Image Copyright Aranui Cruises + Filip Kulisev

Scattered across the world’s largest ocean, the islands of the South Pacific offer some of the most beautiful and remote landscapes on Earth. Turquoise lagoons surround lush volcanic peaks, white-sand beaches give way to tropical forests, and centuries-old traditions remain an important part of everyday life.

French Polynesia encompasses more than 100 islands and atolls, including Tahiti, the Society Islands, the Tuamotu Islands, the Marquesas and the lesser-visited Austral Islands. While familiar names such as Tahiti and Bora Bora have long captured the imagination, travelling beyond them reveals a quieter and more authentic side of Polynesia.



Here, the journey is as memorable as the destination. Small-ship cruises travel between communities separated by vast stretches of ocean, opening up islands that receive relatively few visitors. Days might be spent exploring archaeological sites, meeting local craftspeople, walking through dramatic valleys or swimming in clear tropical lagoons.

 Image Copyright Aranui Cruises, Filip Kulisev (left) and Lionel Gouverneur (right)