AZURE SEAS FROM TAHITI TO THE MARQUESAS - Wild ...
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AZURE SEAS FROM TAHITI TO THE MARQUESAS
Remote and enigmatic, the Marquesas are islands that belong
to the past. Some of them virtually untouched since the era of
European exploration, their isolation has given way to a proud
people whose unique Marquesan dialect is a direct link to the
ancient Polynesian language of Maohi. Indeed, it is believed
locally that the spirits of the ancient Maohi live among the
islands’ saw-toothed peaks and lush, verdant valleys, and the
limestone caves and grottos that we’ll explore. Herman Melville
penned his indulgent novel Typee based on his time on Nuku
Hiva and established himself as the "man who lived among the
cannibals,” and Robert Louis Stevenson landed here aboard his
yacht Casco in the late 19th century. At sea we’ll encounter
cetaceans, potentially the rare melon-headed whales, and we’ll ITINERARY
dive among manta rays. In 2021, there will be a slight
DAY 1: Papeete, French Polynesia/Embark
modification to the itinerary. The ship will embark in Bora Bora
Arrive in Papeete, Tahiti early this morning, check in to dayrooms at the
instead of Papeete. There will be an additional cost for the Intercontinental Tahiti, and take a brief tour before embarking National
charter flight from Papeete to Bora Bora. Geographic Orion. (L,D)
DAY 2-4: At Sea / Tuamotu Archipelago
We begin our exploration of the “Dangerous Archipelago” at Fakarava, one of
the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere
Reserve. After a festive welcome with traditional dancers, learn about the
island’s pearl industry, and walk its pristine beaches. Snorkel the protected
reefs or ride the current into the lagoon on a world famous drift dive. Continue
to Raroia, one of the easternmost atolls in this chain, and the site where Thor
Heyerdahl’s famous Kon-Tiki raft made landfall in 1947. (B,L,D)
DAY 5-6: At Sea/Nuku Hiva, Marquesas
A day at sea brings us to one of the most remote island groups on earth, the
Marquesas Islands. We begin our exploration of this archipelago at Hatiheu
Bay, on the north shore of Nuku Hiva Island. Visit ancient petroglyphs and
witness a spectacular dance performance at a Marquesan me'ae, or hike up
the valley with the naturalists and local guides in search of rare birds and
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spectacular views. Later, sample local foods in the village, and peruse unique All day-by-day breakdowns are a sampling of the places we intend to visit,
arts and crafts. (B,L,D) conditions permitting.
DAY 7: Hiva Oa, Marquesas
At Hiva Oa, go ashore at the village of Puamau to visit the stunning
Marquesan me’ae, Iipona, and photograph one of the largest tikis in
Polynesia. Stop for a fresh-baked French baguette before a short visit to
Calvary Cemetery and the gravesites of French artists Paul Gauguin and
Jacques Brel. (B,L,D)
DAY 8: Fatu Hiva, Marquesas
Be sure you’re on deck this morning to photograph the volcanic pillars of
Hanavave Bay, as Orion approaches one of the most storied shorelines in the
entire Pacific. Visit a remote village where you’ll see displays of uniquely
Marquesan arts and crafts. Choose a challenging hike to a remote waterfall, or
take Zodiacs to the next bay where local transport takes you on a birdwatching
foray deep into the Omoa Valley. (B,L,D)
DAY 9-11: Exploring the Marquesas Islands/At sea
Our last two days in the Marquesas are open for exploration. Scuba dive with
manta rays, search for rare cetaceans with your naturalists and marvel at the
rugged volcanic silhouettes of these legendary islands from the Zodiacs and
kayaks. (B,L,D)
DAY 12-13: Tuamotu Archipelago
We let nature be our guide for these days, as we explore some of the more
than 80 islands and atolls that make up this seldom-visited archipelago.
Snorkel or dive stunning healthy reefs, kayak and stand-up paddleboard on
turquoise lagoons, and walk pristine beaches beneath coconut palms. (B,L,D)
DAY 14: Makatea
An uplifted coral atoll, the island of Makatea is one of the most unique
landforms in the Pacific. Spend the day exploring limestone caves and grottos
with your expedition team and local guides, or search for endemic fruit doves
and myriad seabirds, then snorkel and dive among clouds of colorful fish on
the nearby reef. (B,L,D)
DAY 15: Disembark/Papeete/Home
Disembark in Papeete this morning and tour Tahiti before flights home. (B,L)
Please Note:
0800 945 3327 (within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 | 1800 107 715 (within Australia)
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YOUR SHIP: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION
YOUR SHIP: National Geographic Orion
VESSEL TYPE: Luxury Expedition
LENGTH: 103 metres
PASSENGER CAPACITY: 102 (in 53 cabins)
BUILT/REFURBISHED: 2003 / Refurbished 2014
Engineered for maximum comfort and safety, _Orion_ is enrichment.
equipped with the latest technology including large retractable Her public rooms include a dramatic window-lined main lounge,
stabilizers, sonar, radar, and an ice-strengthened hull. A shallow as well as an observation lounge and library perched at the very
draft plus bow and stern thrusters provide the convenience of top of the ship, with plentiful observation decks. The spacious
being able to maneuver close to shore. 14 Zodiacs ensure quick lounge is the heart of our expedition community, and is suited
disembarkation and offer the ideal transport for up-close for spirited cocktail hours, informative presentations and our
exploration. nightly tradition of Recap. In addition, a dedicated theater
_National Geographic Orion_ meets strict specifications for provides a unique setting for specialist presentations or films
environmental protection and the on board waste management and slideshows. Both the main dining room and outside buffet
systems meet the stringent Antarctic operational standards easily accommodate all guests at once for open seating dining.
enabling us to travel to the most pristine environments. A host On selected nights, weather permitting, our dining room menu is
of advanced design features and technology ensures also available on the outside deck.
sustainable marine environmental practices. While _Orion_ interiors are elegant, life aboard is always
_National Geographic Orion_ accommodates 102 guests in 53 casual, with no need for formal clothing. And you'll find
cabins, including several with balconies. She is spacious and shipboard services like laundry, in-room cabled internet, and
modern, with a variety of public rooms that offer panoramic public-area wifi.
views of the passing landscape. Friendly and informal, _Orion_
fosters a welcoming atmosphere where like-minded guests
share in exceptional experiences and
0800 945 3327 (within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 | 1800 107 715 (within Australia)
info@wildearth-travel.com | wildearth-travel.comINSIDE YOUR SHIP
0800 945 3327 (within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 | 1800 107 715 (within Australia)
info@wildearth-travel.com | wildearth-travel.comPRICING
0800 945 3327 (within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 | 1800 107 715 (within Australia)
info@wildearth-travel.com | wildearth-travel.comFREE BAR TAB & CREW TIPS INCLUDED ON VOYAGES ABOARD NG EXPLORER OR NG ORION
We will cover your bar tab and all tips for the crew on all National Geographic Explorer and National Geographic Orion voyages.
Terms and Conditions apply, special offer is subject to availability, please contact us for more details.
Optional extras & upgrades
Bora Bora Pre-Extension. From 2620 AUD
2 DAYS Transport yourself to one of Bora Bora’s tranquil and picturesque outer motus and fall into island time at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso
Spa. Check into a stunning overwater villa, surrounded by turquoise waters and lush tropical gardens, and explore as much (or as little) as you choose during this
two-day stay. Discover the resort’s pristine beaches, browse the treatment menu in the resort’s renowned spa, or luxuriate in the comfort of your own private villa, all
while taking in the incredible views of Bora Bora’s Mount Otemanu.
InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa Extension. From 1770 AUD
3 DAYS On the isle of Moorea, volcanic peaks rise from sapphire seas in an explosion of emerald-green splendor, creating an arresting backdrop for a French
Polynesian escape. Settle into your waterfront accommodation and enjoy a selection of activities with a complimentary $150 resort credit. Kayak, snorkel, and
paddleboard among pristine coral reefs, unwind on white-sand beaches, and explore dense tropical forest where bright hibiscus blooms and rare birds roost.
The Brando, Tetiaroa Extension. From 4575 USD
Pre- or Post-Trip Idyllically sited on the atoll of Tetiaroa, The Brando features a level of quality that more than merits its mystique. Built on land Marlon Brando
purchased in the 60’s after falling in love with the region and his Tahitian co-star while shooting Mutiny on the Bounty, and inspired by his original vision, it is an
exceptional way to start or cap off any of our South Pacific itineraries. Accessible by a 20-minute private plane ride from Tahiti, the lodge features one- to
three-bedroom private villas, set among palm trees, and each with its own plunge pool. It’s a rare chance to enjoy your own private island experience where white
sand beaches meet azure seas frequented by sea turtles, manta rays, and exotic birds. Enjoy access to two restaurants that are under the guidance of a
Michelin-starred chef. Take advantage of a spa offering holistic treatments set on a pond where Tahitian royalty once gathered to undergo beauty rituals. Or get
active with a host of island activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, biking, kite surfing, natural history walks, and much more. Rates (2 night minimum required)
Low Season (Apr 1 - Jun 30): $4,575 per villa per night (including taxes) High Season (Jun 30 - Oct 31): $5,130 per villa per night (including taxes) Private Flight
Required Air Tetiaroa: $535 per person, round trip
0800 945 3327 (within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 | 1800 107 715 (within Australia)
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