French Polynesia is renowned
for its turquoise seas, white beaches, stunning
volcanic islands, fragrant tropical flowers
and its warm, friendly welcome. Rising out
of a vast ocean, the five archipelagos comprising
118 islands richly deserve their reputation
as the sparkling gems of the South Pacific.
Even their names declare their very precious
nature:
Tahiti. Moorea. Rangiroa. Bora Bora.
Whether you wish to dive, snorkel or simply
swim in the turquoise lagoons, explore the colourful
ribbons of reef in a glass-bottomed boat, or just
find your own paradise beach beneath the jagged
mountains, our cruise holidays provide the perfect
way to discover these jewels in comfort and style.
The Society Islands are usually the starting point for cruises around French Polynesia, with Tahiti a focal point, along with its lively capital of Papeete. With fabulous restaurants, spas and superb markets, Papeete is a stimulating introduction to the area. Here you’ll also find the unique multicoloured ‘black’ pearls.
Intrepid seafarers settled here centuries before Europeans such as Captain James Cook and William Bligh of HMS Bounty made landfall. The people are renown for their beauty, artistry and warmth of welcome. Their fascinating tattoos, which itself is a Tahitian word, reflect some of the beauty they found all around them.
Bora Bora, the ‘romantic island’, offers Mount Otenamu, the island’s dramatic peak that offers a stunning backdrop to crystal clear lagoons teeming with brightly coloured fish amongst the coral. Moorea is a delight to the senses, with cascading waterfalls, scented hibiscus gardens, simple pastel villages and dazzling birds of paradise.
A wonderland for divers, Rangiroa is the second largest atoll in the world. A narrow circle of land comprising 250 islets and sandbars surround a fabulous lagoon. 800 species of fish have been recorded around these rich waters, including colourful clown fish, angelfish and giant manta rays, as well as sharks, sea turtles and dolphins.
The Marquesas have remained virtually untouched for hundreds of years, creating a fascinating culture that captivated such artists as painter Paul Gauguin whose final resting place is on the island of Hiva Oa. The ‘Mystic Island’ of Nuka Hiva contains a compelling mix of ancient religious sites and the natural beauty of fertile valleys and plummeting waterfalls.
With so much to explore and enjoy, our carefully chosen selection of quality cruises cannot fail to leave a lasting impression on you, with or without a souvenir tattoo!
 Cruising Holidays Home
|
 
|
