514 8190600
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Aranui : Our cruise deals 2026 - 2027
Summary of Aranui customer reviews
Aranui offers a unique travel experience, halfway between a cargo ship and a cruise, providing a rare immersion into the heart of the most authentic Polynesia. Aboard the Aranui 5, a mixed-use vessel carrying both passengers and cargo, travelers embark on an off-the-beaten-path itinerary to the Marquesas Islands, with stops in isolated villages accessible only by sea. The experience is deeply human and immersive: the stops set the rhythm of life on the ship, with unloading of cargo, encounters with locals, and cultural discoveries accompanied by a 100% Polynesian crew. Passengers explore iconic sites such as Nuku Hiva (spectacular cliffs) or Hiva Oa (the legacy of Gauguin and Brel), in a friendly and authentic atmosphere, much like a floating guesthouse. Aranui is reinventing itself with the arrival of the Aranoa, a new mixed-cargo vessel that opens up new itineraries to the even more pristine Austral Islands. This new-generation ship, more modern and environmentally friendly, allows passengers to explore rare destinations like Rapa or Raivavae, while preserving the company’s unique DNA. On board, comfort is simple yet refined, with cuisine inspired by local flavors and a warm atmosphere, far removed from the conventions of large cruise ships. A unique, immersive, and authentic travel experience, ideal for discovering a hidden side of Polynesia, up close with the locals, traditions, and landscapes. Find all the most popular tips here
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Why choose Aranui?
Authentic Discovery of the Polynesian Islands
Refined Comfort and Friendly Atmosphere On Board
Immersion in Polynesian Culture
Exclusive Stopovers and Shared Adventures
Aranui : Our cruise deals 2026 - 2027
8
cruises found
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Aranui
Itinerary : Papeete, Makatea (Tuamotu), Mataiva, Anaa, Vairao, Papeete
On-board meals included
Aranoa
5 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
05/05/2027
from
$ 1,973
On-board meals included
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from
$ 4,010
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Itinerary : Papeete, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, UA HUKA, Tahuata, Hiva oa, Fatu hiva, Rangiroa, Bora Bora, Papeete
On-board meals included
11 other departures
Aranui 5
12 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
09/26/2026
from
$ 4,010
On-board meals included
Other departures:
13 Jun 2026
04-18 Jul 2026
01-15-29 Aug 2026
Other departures
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from
$ 4,218
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Itinerary : Papeete, Rurutu Island, Rimatara, Rapa, RAIVAVAE, Raiatea, Papeete
On-board meals included
1 other departures
Aranui 5
13 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
09/12/2026
from
$ 4,218
On-board meals included
Other departures:
24 Oct 2026
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from
$ 4,310
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Itinerary : Papeete, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, Hiva oa, Fatu hiva, UA HUKA, Rangiroa, Bora Bora, Papeete
On-board meals included
18 other departures
Aranui 5
13 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
03/16/2027
from
$ 4,310
On-board meals included
Other departures:
23 Jan 2027
11-27 Feb 2027
03-20 Apr 2027
Other departures
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from
$ 4,610
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Itinerary : Papeete, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, Hiva oa, Tahuata, Fatu hiva, UA HUKA, Rangiroa, Bora Bora, Papeete
On-board meals included
Aranui 5
14 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
12/13/2027
from
$ 4,610
On-board meals included
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from
$ 4,696
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Itinerary : Papeete, Moorea, Rimatara, Rurutu Island, RAIVAVAE, Rapa, Papeete
On-board meals included
5 other departures
Aranoa
13 d
Inside Stateroom
Papeete
03/06/2027
from
$ 4,696
On-board meals included
Other departures:
15 May 2027
19 Jun 2027
07 Aug 2027
Other departures
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Who is this company for
Aranui ?
Enthusiasts of Polynesian culture
This is the core of the clientele. The company caters to those who want to understand the Polynesian spirit, walk in the footsteps of Jacques Brel and Paul Gauguin, and discover sacred archaeological sites (Tikis). Passengers come to listen to onboard lectures, learn to weave palm leaves, or play the ukulele with the crew.
Avoiding traditional cruises?
If you’re looking to escape casinos, water slides, and formal evenings, you’ll feel right at home here. The Aranui caters to those who love simplicity and a laid-back atmosphere. The dress code is very casual (shorts, T-shirts, sarongs), and the vibe is more like that of a large, friendly guesthouse than an impersonal international hotel.
Curious about local life and cargo
Part of the appeal lies in the cargo ship’s operations. The company caters to observers who enjoy watching burly sailors unload sugar, cement, or cars onto tiny docks. This is a trip for those who want to see the “real life” of the islands, not just postcard-perfect beaches.
Sociable and fun-loving travelers
The ship’s layout (approximately 250 passengers) and communal meals greatly encourage interaction. It’s ideal for those who enjoy chatting with their tablemates, sharing experiences, and spontaneously interacting with a predominantly Polynesian crew, renowned for their kindness and sense of humor.
Staterooms
What customers think of
Aranui
What guests love about Aranui
- An unparalleled cultural immersion : This is the number one highlight. Passengers feel like they’re discovering the “real” Polynesia. The crew (sailors, guides, servers) proudly shares their culture through songs, dances, and workshops (ukulele, weaving) of rare authenticity, far from the usual tourist folklore.
- Exclusive access to the Marquesas Islands : Aranui is often the only comfortable way to visit isolated bays and remote villages. Guests are fascinated by the logistical spectacle of sailors unloading cargo (whaling boats) to resupply the locals, creating a strong bond with the local population at every stop.
- A "Just like home" atmosphere : Far from the anonymity of giant cruise ships, the ship’s intimate size (approximately 250 passengers) fosters connections. Reviews highlight how easy it is to bond with fellow travelers and the staff’s total availability—always smiling and readily using informal “you” forms in keeping with local tradition.
- Rich and Included Excursions : Unlike other companies, nearly all excursions are included in the price. The Marquesan guides are praised for their passion and local knowledge, taking groups to see archaeological sites, artisans, or spectacular landscapes at no extra cost.
- Generous, locally sourced cuisine : The cuisine is considered very satisfying, with a strong emphasis on local products (raw fish, tropical fruits, and lobsters depending on availability). Meals are convivial.
Points to watch out for
- Sailing on the open ocean : The ship crosses the open Pacific to reach the Marquesas. Although the Aranui 5 is modern and stabilized, the motion of the ocean can be felt. Reviews advise those prone to seasickness to bring necessary supplies, while noting that this is part of the authentic maritime adventure.
- The simplicity of life on board : Don’t expect the ostentatious luxury or high-tech entertainment of large “floating resorts.” The entertainment is simple and local (Polynesian orchestra). This is something to keep in mind for those seeking casinos or grand shows, but a plus for those looking to disconnect.
- Limited connectivity : Wi-Fi (often paid or limited) can be unreliable, particularly in the remote areas of the Marquesas. Reviews suggest viewing this trip as an opportunity for a “digital detox” to fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
In Summary
In short, Aranui isn’t for traditional “cruise-goers,” but for travelers seeking meaning and authentic encounters. It’s the perfect choice for the curious, culture lovers, and those who dream of walking in the footsteps of Brel and Gauguin. The experience is rustic in the best sense of the word: authentic, warm, and deeply human. If you’re willing to trade the opulence of a luxury hotel for the soul of a mixed-cargo ship, you’ll return thoroughly won over.
Tips and advice
Aranui
Here is a compilation of the most popular tips from our customers, 100% reliable, to enhance your onboard experience
Learn more about Aranui
Aranui highlights
A trip with the Aranui cruise line to French Polynesia is a guarantee of authenticity aboard their passenger cargo ship. Travelers discover the daily life of these remote islands, delivered in goods by this cargo-mixed vessel. It's an original and exclusive concept, a plunge into the daily life of the locals.
An Aranui cruise guarantees a unique and unforgettable luxury experience, with this company specializing in trips to the Marquesas Islands, Tahiti and French Polynesia for over 35 years. It also offers off-the-beaten-track sites and more classic cruises, such as the Pitcairn Islands, the Cook Islands and the Austral Islands.
With Aranui, passengers benefit from total immersion in the destination. On board, the crew is 100% Polynesian, and lecturers introduce passengers to the region's culture, ancestral traditions, crafts, legends and history, as well as its flora and fauna. There are also performances of traditional dances and songs. And it's also possible to enjoy typical Polynesian tattoos and massages on board.
Aranui offers full board aboard the Aranui 5, and travelers can sample local specialties in the ship's restaurant, which serves fresh produce, Polynesian recipes and international cuisine. Premium excursions are also available (some at extra cost). For example, passengers will have the unique opportunity to swim with stingrays and sharks, take a helicopter flight over Bora Bora or dive in the magnificent waters of Rangiroa.
Rewards
The management of Aranui has received several awards (Ordre National du Mérite, Ordre de Tahiti Nui) for its cruises. These awards have been won for their promotion of the Marquesas Islands, the quality of their cruises and their service. Aranui was also named one of the top 5 expedition cruises in the world by Luxury Travel & Style magazine.
Aranui's social and environmental commitment
Aranui is part of the Green Marine Europe program. Through this program, Aranui is committed to reducing its environmental footprint and pollution. This includes strict waste sorting, LED lighting and ballast water treatment, as well as energy-saving air-conditioning.
The Aranui ship
The Aranui 5 is Aranui's only ship. Commissioned in 2015, this passenger-friendly supply vessel is 126 meters long and 22 meters wide, and sails under the French flag. It can carry 230 passengers, who stay in one of 103 cabins or suites.
For accommodation, the most economical option is a dormitory with 4 to 8 berths. For added comfort, the cabins are nicely decorated, equipped with double or king-size beds, and a bathroom with shower and hairdryer. The surface area ranges from 11 to 14.5 square meters, and for sea views they feature a porthole or a 4-square-meter balcony. The suites are larger and more comfortable, with a surface area of 18 to 22 meters² and a balcony of 4 to 12 meters². For an exclusive and perfect stay, the 41-m² Presidential Suite with a 12-m² balcony is ideal. It comprises three rooms, a lounge, living room, bedroom with king-size bed, dressing room, two bathrooms, refrigerator, bar and safe.
Meals on board the Aranui 5 are served in the ship's only restaurant, in a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant offers typical Polynesian cuisine, prepared with fresh produce, as well as international dishes. Passengers will also appreciate the swimming pool, library, convivial lounge, quality conferences and 4 bars, one of which has a panoramic view. There's also a typical Polynesian massage and tattoo parlour on board.
Main destinations served by Aranui
Aranui has specialized in trips to the Marquesas Islands for over 35 years. It takes passengers to the most beautiful sites in the North Marquesas (Nuku Hiva, Ua Huka, Ua Pou) and the South Marquesas (Tahuata, Hiva Oa, Fatu Hiva). During their stopovers, travelers will see handicrafts, monuments, archaeological sites, endemic birds, fishing villages...
Aranui also offers cruises averaging 7 to 13 days, departing from Papeete: Tuamotu (Rangiroa, Takapoto), the Society Islands (Bora Bora), Tahiti. Itineraries are also available to the Austral Islands, the Cook Islands and the Pitcairn Islands.