There are many types of cruise ships, but only one Aranui 3. The six inhabited islands of the Marquesas are so remote that the Aranui is their lifeline to the outside world, bringing supplies and picking up copra, dried coconut and noni fruit.
The new Aranui 3, built in 1990, is the only custom built passenger/cargo vessel sailing between Tahiti and The Marquesas. She offers comfortable, air-conditioned accommodation for about 200 passengers with a high crew to guest ratio. From dining room to stateroom, you’ll quickly feel that the Aranui 3 is your floating home away from home.
The large, family-style dining room offers views as varied as the menus. Relish the ever-changing scenery and the imaginative French and Polynesian cuisine. Dressing for dinner is very informal, perhaps a pareo (sarong-like wrap around skirt) or shorts, sandals and a white tiare (hibiscus blossom) behind the ear.
The swimming pool on deck is the place for the perfect plunge. In the well-equipped gym, you can stretch your muscles while gazing out at the ocean. There are facilities for fishing, swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving.
There are two charming bars, two lounges and a full programme of activities. You’ll learn about Marquesan history, culture and art from the guest lecturers. And the spirited crew will teach you to weave hats, how to wear the national dress, the pareo, and dance the tamure.
In the library you can read how Herman Melville (Moby Dick), Robert Louis Stevenson (Treasure Island) and Thor Heyerdahl (Kon Tiki) described these alluring islands. Their words and the Gauguin prints on the walls will spring to life when we dock.
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