Aranui Cruises

The Aranui Experience

For more than 40 years, Aranui Cruises has offered one of the world's most distinctive voyages, combining the comfort of a small cruise ship with the purpose of a working cargo vessel. More than a journey, it is an immersion into the heart and soul of French Polynesia.

Our ships provide a vital lifeline to some of the South Pacific's most remote communities, delivering essential supplies while taking guests far beyond the usual tourist routes. Along the way, travellers discover spectacular landscapes, rich traditions and warm island hospitality that have inspired explorers, artists and writers for centuries.

At the heart of every voyage is our Polynesian crew. Drawn from islands across French Polynesia, they bring an authenticity that no traditional cruise line can replicate. Their stories, customs, music and genuine hospitality transform every sailing into a cultural experience, creating the warm, inclusive atmosphere for which Aranui is renowned.

Discover the Marquesas: The Land of Men

Located 1,500 kilometres northeast of Tahiti, the Marquesas Islands are among the most isolated inhabited archipelagos on Earth. Known to their people as *Henua Enana*—the "Land of Men"—these dramatic volcanic islands are steeped in mythology, history and tradition. Towering peaks, lush valleys, rugged coastlines and ancient archaeological sites provide a breathtaking backdrop to a culture that remains proudly distinct and deeply connected to its ancestral roots.

During Aranui's signature 12-day Marquesas voyage, guests explore all six inhabited islands through included guided excursions, gaining rare access to local communities, traditions and daily life. As cargo is unloaded for island residents, passengers venture ashore to discover the stories, landscapes and people that make the Marquesas one of the world's most fascinating destinations.

Aranui 5

Sailing to the Marquesas Islands and purpose-built as a passenger-freighter, Aranui 5 combines modern comfort with authentic adventure. Accommodating just 230 guests in 103 cabins, the ship offers an intimate and relaxed atmosphere where travellers quickly feel part of the Aranui family.

On board, guests enjoy spacious lounges, multiple bars, a swimming pool, spa, fitness centre, boutique, conference facilities and the first tattoo studio at sea. More than 90% of exterior staterooms feature private balconies, offering the perfect place to watch spectacular South Pacific sunsets after a day of exploration.

All meals, guided excursions and cultural presentations are included, while expert lecturers and local guides enrich the journey with insights into the history, culture and traditions of French Polynesia.

Aranoa: A New Chapter

Launching in 2027, Aranoa represents the next evolution of the Aranui experience. Designed with more than four decades of expertise, this custom-built vessel will accommodate just 198 guests, offering a warm and intimate small-ship atmosphere while incorporating the latest environmental and comfort innovations.

Like Aranui 5, Aranoa will continue Aranui's long-standing mission of connecting isolated communities through the transport of passengers and essential supplies, opening access to one of French Polynesia's most remote and least-visited regions. Thoughtfully designed public spaces and contemporary onboard comforts ensure guests can explore in comfort while minimising their impact on the destinations they visit.

Combining cultural immersion, meaningful connections and extraordinary destinations, Aranoa continues the spirit of exploration that has defined Aranui Cruises for more than 40 years, inviting travellers to discover one of the South Pacific's last truly untouched frontiers.

Discover the Austral Islands

Aranoa will sail to the untouched Austral Islands, located 600 kilometres south of Tahiti. An archipelago of seven islands, five of which are inhabited: Rimatara, Rurutu, Tubuai, Raivavae and Rapa and home to just 6,800 residents, these remote islands remain one of French Polynesia's best-kept secrets, where white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and a traditional way of life have endured far from the modern world.

Discovered by Europeans in the 18th century, the Australs are renowned for their dramatic scenery, from rugged mountains and fertile valleys to sweeping high plains. Rich in cultural heritage, the islands are dotted with archaeological sites that bear witness to thriving pre-European communities and centuries-old traditions. The region is also one of French Polynesia's premier whale-watching destinations, with humpback whales arriving each year from August to October to calve and raise their young in the surrounding waters.

With very little tourism and a strong connection to local customs, craftsmanship and agriculture, the Austral Islands offer a rare glimpse into an authentic Polynesia that few travellers have the opportunity to experience.

The Aranui Atmosphere: A Polynesian Crew

From its inception to the present day, and through successive Aranui ships, the concept of Aranui Polynesian Cruises has remained the same: a traditional and authentic Polynesian offering by Polynesians for the benefit of Polynesia. In that spirit, nearly all the staff and crew are Polynesian, hailing from islands across the five archipelagos. It is their insider’s perspective and how openly they introduce their home to the outside world that creates an atmosphere unlike any other cruise line sailing these waters. Whether in the public spaces, at special dinner events, as part of the onboard entertainment or assisting you from ship to shore on our tenders, you will become well acquainted with our lively and talented crew members. Though some can be a little shy at first, once you strike up a conversation, you will discover why they are an integral part of the Aranui experience.