Embark on a 12-day cruise aboard the Panorama II. Begin your journey in Papeete, Tahiti, embraced by the traditional greeting of "Maeva." Sail to the enchanting island of Moorea for snorkeling, cultural tours, and a sailing excursion to Makatea's unique coral landscape. Explore the underwater wonders of Rangiroa, relax on the pink sand beaches of Tikehau, and immerse yourself in Huahine's ancient temples and vanilla plantations. Experience the picturesque beauty of Bora Bora with optional snorkeling and cultural tours before discovering the botanical paradise of Taha'a and Raiatea. Conclude your voyage in Papeete, Tahiti, after an enriching exploration of French Polynesia's treasures.
Highlights
Explore Moorea's tall mountain peaks and join snorkeling and ray tours
Discover Makatea's raised island of coral and endangered native birds
Experience diving in Rangiroa, the largest atoll in Tuamotu archipelago
Explore Tikehau's Pink Sand Island with turquoise lagoons and vibrant flowers
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Embark the Panorama II at Papeete Port at 3 pm. You are greeted with a warm welcome in Tahitian, "Maeva," as you board the ship for your French Polynesia cruise. After settling in and meeting the crew and cabin mates, the ship set sail for Moorea. Late afternoon arrival, dinner on board, and spent the night on the ship.
Moorea is a beautiful island with tall mountain peaks that rise from its lagoon. It is believed that this island inspired the mythical Bali Hai in Tales of the South Pacific by James Michener. Those who want to explore the island can join the morning snorkeling and ray tour and the afternoon nature and culture tour. These tours provide an opportunity to learn about the history of the island and its ancient remains and to taste its fruity flavors at the juice factory. In the afternoon, you can enjoy a sailing trip to Makatea.
Much French Polynesia consists of atolls, ring-shaped coral reefs encircling a central body of water. However, Makatea is a raised island of coral that is different from the usual atolls. It is a peaceful and stunning island home to three species of endangered native birds: the Makatea fruit dove, the imperial pigeon, and the reed warbler. The half-day tour will take you across the island to discover these birds, stunning beaches with rock pools for exploration, and an underwater grotto filled with stalagmites and stalactites. After the tour, the departure to Rangiroa will take place in the late afternoon, and it will be an overnight journey at sea.
*Please note that due to visits by anchor adrift to the Tuamotu islands, such are dependent on favorable weather conditions.
Morning arrival in Rangiroa. Composed of 240 islets, Rangiroa is the largest atoll of the Tuamotu archipelago and the best spot for diving in French Polynesia. Experience the wide array of sea life and join on a full-day optional tour to the atoll’s Blue Lagoon; at only 16 feet deep, it’s a mecca for swimming, snorkeling, and marine life. Re-energize with a traditional Polynesian picnic before returning to the ship. Overnight at anchor.
*Please note that due to visits by anchor adrift to the Tuamotu islands, such are dependent on favorable weather conditions.
Set sail early morning and arrived at Tikehau, the Pink Sand Island. Tikehau has turquoise lagoons, long white-sand beaches, and vibrant flowers like bougainvillea and hibiscus. The island is surrounded by tiny white and pink sand islets covered with coconut groves and hidden alcoves. According to Jacques Cousteau, spend your time lounging on the colorful sand or exploring marine life with a higher concentration of fish than anywhere else in French Polynesia. An optional tour to Tuherahera is available to learn about the fish farm's intriguing and successful process, which a local family owns. Later in the afternoon, sail to Huahine.
*Please note that due to visits by anchor adrift to the Tuamotu islands, such are dependent on favorable weather conditions
Huahine, once home to Tahitian royalty, is a tropical jungle dotted with ancient marae (temples), some dating back to 700 AD, overnight in port.
The next day, your optional tour takes in many of the island's temples and small villages, offers a chance to see and feed the sacred blue-eyed eels of Faie Bay, and visits a vanilla plantation. If you're a keen cook, it is recommended that you purchase vanilla beans while here; you won't find them tastier - or cheaper! - versions elsewhere. Night sailing to Bora Bora, overnight at sea.
Early morning arrival into the Bora Bora lagoon, where you may feel like you've woken in a dream. In many respects, you have; these are some of the world's most picturesque landscapes. You can have enough time for ample swim and snorkel stops, various optional tours such as snorkeling with stingrays and sharks, exploring in an open-air bus known as 'Le Truck,' and more. Or, choose your adventure - tell the team what you want to do, and they will arrange it. Overnight in port (docked or at anchor at times).
In Bora Bora, you can choose from a variety of optional activities, such as a Bora Bora Cultural Safari by 4x4, an excursion to snorkel with sting rays and sharks and explore the lagoon, the Bora Bora tour by "Le Truck," and more. Overnight in port (docked or at anchor at times).
Morning departure and arrival to nearby Taha'a, a true botanical paradise bursting with banana, watermelon, and coconut groves. Taste the local fruit, gaze across calm waters in shades of turquoise you never knew existed, visit a pearl farm, and explore a traditional vanilla plantation. Afternoon sail and arrival to Raiatea.
The island of Raiatea is known for its heavenly and soft-lit skies. An optional morning excursion with a local guide takes you to Uturoa, the cultural and administrative center, Mount Temehani, and the ancient Taputapuatea Marae, a protected site recognized by UNESCO. Here, you can learn about its Polynesian origins and historical significance. Alternatively, you can choose an optional kayak tour along the Faaroa River. Afterward, the journey continues to Papeete, overnight at sea.
Day 12: Papeete, Tahiti | Disembark
1 Breakfast
This morning marks your arrival back in Papeete, Tahiti. Before disembarkation, join the final breakfast on board at 9 AM.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$4,3902-3 travelers
Select a Date
Category C (Double)
Category C cabins are located on the lower deck offering portholes and a bathroom with showers. The cabins are equipped with individually controlled A/C, piped music, TV (Satellite channels), telephone for internal use, mini safe box, mini-fridge, and hairdryer adapters (voltage: 220 V).
Size: 114 sq. ft to 119 sq.ft
Max occupancy: 2 people
Bedding: Double bed
Ensuite Bathroom: Yes
Aircon: Aircon with control in the room
Select a Date
Category B
Category B cabins are located on the lower deck offering portholes and a bathroom with showers. The cabins are equipped with individually controlled A/C, piped music, TV (Satellite channels), telephone for internal use, mini safe box, mini-fridge, and hairdryer adapters (voltage: 220 V).
Size: 108 sq. ft to 140.5 sq. ft
Max occupancy: 2 people
Bedding: Twin (2 Single)
Ensuite Bathroom: Yes
Aircon: Aircon with control in the room
Select a Date
Category A
Category A cabins are located on the main or upper deck offering windows and a bathroom with showers. The cabins are equipped with individually controlled A/C, piped music, TV (Satellite channels), telephone for internal use, mini safe box, mini-fridge, and hairdryer adapters (voltage: 220 V).
Size: 97 sq. ft to 130 sq.ft
Max occupancy: 2 people
Bedding: Double OR Twin
Ensuite Bathroom: Yes
Aircon: Aircon with control in the room
Select a Date
Category P (Double)
Category P cabin is located on the upper deck offering a large window and bathroom with showers. The cabin is equipped with individual-controlled A/C, piped music, TV (Satellite channels), telephone for internal use, mini safe box, mini-fridge, and hairdryer adapters (voltage: 220 V).
Size: 135 sq.ft
Max occupancy: 2 people
Bedding: Double bed
Ensuite Bathroom: Yes
Aircon: Aircon with control in the room
Notes
- Please note that fares do not include port charges and possible fuel surcharges. Contact us for details.
Initial deposit is 30% , and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
11 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 11 Dinners
11 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Regular (filter) coffee, tea and still mineral water free all day
Use of fishing and snorkeling equipment (subject to availability)
English-Speaking Cruise Escort.
Full-board: Buffet breakfast and two meals daily, including a Welcome Cocktail, a local Theme Evening , fun BBQ (weather permitting) and Captain’s Dinner
Excluded
Gratuities
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Port Fees
Wifi
Shore excursions on the islands or other land arrangements (except those mentioned in inclusions)
Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
This was our first trip to South America and we were a little nervous. But Adventure Life made things so easy! All our questions were answered before we left, and our guide, Vidal, was amazing! He gave us enough space to explore without rushing us along. He also knew where the best picture taking opportunities were, which was great.
Lindsay Gompf
TrustScore 4.8 | 178 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 178 reviews on
8 hours ago
I received a quick and friendly response from my contact, Christina Mayo, both in email and phone calls. My request for information was provided in less than a day. She took a few minutes to chat about family and events. Dealing with her has always been a pleasure!
Mary Ann
1 day ago
First class all the way. Enjoyed our Guide, Karla, Driver Mark so much. Personalized tour of Antigua during Easter was like a National Geographic in person. Trip of the Lifetime. Such a spiritual and magical tour. Many Thanks.
Ben Shaver
Ben Shaver, Jr.
3 days ago
Adventure Life is always an excellent choice when planning complicated, extreme, or exotic vacations or expeditions. They provide friendly professional services and advice and are enthusiastic and encouraging in helping us to prepare and thoroughly enjoy our trip. They handle all the details which greatly reduces the stress of planning a difficult trip. I'm very impressed with Adventure Life and definitely recommend them to friends and family.
Scott Trochim
5 days ago
The response from Adventure Life to my first inquiry was prompt and promising. I worked with Jamie Broeckel, Trip Planner, via text, email, and phone calls- always extremely responsive and thorough with information and explaining the process to arrange a private tour for me to Malaysia Borneo. Within about week, the booking was complete and I made decisions because of Jamie's great customer service , friendly manner, and overall competence on behalf of the company's travel expertise. Now I have an itinerary, additional Trip Planner Assistants, several links for vital information for traveling to Maylasia, etc. Still many details for Sept. trip, but now the heavy lifting is done and I can enjoy the rest of the anticipation and research!! Thanks Jamie- you are amazing!!!!
Susan Campo
1 week ago
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
