Pearls of the Pacific: The Society and Tuamotu Islands
Experience idyllic islands and atolls of renowned biodiversity and untouched beauty in French Polynesia. Explore underwater havens in the Tuamotu Archipelago and Fakarava, whose flora and fauna are so diverse that its breathtaking reefs and other habitats are protected by UNESCO.
Expedition Gallery
Overview
Experience idyllic islands and atolls of renowned biodiversity and untouched beauty in French Polynesia. Explore underwater havens in the Tuamotu Archipelago and Fakarava, whose flora and fauna are so diverse that its breathtaking reefs and other habitats are protected by UNESCO. Makatea’s sheer volcanic cliffs and Bora Bora’s jagged Mount Otemanu create indelible memories and complement the underwater Gardens of Eden that surround these remote tropical islands.
Expedition Details
- Operator: Lindblad Expeditions
- Ship: National Geographic Resolution
- Region: SOUTH PACIFIC
- Duration: 10 nights
- From AUD 32,143 per person
Places Visited
- Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia / Embark Ship
- Bora Bora
- Taha’a / Ra’iatea
- Makatea
- Rangiroa
- Fakarava
- +2 more
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia / Embark Ship
Arrive in Papeete, the vibrant and multicultural capital of French Polynesia. Transfer from the airport to the meeting point, and check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the ship.Arrival Time: Arrive by 11:00 a.m.Arrival City: Papeete, Tahiti
Day 1
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia / Embark Ship
Arrive in Papeete, the vibrant and multicultural capital of French Polynesia. Transfer from the airport to the meeting point, and check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the ship.Arrival Time: Arrive by 11:00 a.m.Arrival City: Papeete, Tahiti
Day 2
Bora Bora
Awake this morning as the iconic crags of Mount Otemanu come into focus. Today choose to explore Bora Bora either on land or in the water, and enjoy a barbecue dinner and music on a private motu this afternoon.
Day 2
Bora Bora
Awake this morning as the iconic crags of Mount Otemanu come into focus. Today choose to explore Bora Bora either on land or in the water, and enjoy a barbecue dinner and music on a private motu this afternoon.
Day 3
Taha’a / Ra’iatea
Arrive in Taha’a and spend the morning snorkeling, where you may encounter black-tipped reef sharks. Or choose to go ashore and visit a family-run vanilla farm. Enjoy lunch on board as you sail to nearby Rai’atea. This afternoon, visit Ra’iatea and one of the most important cultural sites in the Polynesian world, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Marae Taputapuātea. This large complex was once a center for Polynesian seafarers and the location from which they set out for Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Hawaii and New Zealand. As you explore, you’ll learn about its significance in Polynesian history.
Day 3
Taha’a / Ra’iatea
Arrive in Taha’a and spend the morning snorkeling, where you may encounter black-tipped reef sharks. Or choose to go ashore and visit a family-run vanilla farm. Enjoy lunch on board as you sail to nearby Rai’atea. This afternoon, visit Ra’iatea and one of the most important cultural sites in the Polynesian world, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Marae Taputapuātea. This large complex was once a center for Polynesian seafarers and the location from which they set out for Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Hawaii and New Zealand. As you explore, you’ll learn about its significance in Polynesian history.
Day 4
Makatea
An uplifted coral atoll, the island of Makatea is one of the most unique landforms in the Pacific. A makatea is a raised coral atoll that is tilted due to plate tectonics and appears much different than the other islands in the region, containing spectacular, vertical cliffs. This specific island of Makatea gives its name to all other uplifted coral atolls worldwide. Spend the day in search of endemic fruit doves and a myriad of seabirds with your expedition team and local guides, explore the island’s limestone caves and swim in the crystal-clear waters of its stalactite and stalagmite-filled grotto.
Day 4
Makatea
An uplifted coral atoll, the island of Makatea is one of the most unique landforms in the Pacific. A makatea is a raised coral atoll that is tilted due to plate tectonics and appears much different than the other islands in the region, containing spectacular, vertical cliffs. This specific island of Makatea gives its name to all other uplifted coral atolls worldwide. Spend the day in search of endemic fruit doves and a myriad of seabirds with your expedition team and local guides, explore the island’s limestone caves and swim in the crystal-clear waters of its stalactite and stalagmite-filled grotto.
Day 5
Rangiroa
The atoll of Rangiroa is a ring of slender islands known for some of the most pristine reefs in French Polynesia. The turquoise lagoon at its center is the second largest in the world. Swim in the rich waters here, home to large schools of reef fish and dolphins.
Day 5
Rangiroa
The atoll of Rangiroa is a ring of slender islands known for some of the most pristine reefs in French Polynesia. The turquoise lagoon at its center is the second largest in the world. Swim in the rich waters here, home to large schools of reef fish and dolphins.
Day 6-7
Fakarava
Arrive at Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This coral atoll is home to many rare species of birds, plants and crustaceans, and you will have the opportunity to swim its protected reefs. Spend time exploring Rotoava, the main village on Fakarava. Take a leisurely bike ride, visit a pearl shop or stroll along the turquoise waterfront with a fresh coconut. Swim through Fakrarava's Tumakohua Pass, one of the most famous current drifts in the world.
Day 6-7
Fakarava
Arrive at Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This coral atoll is home to many rare species of birds, plants and crustaceans, and you will have the opportunity to swim its protected reefs. Spend time exploring Rotoava, the main village on Fakarava. Take a leisurely bike ride, visit a pearl shop or stroll along the turquoise waterfront with a fresh coconut. Swim through Fakrarava's Tumakohua Pass, one of the most famous current drifts in the world.
Day 8-10
Tuamotu Archipelago
Spend three days exploring some of the nearly 80 islands and atolls in the Tuamotu Archipelago, a corner of Polynesia that is as rich with marine life as it is vast. With crystalline lagoons fringed by white beaches and lush coconut groves, the Tuamotus are a tropical dream, both in the water and ashore. Meet the locals on sparsely inhabited Anaa and learn about their unique traditions. Discover the abundant marine life on a swim, or enjoy the calm lagoon of one of the many pristine atolls in the archipelago.
Day 8-10
Tuamotu Archipelago
Spend three days exploring some of the nearly 80 islands and atolls in the Tuamotu Archipelago, a corner of Polynesia that is as rich with marine life as it is vast. With crystalline lagoons fringed by white beaches and lush coconut groves, the Tuamotus are a tropical dream, both in the water and ashore. Meet the locals on sparsely inhabited Anaa and learn about their unique traditions. Discover the abundant marine life on a swim, or enjoy the calm lagoon of one of the many pristine atolls in the archipelago.
Day 11
Papeete, Tahiti / Disembark Ship
Disembark in Papeete and transfer to the airport for flights home.Departure Time: Depart after 12:00 p.m.Departure City: Papeete, Tahiti
Day 11
Papeete, Tahiti / Disembark Ship
Disembark in Papeete and transfer to the airport for flights home.Departure Time: Depart after 12:00 p.m.Departure City: Papeete, Tahiti
Ship & Suites
National Geographic Resolution
Expedition Deck
Fore Deck
Main Deck
Lounge Deck
Bridge Deck
01
Cabins feature two large windows; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; window sofa with storage; armchair; writing desk with chair; coffee table; closet; and a bathroom with a rain shower.
02
Cabins feature two large windows; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; window sofa; sofa; writing desk with chair; coffee table; closet; and a bathroom with a rain shower.
03
Cabins feature a private balcony with two chairs, a hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; sofa that converts to a single bed; writing desk with chair; coffee table; closet; and a bathroom with a rain shower.
SA
Cabins feature a private balcony with two chairs and a table; one single bed; bedside table; writing desk with chair; and a closet.
04
Cabins feature a private balcony with two chairs, a hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; sofa that converts to a single bed; writing desk with chair; coffee table; closet; and a bathroom with a rain shower.
SB
Cabins feature a private balcony with two chairs, a hammock, and a table; one single bed; bedside table; writing desk with chair; and a closet.
05
Cabins feature a private balcony with two chairs, a hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; sofa that converts to a single bed; writing desk with chair; coffee table; closet; and a bathroom with a rain shower.
06
This junior suite features a private balcony with two chairs, a hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; sofa that converts to a king bed; writing desk with chair; coffee table; espresso maker; closet; and a bathroom with a rain shower. Guests receive priority access to one spa treatment and one igloo reservation and complimentary laundry per departure.
07
Suites feature a private balcony with two chairs, a hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; sofa that converts to a king bed; writing desk with chair; coffee table; espresso maker; large walk-in closet; and a spacious bathroom with a double vanity, bathtub, towel warmer and rain shower. Guests receive priority access to one spa treatment and one igloo reservation and complimentary laundry per departure.
Base Camp
The Expedition Deck houses a base camp with lockers for expedition gear and serves as the embarkation point for Zodiacs.
Change Exhibit
The first-ever permanent ship-based installation of drawings, paintings, video, photography, sculpture, and even soundscape by a wide range of artists dedicated to examining and expressing response to vulnerable polar geographies.
Restaurant 270°
Restaurant 270° features wrap-around sea views, a full menu of sustainable choices, and unassigned flexible seating.
Reception
For any inquiries or requests you may have, reclaiming items from the lost and found, and settling your shipboard account at the end of the voyage.
Ice Lounge
The Ice Lounge is the community hub for Recaps, talks and presentations, featuring 39 flat screens displaying information during lectures and our traditional recap of the day. It also offers an extensive variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The Deck at of the Ice Lounge comprises of two fire pits that are lit up every evening for social gatherings and storytelling. Self-service coffee and tea, cold beverage station, and Photo Kiosks are also available.
Global Gallery
The Global Gallery offers a unique selection of handcrafted gifts, as well as expedition gear like hats, jackets and sunshirts.
Fitness Center
The fitness center is fully equipped with weights and Technogym cardio equipment. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking views.
Bridge
The fleet's open bridge policy allows guests to visit anytime to chat with the captain and crew, conditions permitting.
Tupaia Restaurant
One of three dining areas on the ship, Tupaia's Restaurant offers lighter, made-to-order fare or small group dinners.
Tupaia's Bar
Located in the Observation Lounge, Tupaia's Bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, self-service coffee and tea, and cold beverage station.
Spa
Two treatment rooms offer a wide menu of spa treatments.
Yoga Studio
Daily yoga and stretching classes are offered in the glass-enclosed yoga studio.
Infinity Pools
Twin infinity hot tubs are located on the outside aft deck.
Igloos
The Observation Deck is equipped with geodesic igloos that can be reserved for a unique night under the polar sky. Reservations are available for an additional charge on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to guests staying in suites.
Saunas
The spa offers two Saunas, one steam and one dry typical Finn Sauna.
Library
The library features panoramic windows, relaxed comfortable seating, a well-stocked collection of books on the places we explore, and table games and puzzles for guests.
Science Hub
The Science Hub is your portal to the world of science and expedition findings. Featuring state-of the art screens for viewing underwater and aerial drone footage, microscope live streams, and more.
Special Offers
GO FARTHER. FIND WONDER.
Book from September 15 to November 4, 2026: Receive savings of $2000AUD per guest deducted from cabin fare on select 2027 and 2028 voyages. Applicable savings will be deducted from cabin fare before any additional savings with the purchase of cabin fare. Promotional offer valid on new bookings only for select 2027 departures, subject to availability and offer may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice, not applicable on airfare or land programs, and may not be combined with other promotions. Standard cancellation policy applies. Additional restrictions may apply.
SUITE EXCLUSIVES
Spacious living areas and incredible views immerse you in the beauty of your marine surroundings. Our new Suite Exclusives package helps make your voyage all the more memorable. Learn more
CELEBRATE LIFE'S MILESTONES
Celebrate a milestone with a group of eight or more and enjoy a special amenity package including: 5% savings on voyage fares, custom group photo, US$150 shipboard credit for the group, and other special gifts. Milestone celebration to be communicated at time of booking.
10% OFF BACK-TO-BACK VOYAGES
Save 10% on consecutive departures, applicable on voyage fares only and not valid on extensions or airfare. Valid for new bookings only, subject to availability, and may not be combined with other offers. Call for details.
SAVE 5% TRAVELING AS A GROUP
Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more people. Valid for new bookings only on select departures, subject to availability, not applicable on extensions, and may not be combined with other offers. Call for details.
COMBINING OFFERS
Certain offers may be combinable, up to two savings opportunities, except where noted otherwise. For example, travel with a group of 8 or more on back-to-back expeditions, and take advantage of both savings.
Departures & Pricing
Real-time pricing pulled directly from Lindblad Expeditions. Prices shown are per person in AUD.
What's Included
Costs Include
All accommodations aboard ships or in hotels per itinerary or similar, all meals and nonalcoholic beverages aboard ship, meals on land as indicated, air transportation where indicated as included, shore excursions, sightseeing and entrance fees, special access permits, transfers to and from group flights, use of snorkeling equipment and wet suits, use of kayaks (where available), tips (except to Egyptologists and ship’s crew), taxes and service charges, services of a ship physician on most voyages, and services of our expedition staff.
Not Included
Air transportation (except where shown as included), extensions, passport, visa, immigration fees, scuba diving (where available), meals not indicated, baggage/accident/travel protection plan, items of a personal nature, such as alcoholic beverages, e-mail, laundry. Gratuities to Egyptologists and ship’s crew at your discretion.
Airfare
For all programs, airfare is an additional cost unless otherwise indicated. Sample airfares are based on 2007 fares and are subject to change. We will gladly assist in making your air arrangements.
Note
Complete pre-journey information, including suggestions on what to bring and recommended reading, will be sent after your reservation is confirmed 4-6 months prior to departure.
Terms & Conditions
Effective October 1, 2007, all Lindblad voyages departing from and returning to ports outside the United States will be operated by Lindblad Maritime Enterprises, Ltd., a subsidiary of Lindblad Expeditions, Inc.Reservations: To reserve your place, an advance payment for the program as outlined is required at the time of reservation and is payable by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover or check. The per person amount due is noted on each dates and rates screen.Final Payment: For expeditions of eight nights or less, final payment is due 60 days prior to departure. For expeditions of nine nights or more, final payment is due 90 days prior to departure.Travel Protection Plan: Travel protection and medical insurance are available at extra cost. Ask about our comprehensive guest travel protection plan for a worry-free expedition. Learn more about Lindblad Expeditions Travel Protection "Plus" Plan.Smoking: Smoking is allowed only in designated outdoor areas.Responsibility and Other Terms & Conditions: Certain other provisions concerning, among other things, limitations of Lindblad Expeditions’ and the National Geographic Society’s liability for loss of property, injury, illness or death during the voyage will be provided to all guests on the ship’s ticket sent prior to departure, and are also available where within this site or upon request. By registering for a trip, the guest agrees to all such terms and conditions.CANCELLATION POLICY:For Expeditions 8 Nights or Less:Number of Days to Expedition Start / Prior Per Person Cancellation Fee90 or more days / $150*89–60 days / Advance payment cost59–30 days / 50% of trip cost29–0 days / No refundFor Expeditions 9 Nights or More:Number of Days to Expedition Start / Prior Per Person Cancellation Fee120 or more days / $150*119–90 days / Advance payment cost89–60 days / 25% of trip cost59–30 days / 50% of trip cost29–0 days / No refund
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