South Pacific, French Polynesia

Tahiti to the Marquesas: French Polynesian Discovery

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Follow in the path of early Polynesian navigators on this epic voyage. From the aquamarine atolls of the Tuamotu Islands to the lush volcanic peaks of the mysterious Marquesas, you’ll visit some of the most remote and compelling sites in the far reaches of French Polynesia. You’ll have the option to continue onboard with us on a relaxing seven-day sea voyage, as we trace the path of master Polynesian navigators and make our way across the equator to Hawai’i.

Highlights

• Venture into the lush tropical forest and discover ancient Polynesian sacred sites on the verdant island of Hiva Oa.

• Snorkel or dive in the Tuamotus, and see abundant fish and thriving coral reef ecosystems.

• Learn stand-up paddleboarding in gorgeous turquoise lagoons.

• Watch on deck as National Geographic Orion navigates into dramatic Hanavave Bay.

DAY 1: Papeete, French Polynesia

Arrive in Papeete, Tahiti early this morning and check into your room at the tropical InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa. Spend the day adjusting to island time and enjoying the resort’s many amenities, or join us for a leisurely afternoon excursion. This evening, connect with your fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail party.

DAY 2: Papeete/Embark

Today, join an island tour and have lunch at a local restaurant before embarking National Geographic Orion. (B,L,D)

DAY 3-4: Tuamotu Archipelago

Spend two days exploring this idyllic archipelago. Experience with all your senses while learning the geological distinction between volcanic islands and atolls. The atoll of Rangiroa is a ring of slender islands known for some of the best diving and snorkeling in French Polynesia. The turquoise lagoon at its center is the second-largest in the world. Visit the village, and kayak, snorkel, and scuba dive in the rich waters here, home to large schools of pelagic fish, manta rays, dolphins, and sea turtles. Snorkelers will revel in the protected reefs of gorgeous Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Conditions permitting, ride the current into the vast lagoon on a world-famous drift dive or snorkel. (B,L,D)

DAY 5-6: At Sea/Fatu Hiva, Marquesas

A relaxing day at sea brings us to one of the most remote and historic island groups on Earth, the Marquesas. One never forgets the first sight of lovely Hanavave Bay, fronting one of the world’s most soul-stirringly beautiful islands-Fatu Hiva. Be sure you’re on deck and camera-armed as we arrive at one of the most storied shorelines in the entire Pacific. Enjoy a warm Polynesian welcome on a visit to a remote village where you’ll see displays of well-made, uniquely Marquesan arts and crafts. Choose a challenging hike through landscapes studded with sculptural granite and stunning flora to a remote waterfall, or Zodiac to the next bay where local transport takes you birdwatching deep in the Omoa Valley. (B,L,D)

DAY 7: Nuku Hiva, Marquesas

If you read Herman Melville’s Typee in prep for your voyage, you’ll thrill doubly to the green-mantled, rugged silhouette of Nuku Hiva, the largest and most imposing of the Marquesas. Visit ancient petroglyphs and witness a spectacular dance performance at a Marquesan me’ae, or hike up the valley with the naturalists and local guides in search of rare birds and spectacular views. Later, sample local foods in the village, and peruse unique arts and crafts. (B,L,D)

DAY 8-9: Hiva Oa, Marquesas/Disembark/Papeete/Home

At Hiva Oa, we plan to land at Atuona. We’ll visit the village of Puamau to explore a well-maintained Marquesan sacred site, a me’ae Iipona. Accompanied by our team and knowledgeable local guides, we’ll learn about religious rites, and photograph one of the largest, most arresting ancient tikis in Polynesia. Choose to end your Polynesia adventure here, and fly back to Papeete, where you’ll connect to your flight home. Or continue: spend seven relaxing days at sea following in the wake of the great Polynesian explorers north to Hawai’i. (Day 8: B,L,D)

Please Note:

All day-by-day breakdowns are a sampling of the places we intend to visit, conditions permitting.

16 May, 2021 to 24 May, 2021 Book now

Category 1

$10,620 AUD pp

These cabins feature an oval window and two single beds, two beds that can be converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed (call for details). You'll find an armchair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Bathrooms are also generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall.

Category 2

$12,880 AUD pp

These roomy cabins feature an oval window and two single beds, two beds that can be converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed (call for details). You'll find an armchair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Bathrooms are also generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall.

Category 3

$14,930 AUD pp

Cat 3 Suite with Window #401-412, 414-419 These suites have a comfortable sofa in the sitting area with a large window and plenty of storage. They have a variety of bed configurations (call for details) plus a writing desk and chair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Modern bathrooms are generously sized with roomy glass-walled shower stall.

Category 1 Solo

$15,850 AUD pp

These solo cabins feature a window or two portholes, a queen-size bed, writing desk and chair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Bathrooms are also generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall

Category 4

$16,480 AUD pp

Cat 4 Deluxe suite with Window #511, 515 - These two suites feature separate sleeping and sitting areas, with a two-seater sofa that looks out a large rectangular window. Beds are configurable. You'll find storage, climate controls, reading lamps, a TV. Modern bathrooms are generously sized with roomy glass-walled shower stall.

Category 5

$19,870 AUD pp

Cat 5 Suite with Balcony #501, 503-506, 508 - These spacious suites feature open living areas and sliding glass doors that open to a private French balcony. Beds are configurable, and you'll find sitting chairs or a couch, a writing desk, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. The bathroom is spacious and has a glass-walled shower.

Category 3 Solo

$22,380 AUD pp

Cat 3S Suite with Window #512 - This solo suite features two beds and a large window, plus a bucket chair and small table, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. The bathroom is spacious and has a glass-walled shower.

Category 6

$23,070 AUD pp

Cat 6 Owner’s suite with Balcony #502, 507, 509*, 510 - These large, owner's suites feature a balcony (Cabin 509 does not have a balcony), a spacious bathroom with a large shower and separate soaking tub with a window, and a large separate living area with a couch and two bucket chairs, plus climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV.

National Geographic Orion

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition

Length: 103 metres

Passenger Capacity: 102 (in 53 cabins)

Built: 2003 / Refurbished 2014

Engineered for maximum comfort and safety, Orion is equipped with the latest technology including large retractable stabilizers, sonar, radar, and an ice-strengthened hull. A shallow draft plus bow and stern thrusters provide the convenience of being able to maneuver close to shore. 14 Zodiacs ensure quick disembarkation and offer the ideal transport for up-close exploration.

National Geographic Orion meets strict specifications for environmental protection and the on board waste management systems meet the stringent Antarctic operational standards enabling us to travel to the most pristine environments. A host of advanced design features and technology ensures sustainable marine environmental practices.

National Geographic Orion accommodates 102 guests in 53 cabins, including several with balconies. She is spacious and modern, with a variety of public rooms that offer panoramic views of the passing landscape. Friendly and informal, Orion fosters a welcoming atmosphere where like-minded guests share in exceptional experiences and enrichment.

Her public rooms include a dramatic window-lined main lounge, as well as an observation lounge and library perched at the very top of the ship, with plentiful observation decks. The spacious lounge is the heart of our expedition community, and is suited for spirited cocktail hours, informative presentations and our nightly tradition of Recap. In addition, a dedicated theater provides a unique setting for specialist presentations or films and slideshows. Both the main dining room and outside buffet easily accommodate all guests at once for open seating dining. On selected nights, weather permitting, our dining room menu is also available on the outside deck.

While Orion interiors are elegant, life aboard is always casual, with no need for formal clothing. And you’ll find shipboard services like laundry, in-room cabled internet, and public-area wifi.

Cabin layout for National Geographic Orion

InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa Extension. From (1820.00 AUD)

Post-trip, 3 days On the isle of Moorea, volcanic peaks rise from sapphire seas in an explosion of emerald-green splendor, creating an arresting backdrop for a French Polynesian escape. Settle into your waterfront accommodation and enjoy a selection of activities with a complimentary $150 resort credit. Kayak, snorkel, and paddleboard among pristine coral reefs, unwind on white-sand beaches, and explore dense tropical forest where bright hibiscus blooms and rare birds roost.

Marquesas to Hawaii Extension. From (1970.00 USD)

Add a 9-day extension to your voyage. Take to the sparkling seas of the Pacific and follow in the path of the ancient Polynesian Wayfinders. Learn about this incredible skill and about the Polynesian people from our onboard Cultural Specialists, Tua Pittman and Christina Thompson. Work with National Geographic Expert (and Native Hawaiian) Keolu Fox to discover more about the links between human genetic variation and disease in underrepresented populations. Learn photography tips from National Geographic Photographer Randy Olson, whose work has focused on disappearing cultures. Spend time on the bridge with our knowledgeable officers and learn about modern day navigation and chart plotting, as you cross the Equator from southern to northern hemispheres. Take time to marvel at the largest body of water on the planet—the Pacific Ocean. Continue north to the Hawaiian Islands and join us for two days exploring the Big Island of Hawaii and the incredible history and nature that embody this paradise. Learn about Captain Cook’s last, fateful visit and explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park along with spectacular Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain in the world.

The Brando, Tetiaroa Extension. From (4575.00 USD)

Pre- or Post-Trip Idyllically sited on the atoll of Tetiaroa, The Brando features a level of quality that more than merits its mystique. Built on land Marlon Brando purchased in the 60’s after falling in love with the region and his Tahitian co-star while shooting Mutiny on the Bounty, and inspired by his original vision, it is an exceptional way to start or cap off any of our South Pacific itineraries. Accessible by a 20-minute private plane ride from Tahiti, the lodge features one- to three-bedroom private villas, set among palm trees, and each with its own plunge pool. It’s a rare chance to enjoy your own private island experience where white sand beaches meet azure seas frequented by sea turtles, manta rays, and exotic birds. Enjoy access to two restaurants that are under the guidance of a Michelin-starred chef. Take advantage of a spa offering holistic treatments set on a pond where Tahitian royalty once gathered to undergo beauty rituals. Or get active with a host of island activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, biking, kite surfing, natural history walks, and much more. Rates (2 night minimum required) Low Season (Apr 1 - Jun 30): $4,575 per villa per night (including taxes) High Season (Jun 30 - Oct 31): $5,130 per villa per night (including taxes) Private Flight Required Air Tetiaroa: $535 per person, round trip

Specials on Tahiti to the Marquesas: French Polynesian Discovery

BOOK 2 OR MORE AND SAVE 10%

Book two or more South Pacific voyages aboard National Geographic Orion and take 10% off each voyage. Savings is applicable to back-to-back or non-consecutive voyages.

$1,200 CREDIT ON SOUTH PACIFIC VOYAGES

Book a South Pacific voyage aboard National Geographic Orion and receive a one-time special saving offer of $1,200 towards the cost of your voyage. Book by Jul. 31, 2019.

FREE BAR TAB AND CREW TIPS INCLUDED

We will cover your bar tab and all tips for the crew on all National Geographic Orion voyages.

SOLO PREMIUM OFFER WAIVED FOR SOLO EXPLORERS

For solo travelers who choose to stay aboard and extend their voyage to Hawai'i, the solo premium will be waived for the entire journey (Categories 1S and 3S only). Book by Dec.31, 2019.

COMPLIMENTARY STAY IN HAWAII

We've also enhanced your experience with three additional complimentary nights in Hawaii. Enjoy three additional nights on Kona after disembarking the National Geographic Orion.

Prices online do not show the discounted rates. Terms and Conditions apply, special offer is subject to availability, please contact us for more details.

Inclusions

Voyage on board in selected cabin category
All meals while on board
Non alcoholic beverages
Experienced expedition team and leader
All excursions
Zodiac and kayak exploration
Snorkeling, including wetsuits, masks, fins & snorkel where relevant
Lectures and presentations on board

Trip specific inclusions;
Alcoholic beverages (Premium brands may be excluded)
Gratuities includedo n NG Orion

Exclusions

International and domestic flights unless otherwise stated
Travel insurance
Passport and visa costs if applicable
Alcoholic beverages on board unless otherwise stated
Gratuities unless otherwise stated
Wifi on board
Any items of a personal nature including laundry
Trip specific exclusions;
Flight as per the itinerary