Neighboring the storied islands of Tahiti and Bora Bora lies the coveted diving destination of Rangiroa, the steep volcanic cliffs and remarkable grottoes of Makatea, and the ancient Polynesian cultural site of Marae Taputapuātea on Ra'iatea. On an incredible expedition to one of the last places on Earth to be settled by humans, discover iconic tropical landscapes, ancient cultural sites, and an extraordinary undersea world.
Arrive in Papeete and transfer directly to National Geographic Orion for embarkation. While in port this morning, take some time to freshen up and settle into your cabin as we prepare to depart. Alternatively, choose to walk around downtown Papeete and visit the central market where vendors sell fresh fruit, pareos, art and coveted black pearls. Join us for lunch aboard and be on deck as we set sail from Tahiti toward the Tuamotu Archipelago. This afternoon, meet the staff and fellow travelers and settle into island time.
Arrival Time: Arrive by 6:00 a.m.
Arrival City: Papeete, Tahiti
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
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. Kayak, snorkel, and scuba dive in the rich waters here, home to large schools of pelagic fish, manta rays, dolphins, and sea turtles.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
An uplifted coral atoll, the island of Makatea is one of the most unique landforms in the Pacific. A makatea is a raised coral atoll that is tilted due to plate tectonics and appears much different than the other islands in the region, containing spectacular, vertical cliffs. This specific island of Makatea gives its name to all other uplifted coral atolls worldwide. Spend the day with your local guides and your expedition team in search of endemic fruit doves and a myriad of seabirds before exploring a nearby cave and swimming among the stalagmites and stalactites of the island's grotto.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Encircled by a single fringing reef, and sharing a common lagoon, Ra'iatea and Taha'a are islands well worth exploring. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Marae Taputapuātea on Ra'iatea is one of the most important cultural sites in the Polynesian world. The centuries-old complex was a center for Polynesian seafarers and the location from which they set out for Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Hawaii, and New Zealand. Our afternoon is spent at Taha'a where we visit a family-run vanilla plantation and spend time snorkeling in the crystalline lagoons where we encounter black-tipped reef sharks.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After disembarking, you may choose to walk around downtown Papeete and visit the central market where vendors sell fresh fruit, pareos, artwork, and coveted black pearls. A hotel room will also be available for you to rest and refresh before transferring to the airport for your flight home.
Departure Time: Depart after 9:00 p.m.
Departure City: Papeete, Tahiti
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Itineraries are subject to change.
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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.
Bora Bora 4 Day Extension. From (6330.00 AUD)
Transport yourself to one of Bora Bora’s tranquil and picturesque outer motus and fall into island time at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui. Check into a stunning overwater bungalow, surrounded by turquoise waters and lush tropical gardens, and explore as much (or as little) as you choose during this three-night stay. Discover the resort’s pristine beaches, browse the treatment menu in the resorts renowned spa, or luxuriate in the comfort of your own private bungalow, all while taking in the incredible views of Bora Bora’s Mount Otemanu.