Tahiti Ocean Cruise Multi-Adventure (Sailing Idyllic Isles From Tahiti to Bora Bora) 8D7N

Level 2, Approx 10 km (6 miles), 2-3 hours walking, 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.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx 40 km (25 miles), 2-3 hours biking, Elevation gain: 549 m (1800 ft)
Level 2, Approx 42 km (26 miles), 2-3 hours biking, Elevation gain: 488 m (1600 ft)
Level 3, Approx 55 km (34 miles), 3-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 701 m (3300 ft)

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.

Level 1, Approx 31 km (19 miles), 1-2 hours biking, 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!

Level 1, Approx 3 km (2 miles), 1-2 hours walking, 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.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx 24 km (15 miles), 1-2 hours biking, Elevation gain: 213 m (700 ft)
Level 2, Approx 31 km (19 miles), 2-3 hours biking, Elevation gain: 244 m (800 ft)

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.

Level 2, Approx 6 km (4 miles), 2-3 hours walking, 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.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx 43 km (27 miles), 2-3 hours biking, Elevation gain: 396 m (1,300 ft)
Level 3, Approx 61 km (38 miles), 3-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 457 m (1,500 ft)

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.

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.