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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.

THE BEST ANTIDOTE!Traveling to the Marquesas Islands is an opportunity to experience an untouched paradise that combines...
10/09/2024

THE BEST ANTIDOTE!

Traveling to the Marquesas Islands is an opportunity to experience an untouched paradise that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and a sense of belonging that is increasingly rare in today's world. 🌎
It is simply the best antidote to the stressed pace we live in. Haere mai! Join us onboard the Aranui 5 for an adventure that will change your life!

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

NEED ANY MORE REASONS TO JOIN US?Certainly, the islands are breathtaking. But what makes the Marquesas islands all the m...
09/09/2024

NEED ANY MORE REASONS TO JOIN US?

Certainly, the islands are breathtaking. But what makes the Marquesas islands all the more special and unique is the people!

The Marquesans are known for their hospitality. When you travel with us, you are welcomed into the community and invited to participate in local customs and festivities. This warmth adds to the overall experience, making the journey to the Marquesas even more memorable.

You may think you've seen it all, but nothing truly prepares you for the rush of emotions that comes with encountering the mystical Marquesas for the first time. Believeus, it happens to us every time we visit! ✨

The Marquesas break down all defenses—they will steal your heart, just as our dedicated staff and crew will with their infectious joy and passion.

Start planning and take advantage of our specials.
All details on our website: https://www.aranui.com/us/special-offers

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

WHY VISIT THE MARQUESAS ISLANDS? 🏝️ #3 - Adventure and ExplorationThe Marquesas are perfect for adventurers. The islands...
06/09/2024

WHY VISIT THE MARQUESAS ISLANDS? 🏝️

#3 - Adventure and Exploration
The Marquesas are perfect for adventurers. The islands offer opportunities for hiking, exploring ancient archaeological sites, and discovering hidden tikis.
Each of our expeditions is expertly led by our skilled multilingual team, offering travelers rich insights into the culture, history, and spirituality of the area. ✨

Photo credit: Rani Chaves

05/09/2024

WHY VISIT THE MARQUESAS ISLANDS?

#2 - Rich Polynesian Culture
The Marquesas have a vibrant Polynesian culture with a deep history and strong traditions. The locals are proud of their heritage, which is reflected in their art, dance, music, and tattoos. 🌿
Visiting these islands allows travelers to immerse themselves in an authentic cultural experience that remains relatively unchanged by modern influences.

THE MANY REASONS TO JOIN US FOR A MARQUESAS EXPEDITION… 🛳️Our love story with the Marquesas Islands goes back 40 years! ...
04/09/2024

THE MANY REASONS TO JOIN US FOR A MARQUESAS EXPEDITION… 🛳️

Our love story with the Marquesas Islands goes back 40 years! Yes… for 40 years, we have guided travelers to this remote corner of not only Polynesia but the world. And there are so many reasons to visit Te Henua Enana… Follow along this week as we share some of the many reasons we love the Marquesas!

#1 – The unspoiled natural beauty
The Marquesas Islands are among the most remote and unspoiled archipelagos in the world. The islands feature dramatic landscapes with rugged mountains, deep valleys, and towering cliffs that plunge into the ocean. The lush greenery and lack of large-scale development mean that everyone can experience nature in its purest form. ⛰️

Photo credit: Rani Chaves

ANY PLANS FOR 2026? 🛳️Our 2026 itineraries are out! Start planning now and take advantage of our best offers.In store fo...
03/09/2024

ANY PLANS FOR 2026? 🛳️

Our 2026 itineraries are out! Start planning now and take advantage of our best offers.
In store for you: our signature expeditions to the stunning Marquesas islands, our Austral islands expeditions and a 5-day program to the luminous Tuamotu archipelago.
Take advantage of a 10% discount on most of our Marquesas itineraries and 15% off on our Austral islands programs.

Photo credit: Rani Chaves

A LAND OF ARTISTS.The Marquesas Islands are renowned for their incredible carving traditions, where skilled artisans tra...
28/08/2024

A LAND OF ARTISTS.

The Marquesas Islands are renowned for their incredible carving traditions, where skilled artisans transform wood, bone, and stone into stunning works of art. These intricate carvings are not just beautiful; they are rich in cultural significance, often depicting ancestral symbols, deities, and stories passed down through generations.
Explore the masterful craftsmanship and deep cultural heritage of Marquesan carving. Each piece tells a story of the islands' vibrant history and the enduring spirit of its people.🖤

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME! “A highlight of Aranui sailings are the onboard lectures by a local expert. On our voyage to the...
27/08/2024

THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME!
 
“A highlight of Aranui sailings are the onboard lectures by a local expert. On our voyage to the Australs, we traveled with a Tahitian doctorate-level ethnologist who had lived on several of the islands in our voyage and had written extensively about the cultural practices of their people. Her fascinating lectures and warm presence on shore excursions added a certain depth to an already soul-fueling journey.”

Find the full article from journalist Scott Laird for Conde Nast Traveler:
https://www.aranui.com/en/blog/conde-nast-traveler-aranui-v-offers-a-cruise-like-few-others-in-the-world (https://www.aranui.com/en/blog/conde-nast-traveler-aranui-v-offers-a-cruise-like-few-others-in-the-world)

 

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME!“A highlight of Aranui sailings are the onboard lectures by a local expert. On our voyage to the ...
27/08/2024

THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME!

“A highlight of Aranui sailings are the onboard lectures by a local expert. On our voyage to the Australs, we traveled with a Tahitian doctorate-level ethnologist who had lived on several of the islands in our voyage and had written extensively about the cultural practices of their people. Her fascinating lectures and warm presence on shore excursions added a certain depth to an already soul-fueling journey.”

Find the full article from journalist Scott Laird for Conde Nast Traveler:
https://www.aranui.com/en/blog/conde-nast-traveler-aranui-v-offers-a-cruise-like-few-others-in-the-world

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

THE SWEET SIDE OF LIFE 🍫In the heart of the Marquesas Islands, the rich volcanic soil and tropical climate create the pe...
26/08/2024

THE SWEET SIDE OF LIFE 🍫

In the heart of the Marquesas Islands, the rich volcanic soil and tropical climate create the perfect conditions for cultivating some of the finest cacao.

From bean to bar, experience the unique flavors of Marquesan cacao and support the local communities who are keeping this delicious tradition alive. Indulge in the taste of paradise! ✨

Photo credit: Poumaka

TAMA’A MAITAI! 🍽️Enjoy delicious meals inspired by Polynesian ingredients while cruising with us. Our expeditions offer ...
23/08/2024

TAMA’A MAITAI! 🍽️

Enjoy delicious meals inspired by Polynesian ingredients while cruising with us. Our expeditions offer a culinary experience that will delight your taste buds with fresh, local ingredients and traditional dishes.
Bon appétit!

Photo credit: Lionel Gouverneur

ON THE UNESCO LIST ⭐️It is official! The Marquesas will be joining the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Sites List. 🌎Ac...
20/08/2024

ON THE UNESCO LIST ⭐️

It is official! The Marquesas will be joining the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Sites List. 🌎
According to a UN organization, the Marquesas Islands provide an exceptional testimony to their "territorial occupation by a human civilization that arrived by sea around the year 1000 CE and developed on these isolated islands between the 10th and 19th centuries."
Join us to explore these unique treasures: https://www.aranui.com/en/why-choose-aranui

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

HAPPY MONDAY! There's nothing like watching the sunset over the vast ocean from the deck of Aranui. Feel the gentle bree...
19/08/2024

HAPPY MONDAY!

There's nothing like watching the sunset over the vast ocean from the deck of Aranui. Feel the gentle breeze, listen to the waves, and let the beauty of the South Pacific wash over you. Pure bliss.

Join us!
https://www.aranui.com/en/special-offers

BLENDED!Tahitian tattoos are crafted with precision and deep meaning. From symbols representing nature to motifs of prot...
15/08/2024

BLENDED!

Tahitian tattoos are crafted with precision and deep meaning. From symbols representing nature to motifs of protection and strength, each tatau is a unique masterpiece. Thinking of getting inked?
We’ve got your covered! Let our onboard Tatau experts guide you through the process.

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

THE LEGACY OF “TATAU”Did you know? Tahitian tattoos, known as "tatau," are more than just body art. They are a powerful ...
13/08/2024

THE LEGACY OF “TATAU”

Did you know? Tahitian tattoos, known as "tatau," are more than just body art. They are a powerful expression of identity, history, and social status. Each intricate design tells a story and connects the wearer to their roots.

Traditionally, tattoos were a rite of passage, marking significant life events. Today, the tradition continues, blending ancient patterns with modern flair.

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

OUR 2026 PROGRAMS ARE OUT! 🛳️Yes! You can start planning and take advantage of our specials NOW.All details on our websi...
12/08/2024

OUR 2026 PROGRAMS ARE OUT! 🛳️

Yes! You can start planning and take advantage of our specials NOW.
All details on our website: https://www.aranui.com/en/sailing-schedule

Photo credit: Tahiti Tourisme

TEAHUPO’O – A SURF MECCA 🌊This small village that many locals call “the end of the road” is located on the southwest coa...
06/08/2024

TEAHUPO’O – A SURF MECCA 🌊

This small village that many locals call “the end of the road” is located on the southwest coast of Tahiti.
Its name resonates strongly within the global surfing community. Known for its colossal and perilous waves, Teahupo'o is both a revered and feared destination for surfers. Beyond its waves, the village embodies a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and environmental significance. 🌎

Teahupo'o is known as the enclave of one of the world's heaviest and most dangerous waves. This wave, characterized by its thick, hollow barrels, breaks over a sharp, shallow coral reef, creating a spectacle of raw ocean power.
The wave’s formation is a result of deep ocean swells traveling across the Pacific, gaining energy before colliding with the reef. This interaction crafts the distinctive, powerful wave that has become a benchmark for big wave surfing.

Despite its fame in the surfing world, Teahupo'o remains a tranquil and traditional Polynesian village. The local community lives in harmony with the natural world, maintaining a deep connection to the ocean. Visitors to Teahupo'o are often charmed by the village’s serene beauty, lush landscapes, and the warm hospitality of its residents. The cultural heritage of the people is closely tied to the sea, reflected in their daily lives and traditions.

Photo credit: Danee Hazama 📸

ART RESIDENCY AT SEA... 🎨July was a month filled with festivities with the Heiva i Tahiti, the Surf Olympics, and the un...
05/08/2024

ART RESIDENCY AT SEA... 🎨

July was a month filled with festivities with the Heiva i Tahiti, the Surf Olympics, and the unveiling of Aranui V’s refreshed look for our 40th anniversary. 🛳️
We are also thrilled to announce our new partnership with Raw Tahiti.
Raw Tahiti is a pioneering social enterprise dedicated to promoting the arts and contemporary artists of French Polynesia.
Raw Tahiti and Aranui are delighted to announce a new partnership starting in 2025. This collaboration will introduce the ART’ A NUI traveling residencies, a groundbreaking initiative in French Polynesia.
As part of this innovative project, Raw Tahiti will coordinate the boarding and stay of artists from its collective for two annual sessions aboard the Aranui V, on their Marquesas expeditions. ✨

A NEW LOOK FOR A SPECIAL OCCASION... 🐬As we celebrate 40 years of incredible journeys and the Surf Olympics in Teahupo’o...
02/08/2024

A NEW LOOK FOR A SPECIAL OCCASION... 🐬

As we celebrate 40 years of incredible journeys and the Surf Olympics in Teahupo’o, we’re excited to reveal the stunning makeover of the Aranui 5!

For this special occasion, we partnered with artists from ONO’U, one of the largest annual international graffiti and street art festivals in the Pacific, held in Pape’ete, Tahiti.

The new designs are vibrant and beautifully capture the essence of our islands and the natural splendor of our environment.🏝️

Take a look for yourself and let us know what you think!

Photo credit: Ono’u

ADVENTURES THAT FILL THE HEART… 💙Travels connect us to different lands, people and culture… Our expeditions are the link...
31/07/2024

ADVENTURES THAT FILL THE HEART… 💙

Travels connect us to different lands, people and culture…
Our expeditions are the link between the most spectacular and isolated islands and the world.
“It is possible to fly to most of the islands, but this is expensive and quite restrictive, so the best way is via ship. I joined the Aranui 5 on a 12-day round trip from Tahiti to the Marquesan archipelago and found this to be the perfect way to enjoy what the islands have to offer while also managing to kick back and relax.
What’s also interesting about the Aranui 5 is that it is part-freight, and part-passenger ship, so at each stop huge containers are unloaded bringing the islanders essential supplies – a supply line you are helping to keep open by being a paying passenger.”

The full article from Gaydio UK is available on our website:
https://www.aranui.com/en/blog/gaydio-some-of-the-remotest-islands-on-earth-visiting-the-marquesas-aboard-the-aranui5/

MORE THAN OVERWATER BUNGALOWS ... 🏝️The Islands of Tahiti are known for their overwater bungalows and crystal-clear lago...
30/07/2024

MORE THAN OVERWATER BUNGALOWS ... 🏝️

The Islands of Tahiti are known for their overwater bungalows and crystal-clear lagoons… But there is a whole other world beyond that…
Break from the cliché and join us on the adventure of a lifetime to the breathtaking Marquesas Islands.
Aranui 5 is an invitation to go beyond…
Start here: https://www.aranui.com/en/marquesas-islands/

Photo credit: Rani Chaves

TRAVEL & LEARN… 🌎Onboard our expeditions, we are happy and proud to introduce you to fascinating guest lecturers. The Ma...
29/07/2024

TRAVEL & LEARN… 🌎

Onboard our expeditions, we are happy and proud to introduce you to fascinating guest lecturers. The Marquesas Islands have a rich history and strong traditions. Learn all about those thanks to the knowledge shared on each voyage. Because there is so much more than the beach and lagoon… 🌊

https://www.aranui.com/en/lecturers/

Photo credit: Lionel Gouverneur

LANDING ON THE CRESCENT MOON… 🌙Welcome to Rapa! It's the southernmost island in the Austral archipelago, known for its u...
25/07/2024

LANDING ON THE CRESCENT MOON… 🌙

Welcome to Rapa!
It's the southernmost island in the Austral archipelago, known for its unique crescent shape and extreme remoteness.
Unlike other islands in the archipelago, Rapa Iti can only be reached by sea; there are no airports due to the elders' decision to preserve their home from outside influences.

This isolation has fostered a distinct culture and a unique dialect spoken nowhere else. Despite its small population of approximately 500 people, Rapa Iti is renowned for having some of the happiest inhabitants in the world. 🌎

Explore Rapa with us: https://www.aranui.com/en/austral-islands/

Photo credit: Tom Folks / Lionel Gouverneur

A FEAST FOR EYES AND SOUL… 🌎From sunrise to stargazing at night, a day on Aranui 5 is packed with the perfect blend of a...
22/07/2024

A FEAST FOR EYES AND SOUL… 🌎

From sunrise to stargazing at night, a day on Aranui 5 is packed with the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Unleash your wanderlust heart and let’s meet on the Aranui 5 for the expedition of a lifetime.

Photo credit: Lionel Gouverneur

INVOLVED ... 🌎At Aranui Cruises, sustainability is at the heart of what we do. Discover how we minimize our environmenta...
18/07/2024

INVOLVED ... 🌎

At Aranui Cruises, sustainability is at the heart of what we do.
Discover how we minimize our environmental impact while exploring the pristine South Pacific:
https://www.aranui.com/en/why-choose-aranui

Photo credit: Lionel Gouverneur

CHOOSE AUTHENTICITY… 🌅Aranui Cruises operates a unique hybrid vessel, providing vital supplies to remote islands while o...
17/07/2024

CHOOSE AUTHENTICITY… 🌅

Aranui Cruises operates a unique hybrid vessel, providing vital supplies to remote islands while offering passengers an unparalleled travel experience.
We have been operating for 40 years! We would love to share our passion with you! ✨ Join us!
https://www.aranui.com/en/special-offers

Photo credit: Lionel Gouverneur

OUR 2026 PROGRAMS ARE OUT! 🛳️Yes! Start planning and take advantage of our specials deals and promotions. We hope to see...
17/07/2024

OUR 2026 PROGRAMS ARE OUT! 🛳️

Yes! Start planning and take advantage of our specials deals and promotions. We hope to see you soon! 👋🏼
All details on our website: https://www.aranui.com/en/sailing-schedule

Photo credit: Lionel Gouverneur

SHARING A DREAM… 💭A dream of beauty woven in the authentic fabric of the islands… When you travel with us, you immerse i...
12/07/2024

SHARING A DREAM… 💭

A dream of beauty woven in the authentic fabric of the islands…
When you travel with us, you immerse into a world beyond the guide books and bucket lists… You become part of the ever unfolding story of our company and islands.

No one ever returns the same… This is our promise. ✨
Join us: https://www.aranui.com/en/why-choose-aranui

Video: Lionel Gouverneur

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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.