Cook Islands & Society Islands

Papeete will be your gateway to the tropical paradise of French Polynesia, where islands fringed with gorgeous beaches and turquoise ocean await to soothe the soul. This spirited city is the capital of French Polynesia and serves as a superb base for onward exploration of Tahiti – an island of breathtaking landscapes and oceanic vistas. Wonderful lagoons of crisp, clear water beg to be snorkelled, stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island's volcanic heritage, and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures, as you explore extraordinary Tahiti. Visit to relax inside picturesque, stilted huts, which stand out over shimmering water, as you settle into the intoxicating rhythm of life, in this Polynesian paradise.

Located less than 200 kilometres north-west of Tahiti, Huahine Island is a secret gem in French Polynesia. You’ll love the mysterious atmosphere emanating from its voluptuous contours, its wild vegetation and stunning remote creeks. Explore both parts of the island, la Grande Huahine to the north, and la Petite Huahine to the south, to reveal hidden treasures, including some archaeological remains from the Polynesian past. You can meet the local population in the main town of Fare, or in the string of villages along the coast.

Make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa, be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. Enjoy a show or do some shopping in the boutique. As for lovers of the open sea, visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Even high praise like the 'world's most beautiful island' from Lonely Planet's co-founder, Tony Wheeler, won't prepare you for the intoxicating intensity of the coal blue ocean, the glow of the pure white sand, and the soothing ripple of the palm-tree forests at incredible Aitutaki. Breathless romance hangs thick in the air here, especially when a riot of purples, reds and oranges are spreading across the sky, accompanying the sun's descent each evening. The beaches here are flawless, and swaying in a hammock, suspended between leaning palm trees, as the ocean gently ruffles the sand nearby, feels gloriously indulgent. You may even be lucky enough to spot turtles padding across the sand. Don't miss your opportunity to walk along the magnificent Aitutaki Lagoon, alive with a kaleidoscopic swirl of tropical fish. Snorkelling fans will discover the treasures of underwater life. Explore the tiny island of Moturakau and look out for exotic birds and crabs, who have dominion over the island's tangled, jungle terrain. 

You will be dazzled by the magnificent volcanic silhouette of Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands. Perfectly circular, Rarotonga is closely surrounded by a coral reef over which break the endless waves of the south Pacific Ocean. The undulating profile of its sheer mountains standing out against the deep blue of the sky gives a glimpse of its summits at more than 600 metres altitude, such as Te Manga peak. The abrupt and vertiginous slopes are covered with luxuriant vegetation, a precious natural resource for the inhabitants of the island who have learnt to take advantage of this abundant nature and have developed a thriving agricultural sector.

Simply saying the name Bora Bora is usually enough to induce gasps of jealousy, as images of milky blue water, sparkling white beaches and casually leaning palm trees immediately spring to mind. The imagination doesn't lie, either, and if you visit, you’ll soon realise this island is every bit as gorgeous as you ever imagined. Thatched wooden huts stand out over shallow, sparkling seawater, with vivid fish frolicking just below. Soak up the sun, scuba dive, or simply revel in the opulent luxury of one of the island's many magnificent resorts. If blissful inactivity doesn't appeal, explore the volcanic landscape of Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu and visit local villages. Experience it all with an overnight stay. 

Continue exploring all this beautiful island has to offer on your second day here. 

Feet in the sand, on the islet of Motu Mahana, Ponant's private paradise, you will share a very special experience around an authentic traditional Polynesian barbecue. A veritable jewel in the Taha’a lagoon, pristine atoll of the Society Islands, Motu Mahana offers an infinite palette of shades of turquoise, an idyllic backdrop for observing the majestic ballet of the tropical fish. The volcanic island of Taha’a, dominated by Mount Ohiri and Mount Puurauti, reveals fertile and luxuriant nature, ideal for cultivating the magnificent black pearls of French Polynesia, as well as vanilla. This rare spice, greatly in demand by gourmets, is the main economic resource of what is also known as Vanilla Island.

A part of the Windward Island archipelago, famous Mo'orea will leave you with a series of unforgettable images and memories. Bask on its heavenly beaches, dip in the lagoons turquoise waters, and soak up its luscious vegetation with heady flowers that carpet the inland areas. Get the most out of this natural gem with a trip to the Mo'orea Belvedere. Exceptional views of Mount Rotui unfurl before your eyes, with the Opunohu Bay and its valley to the left, and the famous Cook's Bay, surrounded by notched, cathedral-style peaks, to the right. Experience it all with an overnight stay. 

Continue exploring all this beautiful island has to offer on your second day here. 

Arrive back at Papeete in the early evening. This spirited city is the capital of French Polynesia and serves as a superb base for onward exploration of Tahiti – an island of breathtaking landscapes and oceanic vistas. Wonderful lagoons of crisp, clear water beg to be snorkelled, stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island's volcanic heritage, and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures, as you explore extraordinary Tahiti. Visit to relax inside picturesque, stilted huts, which stand out over shimmering water, as you settle into the intoxicating rhythm of life, in this Polynesian paradise. Experience it all with an overnight stay. 

Continue exploring all this beautiful island has to offer on your second day here before returning home.