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Peregrine Travel Centre

Pearls of Polynesia – Island Hopping in French Polynesia

Pearls of Polynesia – Island Hopping in French Polynesia

From GBP £9,795

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Description

Join us aboard the MS Island Sky and discover the idyllic islands of French Polynesia as we uncover their history and legends and visit some of the most captivating islands in the world. The beauty of the islands exceeds everyone’s expectations. They are as sensuous as the paintings of Gauguin, more adventurous than the tales of Robert Louis Stevenson and more romantic than James Michener’s fabled Bali Hai.
The name Polynesia means ‘many islands’ and no one could argue with the suitability of this title. There are islands of low lying coral with some of the most stunning beaches in the world and contrasting volcanic mountainous landscapes of lush, incomparable beauty. Welcoming others is sacred to Polynesians and that will be evident as we island hop through the region experiencing the genuine warmth of the people as we learn more about their fascinating culture and heritage. Visiting the villages and meeting the locals who have preserved many of their traditional customs and values is a truly memorable experience.
Our island hopping expedition begins and concludes in Tahiti, the iconic island of the Pacific dream. Envision if you will the evocative paintings of Paul Gauguin, a Paris stockbroker who ditched it all to pursue his art in Tahiti. Gauguin’s images of exuberant outdoor settings with vivid lagoons and statuesque palms will become the backdrop of your first days in paradise. We will also discover the volcanic Marquesas Islands and the beauty of the Tuamotu Islands which constitute the largest chain of coral atolls in the world. Our days will be spent on nature walks, searching for endemic birds such as the Tuamotu sandpiper, beachcombing, snorkelling or swimming from the pristine beaches, interacting with the locals and learning about their way of life and traditional handicrafts or, simply experiencing some of the most pristine tropical scenery to be found anywhere in the world.
An expedition such as this requires a vessel akin to the MS Island Sky with the ability to adapt to her surroundings and land on remote atolls using the fleet of Zodiac landing craft whilst providing a comfortable base. We will explore inlets, lagoons and land in otherwise inaccessible places and although we set sail with a set itinerary, it is often the unscheduled events that become the highlight. We will be joined on board by an expert expedition team, consisting of naturalists and marine biologists who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during forays ashore and whilst on board.

Trip Name
Pearls of Polynesia - Island Hopping in French Polynesia
Days
15
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Small Ship Length: 90 metres Passenger Capacity: 116  Built / refurbished: 1992 / 2010 / 2017 Sister ship to Hebridean Sky. Island Sky and Hebridean Sky are truly sisters. Built in the same Italian Shipyard, both boast spacious, well-appointed suites, stylish common areas, and redundant core technology that allows them to operate smoothly, even under the most challenging of conditions. Both ships are all-suite, all-inclusive small expedition vessels with touches of elegance throughout. The Island Sky is scheduled for additional upgrades in 2017, including the addition of tinted sliding glass doors to all cabins on the Promenade Deck. Services: World-Class Cuisine Complimentary Wine or Beer with Dinner Live Entertainment Complimentary Coffee/Tea station Voyage Photographer On-board MD and Facilities Dedicated Passenger Service Manager Pre-voyage hotel night Complimentary Expedition Jacket Facilities: Elevator serving all passenger decks Upgraded WIFI Internet Library with computers Panoramic Top Deck Observation Platform Bar/Lounge with Live Entertainment Lounge with Audiovisual Facilities DVD Movie Library Tinted sliding glass doors in all cabins on the Promenade Deck World-Class Cuisine: Great expeditions require great food! Our team of world-class chefs offer breakfast, lunch and dinner menus that change daily. They have boat-loads of creativity, so you are sure to experience a variety of remarkable cuisine throughout your voyage. Accommodations: All Suites Feature: Exterior views Your choice of queen-sized or two twin-sized beds Sitting area with sofa and side chair Flat Screen TV with DVD/CD player Telephone Independent temperature controls Mini-Bar Marble-appointed bathroom with fine toiletries Hair dryer 220 square feet or more Sofa can be converted to bed for third person PLEASE NOTE - DECK PLANS CAN VARY.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 London to Tahiti, French Polynesia.
Fly by scheduled flight via Los Angeles.
Day 2 - Day 2 Tahiti.
Arrive this morning and transfer directly to the MS Island Sky which will be moored in Papeete. Sail later today.
Day 3 - Day 3 Rangiroa, Tuamotu Islands.
As one of the world’s largest coral atolls, Rangiroa, whose name translates into “vast sky”, has a magnificent lagoon surrounded by small islets or motus, stretching as far as the eye can see. Arriving in the mid-morning we will have time to enjoy our first snorkel or swim, join our birder for a nature walk, visit the island’s black pearl farms or wander through the enchanting local village of Avatoru.
Day 4 - Day 4 Manihi.
Spend the morning at the idyllic atoll of Manihi. It was here, in the inner lagoon, that black pearls were first farmed in Tahiti and we have the chance to visit a farm to learn about the growing process. Alternatively enjoy a swim in the clear waters, snorkel over the coral reefs where we may see manta rays and tropical fish or meet the islanders and shop for local crafts in the colourful village of Turipaoa. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at sea.
Day 5 - Day 5 At Sea.
Enjoy a day relaxing on the sun deck and join a lecture in the lounge as we sail north.
Day 6 - Day 6 Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands.
Arrive in the Marquesas Islands, far removed from the rest of the South Pacific in everything from language and culture to geology. Nuka Hiva is the largest of the islands and the island group’s economic capital. Here, we will immerse ourselves in local culture and geography. Traditional Marquesan dancers will welcome us to their village and we will visit the archaeological centres at Kamuihei and Hikoku’a and see the temples, petroglyphs and tiki. Meanwhile a series of island walks will focus on the flora and fauna of the island whilst there will also be an opportunity to swim from the beaches.
Day 7 - Day 7 Hiva Oa & Tahuata.
This morning will be dedicated to Gauguin, iconic artist of the South Pacific. We will visit the museum which offers a permanent exhibition of his works and make a pilgrimage to his final resting place in the cemetery perched high on a hill overlooking the town. We will soak up the landscape that inspired him to leave it all behind and go native. Over lunch we will sail to the neighbouring island of Tahuata, the smallest inhabited island of the Marquesas which was the first to be visited by Protestant and Catholic missionaries and where the first church in the Marquesas was built. With no airport the island is only accessible by sea and is off the usual tourist trail. We will land this afternoon and explore Hapatoni village, meet the local population and learn about their history and ways of life.
Day 8 - Day 8 Fatu Hiva.
With a landscape of spectacular pinnacles towering over the cobalt Bay of Virgins, Fatu Hiva is one of the most floral and pristine islands. Villagers will perform their traditional dances and demonstrate their handicrafts of wood carvings and tapa making. Afterwards, weather depending, our expedition team will run a series of nature walks either climbing to the viewpoint, searching for birds with our ornithologist or a nature walk to the waterfall. Meanwhile a snorkel platform will be set up for those who wish to swim.
Day 9 - Day 9 At Sea.
Spend a day at sea. Maybe join a lecture or find a spot on deck to relax or watch for wildlife.
Day 10 - Day 10 Raroia, Tuamotus.
Raroia is known for its pearl farming and we will see the strings of oysters all around the local farms. After the traditional welcome to the island including a selection of local fruits and fish, we will have the day to explore on a variety of walks, swim from the beach or snorkel in the beautiful coral garden with parrotfish, angelfish and butterfly fish.
Day 11 - Day 11 Motutunga & Tahanea.
Motutunga Atoll was first sighted by James Cook in 1773 who named it ‘Adventure’ after his own ship. Both Motutunga and Tahanea are uninhabited atolls and offer some of the finest snorkelling in the Tuamotu archipelago. We will be able to see amazing corals and marine life including triggerfish and surgeonfish. At Tahanea there will be another chance to snorkel or alternatively join our birders on a walk to find the endemic Tuamotu sandpiper or our naturalists as we beachcomb.
Day 12 - Day 12 Fakarava.
Spend the day in this protected atoll which, along with its six neighbouring islands, make up a UNESCO classified nature reserve. It has been the home to Robert Louis Stephenson in 1888 and Henri Matisse in 1930 whose art was influenced by the landscape for many years. The local villagers of Rotoava will welcome us and demonstrate their handicrafts and cultural traditions. There will be the chance to sample local delicacies, explore independently, join our naturalists for walks or maybe take the opportunity for a last swim in the clear Polynesian waters.
Day 13 - Day 13 Tahiti to London.
After a morning at sea we arrive into Papeete at lunchtime. Disembark this afternoon and transfer to the airport for the scheduled flight to London via Los Angeles.
Day 14 - Day 14 En Route.
Transit in Los Angeles for our onward flight to London.
Day 15 - Day 15 London.
Arrive today.
Day 16 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
18-10-202601-11-2026GBP £9,795Magellan Deck Standard Suite
18-10-202601-11-2026GBP £10,095Columbus Deck Superior Suite
18-10-202601-11-2026GBP £10,995Marco Polo Deck Premium Suite
18-10-202601-11-2026GBP £10,995Magellan Deck Standard Single
18-10-202601-11-2026GBP £11,295Marco Polo Deck Corner Suite
18-10-202601-11-2026GBP £11,495Columbus Deck Superior Single
18-10-202601-11-2026GBP £11,795Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite
18-10-202601-11-2026GBP £12,295Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite
18-10-202601-11-2026GBP £12,995Explorer Deck Island Suite

Inclusions

    • Explore the pristine beauty and cultural richness of the remote Marquesas Islands, including Nuku Hiva and Fatu Hiva.
    • Discover the vibrant marine life and unspoiled coral reefs of the Tuamotu Islands, with snorkeling opportunities in Raroia and Tahanea.
    • Immerse yourself in Polynesian traditions, from black pearl farming in Manihi to local dances and crafts in Fakarava.

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