Aranui 3 Adds Takapoto to Marquesas Island Adventure Cruise

Marquesas Island adventure cruiser, the Aranui 3, will stop at the picturesque island of Takapoto in a change to the 2014 itinerary. This first stop on the cruise will be an idyllic introduction to the island cruise as passengers are invited to lunch on the white sand beach and to swim and snorkel in the crystal clear lagoon waters of this Tuamotu Archipelago island paradise.  The new stop replaces the previous scheduled stop in Fakarava.

This new shore visit to Takapoto is the first scheduled stop of the cruise and is followed by an incredibly varied itinerary sailing to Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, Hiva Oa, Fatu Hiva, Tahuta and Ua Huka in the Marquesas Islands.

The Marquesas Island itinerary has been created to ensure that guests experience the strong local island culture and unspoilt scenery, including the unexpected black sand beaches and steep, forest covered volcanic peaks – a stark contrast to the more traditional French Polynesian fringed atolls.

“Each journey offers world adventurers a combination of relaxation, scenery, cultural expeditions, geology, history and amazing food,” says Vaima Devimeux, Aranui’s European representative. “We know that, sometimes, it takes a while to relax into holiday mode, and with everyone having busy lives, this stop in stunning Takapoto is the ideal way to start the island adventure.”

Operating under the French flag, the cargo-cum-passenger ship Aranui 3 operates regular sailings between Tahiti and the Marquesas. Passengers can relax on deck or take a dip in the pool whilst taking in the spectacular views before exploring at each stop, whilst the ship goes about its daily task of delivering supplies to the most remote archipelago in the world. The vessel boasts 86 fully air conditioned cabins as well as the capacity to carry more than 2000 tons of freight.

All cruises are accompanied by a specialist guest lecturer, who will add a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the experience on board and on-shore. A full schedule of guest lecturers and their specialities can be viewed online.

Prices start from €3756 (around £3215) per person on a full board basis including a selection of day excursions (flights extra).

For more information visit www.aranui.com