Secret Polynesia: Unexplored Tuamotu, the Gambier Islands and the Austral Islands

Tahiti's diverse beauty spans from the serene shores of Matavai Bay to the verdant Papenoo Valley. In Papeete, experience the lively atmosphere of the waterfront promenade and indulge in traditional dishes at the roulottes, food trucks serving Polynesian cuisine. Head inland to Faarumai Waterfalls, a trio of cascades nestled in lush greenery. The island is also a hub for pearl farms, where you can discover the intricate process of cultivating Tahitian black pearls, renowned for their unique luster.

The Papeete Cruise Port is located right in the city center so attractions such as the vibrant Papeete Market are just a short walk away. To visit more distant attractions like the stunning Fautaua Waterfall, consider a taxi or a guided excursion. Don’t miss out on trying local Tahitian cuisine or visiting the Black Pearl Museum.

Anaa, a serene atoll in French Polynesia, offers visitors a glimpse into the tranquil life of the Tuamotu Archipelago. Known for its unique green sand beaches and a lagoon that boasts various shades of blue, Anaa is a paradise for those seeking peace and natural beauty. The atoll is also renowned as the "Island of Men". This title refers to the fierce reputation of its ancient warriors who were celebrated across Polynesia for their bravery and strength.

Ships will anchor offshore, allowing visitors to tender into the main village. Activities like snorkelling in the crystal-clear lagoon waters or exploring the ruins of old lime kilns provide immersive experiences.

The Tuamotu Archipelago is a sprawling chain of coral atolls in French Polynesia. Known for some of the world's best diving spots, these islands offer crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life, ideal for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts.

The archipelago's pearls, particularly from the atoll of Manihi, are celebrated for their quality and beauty, drawing visitors interested in the local pearling industry. Ships navigating through the Tuamotus typically stop at key islands, allowing visitors to tender ashore for easy access to explore.

Fakarava is an atoll in the west of the Tuamotu group in French Polynesia. It is oblong shaped and has an almost continuous string of reef stretching for 40 km on its eastern edge.

Pure, pristine and dreamlike, the ecosystem of this gorgeous island is home to extremely rare birds, plants and crustaceans. Quaint villages, old coral churches and welcoming people are intertwined with a spectacular lagoon creating a paradise like none other in the world.

Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the pier in Fakarava’s main village, Rotoava.

An isolated atoll in the Tuamotus, Hikueru’s charm stems from the beauty of its landscapes and the authenticity of its inhabitants. Its crystal-clear lagoon, bordered by beaches of white sand and coral reefs, offers ideal conditions for scuba diving and snorkelling. On land, Polynesian songs, dances and handicrafts set the rhythm of daily life. Facing a calm horizon, explore the island at leisure, from a dugout canoe or by following the many paths.

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.

Located 5 kilometres southeast of Mangareva, Aukena is today the 4th-largest of the Gambier Islands in French Polynesia, with a population of around thirty inhabitants. This port of call will be an opportunity for you to dive into the past, to the era when Aukena was discovered by the sailor James Wilson in 1797. There are several remnants of this missionary period, such as the watchtower serving as a landmark on the southwest of the island or the Church of St. Raphael, constructed in 1839. These buildings nestling in the forest lead to sumptuous white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Take the time to explore this island in the Gambier archipelago, and get a taste of French Polynesia’s gentle way of life.

Located on Mangareva, the largest of the Gambier Islands, Rikitea is the largest and most populous village. Here is where one of Polynesia’s wonders, Saint Michael’s Cathedral, stands proudly, entirely built from coral and timber.

Mangareva, meaning 'floating mountain' in Polynesian,is surrounded by a magnificent coral reef and blessed with generous vegetation, this island, a cradle of Catholicism, has exceptional cultural heritage, with many vestiges of religious buildings dating from the 19th century. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

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.

Wild and unspoilt Rapa is one of the best kept secrets of the Austral Islands. From majestic mountains to trails winding through lush forests and crystal-clear lagoons, everything here invites contemplation and exploration. In this mysterious land, Polynesian culture vibrates intensely to the rhythm of songs, dances and local traditions, and both the encounters and hikes immerse you in a timeless interlude.

Raivavae has been described as a smaller, laid-back version of Bora Bora - without the tourists. The island’s lagoon is circled by a coral reef with 28 motu (islets).

Apart from strolling the white sand beach of Mahanatoa, it is possible to circumnavigate the island by bike or bus passing the four villages or to view a marae (temple) and the lush greenery. All this is the quintessence South Sea with its crystal clear waters and the coconut palm tree fringes.

Snorkelers may enjoy seeing the reef fish at one of the motu while sea birds glide overhead.

A volcanic island situated just south of the Tropic of Capricorn, Tubuai is very well preserved. The island is ringed by a 85 square km lagoon, one of the vastest in the Austral Islands. As it is rather shallow, it gives the ocean waters a distinctive shade of turquoise blue.

Eight islets surround Tubuai and, with their beaches of fine soft sand, offer a landscape that is unique in Polynesia.

Tubuai’s warm waters offer an excellent shelter for all sorts of tropical fish as well as clams and crayfish living close to the many islets set inside the coral barrier.

Rurutu, the northernmost island of the Austral archipelago, is an elevated coral island of absolutely unique beauty. The island boasts a landscape carved by erosion, offering impressive cliffs and caves. Thanks to its mild climate, Rurutu offers varied landscapes with rich vegetation.

A real geological phenomenon, the troglodyte island also offers magnificent summits covered in lush vegetation that will delight hiking fans. You can best discover the charms of Rurutu by interacting with the local people, such as the mamas, smiling ladies who spend their days weaving specialty materials.

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.

Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia, enchants with its lush landscapes and vibrant culture. Explore the bustling capital, Papeete, where the colorful market offers local crafts and exotic produce. Relax at the stunning black-sand beaches of Pointe Venus or dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. Don’t miss the Arahoho Blowhole, where ocean waves force air and water through a natural rock formation, creating spectacular sprays. For a touch of history, visit the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands to learn about the island's rich heritage.

The Papeete Cruise Port is located right in the city center so attractions such as the vibrant Papeete Market are just a short walk away. To visit more distant attractions like the stunning Fautaua Waterfall, consider a taxi or a guided excursion. Don’t miss out on trying local Tahitian cuisine or visiting the Black Pearl Museum.