3 independent reviews for French Polynesia cruise in the South Pacific
Reviews for French Polynesia cruise in the South Pacific
Anonymous review 31 Jul 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The cruise was wonderful. One of the reasons I chose was that it was part cargo ship / part passenger. Crew were all lovely, they couldn’t have been more helpful and friendly. And the same all the islands we visited. Even at the craft stalls it never felt as though they were just after our money!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
It isn’t so much a sun, sea, beach trip, although there are a few stops with incredible snorkelling and beautiful beaches. Most of the Marquesas are mountainous, there are historic and cultural activities. Whilst I really enjoyed the food (and I’m pescatarian), if you’re a fussy eater you need to be prepared - it’s usually set menus for lunch and dinner and whilst they cater for all restrictions and choices you need to be aware that vegan options for example may not be the most exciting at every meal. Also, it is quite active, so be prepared for that - sometimes landings are by barge rather than at the dock, and there can be quite a bit of walking. Having said that, there were a number of passengers with varying degrees of limited mobility and the crew looked after them wonderfully. Sometimes they just stayed on board if disembarking & re-embarking was going to be too challenging for them.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, it definitely benefitted local people as it was the cargo ship which serves the Marquesas. Part of the fascination was watching the loading and unloading. There was recycling on the ship which was good to see. Bora Bora (one of the stops) apparently has a very high level of environmental action / protection.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It was wonderful. There were a variety of activities on board that you could join if you liked - ukulele lessons, Tahitian dance lessons, lectures on history and culture (which were fascinating). There was some activity included at I think every stop but also optional ones at an added cost. Food was good, bed was very comfortable, cabin was lovely, and the other passengers were interesting and friendly. And as I said, the crew couldn’t be bettered!Lesley Roberts review 27 Jun 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The Marquesas Islands.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Don't stay in Papeete if you can help it. Stay in Moorea the island next door. Helps to speak French. Traveling on your own is tiring as you have to speak to different people most of the time3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The Aranhui boat is specifically dual function which means it services the islands. Local people employed and mostly local food4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Very goodWilliam Bainbridge review 1 Mar 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The Marquesa Islands are amazing. The cultural shows and dances superb. The 10 mile hike is very worth doing but is not easy.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
If you are booking dormitory accommodation be aware that the top bunks are very confined. They are difficult to get in and out of (particularly if you are over 65) and only have a clearance of about 30 inches.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes - as the Aranui is also a cargo ship al locals benefit.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Interesting, but an awful lot of free time. If you are an active person trip tends to be a bit boring at times. Particularly as the gym is not very well equipped.Holiday Reviews
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