Ponant

Daily Itinerary

1. Day 1

   Papeete

   Depart 18:00

   French Polynesia

   

   Papeete is the spirited, slightly ragged capital of French Polynesia — not the languorous paradise of travel-poster imagination, but a working harbour city of fresh produce markets, baguette bakeries, and Tahitian outrigger canoe clubs that provides an authentic counterpoint to the pearl-still lagoons of Bora Bora and Moorea nearby. The daily Marché de Papeete is the city's essential experience, its stalls piling high with vanilla pods, monoi-scented oils, black pearls, and the most exuberant floral arrangements in the Pacific. Moorea, visible across the Sea of the Moon and just 30 minutes by fast ferry, offers a dramatically quieter alternative. The dry season, May through October, brings the finest weather.

2. Day 2

   Moorea

   Depart 17:30

   French Polynesia

   

   Moorea is a volcanic island in French Polynesia, separated from Tahiti by a narrow channel known as the Sea of the Moon, celebrated for its twin cathedral-like bays, jagged emerald peaks, and lagoons of almost surreal turquoise clarity. Visitors should not miss savouring authentic *poisson cru* at a beachside roulotte and exploring Ōpūnohu Bay by outrigger canoe or guided hiking trail. The ideal season to visit is May through October — the dry, austral winter — when skies are reliably clear, humidity is gentle, and humpback whales pass through the surrounding waters on their annual migration.

3. Day 3

   Makatea Atoll, Tuamotu Islands

   Arrive 06:30Depart 21:30

   French Polynesia

   

   Makatea is a dramatically raised atoll in the Tuamotus with seventy-metre limestone cliffs, haunting phosphate mining ruins being reclaimed by tropical forest, and world-class rock climbing on sculpted limestone walls. Must-do experiences include climbing the spectacular cliffs, exploring the post-industrial ruins, and swimming in cave pools with prehistoric petroglyphs. May through October offers the driest and most comfortable conditions for this remote Pacific destination.

4. Day 4

   Rangiroa

   Arrive 06:30Depart 12:30

   French Polynesia

   

   Rangiroa is the world's second-largest coral atoll, a ring of palm-fringed islets in French Polynesia's Tuamotus encircling a lagoon vast enough to contain Tahiti. Visitors must drift-dive or snorkel Tiputa Pass for sharks and dolphins, visit the surreal Blue Lagoon and Pink Sands beach, and savour poisson cru in a Polynesian pension. May through October offers calm diving conditions, while January-March brings hammerhead sharks.

5. Day 5

   At Sea

   

6. Day 6

   Hakahau, Ua Pou Island

   Arrive 10:30Depart 22:00

   French Polynesia

   

   Ua Pou is a Marquesas Island crowned by twelve volcanic pinnacles — the "Cathedral of the Marquesas" — reaching over 1,200 metres, with the village of Hakahau at its base. Must-dos include admiring unique flower-stone carvings found nowhere else on Earth, watching traditional Marquesan dance performances, and diving the volcanic drop-offs. July through December offers the driest conditions for visiting this dramatic, uncommercialised Polynesian island.

7. Day 7

   Hatiheu, Nuku Hiva

   Arrive 06:30Depart 18:00

   French Polynesia

   

   Hatiheu is a remote village on Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas Islands, set in a dramatic volcanic bay surrounded by basalt spires and home to some of the Pacific's most impressive pre-European archaeological sites. Must-dos include exploring the ancient tohua ceremonial platforms, experiencing a traditional umu earth-oven feast, and swimming in the reef-free bay. July through December offers the driest weather for visiting this profoundly authentic Polynesian destination.

8. Day 8

   Taiohae

   Depart 18:00

   French Polynesia

   

   Taiohae, French Polynesia, epitomizes the Pacific island dream—pristine waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a Polynesian or Melanesian culture that welcomes visitors with authentic warmth. Essential experiences include snorkeling the surrounding reefs and participating in traditional community gatherings. Best visited year-round, though the drier months from May to October tend to offer the most comfortable conditions. Cruise lines including Holland America Line feature this port on their most compelling itineraries. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, the port rewards exploration at every pace and in every direction.

9. Day 9

   Ua Huka

   Depart 19:00

   French Polynesia

   

   Ua Huka is the least-visited inhabited Marquesan island, renowned for its master woodcarvers, endangered ultramarine lorikeets, and deeply preserved Polynesian traditions maintained by just 700 residents. Essential experiences include visiting the woodcarving workshops and Musée Communal, tasting goat roasted in traditional ahima'a earth ovens, and observing wild horses on the volcanic plateau. The drier months from May to October offer the most comfortable conditions for exploring this remote Pacific outpost.

10. Day 10

    Hanaiapa

    Arrive 13:45Depart 19:00

    French Polynesia

    

    Hanaiapa is a tiny bay settlement on the wild northeast coast of Hiva Oa in the Marquesas, where towering volcanic ridges meet a crystalline bay frequented by manta rays and spinner dolphins. Must-do experiences include tasting freshly prepared poisson cru from outrigger-caught fish, exploring ancient Marquesan me'ae ceremonial platforms, and visiting Paul Gauguin's grave in nearby Atuona. May through October offers the driest conditions for this weather-dependent expedition destination.

11. Day 10

    Hiva Oa

    Arrive 06:00Depart 12:00

    French Polynesia

    

    Hiva Oa in the Marquesas Islands is the remote Pacific island where Gauguin and Jacques Brel chose to spend their final years, drawn by volcanic landscapes of razor ridges and black-sand bays that remain among the most dramatic in Polynesia. Must-dos include the Calvaire Cemetery, the Puamau archaeological tiki, and tasting Marquesan goat stew with breadfruit. May through October's dry season offers the best conditions for exploring this extraordinarily isolated paradise.

12. Day 11

    Hanavave (Fatu Hiva)

    Arrive 13:15Depart 22:00

    French Polynesia

    

    Hanavave on Fatu Hiva is the most remote village in the Marquesas, set in the legendary Bay of Virgins — a volcanic harbor of breathtaking beauty where traditional Polynesian tapa cloth production and tattooing arts endure. Must-dos include anchoring in the Bay of Virgins, witnessing tapa cloth being beaten from bark, and tasting breadfruit prepared in traditional styles. Visit July to October for the driest weather, accessible by expedition ship or the Aranui 5.

13. Day 11

    Omoa

    Arrive 06:30Depart 12:00

    French Polynesia

    

    Omoa, French Polynesia, epitomizes the Pacific island dream—pristine waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a Polynesian or Melanesian culture that welcomes visitors with authentic warmth. Essential experiences include snorkeling the surrounding reefs and participating in traditional community gatherings. Best visited May through September, when drier conditions prevail and temperatures remain pleasant. Cruise lines including Paul Gauguin Cruises feature this port on their most compelling itineraries. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, the port rewards exploration at every pace and in every direction.

14. Day 12

    Hapatoni, Tahuata, Marquesas Islands

    Arrive 06:00Depart 12:00

    French Polynesia

    

    Hapatoni, Tahuata, Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia, epitomizes the Pacific island dream—pristine waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a Polynesian or Melanesian culture that welcomes visitors with authentic warmth. Essential experiences include snorkeling the surrounding reefs and participating in traditional community gatherings. Best visited year-round, though the drier months from May to October tend to offer the most comfortable conditions. Cruise lines including Paul Gauguin Cruises feature this port on their most compelling itineraries. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, the port rewards exploration at every pace and in every direction.

15. Day 13

    At Sea

    

16. Day 14

    Fakarava, French Polynesia

    Arrive 07:00Depart 11:00

    French Polynesia

    

    Fakarava is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve atoll in French Polynesia's Tuamotu Archipelago, offering some of the world's most spectacular diving — including drift dives through shark-filled passes — and pristine pink-sand beaches. Must-dos include diving the Garuae "wall of sharks," visiting a black pearl farm, and stargazing from an uninhabited motu. April through November brings the driest weather, with June and July featuring the legendary grouper spawning.

17. Day 15

    Papeete

    Arrive 07:30

    French Polynesia

    

    Papeete is the spirited, slightly ragged capital of French Polynesia — not the languorous paradise of travel-poster imagination, but a working harbour city of fresh produce markets, baguette bakeries, and Tahitian outrigger canoe clubs that provides an authentic counterpoint to the pearl-still lagoons of Bora Bora and Moorea nearby. The daily Marché de Papeete is the city's essential experience, its stalls piling high with vanilla pods, monoi-scented oils, black pearls, and the most exuberant floral arrangements in the Pacific. Moorea, visible across the Sea of the Moon and just 30 minutes by fast ferry, offers a dramatically quieter alternative. The dry season, May through October, brings the finest weather.

Cabin Categories

Deluxe Stateroom

Balcony

204 sq ftMax 2D

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV A bathroom with shower A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs A glazed panoramic swing door and rectangular window

King or Twin ConfigurationShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTVFree Wi-Fi+11

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Prestige Deck 4

Suite

409 sq ftMax 46

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) One chaise longue A bathroom with shower A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door

King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableButler Service+14

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Prestige Deck 5

balcony

7

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) One chaise longue A bathroom with shower A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door

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Prestige Deck 6

balcony

8

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) One chaise longue A bathroom with shower A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door

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Deluxe Suite Deck 3

Suite

290 sq ftMax 31

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm) A bathroom with shower A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs A glazed panoramic swing door and panoramic window

King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTV+13

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Deluxe Suite Deck 4

Suite

290 sq ftMax 32

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm) A bathroom with shower A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs A panoramic slidging bay window

King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTV+13

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Deluxe Suite Deck 5

Suite

290 sq ftMax 33

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Champagne and fruit basket on arrival One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm) A bathroom with shower A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs A panoramic sliding bay window

King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTV+13

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Deluxe Suite Deck 6

Suite

290 sq ftMax 34

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Champagne and fruit basket on arrival One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm) A bathroom with shower A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs A panoramic sliding bay window

King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTV+13

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Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6

Suite

484 sq ftMax 45

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation) Champagne and fruit basket on arrival Butler service An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day A bedroom with one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A lounge with sofa convetible to a double bed (160 x 190 cm), armchair, and second TV A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub A private 32 m² terrace with two deckchairs and four-seater dining table 2 panoramic sliding bay windows

King or Twin ConfigurationShowerToiletries ProvidedFree Wi-FiSafeHair Dryer+14

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Owner's Suite

Suite

484 sq ftMax 4OS

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Private return transfer Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation) Champagne and fruit basket on arrival Butler service An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day A lounge with armchair, double sofa bed (160 x 190 cm), and second TV A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A bathroom with shower, Balneo bathtub and smart mirror A one-hour spa treatments per person (for 2 people) in the well-being space, chosen from the facial and body treatments on offer Included premium pass: access to a selection of premium spirits at the bar A private 40 m² terrace: 2 deckchairs, jacuzzi, and outdoor lounge area with sofa and armchair Two panoramic sliding bay windows

King or Twin ConfigurationShowerBathToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableButler Service+15

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Prestige Deck 5 Suite

suite

9

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Champagne and fruit basket on arrival An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, second TV, and sliding courtesy door Two bathrooms with shower A private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs Two panoramic sliding bay windows

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Prestige Deck 6 Suite

suite

10

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation) Champagne and fruit basket on arrival Butler service An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair A bathroom with shower A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs A panoramic sliding bay window

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Privilege Suite Deck 5

Suite

344 sq ftMax 311

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation) Butler service One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair A bathroom with shower A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs A panoramic sliding bay window

King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedButler ServiceTV+14

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Privilege Suite Deck 6

Suite

344 sq ftMax 312

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation) Champagne and fruit basket on arrival Butler service An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, second TV, and sliding courtesy door Two bathrooms with shower A private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs Two panoramic sliding bay windows

King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedButler ServiceTV+14

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