WED, MARCH 26
DEPARTURE 18:00
Papeete is the center of the tropical paradise of French Polynesia, where islands fringed with gorgeous beaches and turquoise ocean await to soothe the soul. This spirited city is the capital of French Polynesia, and serves as a superb base for onward exploration of Tahiti – an island of breathtaking landscapes and oceanic vistas. A wonderful lagoon of crisp, clear water begs to be snorkelled, stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island’s volcanic heritage, and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures, as you explore extraordinary Tahiti. Visit to relax and settle into the intoxicating rhythm of life in this Polynesian paradise.
THU, MARCH 27
12:00 – 19:00
Fakarava is oblong shaped and has an almost continuous string of reef and motu stretching for 40 km (25 mi) on its eastern edge. It’s the second largest of the Tuamotu atolls, located 450 km (280 mi) northeast of Tahiti, and 120 km (75 mi) southeast of Rangiroa. It’s renowned for the drift diving in its two passes—Garuae (also spelled Ngarue) in the north near the main town of Rotoava (and the airport) and Tamakohua Pass, 48 km (30 mi) across the lagoon in the south. The tiny village of Tetamanu, situated by the southern pass, was once the capital of the Tuamotus and houses the first church built in the archipelago in 1874. In 2006 the entire atoll was deemed an UNESCO biosphere reserve; to preserve the lagoon no overwater bungalows have been built in it. Fakarava was “discovered” by Russian explorer Fabian Gottlieb Von Bellingshausen in 1820; some 20 years later missionaries arrived, in the guise of fanatical Catholic priest Honore Laval, and began building churches.
1 Included Shore Excursion
Included with Door-to-Door and Port-to-Port
Favkavara Island Self Exploration
Code: FAK-INFO
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Moderate
FRI, MARCH 28
Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.
SAT, MARCH 29
12:00 – 23:00
The largest of the southern islands, Hiva Oa, the master pillar or finial post of the ‘Great House’ – which represents the Marquesan archipelago in the local mythology – has always been the rival of Nuku Hiva. The island is shaped like a seahorse and has a mountain range running southwest to northeast whose main peaks, Mt. Temetiu and Mt. Feani form a real wall around Atuona. Atuona, a peaceful little port at the head of the Taaoa Bay, also known as Traitors Bay, has emerged from obscurity due to having had the privilege of being the last resting place of Paul Gauguin and of the singer Jacques Brel. The tombs of these famous personalities are on the side of the Calvary cemetery looking out across the bay and are places of great pilgrimage. In the village, the Gauguin Museum displays items related to the painter’s stay there at the beginning of the century and has copies of his works.
1 Included Shore Excursion
Included with Door-to-Door and Port-to-Port
Mave Mai Traditional Welcome
Code: ATU-B
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Minimal
ACCESSIBILITY: Moderate Mobility Issues
SUN, MARCH 30
08:00 – 18:00
Think of French Polynesia and you are automatically transported to the white sands of Tahiti, the blue seas of Bora Bora or, at the very least, the iconic statues of Easter Island. Now, imagine a place that is home to that majestic trinity, but has no crowds and is full of island authenticity that is rare in these global times. You have just imagined Nuku Hiva. The island is the second largest after Tahiti in the archipelago, but is yet to be discovered by tourism. As part of the Marquesas Islands, Nuku Hiva is technically French, but don’t expect to find any blue and white striped shirts here! In fact, even though French is the “official” language of the island, a sing-song dialect of Tahitian mixed with Marquesan is more widely spoken. The younger generations also speak English. Undeniably, Nuku Hiva has been blessed by the Gods. With towering mountains, eight magnificent harbours, and one of the world’s highest waterfalls, Nuku Hiva is rich with Mother Nature’s jewels. The island could lay claim to a great many claims to fame, such as its deep, unpolluted waters, its lush forests bursting with vitality or its fascinating assortment of archaeological interests including tikis (sacred statues) and pae pae (stone platforms that formed the foundations of houses). Yet for those in the know, the island’s primary claim to fame is that author Herman Mellville deserted his ship in order to live among the natives of the island and his books Typee and Omoo were inspired by his experiences on Nuku Hiva.
1 Included Shore Excursion
Included with Door-to-Door and Port-to-Port
Taipivai Valley Scenic Drive
Code: NUK-A
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Extensive
MON, MARCH 31
Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.
TUE, APRIL 1
08:00 – 18:00
Rangiroa is French Polynesia’s largest atoll. More than 400 motu (islets) enclose the lagoon, which is so wide and long that one cannot see the southern row of motu from the two main islets in the north –hence the local name Rangiroa meaning wide or long sky, sometimes taken as “immense sky”. There are several passes from the ocean into the lagoon and the two main villages of Avatoru and Tiputa are located next to the passes of the same names. Drift diving and snorkeling the incoming tides looking for sharks and manta rays at these passes is one of Rangiroa’s main touristic draws. Government jobs, ecotourism and pearl farming are the main sources of income on the atoll. The lagoon’s calm turquoise waters, rich marine underwater world and relaxed atmosphere attract visitors year-round to the many local guesthouses and a few hotels. Both Avatoru and Tiputa also feature schools for the other Tuamotu Islands which have no higher education possibilities. One of Rangiroa’s most unusual attractions is the white and rose wine produced on the islet immediately west of Avatoru –the wine has won several awards.
Choose from the Included Shore Excursions:
Included with Door-to-Door and Port-to-Port
Black Pearl Farm Visit
Code: RAN-A
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Minimal
ACCESSIBILITY: Moderate Mobility Issues
OR Rangiroa Glass Bottom Boat Cruise
Code: RAN-B
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Minimal
OR Snorkelling at the Natural Aquarium
Code: RAN-C
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Extensive
WED, APRIL 2
ARRIVAL 12:30
If you have ever dreamt up your ideal island holiday, we suspect it goes something like this: Soapy blue seas? Check. Sparkling white beaches? Check. Thatched wooden huts, gently sloping palm trees and kaleidoscopic marine life? Check, check and check. And yet, even by ticking every box, first time viewing of Bora Bora still beggars belief. This tropical hideaway less than 12 m2 in the heart of the South Pacific has been toping travel wish lists for years. Long considered the realm of honeymooners – spectacularly romantic sunsets are a speciality – Bora Bora is not just for wandering with your love. If the prismatic shades of blue of the world’s most beautiful lagoon do not fill you up, then perhaps underwater scooters and aqua Safaris will charge your batteries. If exploring Bora Bora’s lush hinterland is more your glass of tequila sunrise, then trips around the island (often stopping off at the celebrity haunt Bloody Mary Restaurant & Bar) are a must. Bora Bora’s peaceful ambience has not always been the case. The island was a US supply base, known as “Operation Bobcat” during WWII. During this time, Bora Bora was home to nine ships, 20,000 tons of equipment and nearly 7,000 men. Eight massive 7-inch naval cannons were installed around the island, all but one of which is still in place. Although little is known of the history of the island, it is known that Bora Bora was called Vava’u in ancient times. This supports belief that the island was colonised by Tongans prior to French annex in 1888.
Choose from 2 Included Shore Excursions
Included with Door-to-Door and Port-to-Port
Bora Bora by Local Truck
Code: BOB-A
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Moderate
OR Glass Bottom Boat Cruise
Code: BOB-D
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Minimal
THU, APRIL 3
DEPARTURE 23:00
If you have ever dreamt up your ideal island holiday, we suspect it goes something like this: Soapy blue seas? Check. Sparkling white beaches? Check. Thatched wooden huts, gently sloping palm trees and kaleidoscopic marine life? Check, check and check. And yet, even by ticking every box, first time viewing of Bora Bora still beggars belief. This tropical hideaway less than 12 m2 in the heart of the South Pacific has been toping travel wish lists for years. Long considered the realm of honeymooners – spectacularly romantic sunsets are a speciality – Bora Bora is not just for wandering with your love. If the prismatic shades of blue of the world’s most beautiful lagoon do not fill you up, then perhaps underwater scooters and aqua Safaris will charge your batteries. If exploring Bora Bora’s lush hinterland is more your glass of tequila sunrise, then trips around the island (often stopping off at the celebrity haunt Bloody Mary Restaurant & Bar) are a must. Bora Bora’s peaceful ambience has not always been the case. The island was a US supply base, known as “Operation Bobcat” during WWII. During this time, Bora Bora was home to nine ships, 20,000 tons of equipment and nearly 7,000 men. Eight massive 7-inch naval cannons were installed around the island, all but one of which is still in place. Although little is known of the history of the island, it is known that Bora Bora was called Vava’u in ancient times. This supports belief that the island was colonised by Tongans prior to French annex in 1888.
Choose from 2 Included Shore Excursions
Included with Door-to-Door and Port-to-Port
Bora Bora by Local Truck
Code: BOB-A
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Moderate
OR Glass Bottom Boat Cruise
Code: BOB-D
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Minimal
FRI, APRIL 4
08:00 – 22:00
Known as the “Sacred Island,” Raiatea is a fascinating haunt for archaeologists and historians as it’s one of the islands in the Pacific where Polynesian culture can trace its roots. Visitors will find many of the older Polynesian structures still in place and are fascinating places to explore. In the 16th century, Raiatea developed a powerful cult dedicated to Oro the God of War and built a large meeting ground, the Taputaputea Marae, which is still intact. Human sacrifice was practiced until around the middle of the 18th century and visitors should look for the sacrificial stone. Several tour operators run visits to the marae (ancient temples) along with some degree of informed commentary—although in fairness Polynesian storytelling can embellish things a little. The Faaroa River is the only navigable waterway in French Polynesia and it can be traveled by powerboat or outrigger canoe. Running through the Faaroa Gorge it passes some spectacular scenery with steep-walled jungle foliage holding dozens of bird species and wild hibiscus. Trekking up Mount Temehani, a well-known landmark that’s said to be Oro’s birthplace, is relatively demanding. Keep a lookout for the rare, five-petal tiare apetahi. Said to be impossible to grow anywhere else, this white, indigenous flower can only be found above 1,300 feet (396 meters). Look, but don’t touch. It’s against the law to pick them.
Choose from 2 Included Shore Excursions
Included with Door-to-Door and Port-to-Port
Marae Taputaputatea by ‘Le Truck’
Code: RFP-A
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Moderate
OR Polynesian Cultural Experience
Code: RFP-F
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Minimal
SAT, APRIL 5
08:00 – 23:59
Moorea is a high mountainous island with two nearly symmetrical bays found on the north coast. The island’s triangular shape has been likened to a heart or a bat. Eight mountain peaks reaching a height of up to 1,207 meters give Moorea a very rugged silhouette. The reef surrounding the island encloses a narrow lagoon –a RAMSAR Wetland- and has barely any motu (reef islets). Sharks and rays are some of the lagoon’s attractions. The island is only one eighth the size of neighboring Tahiti and has a more relaxed life-style. A road leads around Moorea, passing small villages with their churches and the resorts and smaller hotels mainly found on the north coast. A detour into the interior will show large pineapple plantations, French Polynesia’s only agricultural school, ancient marae (stone platforms) and splendid views of the island from Belvedere above Cook’s Bay. Many of the 18,000 residents work in Tahiti, taking one of the ferries plying between Vaiare on the east coast and Papeete. This led to Papeete being one of France’s busiest ports in passenger volume. Foreign visitors either come into Temae airport, tucked in-between the Green Pearl golf course and Temae’s public beach, or by ship entering one of the two bays on the north coast. Both bays are connected to Captain Cook’s visit in 1777: he stayed in Opunohu Bay, but to honor him Pao Pao Bay has been named Cook’s Bay.
Choose from 4 Included Shore Excursions
Included with Door-to-Door and Port-to-Port
Island Drive & Belvedere Viewpoint
Code: MOZ-A
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Minimal
OR Four-Wheel-Drive Island Discovery
Code: MOZ-B
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Extensive
OR Dolphin Watch with Dr. Poole
Code: MOZ-D
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Minimal
OR Moorea Eco-Cultural Experience
Code: MOZ-K
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Minimal
SUN, APRIL 6
ARRIVAL 05:00
Papeete is the center of the tropical paradise of French Polynesia, where islands fringed with gorgeous beaches and turquoise ocean await to soothe the soul. This spirited city is the capital of French Polynesia, and serves as a superb base for onward exploration of Tahiti – an island of breathtaking landscapes and oceanic vistas. A wonderful lagoon of crisp, clear water begs to be snorkelled, stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island’s volcanic heritage, and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures, as you explore extraordinary Tahiti. Visit to relax and settle into the intoxicating rhythm of life in this Polynesian paradise.
INTIMATE AND IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES
Thanks to ongoing and in-depth scouting, our Silversea destination experts have partnered with local communities to curate a series of exclusive and bespoke experiences, ashore and on board. With a large variety of small-group events, including a private motu island day in signature Silversea style, there’s no better way to explore French Polynesia and enjoy local performances, stargazing, lounging, land tours and more.
TIME TO TAKE IT SLOW
With extensive stays in port and multiple overnights, you can enjoy French Polynesia at a slower pace for a deeper connection with the archipelagos’ peoples, cultures and character. You’ll have all the time in the world to explore and enjoy incredible onshore experiences, including enchanting sunset cruises, exciting fire shows and some of the best stargazing anywhere.
A TRULY LOCAL PERSPECTIVE
Our close partnerships with local communities help you enjoy the islands like a local. They also inspire us to think deeply about the archipelagos’ delicate ecosystems and wilderness, and their precious sense of community. We make our voyages here as sustainable as possible and we closely support local conservation initiatives to ensure these islands remain pristine for generations to come.
· Private executive transfers (between home and airport)
· Economy Class Air (from select gateways)/Business Class upgrades are available at reduced rates
· Shore excursions (one per port, per day)
· Butler service in every suite category
· Premium beverages in-suite and throughout the ship
· Multiple restaurants serving diverse cuisine and an in-suite 24-hour dining service.
· Unlimited Wi-Fi
· Onboard gratuities
GENERAL EXCLUSIONS: All fares, savings, offers, programmes, and itineraries are subject to change without notice. Any fares shown are per guest, based on double-occupancy. Additional restrictions may apply. This document may contain inadvertent technical or factual inaccuracies and typographical errors. Silversea reserves the right to correct errors and omissions at any time without prior notice, and to cancel any offered product, service, programme, reward, savings, credit, amenity, etc. in the event of any error or omission in the description, including pricing and availability. Contact your travel advisor for full offer details and complete Terms and Conditions.
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