Aranui

Story

The story of Aranui begins with a maritime heritage established in 1954, when Compagnie Polynesienne de Transport Maritime (C.P.T.M.) starts transporting cargo between Tahiti and the Tuamotu and Gambier Archipelagos. In 1984, Aranui 1 is converted to welcome passengers, creating Aranui Cruises and becoming the only ship to bring travelers to the remote Marquesas Islands for many years. You experience the true essence of Polynesia through warmth, hospitality, inclusivity, sharing, and a deep sense of belonging that defines island life. For more than 40 years, Aranui honors these traditions while connecting you with the culture, landscapes, and communities of French Polynesia. The launch of Aranui 5 in 2015 combines authentic Polynesian heritage with modern cruising comforts, while the introduction of Aranoa in 2027 expands this legacy to the pristine Austral Islands using the latest environmentally responsible technology. Every voyage celebrates authentic cultural connections while supporting the sustainable development of French Polynesia's remote island communities.

Mission

Take you on authentic voyages that showcase the culture, traditions, and natural beauty of French Polynesia while supporting the island communities that make every journey unique. Aranui combines genuine Polynesian hospitality, small-ship cruising, and responsible travel to create meaningful experiences that honor local heritage and protect the environment.

Vision

Lead authentic expedition cruising in French Polynesia by preserving Polynesian traditions, supporting sustainable community development, and introducing remote islands through responsible small-ship exploration. Aranui strives to connect you with the true spirit of the islands while protecting their culture, environment, and way of life for future generations.

Aranui & the Marquesas: An Unwavering Bond

Since launching its passenger-freighter in 1984, Aranui has served as both the primary freight and cruise connection to the Marquesas and a vital link between Papeete and the Land of Men. Beyond providing transportation, Aranui remains committed to supporting these remote islands through long-term social, cultural, economic, and environmental initiatives. When you travel with Aranui, you help sustain the communities, traditions, and natural beauty that make the Marquesas unique.

Social Responsibility

• Economic Participation - Aranui supports the local economy by transporting Marquesan agricultural products, arts, and crafts throughout the region. The movement of people, travel professionals, tourists, and essential supplies strengthens the islands' economy and reinforces Aranui's role as a key partner in the archipelago.
• Social Participation - Aranui helps improve educational opportunities by providing financial assistance and free transport for school bags, books, school supplies, computer equipment, and other educational materials for students and schools throughout the Marquesas. Financial support also helps promising students and young athletes with travel and accommodation expenses for educational and sporting competitions, including participation in the Hawaiki Nui Va'a outrigger event.
• Cultural Participation - Your voyage includes opportunities to learn from Marquesan experts and guest lecturers who share the history and traditions of the archipelago. Aranui also supports cultural festivals and organizations by providing financial assistance and preferential transport rates for passengers and cultural goods, particularly during events such as the Marquesan Expo in Papeete.
• Promotional Participation - By transporting people, local products, and works of art between the islands and international markets, Aranui helps showcase the Marquesas to the world. Through its global sales network and regular voyages, Aranui shares the culture, heritage, and spirit of the Land of Men with international travelers.

Environmental Responsibility

Aranui builds every cruise on three essential pillars: comfort, security, and environmental protection. The company follows the International Safety Management (ISM) Code to maintain high safety standards while protecting the marine environment.

The vessel complies with MARPOL international marine pollution standards through responsible air-conditioning management, waste sorting, ballast water treatment, and energy-efficient LED lighting. These practices help minimize the ship's carbon footprint while respecting the ocean, the islands, and the people who call them home.

In 2022, Aranui Cruises earned certification under the Green Marine Europe Environmental Program, recognizing efforts to reduce the marine industry's environmental footprint, exceed regulatory requirements, and continuously improve environmental performance. Aranui Cruises also received the Company Protecting Biodiversity certification and partners with the Polynesian Ornithology Association to help protect endemic bird species by controlling invasive rats in the Marquesas Islands. Additional measures prevent the spread of invasive species between Tahiti and the archipelagos while educating both crew members and passengers through onboard information displays that promote environmental awareness and conservation.