Ultimate Cruising are the top sellers of the Aranui 5 cruise to The Marquesas Islands worldwide.  We know all kinds of tricks and tips to help you get the most out of your cruise so today we have 10 quick tips to remember when you’re sailing on the Aranui 5:

• Take a good pair of walking shoes with good tread and make sure they are well worn in before you go. Most of the excursions include at least some walking, with other excursions being closer to being classified as a hike.  The ground is often unsealed so good shoes are a must
• Take a backpack to carry water, mosquito repellent, sunblock etc. We also suggest taking towelette  that you can dampen to wipe your face or neck on those hot days and a little hand held fan is a godsend too.
• If you’re not keen on (or not able to do) a lot of walking, there are options to take 4WD tour instead. These are well worth it as they will give you some incredible views that you won’t see otherwise.  They’re also a great way to meet the locals and learn what life is like on the island.  The 4WD tours are at additional cost so you need to allow around  9900XPF per person per excursion.
• Book shore excursions early! The Glass Bottom boat tour for example is hugely popular and unless you get in early, you may miss out.  The Europeans are great at booking early whereas Australians and New Zealanders have more of a “She’ll be right” approach and then end up missing out.  The glass bottom boat is additional to the included excursions and costs around XPF6600.
• Take the Ukelele classes and dance classes. They’re loads of fun but make sure you attend the first class as they run them over multiple days and each class progresses so you need to start from the beginning.  At the end of the trip, you can show off your newly acquired skills at a concert. 
• Bring cash for the islands. There are no credit card facilities in the villages or at the markets so everything is done in cash.  Bring XPF for all of your purchases.
• When watching the crew loading and unloading the cargo, the Sky Lounge is the place to be for the best views.
• Cruise down to the Veranda Bar between 6 and 7pm to take advantage of Happy. There’s also pre-dinner nibbles available and it’s a great way to meet other guests.
• One night they will serve dinner on the pool deck. Be sure to get your table early for a good spot to watch the dancing.
• Get into the mood for the Polynesian evening by purchasing a head wreath at reception. They cost just XPF2000 and not only will you look the part, they’ll give your room a gorgeous aroma during the cruise.  The locals also love it when you wear them ashore. 

For more information, tips and tricks, have a chat to one of our Ultimate Cruising experts.  We’re here to help!