Pearls of the Pacific: The Society and Tuamotu Islands

Overview

Experience idyllic islands and atolls of renowned biodiversity and untouched beauty. Begin with underwater explorations in the Tuamotu Archipelago and Fakarava, whose flora and fauna are so diverse that its breathtaking reefs and other habitats are protected by UNESCO. Makatea’s sheer volcanic cliffs and Bora Bora’s jagged Mount Otemanu create indelible memories and complement the underwater Gardens of Eden that surround these remote tropical islands.

Arrive in Papeete and transfer directly to National Geographic Orion for embarkation. While in port this morning, take some time to freshen up and settle into your cabin as you prepare to depart. Alternatively, choose to walk around downtown Papeete and visit the central market where vendors sell fresh fruit, pareos, artwork, and coveted black pearls. Enjoy lunch aboard and be on deck as you set sail from Tahiti toward the Tuamotu Archipelago. This afternoon meet the expedition team and your fellow travelers and settle into island time.

Spend two days exploring some of the nearly 80 islands and atolls in the “Dangerous Archipelago,” a corner of Polynesia that is as rich with marine life as it is vast. With crystalline lagoons fringed by white beaches and lush coconut groves, the Tuamotus are a tropical dream, both in the water and ashore. Meet the locals on sparsely inhabited Anaa and learn of their unique traditions. Discover the abundant marine life on a snorkel or dive, or learn to stand-up paddleboard in the calm lagoon of one of the many pristine atolls in the archipelago.

Today you will arrive at Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This coral atoll is home to many rare species of birds, plants, and crustaceans, and we will have the opportunity to snorkel its protected reefs. Spend time exploring Rotoava, the main village on Fakarava. Take a leisurely bike ride, visit a pearl shop, or stroll along the turquoise waterfront with a fresh coconut.

An uplifted coral atoll, the island of Makatea is one of the most unique landforms in the Pacific. A makatea is a raised coral atoll that is tilted due to plate tectonics and appears much different than the other islands in the region, containing spectacular, vertical cliffs. This specific island of Makatea gives its name to all other uplifted coral atolls worldwide. Spend the day in search of endemic fruit doves and a myriad of seabirds with your expedition team and local guides, explore the island’s limestone caves, and swim in the crystal clear waters of its stalactiteand stalagmite-filled grotto.

Arrive in Taha’a and spend the morning snorkeling, where we may encounter black-tipped reef sharks. Or, choose to go ashore and visit a family-run vanilla farm. Enjoy lunch on board as you sail to nearby Bora Bora and be on deck as the iconic crags of Mount Otemanu come into focus. This afternoon, explore Bora Bora either on land or in the water and enjoy a barbecue dinner and music on a private motu this evening.

Take in the sunrise on deck as you sail to Ra’iatea in the early morning light. Today you will visit one of the most important cultural sites in the Polynesian world, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Marae Taputapuātea. This large complex was once a center for Polynesian seafarers and the location from which they set out for Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Hawaii, and New Zealand. As you explore, learn of its significance in Polynesian history.

Wake up to views of Mo’orea’s tall, green cliffs as you anchor in stunning Opunohu Bay. Spend the morning discovering all that the island has to offer: hike through the verdant countryside or choose to snorkel in the island’s crystalline lagoon. Have lunch on deck and take in views of the island as we cruise toward Cook’s Bay, where you will spend the rest of the day. Visit a nearby motu for live music and water activities, and enjoy the golden light of the late afternoon from ashore.

This morning, choose to stretch your legs with an early walk into Mo’orea’s caldera interior or opt to discover marine life beneath the surface of the lagoon on a leisurely snorkel excursion. Enjoy lunch onboard as you cast off for Tahiti. In the afternoon, disembark in Papeete and check into a hotel room for the afternoon. In the late evening, transfer to the airport for flights home.