Cruising French Polynesia: Tahiti and Beyond

A bustling hub of French Polynesia’s Society Islands, Tahiti towers over the ocean, with waterfall-laden mountains, black sand beaches, blue lagoons and a distinctly modern buzz. The energetic capital of Pape’ete serves as your port of embarkation, as well as a melting pot for the diverse cultures of the surrounding archipelagos.

After a relaxing morning at your resort, board Le Jacques-Cartier and begin your exploration of French Polynesia.

Located northeast of Tahiti, the 76 atolls of the extensive Tuamotuan chain span some 1.2 million square miles of the sparkling Pacific. Fakarava is the second largest of the Tuamotu Islands and home to the small village of Rotoava. Go ashore to meet the local craftspeople who keep Fakarava’s artisanal traditions alive. Alternatively, hop on an e-bike to explore the island’s lighthouse, a smaller oceanfront village and a historic church. Afterward, relax on a private beach of soft pink sand.

Come ashore on Tahanea, an uninhabited atoll familiar only to a handful of local fishermen and the endemic sandpipers and warblers that call its lagoon their home. Explore, walk the beach or snorkel amid the stunning beauty of this true island paradise.

Cruise toward the Marquesan Island of Fatu Hiva, making the most of Le Jacques-Cartier’s onboard facilities while preparing for tomorrow’s excursion with presentations from the Expedition Team.

Stretching further northeast from the Tuamotu Islands, the volcanic Marquesas are among the most remote islands in the world. Locals believe this island realm’s mountains, waterfalls and mysterious archeological sites are all bound by mana, a sacred force that keeps nature in balance. Make landfall on Fatu Hiva, the most isolated of the inhabited Marquesas. Here, hike to the achingly beautiful Bay of the Virgins, trek to a secluded waterfall or take a scenic drive. Then, swim from one of the island’s idyllic beaches.

Come ashore on the largest of the Marquesas, Nuku Hiva. Though vast in size, the island remains largely untouched by tourism, making its rich local culture and mysterious archeological treasures all the more appealing. On a scenic drive, a guide reveals how Herman Melville’s adventures on Nuku Hiva inspired his novel Typee. Alternatively, hike an island trail or set out in search of tiki, petroglyphs, paepae stone platforms and other archeological relics.

Known as the garden of the Marquesas, Hiva Oa is marked by its emerald countryside, craggy mountains and deep valleys. Explore the island’s enduring connection with Paul Gauguin at the artist’s former home and final resting place. Alternatively, explore the tiki of the Upeke archeological site.

The tranquil island of Ua Pou stands guarded by Poutetaunui and Poumaka, two towering basalt pillars said to represent ancient warriors. Pass under their gaze and head ashore to hike a trail to the peak of Poumaka, or hunt for the island’s distinctive flower stones.

Today, the Expedition Team continues its enriching lecture series as Le Jacques Cartier begins the return leg back toward the Tuamotuan Islands.

The pristine beaches, ocean breezes, crystal clear lagoon and abundant marine life of Manihi soothe the soul like few places on Earth. Come ashore to swim, beachcomb or just soak it all in.

Translated roughly as “the big sky,” Rangiroa spans more than 400 islets that encircle a massive lagoon teeming with marine life. Delve into Rangiroa’s aquatic wonders with a visit to a black pearl farm or a glass-bottom boat ride amid the reef’s Napoleon fish.

Mataiva is distinguished by its unique lagoon spotted with small, deep pools. Here, swim in the lagoon, snorkel the reefs or explore the rock formations and beaches.

The leading lady of the South Pacific, Bora Bora is synonymous with romance, tropical beaches and warm hospitality. Go beyond the tourist’s Bora Bora with everything from 4x4 explorations of the mountains and World War II sites to snorkeling and glass-bottom boat excursions offshore.

Known as Hawaiki, or “the homeland,” Raiatea was once regarded as the cultural and religious center of the Society Islands. Legend holds that skilled wayfinders navigated double-hulled sailing canoes from these shores outward to the distant reaches of Hawaii, New Zealand and beyond. Retrace this legendary legacy as you kayak offshore, snorkel the reefs from a catamaran or explore an archeological site on land.

Disembark Le Jacques-Cartier and transfer to the airport for your homebound flight.