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Moorea, French Polynesia

Tales Of The Pacific: Apia to Papeete

Example 16 Day Cruise aboard Coral Geographer
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Voyage to outlying atolls and islands at the heart of Polynesia, where isolated villages welcome you with a friendly South Pacific welcome like nowhere else. Discover centuries-old customs and unlock the mysteries that beckoned explorers to these remarkable South Seas isles. Follow in the wake of famed Polynesian navigators to the Cook Islands, where black pearls from the crystal-clear lagoon of Manihiki Atoll are revered across the world. Step ashore at Kiribati on one of the world’s most isolated atolls and be the first to see the sunrise on a new day. Immerse yourself in turquoise tropical waters across the South Pacific where colorful coral gardens and tropical fish compete for attention with picturesque, palm-fringed islands.
Woman snorkeling in clear water in Bora BoraLagoon of Bora Bora, French PolynesiaCabanas silhouette  on a Bora Bora cruiseMoorea, French Polynesia
Highlights
  • Explore to little-visited atolls and uninhabited islands of the South Pacific
  • See the jagged peaks and stunning scenery of Manua Islands
  • Snorkel at Penrhyn Atoll, one of the highest populations of blacktip reef sharks in Polynesia
  • Visit the sacred heart of Polynesia a UNESCO-listed Marae Taputapuatea
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Apia

Included in your fare are one night’s hotel accommodation and welcome function prior to your cruise.

Day 2: Apia | Embark

Board the Coral Geographer at 5:00 pm for a 6:00 pm departure. This evening, join the Captain’s welcome drinks and meet your crew and fellow guests as the sun sets.

Day 3-15: Exploring the Archipelago

  • Ship
  • 13 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches
em>These are expedition itineraries covering remote regions. The Captain and Expedition Team may make changes to the daily schedule when necessary to maximize the guest experience. Below are the highlight destinations of your voyage.
 
Manu’a Islands, American Samoa
The Manu’a Islands of American Samoa are volcanic remnants rising out the sea. The beautiful islands of Ofu and Olosega are connected by a bridge, and the views of the two islands, standing alone in the Pacific, are breathtaking.
A small population of some 1,500 people calls the three islands home.  This is an expedition stop, and subject to nature we will snorkel and swim, relax on the smooth expanse of Ofu Beach stargaze, and discover the National Park of Samoa with hikes and nature walks. We may also have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Samoan cuisine cooked in an umu, earth oven.
 
Pukapuka Atoll, Cook Islands
Naturally beautiful, Pukapuka is one of the most remote atolls in the Cook Islands. On this small island, traditional cultures and language have been preserved. The northern islet, where the residents have their village, is affectionately known as ‘Wale’ or ‘home’.  Although the population is only around 500 people, it is the most densely populated island in the Cook Islands.
Communal life is the most important thing on the island, and traditional conservation methods are practiced. The internal crystal clear lagoon teems with life and provides an important food source for the Pukapukan people. Going ashore on this island, we will get a glimpse into the lifestyle of the people as they share their traditions, and we will soak up the peaceful and serene environment.
 
Manihiki, Cook Islands
Manihiki Atoll, known to many as the most beautiful of the Cook Islands, sits on the top of an underwater mountain which rises 4000 feet from the ocean floor. Forty tiny islets encircle the large lagoon, and here we will snorkel and kayak.
Manihiki is the center of the Cook Island’s pearl industry, and we will learn about the pearl farming industry and see the glorious green, blue, purple, silver and gold hues that make the famous black pearls shine.
We may also visit the islets of Tauhuno and Tukao to see the titaevae and rito hat-making crafts which the locals are very skilled at.
 
Penrhyn, Cook Islands
At just nine degrees below the equator, Penrhyn Atoll is the most northern of the Cook Islands.  The large lagoon is ringed by uninhabited islets, with the inhabitants living in just two villages. Here, everyone grows up fishing, and the lagoon is the source of livelihood.
The lagoon is filled with abundant marine life and is known to have the highest amount of reef sharks in the Cook Islands.
Here we will learn about the local lifestyle, enjoy dancing and singing welcomes, and snorkel among the abundance of harmless black-tip reef sharks in the lagoon.  There will also be an opportunity to purchase the exquisite handicrafts that are produced here, including woven hats, fans, and necklaces.
 
Millennium Atoll, Kiribati
One of the most remote points on the planet, Millennium Atoll is one of the Line Islands of Kiribati. Relatively untouched, it is one of the world’s most pristine islands and has been considered as a World Heritage Site.  A large population of coconut crabs thrives here, and it is also a breeding site for seabirds, while giant clams thickly cover the lagoon. Millennium Atoll is the first place on earth to see the sunrise, due to the shift of the International Date Line in 1995, and we will have the opportunity to welcome the new day here, before kayaking over the giant clams in the clear lagoon or birdwatching on the island.
 
Raiatea, Society Islands
The second largest of the Society Islands, Raiatea means ‘bright sky’ in Tahitian. Regarded as the center of ancient Polynesia, it is likely that the organized migrations to Hawai’i and New Zealand started here. Raiatea is home to rare flora and fauna species such as the Tiare ‘apetahi’ flower, which is found nowhere else in the world.

Here have the privilege of visiting the sacred site of Taputapuatea Marae, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the world of the living intersected with the world of the gods. Considered the religious and central temple of Eastern Polynesia.  The Marae was established over a thousand years ago as a place of learning where knowledge of navigation and the origins of the universe were shared. Human sacrifices were also performed here, and the chiefs of Ra’iatea were invested here.
Explore the site and learn about the ancient knowledge and religious practices of the Tahitian people, and how they voyaged from Raiatea to the far corners of the Polynesian islands.
 
Huahine, Society Islands
Huahine, one of Tahiti’s best-kept secrets, offers a slower pace of old Polynesia. Only eight villages are scattered across the island, but Huahine was once the home of Tahitian royalty and has the highest density of ancient temples, marae, hidden in the lush forests. Surrounded by a deep and clear lagoon, Huahine also boasts stunning white-sand beaches.  Here we will explore the lush shoreline of the lagoon by snorkeling or kayaking, visit the archeological site at Maeva Village with local guides, or take a nature walk into the forest to encounter sacred blue-eyed eels.
 
Moorea, Society Islands
Moorea, one of the high islands of French Polynesia, is also one of the most scenics. Jagged green pinnacles are bounded by a translucent lagoon and coral reef, and waterfalls flow through forested gorges.  Simple villages circle the island, and we will explore to get a taste of the French-influenced lifestyle of Tahiti. Enjoy local cuisine, explore the quiet waters of the lagoon, or watch fishermen on their outrigger canoes. Snorkellers or divers might spot stingrays, sharks, and turtles in the turquoise lagoon. Here the stories of the artists who, over the centuries, have been inspired by the beauty of Moorea, and see the work of contemporary artists who live there today.

Day 16: Papeete | Embark

  • 1 Breakfast
Disembark the Coral Geographer at 8:00 am.

Ship/Hotel

Coral Geographer

Coral Geographer
Coral Geographer Deck

Dates & Prices

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Per person starting at
$7,170
Coral Deck Stateroom
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Coral Deck Stateroom
Located on the Coral Deck, these 17 Sq m staterooms are furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included. A compact en-suite bathroom has a toilet, shower and ample storage. Twin porthole windows give you views of the world outside.
Promenade Deck Stateroom
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Promenade Deck Stateroom
Located on the Promenade Deck, these 17 Sq m staterooms are furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included. A compact en-suite bathroom has a toilet, shower and ample storage. A large picture window gives you wide views of the world outside.
Coral Geographer
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Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom
These 21.4 Sq m staterooms are comfortably furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included. A compact en-suite bathroom has a toilet, shower and ample storage. Your private balcony has seating for two from which to view the passing coastal vistas. These staterooms are located on the Explorer deck.
Bridge Deck Balcony Suite
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Bridge Deck Balcony Suite
Bridge Deck Balcony Suites are equipped with a lounge area, minibar and personal coffee machine. Along with special King sized beds which can be separated into two singles. An 3.5 sq m private balcony has an outdoor daybed and lounge chair for two.

Notes

Important Fare Information:
Rates are posted based off of the current exchange rates from Australian Dollars. Please contact us for current exchange rates
Included
  • 14 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 1 Dinner
  • 15 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • All entrance fees to National Parks, ports, traditional owner fees and charges imposed by governing authorities
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Selected wines, selected beers and house spirits, juices, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner
  • Captain’s welcome and farewell events, and open bridge access
  • Use of Xplorer, Zodiacs and kayaks
  • All excursions with our Expedition Team
  • Daily lectures and briefings with Guest Lecturers
  • Use of all onboard facilities, incl. a reference library
  • Your expedition photos captured during the voyage
  • Post-cruise transfers (in most destinations)
  • Snorkelling & SCUBA equipment (SCUBA diving at an additional cost)
  • 24-hour barista-style coffee and tea station
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Laundry Service
  • Entry visas/Travel permits
  • Alcoholic drinks including beer and wine outside of lunch and dinner service
  • Internet 
  • Pre-cruise transfers
  • Pre and post cruise flights/charter flights
  • Pre and post cruise accommodation
  • Items of a personal nature such souvenir purchases
  • Optional Extras (in some destinations)
  • Scuba Diving 

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