Tahiti, the Society and Tuamotu Islands - 11 or 12 Day Cruise

Embark the Panorama II in Papeete Port between 2pm and 3pm. After a welcome briefing and safety drill, we will set sail for Mo’orea. Arrival late afternoon. Dinner on board and overnight

Mo'orea is believed to be the inspiration for the mythical Bali Hai from James Michener's Tales of the South Pacific. Eight gargantuan mountain peaks rise from its magnificent lagoon, creating a distinctive silhouette visible from the western coast of Tahiti. Morning and afternoon optional half day excursions; a/ a Snorkeling and ray tour b/ a Nature & Culture Tour taking you to admire magnificent views in the interior of the island. Afternoon sailing to Makatea.

The island of Makatea is like no other found in French Polynesia. It is not a coral atoll but rather a raised island of coral. The limestone cliffs tower over the coast and the island’s interior shows significant vegetation, complete with a few species of endemic birds and a peculiar expanse of limestone holes. Today, this sleepy but spectacular island is home to three species of threatened endemic birds: the beautiful Makatea fruit dove, the impressive imperial pigeon, and the comely appearing singer extraordinaire, the reed warbler. Our half-day optional tour will take us across this unique island to a magnificent beach with rockpools to explore before we visit an incredible grotto. Swimming deeper inside the grotto, this underwater cave system will slowly open out to reveal a spectacular watery cathedral, full of weird and wonderful stalagmites and stalactites. Late afternoon departure to Rangiroa. Overnight at sea.

Morning arrival in Rangiroa, the largest atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago and one of the largest in the world. One of the best destinations for scuba diving, Rangiroa is composed of 240 islets, more than 110 miles, encompassing a deep lagoon. Our full-day optional excursion will take us to the Blue Lagoon, a natural pool formed by islets and reefs within the central lagoon. At only 16 feet deep, the Blue Lagoon is an ideal location for swimming, snorkeling, and observing the vast assortment of marine life. Enjoy a traditional Polynesian picnic before returning to the ship. Overnight at anchor.

Early morning sailing and arrival at Tikehau also called the Pink Sand Island. This small atoll consists of countless tiny white and pink sand islets engulfed in coconut groves and hidden alcoves. In Tikehau, which actually means "peaceful landing," you will find nothing but absolute serenity on her calm and graceful shores. The lagoon, formed by an almost unbroken ring of continuous coral, resembles an immense natural swimming pool. This underwater aquarium is teeming with marine life. According to the legendary marine researcher Jacques Cousteau, it has a higher concentration of fish than any other lagoon in French Polynesia. Our optional walking tour will take us to one of the family-owned fish farms where they trap different species of fish in a maze of underwater fencing. Much of their catch is then shipped to Papeete and sold at the local markets. We will visit Tuherahera at the southern side where most locals live, leaving the remainder of the atoll virtually untouched. In fact, the northeastern quarter is mostly uninhabited. Naturally adorned with colorful flowers such as hibiscus and bougainvillea, Tuherahera is one of the most attractive villages in the Tuamotu Atolls. Afternoon sailing to Huahine. *Please note that due to visit by anchor adrift to the Tuamotu islands, such are dependent on favorable weather conditions.

Huahine, once home to Tahitian royalty, is considered the cradle of Polynesian culture. The two islands maintain the largest concentration of ancient marae (temples) in French Polynesia, some of which are believed to date back to around 700 AD. Huahine is a colossal tropical jungle burgeoning with coconut plantations, vanilla orchids, banana groves, breadfruit trees and watermelon fields. Our optional afternoon tour takes us by 4x4 vehicle around the island to visit the small villages of Fare and Maeva, an archaeological site, and a vanilla plantation. There will also be an opportunity to see and feed the sacred blue-eyed eels of Faie Bay. Evening sailing to Bora Bora, overnight at sea.

Early morning arrival in Bora Bora, possibly the most photographed place on earth. Our ship sails into Bora Bora lagoon with Mount Otemanu rising proudly at the center. We will have a variety of optional activities to choose from, such as: a) An excursion to snorkel with sting rays and sharks and open-air Lagoon Aquarium exploration; b) The Bora Bora tour by "Le Truck" and more. Overnight at anchor.

Morning arrival to nearby Taha'a, a true botanical paradise. The fertile island is covered with banana, watermelon and coconut groves. The island also acts as a vast natural greenhouse for the treasured Tahitian vanilla orchid. Our optional half-day excursion will allow us to explore the beautiful interior of the island by 4x4 vehicle or by boat. Taste the local fruit and admire breathtaking views of the magnificent turquoise waters of Ha'amene Bay. This excursion also includes a visit to a pearl farm and a traditional vanilla plantation. Afternoon sail to the nearby Raiatea. Overnight in port

In the morning we sail across the lagoon and reach nearby Raiatea, which translates to “faraway heaven” and “sky with soft light”. Originally known as Havai’i, Raiatea is considered the homeland of the ancient Polynesians. Our morning optional excursion will introduce you to the highlights of Raiatea. Meet your guide for an informative & intimate tour by minibus. Enjoy a panoramic drive through the main town of Uturoa -- the cultural and administrative center of Raiatea. Shortly after leaving town, you will see Mount Temehani -- endemic home to the Tiare Apetahi. Our highlight stop is at the main ancient Marae (open-air temple) of Taputapuatea, recently became a UNΕSCO protected site – your guide will cover the origins & history of this famous landmark. Here, we will learn about its Polynesian origins and historical relevance. Optional afternoon tour includes an exploration by kayak of the Faaroa River, French Polynesia's only navigable river, with an expert guide leading the way through Raiatea's verdant interior. Overnight at anchor.

A haven for birds, sea turtles and all kinds of marine life, Tetiaroa is treasured among Tahitians who know it as a sacred place. So sacred, that at one time the coconut-dotted white sand beaches and crystalline lagoon of this uninhabited atoll was an exclusive getaway for Tahitian royalty. It’s not surprising that actor Marlon Brando fell under its spell during the filming of “Mutiny on the Bounty” in 1960 and later went on to become its owner. Under his direction a luxury eco-resort was designed and it operates in 100 % sustainable manner. We will spend the morning in this charming island, exploring the lagoon and snorkeling in its crystal clear waters. Enjoy an optional guided walking tour to the islet of Tahuna Iti, the Birds’ Island. The islet shelters one of the largest colony of birds in Tahiti and is a national reserve for seabirds, frigates, sterns, phaetons (straw tails), brown gannets and other petrels. Afternoon sailing at Papeete. Overnight at sea.

Early morning arrival in Papeete. Disembarkation at 9:00 am after breakfast.

Variety Cruises' itineraries are contingent upon weather and sea conditions as well as local port authorities. In cases where wind speeds reach 6/7 Beaufort or high swells occur, itinerary changes may be necessary. It is upon Captain’s discretion to alter the itinerary or skip port calls due to adverse weather or sea conditions to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers and crew. Such changes do not entitle passengers to any kind of refunds. Variety Cruises guarantees that passengers will be disembarked at the advertised port of disembarkation on time for their flights.