Authentic Austral Islands with Rapa Cruise
Authentic Austral Islands with Rapa Cruise
Authentic Austral Islands with Rapa Cruise
Aboard: Aranoa Aranui 5
Step aboard for a remarkable voyage exploring the remote Austral Islands, including rarely visited Rapa, alongside the celebrated beauty of the Society Islands. Travelling round-trip from Tahiti, this passenger-freighter journey combines Polynesian culture, relaxed adventure and dramatic South Pacific scenery, reaching communities and landscapes that remain far removed from the usual tourist routes.
From the traditional welcomes of Rimatara and the raised atoll landscapes of Rurutu to Raivavae’s turquoise lagoon, Tubuai’s Bounty history and isolated Rapa, each island reveals a distinct and deeply authentic side of French Polynesia. Along the way, discover ancient marae, local craft traditions, shared island feasts, optional hikes, snorkelling opportunities and the warm hospitality of the Polynesian crew, before returning via sacred Raiatea and the iconic lagoon of Bora Bora.
Highlights
- Discover the remote Austral Islands, including isolated Rapa, the southernmost island in one of French Polynesia’s least-visited and most authentic archipelagos
- Sail aboard a unique passenger-freighter ship combining comfort, culture and adventure
- Experience warm Polynesian welcomes, traditional music, local crafts and shared island feasts
- Explore Rimatara, Rurutu, Tubuai and Raivavae, each with its own landscapes, legends and living traditions
- Visit caves, marae, archaeological sites and historic locations linked to the famous Bounty mutineers
- Enjoy beautiful lagoons, beaches and optional snorkelling or diving in the Austral and Society Islands
- Discover Raiatea’s UNESCO-listed Taputapuatea marae, one of Polynesia’s most sacred spiritual sites
- End the journey with famous Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon, Mount Otemanu and a barbecue on private Motu Tapu
What's Included
- Shipboard accommodation with 3 meals per day, and a bottle of wine to share among 4 passengers for scheduled onboard meals
- Lunches in local restaurants
- Planned guided shore excursions to remote villages and archaeological sites
- Cultural dance shows, lecturers onsite and onboard
- Taxes and port fees
So much to experience
Our popularitinerary Suggestions
All our itinerary holidays are fully customisable
Tahiti (Papeete) - Moorea
At Sea
Rimatara, Austral Islands
Rurutu, Austral Islands
Tubuai, Austral Islands
Raivavae, Austral islands
Rapa, Austral Islands
Tubuai, Austral Islands
At Sea
Raiatea, Society islands
Bora Bora, Society islands
Back to Tahiti (Papeete)
A view from Above
All Aboard
Aranoa
Set to launch in 2027, the Aranoa is the latest evolution of Aranui Cruises’ unique passenger-freighter concept, blending decades of experience with a fresh, contemporary approach to small-ship travel. Carrying up to 198 guests across 91 cabins, this custom-built vessel offers an intimate and immersive way to explore the lesser-known islands of French Polynesia. Combining modern design with authentic Polynesian hospitality, Aranoa continues the brand’s tradition of warm, community-focused cruising while introducing enhanced comfort and a strong commitment to sustainability through advanced, eco-efficient technology.
On board, guests will find a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, with thoughtfully designed spaces including two restaurants, bars, a lounge, spa, fitness room, and outdoor whirlpools. Accommodation ranges from comfortable staterooms to spacious suites with private balconies, offering bright, well-appointed retreats after each day ashore. Sailing primarily to the unspoiled Austral Islands, as well as select voyages to remote atolls and Pitcairn, the Aranoa invites guests to experience a more authentic side of Polynesia, where rich traditions, dramatic landscapes, and genuine local connections take centre stage.
Aranui 5
Blending the spirit of adventure with authentic Polynesian charm, the Aranui 5 is a unique passenger-freighter designed to explore the remote islands of French Polynesia. Carrying up to 230 guests, this custom-built vessel combines the comfort of a small cruise ship with the working purpose of a supply ship, delivering goods to the far-flung Marquesas Islands. With eight decks and interiors inspired by Polynesian heritage, Aranui 5 offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where guests can experience both the culture and daily life of the region in a truly immersive way.
On board, a range of inviting spaces includes a restaurant serving relaxed, communal meals, multiple lounges and bars, including a panoramic Sky Bar, alongside a pool, spa, fitness room, and even a tattoo studio. Accommodation spans from simple shared cabins to spacious suites with private balconies, providing options for every style of traveller. Lectures and cultural presentations enrich the journey, while the ship’s dual role ensures a deeper connection with the islands visited. The Aranui 5 delivers a one-of-a-kind voyage, where exploration, culture, and community come together in the heart of the South Pacific.
Too much to choose from? This is where we come in
Take advantage of our vast experience, passion and expertise to help you hand craft the perfect Polynesian Islands adventure for you.
Mike lives and breathes adventure travel and has a wealth of experience in some of the most exciting and inspirational destinations in the world. His expertise and first-hand experience afford him the skills to help build holidays to remember.
As Senior Travel Expert, Simon has an absolute wealth of experience in adventure travel in some of the most fascinating places in the world. With in-depth knowledge and fantastic organizational skills, Simon’s first-hand experience and genuine passion drive him to work to create your perfect itinerary.
Having amassed a host of extraordinary adventures in destinations all over the world, Sheena’s experience, skills and enthusiasm for helping clients plan their ideal itinerary will help make your holiday unforgettable, action packed and life-changing.
Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?
Call us
0800 195 3385
Outside the uk
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Chat Now
Fill in our
Enquiry form
Book a
Consultation
Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?
Call us - 0800 195 3385
Outside the uk? + 44 1625 5811 43
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us - 0800 195 3385
Chat Now
Fill in our
Enquiry form
Book a
Consultation