ship for lunch and a lazy afternoon. Anyone wanting to go to the village could catch the bus. We chose to go for a short walk near the dock and then watch the cargo handling. Nowhere near as uninteresting as it sounds. Next day an early start while the ship rounded the eastern most point of the island and anchored off Puamau. Anyone wanting to go could load into the 4WDs again and be taken to an archaeological site called Te I’lpona. This has been very well restored in a beautiful setting. Definitely worth the visit.
That afternoon we cruised down from Hiva Oa to Tahuata and dropped the anchor in a large bay. Into the barges once again for a visit to the village of Vaitahu and the catholic church.
Our next stop was Fatu Hiva, where we anchored in the bay off the village of Omoa. This was a day for the energetic. Those who wished to do so could walk from this village over the hills to Hanavave – a hike of some 15 kilometres. Around the half way point a picnic lunch was waiting for them. While they were walking there, the ship upped anchor and motored to Hanavave. While the ship’s literature put this down as a difficult walk, the general consensus was that it was not all that difficult, the weather was on the walker’s side as it was overcast.
Our final stop of this memorable journey was Makatea. After a busy day exploring, we motored away from the island at about 5:00 PM, heading for Papeete. Tonight was our last dinner on board, and it came with an unexpected and wonderful surprise. The dining room doors opened, and we walked in to be greeted by the kitchen and dining room staff, lined up on either side clapping us in and singing. This delightful gesture was just so Aranui. A fantastic finish to a great 12 days.
The Nitty Gritty
We learned a few things on this voyage that could be useful to other people considering this cruise.
When making the arrangements we were told that we could deposit our luggage at the dock at 9:30 AM but we could not board until 12 noon. When we dropped off our bags at about 10:30 AM, we were told we could board immediately.
Obviously, we knew we could select the type of cabin that we wanted and then, almost at the last minute, we found we could also select the deck that we wanted. If you book a cabin with a balcony we would suggest choosing the starboard side if available. The ship berths on the starboard side and passengers going ashore when anchored out also load into the barges on this side.
The captain and the other officers usually eat with the rest of the crew but if they are invited to dine with travellers they are happy to do so. Four of us made the invite and the skipper, 1st and 2nd officers and the chief engineer all dined with us. They were really nice people and we had an enjoyable evening with them talking about how the ship works, their families and life in general.
For travellers who like going hiking there are some organised hikes varying in length from four to 15 kilometres. On most islands there is a cross up on a hill which generally has a dirt road or track up to it. These lookouts typically provide wonderful views of the bay and the island.
Be warned if you want to purchase and bring handicrafts home to Australia you need to do your research as most are made of wood, seeds and tapa and may result in some questions from customs and quarantine!
Our Aranui 5 Cabin
Our cabin aboard Aranui 5 was a Superior Deluxe cabin, #8405, located on the starboard side of the ship. The most outstanding feature of our cabin was how soundproof it was. We were so surprised there was not even any noise when other people flushed their toilet. The only time we could hear voices was if we had our door to the balcony open and even then they were not loud. The cabin was much roomier than we thought it would be and with the extra space on the balcony it was very comfortable. There was more than ample space for our clothes, suitcases and bits and pieces. The en suite was also larger than anticipated and was well supplied with soap, shampoo and conditioner.
Dining Aboard Aranui 5
On our trip we were amazed at the sweets, they were exceptionally presented and the Captain shed light on this, telling us that there was an expert on board teaching their staff about desserts and presentation. How lucky were we. Fruit is always available at breakfast but if you want more it is hard to get on the islands. There is a bounty of handicrafts to buy but very little fruit, although there is plenty growing. We managed to get some occasionally.
Tahitian Poisson Cru, or ia ota in Tahitian, is the national dish and there was a demonstration on board on how to make it and a tasting after. This was the best “raw fish” dish we tasted. It was available in various iterations every time we went to restaurants on Islands for lunch.
Unless you are a very big eater, food was plentiful with three courses for lunch and dinner and a buffet for breakfast. The food was predominantly French with some pasta and local fare.
The three course lunches and dinners were really good. Everyone received the same entrée, main and sweets, there was no choice but this was fine as long as you were not a particularly fussy eater. The food was varied and very nice, we never heard anyone complain about it. Travellers with special dietary needs were catered for. The wines were all French – reds and whites. They did somewhat match wines with the meal, ie whites with fish, but we were able to change this if we wanted reds. There was one bottle shared between four travellers each meal, and after that bottle was finished you had to pay for more. I was lucky because Bob does not drink wine, so I only had to share with three people!
There were tables for two, four, six or eight people and I think the tables could be adjusted to larger groups. It wasn’t necessary to reserve a table, you sat where you wanted to. We occasionally arrived later for dinner and so chose to sit with a French couple. As we don’t have any French language skills it was up to them to test their English, which they did and were most gracious as their English was not that good.
Dress Code aboard Aranui 5
Dress was casual at all times on the ship. Aranui 5’s cabins are air-conditioned with little or minimal adjustment, so if you feel the cold then you need to take this in to account. In the bar, dining room and all other inside areas of the ship are air conditioned, so once again dress according to your needs. For excursions on shore, long skirts are not a good idea because of getting in and out of the barges and the utes that go to various places. Of course, when walking light clothes are a good idea. We did not have any trouble with flies, mosquitoes, sand flies etc.
Medical Team
There was a Doctor and Nurse who not only attended to people on the ship but came along on all excursions with their very big medical kit container. One of them always went on the hikes, we were most impressed.
Aranui 5 Pool
The ship’s pool was small, which is to be expected, and people did not go in it when the ship was moving as the water sloshed about. It had good stairs to accommodate older people.
Our Verdict
It was a fantastic cruise, we really enjoyed it and would recommend other people to seriously consider doing this trip. Aranui 5 is an excellent ship going to out-of-the-way but worthwhile places to visit. The other group that contributed to us having a good time were the other passengers. They were a diverse group, from different countries and backgrounds. People were very friendly and we made some good friends who we will keep in contact with.
Marilyn & Bob (above with Wenda from Aranui Cruises) travelled on Aranui 5’s 12-day Marquesas Islands cruise in June 2023.
Some photography in this review has been provided by Marilyn & Bob, other images have been sourced from Aranui Cruises. Images may not be reproduced without consent from the photographers.
