At a Glance
Immerse into a tropical paradise sailing the idyllic isles from Tahiti to Bora Bora on this active 8 day cruise multi adventure. Savour the slow pace of cruising to active pursuits of biking pass fragrant fields, hiking to hidden jungle waterfalls and snorkeling a kaleidoscope of underwater life as you immerse into its rich cultures.
Your exciting adventure begins in Papeete, the heart of French Polynesia. Hike to Fautaua waterfall, taste unique dishes that burst with island flavour, and journey to Society Island aboard your Ponant ship, Le Paul Gauguin. Arrive at the enchanting Huahine, bike to the ancient gathering place, Mata'ire'a marae, and savour a mouth-watering barbecue lunch on a private islet. Unearth the paradise that is Bora Bora and get a look from a unique view atop Matira Hill. ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All meals as specified
- 7 nights accommodation aboard a luxury Ponant ship, Le Paul Gauguin, on a twin share basis
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 average guest-to-leader ratio
- Excellent and personalised service from ship staff and tour leaders
- Access to all ship activities and excursions
- Expert Trip Leaders, on ship and on shore
- Off-the-beaten path exploration
- Impeccable and personalised service from ship staff and leaders
- Exploring lesser known routes away from busy ports
- Dedicated support vans
- Easy-to-use route directions so you're free to explore independently
- Off-ship lunches in genuine settings
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
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Level 2, Approx 10 km (6 miles), Elevation gain: 213 m (700 ft) Meet your tour leaders at 8:30 a.m. at the Hilton Tahiti in Papeete, Tahiti. Please, ensure you arrive dressed in hiking clothes and shoes, and bring your luggage and a daypack containing your passport, rain gear, and anything else you may want for the day's activities (your luggage will be transported to our ship.) We suggest arriving in Tahiti a day early to minimise the possibility of missing our meeting time and embarkation. Hello, Tahiti! Your adventure begins on the isle of Tahiti, the heart of French Polynesia's Society Islands. Adorned by spectacular cliffs that soar above the ocean, Tahiti boasts a lush interior, lively beach towns, and a rich cultural heritage unlike any other place. Set out on a hike to Fautaua, a soaring cascade amid verdant jungle and volcanic stone. Encircled by many tropical flora, skirt along the trail to the falls' crystalline waters, where you can take your time to soak your feet and take in the scenery. Following your hike, shuttle to your seaside lunch spot, where you’ll be treated to simple dishes that burst with island flavour. Come afternoon, set sail for the Society Islands in style aboard your intimate Ponant ship, Le Paul Gauguin. A modern luxury vessel custom-built for the tropical region waterways, designed with intricately carved wood and features world-class amenities all-around. After you settle into your deluxe stateroom, gather for a welcome reception and the first of many superb dinners together. |
Le Paul Gauguin
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
THREE BIKING OPTIONS: Awake this morning in Huahine, an enchanting island characterised by coconut palms, wild landscapes, white-sand beaches, and picturesque villages. This island which has been relatively preserved from modern development, offers serenity and a glimpse into Polynesia's past. Savour a delightful breakfast on board before making landfall to fit up with your bikes. Your leaders will enlighten you briefly on biking techniques and safety before you embark on an undulating ride that highlights Huahine's rich culture. Your first destination is ancient Maeva Fare Pote'e, a stilted thatched-roof building. It was previously used as a gathering place in the island's spiritual heart but now serves as a museum of archaeological treasures that speak to the quality and harmony of the Maohi culture. Afterward, you can tackle a steep hill or circumvent it as you continue biking to a small village along a river that houses the sacred blue-eyed eels. Some believe that the eels are a reincarnation of the ancestors, while others cherish their communion as it reflects their respect for nature. Pedal onward to see the island's ancient stone fish traps. Enjoy lunch at the stunning Avea Bay before snorkeling Huahine's turquoise lagoon waters amid spectacular corals. You can also pedal and complete a loop around the island and back to the dock. Once you are back on the ship, you have the time to freshen up and soak in the vistas from the sundeck before gathering for a delightful dinner. |
Le Paul GauguinBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Level 1, Approx 31 km (19 miles), Elevation gain: 335 m (1,100 ft) Dedicate today to traversing off the beaten path. After breakfast, begin your day of biking on the remote island of Taha'a. Only accessible by boat, this immaculate isle is characterised by white sand beaches, fertile volcanic soil, and a serene way of life. Cycle along quiet coastal roads past fragrant vanilla fields en route to a fascinating black pearl farm, where we stop for a visit. Back on your bike, journey through the lush terrain to a local distillery to taste local spirits. Afterward, gear up for a daunting climb on your bike that delivers you to one of the island's famous vanilla plantations, Vallee de la Vanille. Here, we enjoy a private tour of the farm and learn about vanilla cultivation on Taha'a, often referred to as Vanilla Island. The bean pods here are regarded as some of the world's best, and you'll soon get to decide as you sample some of the farm's offerings. Afterward, embark on a scenic boat ride to a private islet, enjoying a barbeque lunch and relaxing on the beach. Back on the mainland and into the saddle, return to the boat for some rest before dinner. This evening, we set sail for Bora Bora! |
Le Paul GauguinBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Level 1, Approx 3 km (2 miles), Elevation gain: 122 m (400 ft) Welcome to Bora Bora! Famed for its turquoise lagoons, sand-fringed bays, soaring emerald mountains, and stilted bungalows. This morning, we leave our ship behind and hit the trail to get a unique view of the island with a hike in the tropical hills of Matira. As you follow the path, relish the vistas of the incredibly blue lagoon and soaring mountains. Returning to sea level, we explore Bora Bora's turquoise lagoon using traditional Polynesian outrigger boats. En route, you can don a snorkel and fins to discover the rich sea life here, where manta rays, clownfish, and moray eels reside. Regain your energy by eating a traditional Polynesian lunch on a private motu (reef islet). Spend the afternoon, relaxing back on board. Unwind in your cosy stateroom or on the beautiful sun deck to soak in the sunshine. Tonight, convene for an unforgettable dinner prepared by the superb chefs onboard. |
Le Paul Gauguin Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
TWO BIKING OPTIONS: Today, set to discover Bora Bora's remote coastline and World War II history on two wheels. Savour a delightful breakfast before a relaxing bike ride that circle around the island. On the way, stop at a scenic spot to see a double battery of WWII canons and protective barriers. Bora Bora used to be a major US military supply base in 1942, which changed the island forever, especially with the addition of its airport. Keep cycling to the legendary Matira Beach—with its pillowy white sand and crystal-clear waters, it is considered one of the most gorgeous in Polynesia. Here we enjoy a fresh lunch at the Matira Beach Club. Spend time relaxing on the pristine beach or go for a rejuvenating dip before making your way back to our ship by bike or shuttle. Savour dinner aboard the ship and an overnight cruise to Moorea. |
Le Paul GauguinBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Level 2, Approx 6 km (4 miles), Elevation gain: 396 m (1300 ft) Your last stop in the Society Islands is the paradisal Moorea, covered in velvety green mountains. This morning lace up your hiking shoes before we set foot on Moorea. Tread the ancestors' path through pineapple plantations and palms to the sacred site of Marae Ti'i-rua, a holy stone temple platform that dates to the 15th century. Afterward, be treated to a lunch of local specialties. This afternoon at the beach, you can relax in the sand or explore with a snorkel! Retreat back onboard when you’re ready with time to unwind in your stateroom or enjoy a massage (at additional cost). Relish another lovely dinner together onboard. |
Le Paul GauguinBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
TWO BIKING OPTIONS: This morning, we enjoy a nourishing breakfast before setting foot back on Moorea for another round of exploring, this time on our bikes! You'll witness why Tahiti's "sister island" is a true refuge for its inhabitants with its robust rainforest, sweet-scented wildflowers, ethereal beaches, and overall sense of serenity. Pedal to follow a picturesque coastal route that delivers mind-blowing vistas over sapphire Cook's Bay. When it's time to refuel, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. There's more breathtaking scenery whether you loop back to the port by bike or shuttle. This afternoon, take your time to relax in your stateroom or one of the ship's welcoming spaces. |
Le Paul GauguinBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Savour one last exotic breakfast, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey. Bid farewell before disembarking the ship back in Tahiti for your onward travels. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
NoneBreakfastDates & Prices
The price guide is based on the lowest category cabin available on the departure. Please contact us for the available cabins and prices. Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Papeete in Tahiti
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Papeete. . We suggest flying into and out of Faa'a International Airport, also known as Tahiti International Airport, located 3 miles southwest of Papeete
French Polynesia enjoys a tropical climate. Average daytime temperatures are generally warm year-round and evenings are usually comfortably cool; expect humidity. Rain is always possible, especially from November to May. We recommend bringing a rain jacket; waterproof pants and shoes can also help ensure your comfort in the event of rain. The sun can be quite intense, so bringing a long-sleeved shirt, sunglasses and hat with a wide brim is highly recommended. Please be prepared for all types of weather to ensure that your trip is enjoyable.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 1-3
Level 1, 2-5 hours, 3-8km (2-5 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 244m (800 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 6-11km (4-7 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 396m (1300 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 8-14km (5-9 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 610m (2000 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 10-18km (6-11 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 914m (3000 ft)
Level 5, 5-7 hours, 11-21+ km (7-13+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1219m (4000+ ft)
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 1-3
Level 1, 2-3 hours, 13-35km (8-22 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 305m (1000 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 29-51km (18-32 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 671m (2200 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 42-68km (26-42 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1036m (3400 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 58-87km(36-54 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m (4400 ft)
Level 5, 5-7+ hours, 77-113+ km (48-70+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m+ (4400+ ft)
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Touring Bike |
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Touring Bike With Drop Handlebars |
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
