Join us aboard the MS Island Sky and discover the idyllic islands of French Polynesia as we uncover their history and legends and visit some of the most captivating islands in the world. The beauty of the islands exceeds everyone’s expectations. They are as sensuous as the paintings of Gauguin, more adventurous than the tales of Robert Louis Stevenson and more romantic than James Michener’s fabled Bali Hai.
The name Polynesia means ‘many islands’ and no one could argue with the suitability of this title. There are islands of low lying coral with some of the most stunning beaches in the world and contrasting volcanic mountainous landscapes of lush, incomparable beauty. Welcoming others is sacred to Polynesians and that will be evident as we island hop through the region experiencing the genuine warmth of the people as we learn more about their fascinating culture and heritage. Visiting the villages and meeting the locals who have preserved many of their traditional customs and values is a truly memorable experience.
Our island hopping expedition begins and concludes in Tahiti, the iconic island of the Pacific dream. Envision if you will the evocative paintings of Paul Gauguin, a Paris stockbroker who ditched it all to pursue his art in Tahiti. Gauguin’s images of exuberant outdoor settings with vivid lagoons and statuesque palms will become the backdrop of your first days in paradise. We will also discover the volcanic Marquesas Islands and the beauty of the Tuamotu Islands which constitute the largest chain of coral atolls in the world. Our days will be spent on nature walks, searching for endemic birds such as the Tuamotu sandpiper, beachcombing, snorkelling or swimming from the pristine beaches, interacting with the locals and learning about their way of life and traditional handicrafts or, simply experiencing some of the most pristine tropical scenery to be found anywhere in the world.
An expedition such as this requires a vessel akin to the MS Island Sky with the ability to adapt to her surroundings and land on remote atolls using the fleet of Zodiac landing craft whilst providing a comfortable base. We will explore inlets, lagoons and land in otherwise inaccessible places and although we set sail with a set itinerary, it is often the unscheduled events that become the highlight. We will be joined on board by an expert expedition team, consisting of naturalists and marine biologists who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during forays ashore and whilst on board.
- Explore the pristine beauty and cultural richness of the remote Marquesas Islands, including Nuku Hiva and Fatu Hiva.
- Discover the vibrant marine life and unspoiled coral reefs of the Tuamotu Islands, with snorkeling opportunities in Raroia and Tahanea.
- Immerse yourself in Polynesian traditions, from black pearl farming in Manihi to local dances and crafts in Fakarava.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Fly by scheduled flight via Los Angeles.
Arrive this morning and transfer directly to the MS Island Sky which will be moored in Papeete. Sail later today.
As one of the world’s largest coral atolls, Rangiroa, whose name translates into “vast sky”, has a magnificent lagoon surrounded by small islets or motus, stretching as far as the eye can see. Arriving in the mid-morning we will have time to enjoy our first snorkel or swim, join our birder for a nature walk, visit the island’s black pearl farms or wander through the enchanting local village of Avatoru.
Spend the morning at the idyllic atoll of Manihi. It was here, in the inner lagoon, that black pearls were first farmed in Tahiti and we have the chance to visit a farm to learn about the growing process. Alternatively enjoy a swim in the clear waters, snorkel over the coral reefs where we may see manta rays and tropical fish or meet the islanders and shop for local crafts in the colourful village of Turipaoa. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at sea.
Enjoy a day relaxing on the sun deck and join a lecture in the lounge as we sail north.
Arrive in the Marquesas Islands, far removed from the rest of the South Pacific in everything from language and culture to geology. Nuka Hiva is the largest of the islands and the island group’s economic capital. Here, we will immerse ourselves in local culture and geography. Traditional Marquesan dancers will welcome us to their village and we will visit the archaeological centres at Kamuihei and Hikoku’a and see the temples, petroglyphs and tiki. Meanwhile a series of island walks will focus on the flora and fauna of the island whilst there will also be an opportunity to swim from the beaches.
This morning will be dedicated to Gauguin, iconic artist of the South Pacific. We will visit the museum which offers a permanent exhibition of his works and make a pilgrimage to his final resting place in the cemetery perched high on a hill overlooking the town. We will soak up the landscape that inspired him to leave it all behind and go native. Over lunch we will sail to the neighbouring island of Tahuata, the smallest inhabited island of the Marquesas which was the first to be visited by Protestant and Catholic missionaries and where the first church in the Marquesas was built. With no airport the island is only accessible by sea and is off the usual tourist trail. We will land this afternoon and explore Hapatoni village, meet the local population and learn about their history and ways of life.
With a landscape of spectacular pinnacles towering over the cobalt Bay of Virgins, Fatu Hiva is one of the most floral and pristine islands. Villagers will perform their traditional dances and demonstrate their handicrafts of wood carvings and tapa making. Afterwards, weather depending, our expedition team will run a series of nature walks either climbing to the viewpoint, searching for birds with our ornithologist or a nature walk to the waterfall. Meanwhile a snorkel platform will be set up for those who wish to swim.
Spend a day at sea. Maybe join a lecture or find a spot on deck to relax or watch for wildlife.
Raroia is known for its pearl farming and we will see the strings of oysters all around the local farms. After the traditional welcome to the island including a selection of local fruits and fish, we will have the day to explore on a variety of walks, swim from the beach or snorkel in the beautiful coral garden with parrotfish, angelfish and butterfly fish.
Motutunga Atoll was first sighted by James Cook in 1773 who named it ‘Adventure’ after his own ship. Both Motutunga and Tahanea are uninhabited atolls and offer some of the finest snorkelling in the Tuamotu archipelago. We will be able to see amazing corals and marine life including triggerfish and surgeonfish. At Tahanea there will be another chance to snorkel or alternatively join our birders on a walk to find the endemic Tuamotu sandpiper or our naturalists as we beachcomb.
Spend the day in this protected atoll which, along with its six neighbouring islands, make up a UNESCO classified nature reserve. It has been the home to Robert Louis Stephenson in 1888 and Henri Matisse in 1930 whose art was influenced by the landscape for many years. The local villagers of Rotoava will welcome us and demonstrate their handicrafts and cultural traditions. There will be the chance to sample local delicacies, explore independently, join our naturalists for walks or maybe take the opportunity for a last swim in the clear Polynesian waters.
After a morning at sea we arrive into Papeete at lunchtime. Disembark this afternoon and transfer to the airport for the scheduled flight to London via Los Angeles.
Transit in Los Angeles for our onward flight to London.
Arrive today.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Island Sky
| Length: | 90 Metres |
|---|---|
| Built/Refurbished: | 1992/2018 |
With a maximum passenger capacity of only 116, a vessel of her size is capable of carrying many more but instead the MS Island Sky has the benefit of unusually large suites, luxuriously appointed public areas and spacious outside decks.
There is a high ratio of crew to passengers- the friendly crew of 75 crew and Scandinavian captains are experienced mariners, having been in service aboard large 2000 plus passenger vessels and who now prefer a less frantic life aboard a small ship. If, like them and us, you prefer a more peaceful life at sea, you will find the MS Island Sky the perfect ship. When choosing the vessel for your next voyage of discovery, you can select a ship with endless entertainment and impersonal service or come with us where peace, high quality service and attention to detail are the order of the day. We promise there will be no organised entertainment, fancy dress, deck games or any of the usual big ship experiences. The atmosphere on board is more akin to a private yacht or country hotel. A little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, guest speakers, informative port briefings from our cruise director and of course good food which may be enjoyed leisurely in the attractive dining room. After a day ashore you will return to the comfort and peace of a well run and exceedingly comfortable ship.
Your SuiteOnboard there are 57 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. All feature a sitting room area and some have private balconies. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, large wardrobes, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD player which can also play CDs and a telephone in each suite. Bottled water, towelling dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted toiletries and individually controlled air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be.
Your SpaceThe spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a large lounge where daily briefings and talks will be provided throughout the voyage and an elegant bar where a pianist plays periodically throughout the day. The bar also features a 24-hour tea and coffee station. The onboard library is the perfect place to relax with a book and is stocked with reference books pertaining to the places the vessel is visiting along with a selection of games and two computers with internet access. Daily newspapers and magazines are also placed in the library depending on local availability. There is also WI-FI access throughout the vessel. Outside there is a rear sun deck where meals are served in warm weather under shade, a bar and comfortable deck furniture for sun bathing or relaxing with a book. On the top deck there is a Jacuzzi and further observation and sun deck. There is also a small hairdressers on board with appointments made on request.
Your DiningAnother benefit of a small ship is the quality of the cuisine. With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the galley is able to provide delicious meals. Where possible and when it meets his high standards, the chef will obtain local produce in markets or buy the catch of the day from a passing fishing boat. Such purchases enhance the well stocked larders and bring a local touch to the varied menus.
