By wind and wave and star the ancient people of Polynesia ventured to the farthest reaches of the South Pacific. Isolated by miles of ocean over thousands of years, these, the world’s first island cultures, developed a pantheon of gods, myths and legends. This voyage tells the story of Polynesia and uncovers its history and legends as we sail through the South Seas and visit the captivating islands learning more of man and nature in this wonderful corner of the world, each shaping the destiny of the other. The name Polynesia means ‘many islands’ and no one could argue with the suitability of this title. There are islands of low lying coral with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and contrasting volcanic mountainous landscapes of lush, incomparable beauty.
We are therefore delighted to be offering this unique voyage aboard the 102-passenger National Geographic Orion for which our associates at Lindblad Expeditions have provided us with an allocation of cabins. This is the ideal opportunity to explore this paradise on a leisurely passage to a corner of the world which has lured adventurers and romantics alike ever since Magellan first sailed to these waters in 1521. The natural beauty of the islands is mesmerising, and on the more remote islands, villages are still composed of thatched houses, set amongst the shade of the breadfruit and coconut trees. Many islands are important nesting grounds for seabirds and sea turtles and the lagoons are breeding grounds for countless species of fish.
Our exploration begins and ends 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’s images of exuberant outdoor settings with vivid lagoons and statuesque palms will become the backdrop of your first days in paradise. From Tahiti, we fly to beautiful Hiva Oa where we will begin our voyage around the Marquesas Islands, an archipelago of enchanting volcanic isles, vibrant tropical flora and breathtaking coral reefs and explore the spectacular and little-visited atolls of the Tuamotu Archipelago with its pristine beaches and unique underwater world.
With the fleet of Zodiac landing craft 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. Your experience will be made all the more memorable by the onboard team of experts who will accompany you on the Zodiacs, hold daily lectures and briefings and lead guided walks ashore.
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Joining You on Board
One of the most important aspects of expedition cruising is the knowledge of the expert expedition team that accompanies you on board and for the forays ashore. With over 50 years of exploring, Lindblad Expedition’s veteran staff and the quality of companionship they provide has established the company’s reputation. From expedition leaders to naturalists, most hold advanced degrees and are established authorities in their fields. Joining you on board the National Geographic Orion will be a team of naturalists, one expert per 10 guests, who provide talks, guidance ashore, and daily camaraderie. The staff will greatly enhance your experience, sharing special insights and searching out pods of dolphins, manta rays and giant turtles to ensure that you get the most out of your experience. This voyage will also be accompanied by renowned photographer Jeff Mauritzen.
Jeff Mauritzen
National Geographic photographer Jeff Mauritzen’s assignments and adventures have immersed him in vivid landscapes on all seven continents and in more than 60 countries around the world. Whether photographing penguin antics in Antarctica or komodo dragons in Indonesia, Jeff’s work expresses an unwavering passion, respect, curiosity, and awe for the natural world. Jeff’s photography has appeared in dozens of National Geographic books, several National Geographic Traveler magazine articles, the Wall Street Journal, and on the @natgeotravel Instagram account, where he’s a regular contributor. In addition to assignment work, Jeff enjoys travelling with National Geographic Expeditions, teaching photography on natural history-focused trips.
National Geographic Orion
Operated by our associates at Lindblad Expeditions, the state-of-the-art National Geographic Orion serves as a luxurious base from which to explore the far-flung corners of the world. A fully stabilised, ice-class vessel, the National Geographic Orion is at home navigating polar ice as well as small harbours in Europe or island hopping in the Pacific. The ship accommodates 102 guests in 53 cabins and is equipped with kayaks and Zodiac landing craft, diving and snorkelling gear, and sophisticated video equipment that allows access to the underwater world.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Los Angeles, USA.
Fly by scheduled flight to Los Angeles and transfer to your onward flight to Tahiti.
Day 2 Tahiti, French Polynesia.
Arrive in Papeete this morning and transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. The remainder of your day is at leisure.
Day 3 Tahiti to Hiva Oa.
This morning depart early from the hotel for the airport for the direct flight to Hiva Oa Island where you will transfer to the National Geographic Orion for embarkation. The rest of the morning is at leisure where you can relax on board or explore the town of Atuona. This afternoon settle into life on board and set sail.
Day 4 to 8 Marquesas Islands.
We will spend the next five days exploring the Marquesan Islands of Tahuata, Nuku Hiva, Ua Huka and Fatu Hiva. Accompanied by our team of local guides, we will visit remote island villages to learn about religious rites, see ancient petroglyphs, witness spectacular dance performances at a Marquesan ma’ae, sample local goods in the villages and peruse unique arts and crafts. There will be an opportunity to attend a local church service with beautiful music, or hike up a valley with naturalists and local guides in search of rare birds and spectacular views. From Zodiacs and kayaks marvel at the rugged silhouettes of these legendary islands or dive below the surface with plenty of snorkelling opportunities to see the colourful and spectacular undersea world.
Day 9 At Sea.
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea and attend some talks by the expedition team.
Day 10 Takaroa Atoll.
Today will be the first of two days of exploration of the Tuamotu Archipelago. Our first stop will be Takaroa Atoll, a remote island nearly 350 miles from Tahiti. We will visit the main village, meet with the local people and learn about life on the island. There will be opportunities to snorkel or dive the stunning healthy reefs or walk pristine beaches lined with coconut palms.
Day 11 Rangiroa, Tuamotus.
The atoll of Rangiroa is a ring of slender islands known for some of the best snorkelling and diving in French Polynesia. The turquoise lagoon at its centre is the second largest in the world. There will be plenty of opportunity to explore the rich underwater world hoping to see some of its large schools of pelagic fish, manta rays, dolphins and sea turtles.
Day 12 Tahiti to London.
This morning we will arrive into Papeete where you can choose to visit the downtown area or central market. Disembark in the afternoon and check into a hotel where rooms have been reserved in advance of our evening flight. Transfer to the airport for the scheduled indirect flight back to London.
Day 13 En route.
Transit in the USA for the onward flight to London.
Day 14 London.
Arrive today.
Dates and Prices
16 February to 1 March 2025 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
1 Main Deck cabin with oval window | £11495 | £10995 |
2 Main Deck cabin with oval window | £12995 | £12495 |
3 Upper Deck cabin with window | £14995 | £14495 |
4 Bridge Deck suite with window | £16295 | £15795 |
5 Bridge Deck suite with French balcony | £18795 | £18295 |
6 Bridge Deck owner’s suite with French balcony | £21495 | £20995 |
1 SOLO Main Deck cabin with portholes | £16995 | £16495 |
3 SOLO Bridge Deck suite with window | Not Available | Not Available |
Tour Reference Code: SCNGO160225
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Overnight accommodation in Tahiti with breakfast • Nine nights aboard the National Geographic Orion • All alcoholic & soft drinks on board (except certain super-premium brands) • Day room in Tahiti on disembarkation • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, US ESTA.
National Geographic Orion
Operated by our associates at Lindblad Expeditions, the state-of-the-art National Geographic Orion serves as a luxurious base from which to explore the far-flung corners of the world. A fully stabilised, ice-class vessel, the National Geographic Orion is at home navigating polar ice as well as small harbours in Europe or island hopping in the Pacific. The ship accommodates 102 guests in 53 cabins and is equipped with kayaks and Zodiac landing craft, diving and snorkelling gear, and sophisticated video equipment that allows access to the underwater world.
Joining You on Board
One of the most important aspects of expedition cruising is the knowledge of the expert expedition team that accompanies you on board and for the forays ashore. With over 50 years of exploring, Lindblad Expedition’s veteran staff and the quality of companionship they provide has established the company’s reputation. From expedition leaders to naturalists, most hold advanced degrees and are established authorities in their fields. Joining you on board the National Geographic Orion will be a team of naturalists, one expert per 10 guests, who provide talks, guidance ashore, and daily camaraderie. The staff will greatly enhance your experience, sharing special insights and searching out pods of dolphins, manta rays and giant turtles to ensure that you get the most out of your experience. This voyage will also be accompanied by renowned photographer Jeff Mauritzen.
Jeff Mauritzen
National Geographic photographer Jeff Mauritzen’s assignments and adventures have immersed him in vivid landscapes on all seven continents and in more than 60 countries around the world. Whether photographing penguin antics in Antarctica or komodo dragons in Indonesia, Jeff’s work expresses an unwavering passion, respect, curiosity, and awe for the natural world. Jeff’s photography has appeared in dozens of National Geographic books, several National Geographic Traveler magazine articles, the Wall Street Journal, and on the @natgeotravel Instagram account, where he’s a regular contributor. In addition to assignment work, Jeff enjoys travelling with National Geographic Expeditions, teaching photography on natural history-focused trips.
Tour Extensions
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If you would like to spend some time on the island of Tahiti before returning to the UK, we will be offering a three-night hotel stay on a breakfast only basis. If you would like to receive further details pertaining to the extension, please advise at the time of booking and we will be in touch once details are confirmed.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000