Exploring the Austral Islands by Cruise: Ponant or Aranui
- Feb 13
- 3 min read
Why Visit the Austral Islands by Cruise
Located south of Tahiti, the Austral Islands are one of French Polynesia’s best-kept secrets. Their landscapes feature turquoise lagoons, pristine beaches, and dramatic volcanic scenery.
By choosing a cruise to the Austral Islands, you can:
Explore remote, untouched islands away from traditional tourist routes.
Combine adventure, relaxation, and local culture.
Enjoy comfort and premium onboard experiences.
Perfect for travelers seeking a truly authentic and unique Polynesian experience.
The Austral Islands: a journey into the heart of pristine Polynesia. Photo credit: ©Aranui
Top Cruises Visiting the Austral Islands
Le Jacques Cartier : Luxury Exploration Cruise with Ponant
Cruise type: exploration and luxury, offering a unique immersion in the heart of Polynesia.
Duration: 15 days, ideal for discovering several islands at a relaxed pace
Itinerary: Tahiti→ Tuamotu Islands → Gambier Islands → Austral Islands
Exclusive experiences: cultural excursions, snorkeling in remote atolls, and marine wildlife observation
Atmosphere: discreet luxury, privacy, and contemporary comfort
Onboard services: refined French cuisine, spa and wellness facilities, expert-led lectures, and personalized attention
Added value: possibility to extend your journey with a stay at exceptional resorts in Bora Bora or on the private island of Tetiaroa
Perfect for travelers who want to explore Polynesia’s untouched nature while enjoying high-end comfort and attentive service. Get a glimpse of the Austral Islands and their breathtaking landscapes in PONANT’s scouting video from French Polynesia.
Aranui 5 and Araona : Mixed Cruises for Cultural Adventures in Polynesia
Cruise type: mixed (passengers and cargo), combining local transport with authentic exploration
Duration: 13 days, perfect for in-depth island discovery
Stops: Rurutu, Rimatara, Tubuai, Rapa, and Raivavae
Exclusive experiences: cultural immersion with local communities, visits to historical sites, and traditional Polynesian experiences
Atmosphere: warm, family-friendly, and authentic
Onboard services: cuisine inspired by local specialties, and crew sharing Polynesian culture and knowledge
Added value: exceptional welcome from local communities at every stop, making each arrival unforgettable
Ideal for families and adventure seekers looking for an authentic cultural experience, these cruises offer a deep dive into Polynesia away from typical circuits.
Discover the Wonders of the Austral Islands by Cruise
Exploring the Austral Islands by ship is a rare opportunity. Due to their remote location and limited inter-island flights, cruising allows travelers to visit several islands in one journey and access secluded landscapes and anchorages that are almost impossible to reach otherwise.
Rurutu:
Limestone cliffs and caves
Humpback whale watching (August–October)
Nature trails and volcanic landscapes
Raivavae:
Crystal-clear lagoons and isolated motus
White sand beaches
Rapa, Tubuai, and Rimatara
Rich Polynesian traditions and ancestral culture
Untouched landscapes and wildlife
Each island offers a perfect balance of exploration, relaxation, and authentic experiences.
Planning Tips for Your Austral Islands Cruise
Trip duration: most cruises last 13–15 days, allowing you to explore multiple islands at a relaxed pace
Booking early: Austral Islands cruises are a rare and unique experience with limited availability. Early booking is strongly recommended to secure your place and enjoy this exceptional opportunity
Travel organization: plan flights, transfers, and any extensions to other Polynesian islands in advance to make the most of this unique adventure
Design Your Custom Cruise in the Austral Islands
Imagine sailing the Austral Islands on an intimate vessel, surrounded by pristine landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
With Moemoeā, specialized in French Polynesia travel, you can:
Choose the cruise that best suits your preferences: Ponant or Aranui
Personalize your itinerary with optional activities and excursions
Arrange flights, transfers, and accommodations before or after the cruise
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Austral Islands Cruises
How long do Austral Islands cruises last?
Most cruises last 13–15 days, allowing enough time to explore several islands and fully enjoy each stop.
Which ships visit the Austral Islands?
Le Jacques Cartier – luxury exploration cruise designed to discover the islands’ nature, wildlife, and culture in comfort
Aranui 5 and Araona – mixed cruises (passengers and cargo) combining cultural expeditions with access to authentic Polynesian locations
Which islands are must-see?
Rurutu, Raivavae, Tubuai, Rapa, and Rimatara provide a unique combination of untouched landscapes, ancestral culture, and authentic experiences.
Why choose a cruise to explore the Austral Islands?
Cruising the Austral Islands allows access to a remote, little-visited archipelago, visiting multiple islands in one trip, and experiencing authentic encounters that are difficult to organize by air or land.