Discover the fascinating history, culture and scenic beauty of Tahiti’s remote Marquesas Islands with the working freighter, Aranui 5. This ruggedly beautiful archipelago has inspired many artists including Paul Gauguin and they remain uncommercialised and naturally stunning.
The 12 night voyage begins in Papeete, heading for the Marquesas Islands and returning via Bora Bora. There are three different itineraries, depending on which day you depart Papeete but each itinerary takes in the same ports, just in a slightly different order.
On this incredible voyage, you’ll venture where other tourists don’t. Leaving the masses behind, you’ll discover the culture and traditions in the heart of Polynesia, where time seems to have stopped and the islands have remained untouched. You’ll visit local villages and learn about life on isolated islands where the Aranui 5 is their link to the outside world. You’ll learn ancient legends, the meaning behind the intricate tattoos and the ornate carvings. This is a mesmerising part of French Polynesia beyond the perfect white beaches and turquoise lagoons.
PACKAGE #176
TAHITIARANUI 5 + THE MARQUESAS
$10,799pp
The 12 day cruise is a unique voyage where you can experience life on-board a working freighter as the crew deliver essential supplies to isolated villages. Watching the dexterity of the crew as they unload food, electrical goods and even cars is simply fascinating!
Whilst the Aranui 5 is a freighter, the Aranui 5 has been purpose-built for this destination and provides plenty of passenger space and spacious and comfortable accommodations. With two lounges, four bars, conference rooms, swimming pool, massage room, gym and more, the Aranui 5 takes freighter cruising to a whole new level.
Let the magic of the Marquesas captivate you - this truly is a cruise of a lifetime!
Package Inclusions
Your Aranui 5 Tahiti cruise package suits those looking for soft adventure and is fully inclusive of:
- return economy class airfares ex Sydney/Melbourne or Brisbane to Papeete
- transfer from Papeete airport to accommodation
- 6 nights pre/post cruise accommodation
- transfer from accommodation to wharf
- 11 night Aranui 5 freighter cruise ex Papeete
- all meals on board including glass of wine with lunch and dinner
- shore excursions throughout
PLUS Ultimate Cruising guests also receive chauffeur driven luxury car transfers from your home to the airport return (within 35m)
SPECIALS
The SPECIALS offer a $700pp discount ($1,400 per Twin Share/$700 per Single) on the Ocean View Stateroom cabin price. The discount does not apply to the cruise taxes, nor airfare, accommodation or transfer costs.
Cruise Highlights
Departure Dates & Pricing
17 night packages from AUD$10,799* (specific dates only) per person twin share ex Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. Includes $700pp saving - available on selected voyages only (see flyer)
Click here to see the 2022 Sailing Schedule and pricing. 2021 departures and pricing available on request.
Should you wish to extend your stay and add a stop in Moorea or one of the other islands, we are most happy to assist. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
It is essential to book well in advance for this cruise, as with limited capacity and huge popularity (check out some previous passengers thoughts here), the voyages sell out months in advance.
For a high resolution copy of the brochure please contact us.
Cruise Category
- Freighter
- Purpose Built
- Soft Adventure
- Solo Traveller
ONBOARD FEATURES
- Meals + Wine
- On-Board Lecturer
- Shore Excursions
- Solo Traveller Friendly
Bonus Offer
Complimentary chauffeur driven luxury car transfers to/from your international airport (within 35 km)

Trip itinerary
Depart Australia
Arrive Papeete (crossing dateline)
At leisure in Papeete
At leisure in Papeete
Embark Aranui 5
Technical Details
- Tonnage 3200
- Built Date 2015
- Capacity 256
- Length 126M
Cruise Category
- Freighter Style
- Purpose Built Vessel
VESSEL FEATURES
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All meals
-
Meals + Wine
-
Medical Services
-
On-Board Lecturer
-
Pool &/or Spa
-
Shore Excursions
-
Solo Traveller Friendly