Ancient Polynesia: Tuamotu and Marquesas Islands

Days 1-2

U.S. / Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia / Embark Ship

Depart the U.S. on an overnight flight to Tahiti. Arrive in the early morning on Day 2 and proceed directly to National Geographic Orion for embarkation. While in port this morning, take some time to freshen up and settle into your cabin as we 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. Join us for lunch aboard and be on deck as we set sail from Tahiti toward the Tuamotu Archipelago. This afternoon meet the staff and fellow travelers and settle into island time. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served on day 2.

Day 3

Rangiroa, Tuamotus

Today and tomorrow, we visit the Tuamotu Archipelago. The atoll of Rangiroa is a ring of slender islands known for some of the best diving and snorkeling in French Polynesia. The turquoise lagoon at its center is the second largest in the world. Kayak, snorkel, and scuba dive in the rich waters here, home to large schools of pelagic fish, manta rays, dolphins, and sea turtles.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

Takaroa Atoll

Today we visit Takaroa Atoll, a remote island nearly 350 miles from Tahiti. Here we can explore the main village and snorkel or dive stunning healthy reefs, kayak and stand-up paddleboard in its turquoise lagoons, and walk pristine beaches beneath coconut palms.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5

At Sea

We will spend the day at sea relaxing en route to the Marquesas. Enjoy talks by our expedition staff; a large open foredeck with room to move about, dine, and view wildlife up-close from outside vantage points; our Observation Lounge, providing panoramic vistas of the scenery; and our fitness center, spa, and sauna, staffed by wellness specialists.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 6-9

Exploring the Marquesas

We will spend the next four days exploring the Marquesan Islands of Tahuata, Nuku Hiva, Ua Huka, and Fatu Hiva.

Accompanied by our team of knowledgeable local guides, we'll visit remote island villages to learn about religious rites, see ancient petroglyphs, witness spectacular dance performances at a Marquesan ma'ae, sample local foods in the villages, and peruse unique arts and crafts.

Choose to attend a local church service with stunningly beautiful music or hike up a valley with naturalists and local guides in search of rare birds and spectacular views. Marvel at the rugged silhouettes of these legendary islands from Zodiacs and kayaks or dive below the surface to see the colorful and spectacular undersea world.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 10-12

Hiva Oa / Disembark Ship / Papeete / U.S.

This morning, we let nature guide us as we set out exploring one of the Marquesas’ remote, uninhabited islands. In the afternoon we arrive at Hiva Oa, where we visit the village of Puamau to explore a well-maintained Marquesan sacred site, Me’ae I’ipona. Accompanied by our team and knowledgeable local guides, we learn about religious rites, and photograph one of the largest, most arresting ancient tikis in Polynesia. On our last morning, we’ll visit the village of Atuona before disembarking the ship and flying by either charter aircraft or commercial flight back to Papeete. This evening, transfer to the airport for flights home. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included on Days 10 and 11; breakfast and lunch are included on Day 12.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner