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14www.noble-caledonia.co.ukIsland hopping in French Polynesia aboard the MS Island Sky 18th October to 1st November 2026Pearls of PolynesiaJoin 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%u2019s 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%u2019s fabled Bali Hai. The name Polynesia means %u2018many islands%u2019 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%u2019s 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 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. Day 1 London to Tahiti, French Polynesia. Fly by scheduled flight via Los Angeles.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 Rangiroa, Tuamotu Islands. As one of the world%u2019s largest coral atolls, Rangiroa, whose name translates into %u201cvast sky%u201d, 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%u2019s black pearl farms or wander through the enchanting local village of Avatoru. 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 At Sea. Enjoy a day relaxing on the sun deck and join a lecture in the lounge as we sail north.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%u2019s 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%u2019a 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 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 The ItineraryTUAMOTUISLANDSTahitiMARQUESASISLANDSFatu HivaHiva Oa & TahuataNuku HivaRaroiaManihiRangiroaMotutunga& TahaneaFakaravaChurch, Nuku Hiva