Tahiti & the Society Islands

According to Marquesan legend, the god Oatea created the Marquesa Islands in one night, when he wanted to build a house (hae) for his wife Atanua. Today, this “Land of Men”, or Te Fenua Enata, will welcome you among myths and legends, splendid landscapes and fascinating culture, time-honoured traditions and delicate handicrafts. Between the archipelago’s two largest islands, Hiva Oa and Nuku Hiva, set off to discover a territory whose beauty is as spectacular as it is mysterious, during an immersive seven-night programme.

Day 1 - Papeete

Meet at Papeete Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.

You will be transferred to the hotel Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts 4*.

Dinner at leisure.

Overnight at the hotel.

 Day 2 - Papeete/Hiva Oa

You will be transferred to Papeete domestic airport in the morning, and check-in for your flight to Hiva Oa. The expected flight time is 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the hotel Hanakee Lodge 3* for check in. Lunch is at leisure.

You will start your odyssey through Hiva Oa, the main island of the Southern Marquesas, exploring the Taaoa Valley. You will head for the island’s southern coast and the last inhabited valley in this part of the territory. In the heart of dense vegetation, you will discover the Upeke archaeological site, one of the largest ceremonial centres in French Polynesia. This fascinating religious complex is made up of several platforms (or paepae), a large Marquesan meeting place (or tohua) and a tiki. Accompanied by your guide, uncover the secrets of this site, which stretches over three hectares. On the way back, you will be able to discover the hamlet of Taaoa.

Back at your hotel, you will enjoy some free time to make the most of the Polynesian peacefulness.

Dinner is served at the hotel.

Day 3 - Hiva Oa

Early in the morning, you will set off to discover the island’s main village, Atuona. Following in the footsteps of Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel, both of whom are buried in the town’s peaceful cemetery, you will visit the Paul Gauguin Cultural Centre, dedicated to his work, and the Jacques Brel Centre, where several of his possessions are exhibited. Hear accounts of the beauty of this place from your guide. It is easy to imagine the reasons that would lead the two artists to settle in this corner of paradise.

You will return to your hotel for lunch and an afternoon of relaxing free time.

Dinner is served at the hotel.

Day 4 - Hiva Oa

An 4x4 wheel vehicle awaits you first thing in the morning for a guided excursion towards Puamau, at the north-eastern tip of the island. The breath-taking road snakes between valleys and villages before taking you to your end point, the Te Lipona archaeological site. The site is famous for its gigantic tiki: the Takai - 2.43 metres (virtually 8 feet) tall - or the exceptional Makai’i Taua Pepe, the only tiki represented horizontally.

Enjoy lunch on the spot in a Marquesas house or as a picnic.

Before you return to the hotel, the tropical forest of Punaei will open its doors and its treasures for you, including the “smiling tiki” of Utuka.

Dinner will be served at the hotel.

Day 5 - Hiva Oa/Nuku Hiva

Morning transfer to Hiva Oa Airport and check-in for your flight to Nuku Hiva. The expected flight time is one hour.

On arrival, you will be transferred to Le Nuku Hiva by Pearl Resorts 3*, a Relais & Châteaux hotel. The 90-minute journey aboard an 4x4 wheel vehicle promises splendid panoramas. Nuku Hiva will show you its most beautiful landscapes, which are incredibly diverse! The desert lands give way to primary forests and Caribbean pine groves, and the volcanic cliffs soar majestically before you.

Lunch is at leisure.

At the start of the afternoon, you will visit the island’s main village, Taiohae. A walk will lead you to the archaeological site of Koueva, a former ceremonial platform belonging to the great warrior chief Pakoko in the past. Restored for the Marquesas Islands Arts Festival, this tohua helps travellers gain a greater understanding of the wealth and diversity of Marquesan culture. Not far from there, you will be able to explore the craft ‘Fare’, a local market where the island’s craftspeople show and sell their products.

Diner will be served at the hotel.

Day 6 - Nuku Hiva

This day will be spent discovering the Hatiheu Valley, on the northern coast of the island of Nuku Hiva.

From the hotel, you will climb aboard your 4x4 wheel vehicle to head for Muake Pass. Your trip will feature extraordinary views over Taiohae Bay and Taipivai Valley, renowned as one of Polynesia’s largest coconut groves and made famous by Herman Melville, the author of Moby Dick. You will arrive at Kamuihei to visit the restored archaeological site. As you listen to your guide, you will go on a real journey back in time. Imagine the lavish sacred ceremonies that took place here in the past, on these magnificent sites, in the heart of this flamboyant nature.

Enjoy lunch on the spot in a Marquesas house during the tour.

Dinner will be served at the hotel.

Day 7 - Nuku Hiva

This morning, set off to meet a local sculptor and discover the art of Marquesan sculpture. In his workshop, the master sculptor will present this ancestral art, which he is gently perpetuating. This unique exchange will see you learn a little more about the traditional life of the island’s inhabitants and its legends. It will also be an opportunity to practise your artistic talents on a piece of wood from the islands.
Lunch and afternoon are at leisure.

Dinner is served at the hotel.

Day 8 - Nuku Hiva/Papeete

Morning departure and embark on 4x4 wheel vehicle to transfer to Nuku Hiva airport. Board your flight to Papeete.

Direct transfer to the port to embark on board your ship.

Your hotels:

Located in the historical Matavai Bay, Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts is surrounded by the Lafayette Beach. The hotel offers an infinity swimming pool, a renowned spa and a local arts and crafts 'fare'.

Perched on a ridge above the eastern side of Tahauku Harbor, the hotel Hanakee Lodge offers stunning panoramic views of the island’s wild beauty. In keeping with the spirit of the Marquesas Islands, each bungalow at the Hiva Oa Hanakee Lodge is decorated with creative Polynesian elements by talented local artisans. The hotel also features an infinity pool and a restaurant with an outdoor terrace.

Located in the hills of Nuku Hiva, Le Nuku Hiva by Pearl Resorts overlooks the bay and village of Taiohae, the island's capital. The hotel was built using local materials, to blend perfectly with the surrounding natural environment.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your programme includes:

·        1-night accommodation in Ocean view room at the hotel Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts 4* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.

·        3-night accommodation in bungalow at the hotel Hanakee Lodge 3* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included. 

·        3-night accommodation in bay view bungalow at the hotel Le Nuku Hiva by Pearl Resorts 3* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included. 

·        Meals as mentioned in the programme.

·        Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea), except during lunch on Day 6.

·        Domestic flights as mentioned in the programme in economy class. Luggage allowance is one piece of 23kg maximum per person.

·        Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.

·        The services of a local English-speaking guide, except during the carving lesson which will be provided only in French.

Your programme does not include:

·        Meals mentioned “at leisure” in the programme. 

·        Beverage package during lunch on Day 6.

·        Personal expenses.

·        Tips for the driver and local guide.

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

Please note:

·        Luggage allowance: a single piece of checked baggage per person, weighing no more than 23 kg. The sum of the length, width and height must not exceed 150 cm (59 inches). 1 piece of hand luggage weighing no more than 5 kg and measuring no more than 45 x 35 x 20 cm (17.7 x 13.7 x 7.8 inches). The cabins and overhead lockers on the aircraft are not big enough to accommodate extra items such as laptops, cameras, etc. All your personal effects must fit into your luggage pieces as described above.

·        The tours require healthy conditions. Follow your guide instructions.

·        The vehicles used during the tours in Nuku Hiva may be shared with other clients from the hotel.

·        Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.

Contact of your hotels:

Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts
BP 14170 - 98701
Arue, Tahiti
Polynésie française
Telephone number: (+689) 4086 5110

Hanakee Lodge
5XWF + 8MR, Hiva Oa
Polynésie française
Telephone : (+689) 40 92 75 87

Le Nuku Hiva by Pearl Resorts
BP 53 TAIOHAE TAIOHAE Nuku Hiva
98742, Polynésie française
Telephone: (+689) 40 92 07 10

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Enhance your cruise and make the most of your trip to the islands with a relaxing one-night pre-cruise stay at a beautiful Tahitian resort.

Day 1 – Papeete

Meet at Faa’a International Airport in the Arrival hall. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT Cruises. 

Transfer to the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa 4* and check in upon arrival. Enjoy dinner on your own at the resort or elsewhere.

Day 2 – Papeete

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the resort and enjoy a leisurely morning relaxing in your room or taking advantage of two freshwater swimming pools and a beach. Check-out is at 11 a.m. followed by lunch at the resort.

In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the pier to board PONANT.

The resort:

Located on a vibrant blue lagoon, the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa is the ideal base to combine relaxation and island discovery. You will have access to all hotel amenities including two freshwater swimming pools, a beach, and an overwater restaurant. A spa and dive center are also available at additional cost.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your program includes:

·        1-night accommodation in a Classic Ocean View room at the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa 4*, local standards (or similar).

·        Breakfast and lunch at the resort on Day 2.

·        Transfers from airport to the resort and from the resort to PONANT.

·        Assistance from our local English-speaking representative.

·        Accommodation tax.

Your program does not include:

·        Dinner on Day 1.

·        Tips for the driver and the guide.

·        Personal expenses: beverages, meals (other than the ones listed in the “included” list), sightseeing, diving, spa, etc.

·        Any other services not mentioned in the “included” list.

Please note:

·        The official check-in time at the hotel InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa is at 3 p.m.

·        Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.

Resort Contact Information:

InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa
PK7, Fa'a'a 98702
Polynésie française
Telephone number: +689 4086 5110

To know your PONANT Cruises flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Extend your cruise with a few days of relaxation on land.

Nestled on the private atoll of Tetiaroa and bathed by the turquoise waters of the lagoon, The Brando 5* hotel stands out as one of the most exclusive and legendary addresses in Polynesia. Once the refuge of Marlon Brando, who fell in love with the place in the 1960s, this eco-luxury sanctuary, accessible only by private plane, cultivates the art of discretion and refinement amid untouched nature. Stay in an exceptional villa with a private beach and pool, and experience absolute luxury with an all-inclusive package: gourmet cuisine, holistic spa treatments, and bespoke experiences await you.

Day 1 – Papeete / Tetiaroa

Welcome upon your arrival at Faa’a International Airport by our local representative, subject to prior communication of flight details to your advisor.

Transfer to the private terminal of Air Tetiaroa, then take a private plane to the preserved atoll of Tetiaroa.

Access to your private villa at the iconic The Brando 5* hotel from 11 a.m.

Free day to soak up the tranquility of the place or discover the experiences offered by the hotel.

Dinner included at the hotel.

Days 2 and 3 – Tetiaroa

Free days to explore the island or enjoy numerous included activities: guided lagoon excursion, outrigger canoe or kayak rides, spa treatments, nature outings with the Tetiaroa Society, etc.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 4 – Tetiaroa / Papeete

After check-out formalities, fly by private plane from Tetiaroa to Papeete.

Upon arrival, transfer to the port for boarding your ship.

Your hotel:

A stay at The Brando is much more than a trip: it’s a rare, precious, and unforgettable retreat.

Located on the private and preserved atoll of Tetiaroa, former residence of Polynesian chiefs, The Brando is a legendary, confidential address, accessible exclusively by private flight and reserved for a select few. This wild and refined natural jewel embodies the essence of contemporary luxury, combining discretion, elegance, and sustainability.

Your private villa, featuring a pool overlooking a bright blue lagoon, offers space, serenity, and absolute comfort. Subtly revisited Polynesian architecture, natural materials, and high-end amenities create an atmosphere both authentic and distinctly exclusive. Every detail is thoughtfully designed in perfect harmony with the environment.

On the experience side, The Brando offers exceptional cuisine crafted by renowned chefs, as well as a holistic spa nestled in the heart of Motu Onetahi, where the Tahitian royal family once received their beauty rituals. Land and water activities are tailor-made, with meticulous attention to detail, to exceed guests’ expectations and allow them to fully enjoy Tetiaroa’s breathtaking landscapes and culture. The Ecostation, founded in partnership with the Tetiaroa Society, also opens the doors to a unique scientific world dedicated to preserving this exceptional ecosystem.

A global icon of sustainable luxury, The Brando is the first hotel complex to obtain LEED Platinum certification. Renewable energy systems, seawater air conditioning, zero-plastic policy... here, every stay is a concrete contribution to a responsible and inspiring hospitality model.

This program offers you an exclusive three-night immersion and can be fully customized according to your wishes.

Whether you want to extend your stay, arrange it as a post-program, opt for a multi-bedroom villa, discover other islands in combination, or plan an intimate celebration at the end of the world, our advisors are ready to create a unique stay that meets your aspirations.

Your program includes:

·        3 nights at The Brando 5* hotel (or similar), in a 1-Bedroom Villa, all-inclusive.

·        All meals in restaurants or in the villa. “Premium” products are available at extra cost.

·        A wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages including beer, wine, spirits, champagne... A minibar restocked once a day.

·        One excursion or activity per person per day from the list proposed by our concierge, in shared tours.

·        One spa treatment (50 minutes) per 1-Bedroom Villa per day.

·        Permanent access to the fitness room and tennis lessons.

·        Beach equipment: kayak, stand-up paddle, outrigger canoe, snorkeling gear.

·        One bicycle per person in the villa or residence.

·        The Green Tour: a guided immersion into the Ecostation to discover sustainable innovations and ongoing research on the atoll.

·        Daily cultural workshops to discover Polynesian traditions: weaving, music, dance, cooking, storytelling... led by cultural experts.

·        Round-trip private flights Papeete/Tetiaroa.

·        Transfers as mentioned.

·        Tourist tax.

Your program does not include:

·        Tips.

·        Personal expenses (visits, premium drinks...).

·        Other services not mentioned.

Please note:

·        Your villa will be accessible from 11 a.m. on Day 1.

·        Bring lightweight clothing as well as sun and mosquito protection to fully enjoy your stay.

·        Tap water is not potable.

·        The Tetiaroa atoll is only accessible by private flight (Air Tetiaroa).

Each passenger may carry up to 32 kg of luggage, including hand luggage, which must be checked in. Luggage must not exceed 158 cm (length + width + height), with a recommended thickness of 30 cm max. Oversized items or excess baggage are not guaranteed on the same flight but will be sent as soon as possible, possibly by a later or dedicated flight (fees may apply). Important: For the return flight, please inform Air Tetiaroa of any excess weight (purchases, souvenirs, etc.), especially if you are near or over the limit.

·        All-inclusive formula is valid from 11 a.m. on arrival day to 3 p.m. on departure day.

·        Any consumption or activity outside these hours will be charged extra, except if early arrival or late departure options have been purchased.

Hotel contact:

The Brando

Tetiaroa Private Island

French Polynesia

Phone: +689 40 60 80 00

Turn your transfer into a respite and enjoy a relaxing day in a beautiful resort setting with Ponant Cruises’ Day Room Program. 

Papeete

Enjoy breakfast aboard Ponant before checking out and disembarking.

Our local representative will greet you at the pier and you will depart by coach on an island exploration.

After passing through downtown Papeete, you will arrive at the district of Arue to visit “James Norman Hall Home”. This memorial museum is the exact replica of the original elegant green colonial home of this famous writer. Most known for the “Mutiny on the Bounty” trilogy and other known novels that were transformed into Hollywood movies.

You will then continue to Venus Point on Matavai Bay. Here you will see a Victorian-era lighthouse and monument commemorating the passage of Captain James Cook who came to observe the transit of Venus in 1769 as part of his work for the Royal Society.

Next, a stop will be allowed at Tahara'a “One Tree Hill”. The lookout provides impressive panoramic views across the “Sea of Moons” with Tahiti’s sister island, Moorea.

The tour will end at the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa 4*, where you will have lunch.

After lunch, check in to your Day Room. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon/evening relaxing in your room or taking advantage of two freshwater swimming pools and a beach.

Dinner is on your own. You will transfer to the Faa’a International Airport in the late afternoon, and check in for your Ponant Cruises’ selected flight. 

The resort:

Located on a vibrant blue lagoon, the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa 4* is the ideal base to relax as you transition from the ship to the airport. You will have access to all hotel amenities including two freshwater swimming pools, a beach, and an overwater restaurant. If time and availability allow, there is also a spa and a dive center at additional cost.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your program includes:

·        1 day-use Classic Garden View room from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa 4*, local standards (or similar).

·        Meal as mentioned in the programme.

·        Beverages package during lunch (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).

·        Transfer from the ship to the hotel, with an island tour in between.

·        Transfer from the resort to the airport.

·        The assistance of an English-speaking representative.

·        Accommodation tax.

Your program does not include:

·        Dinner.

·        Tips for the driver and the guide.

·        Personal expenses (beverages, meals at the resort, etc.).

·        Any other services not mentioned in the “included” list.

Please note:

·        The check-out time at the hotel InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa is at 8 p.m.

·        Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.

Resort Contact Information:

InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa
PK7, Fa'a'a 98702
Polynésie française
Telephone number: +689 4086 5110

To check your Ponant Cruises’ flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket which is included in your travel documents.

Enhance your cruise and make the most of your trip to the islands with a relaxing three-night post-cruise stay at a beautiful Tahitian resort.

Velvety mountain peaks, white-sand beaches with swaying palms, sheltered azure bays and gentle breezes: Moorea is the very picture of the ideal island getaway. And you can immerse yourself in its splendor with a stay at a luxury resort that offers world-class service in a spectacular setting.

Day 1 – Papeete/Moorea

After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.

You will be transferred to your ferry to Moorea. Upon arriving Moorea, you will be met by a representative from the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort 5* and be transferred to the resort.

After check-in, the afternoon is at leisure.

Dinner at the hotel.

Day 2 & 3 – Moorea

Set against a stunning mountain backdrop melting into a crystal clear lagoon with views over the island of Tahiti, the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort is the perfect setting for a relaxing vacation. The bungalows, built over the water or surrounded by landscaped gardens, are made from natural materials and feature a rain shower. Make the most of the resort's white sandy beach, the most beautiful on Moorea, to sunbathe or explore a lagoon teeming with tropical marine life. Facilities include two restaurants, a bar, an outdoor swimming pool and a day spa.

Lunches are on your own.

Dinners at the hotel.

Day 4 – Moorea/Papeete

Check out after an included breakfast and you will be transferred to the port of Moorea, to embark on a ferry to Papeete. Upon arriving in Tahiti, a local representative will assist you in transporting you to your Day Room at the Hilton Tahiti 4*.

Check-in and then relax in your room or take advantage of the resort’s amenities.

The Hilton Tahiti offers an ideal location, overlooking Moorea Island and close to the city centre. The elegant rooms are light and equipped with contemporary furniture for a warm and comfortable ambience. The hotel features a large outdoor pool, six bars and restaurants, a fitness centre and a spa.

Lunch and dinner are on your own. You will then be transferred to the Faa’a International Airport in time for check-in for the PONANT Cruises selected flight. 

This program includes the accommodation in Luxury Bungalow Garden View at the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort. Superior Overwater Bungalow and Horizon Overwater Bungalow are also available on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your program includes:

·        3 nights accommodations in Luxury Bungalow Garden View, Superior Overwater Bungalow or Horizon Overwater Bungalow (depending on your choice) at the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort 5*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast and dinner.

·        1 day-use in King Bed Ocean View Room from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Hilton Tahiti 4*, local standards (or similar).

·        Roundtrip ferry service from Papeete to Moorea.

·        All transfers mentioned above; between ship/ferry/resorts/airport.

·        The assistance of an English-speaking representative.

·        Accommodation tax.

Your program does not include:

·        Dinner on Day 4 and lunches.

·        Tips for the driver and the guide.

·        All personal expenses (beverages, spa services, meals other than breakfasts, sightseeing, SCUBA, etc.).

·        Any other services not mentioned in the “included” list.

Please note:

·        The check-out time at the hotel Hilton Tahiti is at 8 p.m.

·        Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.

Resorts Contact Information:

Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort
Moorea, BP 28
98728 MAHAREPA
FRENCH POLYNESIA
Telephone number: +689 40 55 12 12

Hilton Tahiti
Auae Faaa, Papeete 98713
FRENCH POLYNESIA
Telephone number: +689 4086 4848

To know your PONANT Cruises flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.