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Aranui Cruises Welcome to the official page of Aranui Cruises! Embark on a freighter adventure to the Marquesas & Austral Islands in French Polynesia.

Join us for the journey of a lifetime! Come explore the jaw-dropping Marquesas Islands on what is often referred too as the trip of a lifetime. For thirty years, our vessels have been bringing avid adventurers to one of the most remote inhabited archipelago in the world, supplying the small communities with all kinds of provisions. The unspoiled beauty, the warmth of its people and their culture g

ive a glimpse into the ancient majesty of these islands. For two full weeks (inclusive of meals, wine for lunch and dinner, and shore excursions), our modern and comfortable vessel will be your home as you discover the magic that attracted Paul Gauguin, Robert Louis Stevenson, Thor Heyerdalh and Jacques Brel. Our Polynesian crew will introduce you to their culture and traditions with delight. And in each port, be part of the excitement of the cargo delivery. Aranui is not just a cruise. It truly is a powerful human experience. It reconnects everyone with the grandeur and magnificence of nature. It brings you to appreciate the little things in life. And get acquainted with communities where wifi and mobile phones do not matter. Join us for a unique voyage to the enchanting Marquesas Islands! Come with an open mind, and an open heart! And in islands where the "mana" (lifeforce) is so strong, you'll come back with new eyes and lots of incredible memories that will last a lifetime.

TRAVELING BEYOND... ✨Unforgettable cuisine, cutting-edge design, and immersive experiences—these are some of the key ele...
01/11/2024

TRAVELING BEYOND... ✨

Unforgettable cuisine, cutting-edge design, and immersive experiences—these are some of the key elements travelers seek in a truly remarkable getaway, whether it’s a hotel, resort, cruise, spa, or island escape.
Each year, the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates these high standards in travel.
We are excited to announce that Aranui Cruises has been recognized on the prestigious list of “The Best Cruises Lines in the World 2024”, securing the #10 spot in the "Small Ship Lines" category.

On this day when we celebrate our ancestors, we are grateful for the path and journey they have opened for us, over 40 years ago. 🙏

Photo credit: Lionel Gouverneur

THE POWER OF NATURE... 🌎There’s nothing quite like the beauty of the natural world. From towering mountains and lush for...
30/10/2024

THE POWER OF NATURE... 🌎

There’s nothing quite like the beauty of the natural world. From towering mountains and lush forests to crystal-clear lagoons and vibrant sunsets, nature has a way of leaving us in awe.

Whether you're hiking through a dense valley, listening to the soothing waves from the vessel’s deck, or watching the stars light up the night sky, it’s a reminder of how breathtaking our planet truly is.

Take a moment to breathe it in, enjoy the peace it brings, and let nature work its magic on your soul.
What’s your favorite way to connect with nature? Comment below ⬇️

Photo credit: Rani Chaves

A MARQUESAS LOVE AFFAIR 💛For 40 years, our ships have been guiding adventurous travelers on one of the most captivating ...
29/10/2024

A MARQUESAS LOVE AFFAIR 💛

For 40 years, our ships have been guiding adventurous travelers on one of the most captivating journeys on Earth.
Aranui 5, the crown jewel of our passenger-freighter fleet, transports you to the remote corners of French Polynesia, where we resupply small communities living far from modern civilization.
These voyages offer a rare glimpse into the Marquesas, a group of ancient and majestic islands, renowned for their untouched beauty, warm hospitality, and vibrant culture. Let us take you on an unforgettable adventure to a world that feels untouched by time.
Don’t wait for the perfect moment—create it! Let our expeditions open the door to perfection. 🛳️

Photo credit: Rani Chaves

PAMPERING AT SEAThe Aranui Spa invites you to indulge in a variety of treatments offered by expert wellness and massage ...
28/10/2024

PAMPERING AT SEA

The Aranui Spa invites you to indulge in a variety of treatments offered by expert wellness and massage therapist.
Pamper yourself with luxurious facials, body scrubs, and rejuvenating massages, all using the traditional oils of French Polynesia. 🧖‍♀️
You can also treat yourself to a manicure, pedicure, or a soothing foot massage—just what you need after a day of exploring. 💅

Relax, refresh, and let us take care of you at Aranui Spa.

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

TIKI POINTS!Our loyalty program is up for 2025! As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive perks like discounts, upgrades, WiFi...
27/10/2024

TIKI POINTS!

Our loyalty program is up for 2025!
As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive perks like discounts, upgrades, WiFi cards, and a special welcome party just for you.
It’s our way of saying thank you for being a valued part of the Aranui family. 🫶

Want to know more? Head to our website for all the details and start enjoying the benefits today: https://www.aranui.com/en/loyalty-program

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

PLAY, LEARN, LOVE, REPEAT… 💛Did you know that all of our expeditions feature guest lecturers who are specialists in vari...
24/10/2024

PLAY, LEARN, LOVE, REPEAT… 💛

Did you know that all of our expeditions feature guest lecturers who are specialists in various fields related to French Polynesia, with a focus on the Marquesas?
These experts deliver a series of engaging lectures designed to provide a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the region’s history, culture, art, and archaeology.
This enriching program enhances your journey, offering valuable insights into the unique heritage and significance of the Marquesas Islands. ✨

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

📣 There is no better time than the present to book a life-changing experience!Take advantage of our 40th anniversary sal...
23/10/2024

📣 There is no better time than the present to book a life-changing experience!
Take advantage of our 40th anniversary sale now extended until November 30th and sail into the adventure of a lifetime.
Follow the link in our bio and start planning your dream destination vacation today by booking a breathtaking expedition with Aranui Cruises. 🛳️

NEW PARTNERSHIPS…We are thrilled to announce our new partnership with Raw Tahiti, a pioneering social enterprise dedicat...
22/10/2024

NEW PARTNERSHIPS…

We are thrilled to announce our new partnership with Raw Tahiti, a pioneering social enterprise dedicated to showcasing the arts and contemporary artists of French Polynesia. 🎨

Starting in 2025, Raw Tahiti and Aranui are excited to introduce the ART’ A NUI traveling residencies—a groundbreaking initiative in French Polynesia. Through this collaboration, Raw Tahiti will coordinate the boarding and stay of artists from its collective for two annual sessions aboard the Aranui V during our Marquesas expeditions.

This innovative project will provide unique opportunities for both passengers and artists to engage in a shared creative journey, offering a vibrant exchange of experiences and art. We look forward to the inspiring interactions and artistic explorations that will emerge from this partnership. ✨

Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting venture!

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

AN IMMERSION LIKE NO OTHER“Dramatically gorgeous with mist-swathed jagged peaks, deep emerald valleys, tikis galore and ...
21/10/2024

AN IMMERSION LIKE NO OTHER

“Dramatically gorgeous with mist-swathed jagged peaks, deep emerald valleys, tikis galore and scant visitors, the Marquesas are unlike the popular touristed areas of French Polynesia such as Bora Bora. Marquesans have their own language, their own style of Polynesian tattoos, their own ceremonial dances, even their own time zone (idyllically named Marquesas Islands Time) and are known for exceptional artwork, including intricate wood and bone carvings and black-ink “tapa” sketches on tree bark. We experience it all. Plus I pet a rat-detecting dog who is rescuing endangered Marquesan birds, hike to the grave of syphilis-plagued French painter Paul Gauguin, and see where “Moby Dick” author Herman Melville jumped ship.” 🛳️

Read the fascinating article by Norma Meyer for Los Angeles Daily News.

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

A STOP IN KAUEHI 📍Located 40 km northeast of Fakarava, Kauehi is a relatively new settlement. Initially populated for co...
18/10/2024

A STOP IN KAUEHI 📍

Located 40 km northeast of Fakarava, Kauehi is a relatively new settlement. Initially populated for copra production, the atoll has more recently embraced pearl farming. Accessible through its sole small pass, Arikitāmiro, you can reach the village of Tearavero, home to the majority of its 250 residents.
Recently opened to tourism, Kauehi offers a captivating blend of authenticity and the lagoon's surreal, unique colors that promise an unforgettable experience. 🛳️

Photo credit: Lionel Gouverneur

WILL YOU TAKE SOME BLUE WITH YOUR TEA? 💙In 2026, we are excited to offer a rare opportunity to explore the hidden treasu...
16/10/2024

WILL YOU TAKE SOME BLUE WITH YOUR TEA? 💙

In 2026, we are excited to offer a rare opportunity to explore the hidden treasures of the Tuamotu Archipelago.

Suspended between sky and sea, the Tuamotu atolls epitomize escape and paradise. For those yearning for a complete change of scenery and breathtaking lagoons, these islands are the ideal destination. 🏝️

Our 5-day expedition will take you to some of the lesser-visited atolls, including the elevated atoll of Makatea, the distinctive Nine Eyes atoll (Mataiva), and Anaa, the historic birthplace of the Pomare royal family.
We’ll conclude our journey in the charming village of Tautira, one of Tahiti’s most authentic locales.🐬

This 5-day adventure is a perfect complement to any extended Tahiti vacation.
For more details, visit our website:
https://www.aranui.com/us/tuamotu-islands

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

SO PROUDLY UNESCO HERITAGE!In case you missed it! 📣We are so ecstatic that our cherished Marquesas Islands have been rec...
15/10/2024

SO PROUDLY UNESCO HERITAGE!

In case you missed it! 📣
We are so ecstatic that our cherished Marquesas Islands have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This prestigious acknowledgment highlights the islands' extraordinary natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and profound cultural heritage.

This achievement is the result of seven years of dedicated effort by a committed team, supported by French Polynesia, various Marquesan organizations, and the Ministry of Culture.
“The archipelago is one of the most isolated in the world, which helps shield it from mass tourism. Through the management and conservation measures associated with the World Heritage listing, it will continue to captivate and inspire with its remarkable beauty, exceptional biodiversity, and deep cultural significance.” — Anatauarii Tamarii, archaeologist and leader of the Directorate of Culture and Heritage of French Polynesia 💛

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

ISLAND HIGHLIGHT: RURUTU ✨The island of Rurutu presents a unique landscape that stands apart from typical South Pacific ...
14/10/2024

ISLAND HIGHLIGHT: RURUTU ✨

The island of Rurutu presents a unique landscape that stands apart from typical South Pacific scenery.
Its rugged basalt and limestone cliffs, dotted with caves where early inhabitants once lived, sit near white sand beaches and picturesque bays. The island’s volcanic core conceals a lush tropical jungle, creating breathtaking views for Aranui's passengers. 🛳️

Archaeological excavations in the village of Vitaria have revealed ancient settlements, council platforms, and marae temples, indicating human presence as far back as 900 A.D.

Rurutu is also renowned across Polynesia for the exceptional quality of its woven products. From August to October, humpback whales migrate to Rurutu’s waters to mate and give birth, providing a spectacular sight and sound for visitors. 🐋

Join our Austral expeditions to discover Rurutu the Aranui way: https://www.aranui.com/en/austral-islands

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

AS SEEN ON KTLA…Aranui Cruises, recently gained attention on KTLA, showcasing the promise of adventure that awaits on ev...
11/10/2024

AS SEEN ON KTLA…

Aranui Cruises, recently gained attention on KTLA, showcasing the promise of adventure that awaits on every voyage. Kinga Phillips and Justin Walter embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to the Austral Islands, where their experiences mirrored scenes straight from a postcard. From immersing themselves in the welcoming and captivating culture to exploring untouched gems like the island of Rapa, their journey was nothing short of extraordinary. This experience caters to all age ranges, attracting both young adventurers and seasoned travelers alike, each discovering something to cherish about Tahitian culture. 🏝️

Cheers to 40 years! If you’d like to learn more about our sailing schedule and itinerary, click here to watch the full segment: https://www.aranui.com/en/blog/aranui-ktla

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

MARQUESAS FUN FACTS  #5Stunning beauty! 😍With towering mountains, black-sand beaches, and lush forests, the Marquesas ha...
09/10/2024

MARQUESAS FUN FACTS #5

Stunning beauty! 😍
With towering mountains, black-sand beaches, and lush forests, the Marquesas have an untamed, raw beauty that sets them apart from more developed tourist destinations.

A feast for the eyes and the heart, the Marqueas are to be been, felt, experienced! Join us! Our 2025 AND 2026 itineraries are out! And so are our special offers 🛳️
https://www.aranui.com/en/sailing-schedule

We hope you enjoyed this round of Fun Facts!

Photo credit: Rani Chaves

MARQUESAS FUN FACTS  #4Isolation…The Marquesas are among the most isolated inhabited islands in the world. This isolatio...
08/10/2024

MARQUESAS FUN FACTS #4

Isolation…
The Marquesas are among the most isolated inhabited islands in the world. This isolation has preserved much of the traditional Marquesan way of life.
Aranui Cruises has been a vital link for the Marquesas islands for 40 years now.
And we love to quote travel writer Arnie Weissman’s who said:
“Cruise and tour companies have made great strides in connecting with local communities, but the relationship Aranui Cruises has built with Marquesans is unlike any- thing I’ve previously seen. Islanders and crew are of one community and often literally know one another, and the company makes efforts to support local craftspeople and performers on their own terms. It’s a formula that can’t be easily duplicated and is yet another bullet point in the list of ways that a sailing on Aranui Cruises differs from any other cruise experience.” 💛

Photo credit: Rani Chaves

MARQUESAS FUN FACTS  #3Their own dialiect…Although French is the official language, the Marquesan language, which has tw...
07/10/2024

MARQUESAS FUN FACTS #3

Their own dialiect…
Although French is the official language, the Marquesan language, which has two dialects (North Marquesan and South Marquesan), is still widely spoken. English is not commonly used in the Marquesas, which is why Aranui Cruises provides specially trained guides fluent in at least two languages.
English, French, and German are the primary languages spoken onboard, and programs are offered in these three languages. On each island, our guides and staff act as the link between passengers and the local communities. 💛

Photo credit: James Morgan

MARQUESAS FUN FACTS  #2 #2 – Their own climate!The Marquesas have a tropical climate, but they are drier than other Poly...
04/10/2024

MARQUESAS FUN FACTS #2

#2 – Their own climate!
The Marquesas have a tropical climate, but they are drier than other Polynesian islands, especially those in the southeast like Tahiti. Rainfall varies depending on the island and altitude, but the region is generally warm year-round.

This makes travel to the Marquesas islands quite amazing year-round! Ready for some warm weather! Haere mai! We are waiting for you! 🛳️

Photo credit: James Morgan

MARQUESAS FUN FACTS...The Marquesas islands may not be the most visited islands in French Polynesia… but, to us, they pr...
03/10/2024

MARQUESAS FUN FACTS...

The Marquesas islands may not be the most visited islands in French Polynesia… but, to us, they probably are the most beautiful! And our love story goes decades back…

Did you know that…

#1 – A 4 hour-flight from Tahiti
Yes! Located about 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) northeast of Tahiti, it takes about 3h30 - 4 hours to reach Nuku Hiva or Hiva Oa with local carriers Air Tahiti and Air Moana.
The island group is also 30 minutes ahead of Tahiti time.
So before arriving to the Marquesas, don’t forget to move your clock 30 minutes forward. While most countries are on Universal Time (UTC) by a number of full hours, a handful of places have both 30-minute and 45-minute offsets, among which are India, the Cook islands, Australia states and New Zealand.

Photo credit: Rani Chaves

A UNIQUE FORMULA...“Most Aranui 5 guests opt for the Marquesas, where the culture, weather, topography and variety contr...
01/10/2024

A UNIQUE FORMULA...

“Most Aranui 5 guests opt for the Marquesas, where the culture, weather, topography and variety contribute to an accessible and engaging experience. It is among the destinations in the world that are best seen by ship, but unlike many others in that category — Antarctica or the Galapagos, for instance — cultural immersion is as important a benefit as the destination’s pristine natural environment.”

Travel writer Arnie Weissman was onboard one of our Aranui 5 sailings and wrote a very thorough article – for Travel Weekly - that we are happy to share here: https://www.aranui.com/en/blog/travel-weekly-beyond-tahiti

Photo credit: Rani Chaves

BORA BORA IS BACK TO OUR ITINERARIES! 🏝️And yes, you get to experience the unparalleled beauty of Bora Bora! Known for i...
30/09/2024

BORA BORA IS BACK TO OUR ITINERARIES! 🏝️

And yes, you get to experience the unparalleled beauty of Bora Bora!
Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and majestic Mount Otemanu, Bora Bora stands as the epitome of tropical paradise.
Snorkel amidst vibrant coral reefs, relax on a pristine secluded beach, and indulge in a delicious tropical picnic!
Soak in the views and just be! ✨

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

DON’T LET THE SUN GO DOWN… ☀️Book your Aranui expedition early to take advantage of our special offers!Visit our website...
27/09/2024

DON’T LET THE SUN GO DOWN… ☀️

Book your Aranui expedition early to take advantage of our special offers!
Visit our website to explore all your options: https://www.aranui.com/en/special-offers

Photo credit: Lionel Gouverneur

GET LOST: "THE PASSAGE TO PARADISE"“What strikes me as interesting is that almost everyone here has either been on the c...
26/09/2024

GET LOST: "THE PASSAGE TO PARADISE"

“What strikes me as interesting is that almost everyone here has either been on the cruise before or has discovered it through a personal recommendation. It’s a testament to the quality of this unique experience and ensures plenty of diversity in the chatter about expectations as the ships horn sounds and it starts gliding through the salty blue mass towards paradise.
Nothing can prepare us for the remarkability of our destination and despite the Aranui 5’s obvious attraction as a cargo ship, it’s the remote Marquesas that really steals the spotlight. That’s why we’re here after all; the Aranui 5 is merely our vessel to get to the otherwise difficult to reach and wholly untapped islands.”

Roberto Serrini goes in search of an authentically exotic paradise aboard the Aranui 5. 🛳️

Read the article here: https://www.aranui.com/en/blog/cruise-travel-paradise-calling/

Photo credit: Rani Chaves

BUILDING COMMUNITY… 🌺One of the profound questions we often ask ourselves as humans is, "How can we serve better? How ca...
25/09/2024

BUILDING COMMUNITY… 🌺

One of the profound questions we often ask ourselves as humans is, "How can we serve better? How can we make a meaningful impact on the world?" 🌎

At Aranui Cruises, we've discovered various ways to promote sustainable travel while honoring the people, the land, and the ocean with the respect they deserve. We recognize that our efforts are just a small contribution, but we believe that every small action counts. By traveling with us, you become part of this journey, and for that, we offer a heartfelt "Koutau Nui" – Thank you!

Photo credit: Lionel Gouverneur

GOING DOWN MEMORY LANE… 🌱Located 210 km northeast of Tahiti, the atoll of Makatea exudes a unique “edge of the world” at...
24/09/2024

GOING DOWN MEMORY LANE… 🌱

Located 210 km northeast of Tahiti, the atoll of Makatea exudes a unique “edge of the world” atmosphere.

Rising about 260 feet above the ocean, Makatea was once a thriving island with a peak population of around 3,000 inhabitants. From the 1930s to the 1960s, the island prospered due to its rich phosphate deposits, attracting significant international interest and expertise for phosphate extraction.
This led to Makatea's distinctive industrial development in Polynesia.

Until then largely forgotten by the modern world, the island was transformed with schools, a cinema, religious centers, and various industrial facilities, including a 100-meter metal pier and a railway. These remnants still stand as silent witnesses to Makatea's unique industrial past.

Today, only about 94 inhabitants remain, dedicated to preserving the island's heritage and continuing its unique story.

Makatea is largely isolated and accessible only by sea, enhancing its sense of remoteness. It is often visited as part of specialized tours, such as those offered by the Aranui 5, which provide a glimpse into its rich history and stunning natural environment. 🌿

Visit the Tuamotu archipelago with us in 2026:
https://www.aranui.com/us/sailing-schedule

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Our Story

With an emphasis on soft adventure, history and heritage, the Aranui 5 voyage is an unparalleled cultural immersion experience featuring onboard and offshore experiences such as breathtaking hikes, visits to sacred ritual sites and small museums, encounters with local inhabitants, a visit to French artist Paul Gauguin’s grave, snorkeling in the translucent waters of the atolls, on-island picnics and restaurant lunches, a visit to a pearl farm and more.

The 254-passenger ship offers comfortable, air-conditioned accommodations specially designed with added space for passengers’ comfort and pleasure. Travelers booking a stay aboard the Aranui 5 can choose from eight different cabin categories – Presidential Suite, Royal Suite, Premium Suite, Junior Suite (with or without a balcony), Superior Deluxe, Deluxe, Stateroom and Class C – each providing diverse room configurations.

Public areas on the Aranui 5 include a reception area, casual restaurant, four bars, including the Sky Bar with sweeping panoramic views, two conference rooms, two lounges, library, boutique, outdoor swimming pool, fitness room and spa. The ship also features air conditioning in all passenger areas and indoor public spaces as well as two elevators onboard.