Custom built in 2002 as a passenger-freighter, Aranui 3 operates the Marquesas archipelagos located 1,500kms north-east of Tahiti in French Polynesia. Locally renowned for its dedicated freight services since 1954, you too will have the opportunity to experience the true life of the inhabitants of these remote islands by taking part in the essential delivery of general goods ranging from building materials, cement trucks, cars to food and daily necessities. Whilst the crew works away in the background, all passengers can disembark to explore and discover for themselves the beauty and history of these ancient islands.
The soft adventure Aranui cruise will take you hopping on 8 main islands with 18 scheduled ports of call during the memorable 14 day voyage. Discover Paradise, the Aranui way…
Founded
- Freighting in 1954
- Passenger-Freighter since 1983
2012/13 Fleet
- Aranui 3: 200 pax (built: 2002)
Demographic
- International guests: French, European, American, Australian and New Zealand
- +50 year olds and retirees, consisting of doctors, lawyers, accountants looking for a unique way to discover paradise on a small ship
Language & Onboard Currency
- Language: French, English, Tahitian
- Currency: French Pacific Franc (XPF)
Destinations
- Tahiti, Marquesas and Tuamotu archipelogos
Accommodation
- Fully air-conditioned cabins with self contained
shower and toilet facilities
- 14 Suites (12 balcony)
- 9 Deluxe
- 63 Standard
- 16 Berths dormitory
Dining & Beverages
- Maximum 160 persons per seating
- Mix of Polynesian-French meals
- A complimentary glass of wine during onboard lunches or dinners
Entertainment
- Aranui band
- Karaoke
- Dance show and Polynesian Night
Ship Facilities
- Library
- Restaurant
- 2 bars
- Lounge
- Swimming pool
- Sundecks
- Gym
- Boutique
- Limited internet access
- Doctor on board and during all shore excursions
Cruise Price Inclusions
- Accommodation for 14 day cruise
- 16-18 ports of call
- Visits to remote villages
- Hiking
- Picnics
- Local restaurants
- Barbecues on the beach
- Sight-seeing tours by four wheel drive
- On-site archaeological lectures
- Multi-lingual Aranui tour guides provided
- Free dance classes
- Dance shows in villages
- All passenger transportation during cruise
- 3 meals per day
- Optional: deep-sea fishing, horse back riding, Gauguin Museum
