Home > Cruises > South Pacific Cruises > Polynesia and Easter Island

Polynesia and Easter Island

15 Days Papeete to Hanga Roa
Polynesia and Easter Island
Polynesia and Easter Island
Polynesia and Easter Island
Cruising At Sea
Cruising At Sea
Papeete
Papeete
Rikitea
Rikitea
Easter Island
Easter Island
Tahiti
Tahiti
Anaa
Anaa
Bora Bora
Bora Bora
Moorea
Moorea
Tahiti
Tahiti
Moorea
Moorea

Overview

Some trips are life changing, altering our perception of the world forever. In the waters of the Pacific Ocean, sail on an incredible odyssey taking you from the shores of Tahiti to the legendary Easter Island. Over 15 days aboard Le Boréal, (re)discover the shared mysteries of these faraway places and the captivating beauty of their extraordinary landscapes. Leave Papeete and the island of Tahiti in your wake to reach the coast of the stunning Bora Bora. This island, whose name translates to 'first-born' in English, is also called Mai te pora ('created by the gods') by the Polynesians, since only read more divine will could have created an Eden such as this.

Admire its turquoise lagoon, a garden for the coral life and multicoloured fish, overlooked by cliffs covered in lush vegetation, and take in the gentleness of Polynesia. A little further on, Moorea awaits you and invites you to discover Polynesian culture, notably by visiting one of the island's pearl farms that are among the treasures of the island nation Now it is time for Le Boréal to leave behind the Society Islands to take you to the Tuamotu Archipelago and the Anaa atoll.

It is said that ship captains can recognise it from a great distance as the pale green of its lagoon is sometimes reflected in the clouds! Far from the major maritime routes, you now find yourself in the Gambier archipelago, one of the most unspoiled destinations in Polynesia. Appearing on the horizon is the small village of Rikitea where St Michael's Cathedral stands proudly, entirely built from coral and timber. Crystal-clear waters, abundant vegetation, endemic wildlife... You will sail to the Pitcairn Islands, a subtropical ecosystem whose capital, Adamstown*, is like a charming small village.

Finally, you will reach the intriguing and fabulous Easter Island, lying approximately 3,700 km (2,300 miles) away from the continent. This legendary land will reveal its mysteries to you through its undeciphered 'rongorongo' inscriptions carved into wooden tablets, but also and above all through its famous moais or 'walking statues' facing the endless expanse of ocean and now classified as World Heritage by UNESCO. *Disembarkation on the Pitcairn Islands is subject to weather conditions.
Sold Out
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either the season has ended and new dates will be released soon, or the itinerary has been updated and isn’t operating this season.
Trip Length
Cruise Length

15 Days

Trip Starts
Cruise Starts

Papeete

Trip Ends
Cruise Ends

Hanga Roa

Countries Visited
Countries Visited:
French Polynesia Pitcairn Islands Easter Island
Cruise Line
Cruise Line
Ponant
Cruise Shi
Cruise Ship
Le Boreal
Ship Reviews
2 Ship Reviews
Avg. Rating: 5/5
Passengers
Passengers

264

Crew
Crew

145

Ship Launch
Launched

2010

Ship Refurbished
Refurbished

2018

Cruise Code
Cruise Code

PPTHA214

Itinerary

Departs: 18:00

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.

Port:Papeete

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.

Arrives: 07:30 Departs: 18:30

The dramatic Mount Otemanu stands watch over the sparkling turquoise waters and sugary sands of Bora Bora, known as the most romantic island in the world. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be proved to the pier.

Top Things to Do in Bora Bora:

  • sail Bora Bora by catamaran
  • take a scenic flight over the island in a helicopter
  • snorkel the reef ringed lagoon
  • watch sharks and rays in a glass-bottomed boat
  • relax on a privately owned island known as a motu

Arrives: 06:00 Departs: 17:00

The island's unique geography makes Moorea one of French Polynesia's most breathtaking islands. Eight mountain peaks carpeted in lush vegetation rise from a translucent lagoon and two tranquil bays. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do in Moorea:

  • encounter dolphins at the Intercontinental Moorea Resort marine sanctuary
  • hike through Opunohu Valley
  • enjoy an off-road adventure through Moorea's deep valleys and mountains
  • cruise Moorea's waters on a Catamaran

Arrives: 13:30 Departs: 19:00

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.

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.

Arrives: 06:30 Departs: 17:00

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.

Departs: 15:30

With around 50 residents on the island, Adamstown is the capital of the Pitcairn Islands and the only populated settlement, as all of the other Pitcairn Islands are uninhabited.

Here you can get a firsthand insight into the living history and culture of the people of Pitcairn Island - the direct descendants of Pitcairn's first European settlers, the HMS Bounty mutineers.

On shore visit the local museum that houses the HMS Bounty Bible, the historic Adamstown Church, view Fletcher Christian’s cave, or keep an eye out for the Pitcairn Reed Warbler.

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.

Arrives: 12:30

Although a Polynesian island in southeastern Pacific Ocean, Easter Island is an overseas territory of Chile. The island received its name from a Dutch explorer who encountered the island on Easter Sunday in 1722.

The island is famous for its mysterious, monumental statues, called moai, created by the Rapanui people. A total of 887 monolithic stone statues have been inventoried. The native islanders who carved them used only stone hand chisels, mainly basalt toki, which still lay in place throughout the island. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Port:Hanga Roa

Hanga Roa is the the only urban area on Easter Island. An overseas territory of Chile, the island received its name from a Dutch explorer who encountered the island on Easter Sunday in 1722.

The island is famous for its mysterious, monumental statues, called moai, created by the Rapanui people. A total of 887 monolithic stone statues have been inventoried. The native islanders who carved them used only stone hand chisels, mainly basalt toki, which still lay in place throughout the island. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Although a Polynesian island in southeastern Pacific Ocean, Easter Island is an overseas territory of Chile. The island received its name from a Dutch explorer who encountered the island on Easter Sunday in 1722.

The island is famous for its mysterious, monumental statues, called moai, created by the Rapanui people. A total of 887 monolithic stone statues have been inventoried. The native islanders who carved them used only stone hand chisels, mainly basalt toki, which still lay in place throughout the island. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Port:Hanga Roa

Hanga Roa is the the only urban area on Easter Island. An overseas territory of Chile, the island received its name from a Dutch explorer who encountered the island on Easter Sunday in 1722.

The island is famous for its mysterious, monumental statues, called moai, created by the Rapanui people. A total of 887 monolithic stone statues have been inventoried. The native islanders who carved them used only stone hand chisels, mainly basalt toki, which still lay in place throughout the island. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.

Life On Board

Ponant
 (6) Reviews
Total No. of Cruises 364
It's time to join Ponant's team of experienced naturalist guides and expedition experts to discover some of the world’s most distant and sought-after shores, venture into the heart of extreme lands and be immersed in nature on one of many Zodiac outings and shore excursions. Whether you dream of stepping foot on the Antarctic more Peninsula, witnessing the incredible rise of Montgomery reef in the Kimberley or meeting and interacting with local communities in the Arctic, Ponant, the world leader in luxury expeditions can take you there.
Le Boreal
Le Boreal

Take a voyage on Le Boreal and enjoy the sophisticated luxury of small ship cruising. Read more

Room with a View
Room with a View

Choose from nine categories of staterooms and suites, all of which offer ocean views. Read more

Exquisite French Dining
Exquisite French Dining

Whether you choose to dine in the restaurant or at the grill you will savour Ponant's French gastronomy. Read more

Shipboard Life
Shipboard Life

Relax on the pool deck, take in the views from the lounges or rejuvenate in the onboard spa. Read more

Renowned Service Excellence
Renowned Service Excellence

From the moment you embark your every need will be looked after by the French crew. Read more

Balneotherapy at Ponant Spa
Balneotherapy at Ponant Spa

Relax and unwind at the spa in a deep aromatherapy bath filled with reviving mineral salts. Read more

Ship Reviews (2)

Ponant Reviews
Reviews 2 Reviews
Average Rating 5 out of 5
5 Star
100%
4 Star
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Trip of a lifetime! 0 , VIC, Australia, Dec 2025
What an amazing trip! I had high expectations that were surpassed. Every detail had been highly thought through. Great shore experiences, excellent food and wine with exceptional personalised service. Also they have one of the best solo supplement deals going too! Highly recommend!
Fjords and Glaciers of Spitsbergen 1 , ACT, Australia, Jun 2023
Very enjoyable trip. We were able to see Polar Bears, Walrus, whales , seals and lots of birds. Captains and crews are all fantastic and change the course for the best landing. Our reservations with Global Journeys was great with Georgie.
Play Youtube Video

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this cruise. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

Similar Cruises

16 Day The Geographic North Pole (Ponant)

16 Days Paris Paris

Operated By: Ponant

From 50,671
16 Day From Fiji to Micronesia (Ponant)

16 Days Lautoka Guam

Operated By: Ponant

From 11,570
16 Day Tropical Odyssey Between Indonesia and North East Australia (Ponant)

16 Days Bali Cairns

Operated By: Ponant

From 11,230