Easter Island to Tahiti: Tales of the Pacific
Explore lost civilizations amid idyllic, seldom-seen isles while sailing from the remote and enigmatic Easter Island (Rapa Nui), one of the most isolated landfalls of Polynesia, to Tahiti through the “low islands” of the Tuamotu Archipelago and the historically significant Pitcairn Islands. See the legendary moai statues up close, walk the length of untouched tropical beaches, meet the descendants of HMS Bounty mutineers and swim through an atoll pass.
Expedition Gallery
Overview
Explore lost civilizations amid idyllic, seldom-seen isles while sailing from the remote and enigmatic Easter Island (Rapa Nui), one of the most isolated landfalls of Polynesia, to Tahiti through the “low islands” of the Tuamotu Archipelago and the historically significant Pitcairn Islands. See the legendary moai statues up close, walk the length of untouched tropical beaches, meet the descendants of HMS Bounty mutineers and swim through an atoll pass.
Expedition Details
- Operator: Lindblad Expeditions
- Ships: National Geographic Orion,National Geographic Resolution
- Region: SOUTH PACIFIC
- Duration: 17 nights
- From AUD 31,429 per person
Places Visited
- Santiago, Chile / Easter Island (Rapa Nui) / Embark Ship
- At Sea
- Pitcairn Islands, British Overseas Territory
- At Sea / Mangareva
- At Sea / Tuamotu Archipelago
- Makatea
- +1 more
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1-4
Santiago, Chile / Easter Island (Rapa Nui) / Embark Ship
Arrive in Santiago, Chile, and transfer to your hotel located in central Santiago. Join your fellow travelers this evening for a welcome reception.The next morning, board a flight to Easter Island where you will embark the ship and settle in onboard. The next two days, explore volcanic calderas, jagged lava fields and sweeping grasslands to discover the colossal moai statues–the astonishing legacy of a long-lost culture. Join archaeologists to examine these statues and discuss their meaning and creation. Visit burial sites, quarries and intricately carved ceremonial altars. Dinner is served on Day 1; breakfast, lunch and dinner are served on Days 2-4.
Day 1-4
Santiago, Chile / Easter Island (Rapa Nui) / Embark Ship
Arrive in Santiago, Chile, and transfer to your hotel located in central Santiago. Join your fellow travelers this evening for a welcome reception.The next morning, board a flight to Easter Island where you will embark the ship and settle in onboard. The next two days, explore volcanic calderas, jagged lava fields and sweeping grasslands to discover the colossal moai statues–the astonishing legacy of a long-lost culture. Join archaeologists to examine these statues and discuss their meaning and creation. Visit burial sites, quarries and intricately carved ceremonial altars. Dinner is served on Day 1; breakfast, lunch and dinner are served on Days 2-4.
Day 5-6
At Sea
As you set sail and journey west from Easter Island, head up to the bridge to watch for wildlife and observe expert navigation at work as the skilled captain and officers sail these historic waters. There is also time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, work out in the gym and browse through the library. Each day the naturalists offer talks that add depth to your experience.
Day 5-6
At Sea
As you set sail and journey west from Easter Island, head up to the bridge to watch for wildlife and observe expert navigation at work as the skilled captain and officers sail these historic waters. There is also time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, work out in the gym and browse through the library. Each day the naturalists offer talks that add depth to your experience.
Day 7-9
Pitcairn Islands, British Overseas Territory
Begin your exploration at the famed Pitcairn Island. Many of the mutineers of the legendary HMS Bounty made their home here in the late 18th century, and about 50 of their descendants still live here today. Meet the residents and hear a few words of the unusual Pitkern dialect–a combination of English "sailor speak" and Polynesian phrases. Visit the gravesite of the last surviving Bounty mutineer, John Adams, and see the Bounty's anchor, which was salvaged in 1957. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Henderson Island, an uplifted atoll that is uninhabited and virtually untouched by humans. Discover the island's four endemic bird species, rich flora and fauna and fascinating geology.
Day 7-9
Pitcairn Islands, British Overseas Territory
Begin your exploration at the famed Pitcairn Island. Many of the mutineers of the legendary HMS Bounty made their home here in the late 18th century, and about 50 of their descendants still live here today. Meet the residents and hear a few words of the unusual Pitkern dialect–a combination of English "sailor speak" and Polynesian phrases. Visit the gravesite of the last surviving Bounty mutineer, John Adams, and see the Bounty's anchor, which was salvaged in 1957. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Henderson Island, an uplifted atoll that is uninhabited and virtually untouched by humans. Discover the island's four endemic bird species, rich flora and fauna and fascinating geology.
Day 10-11
At Sea / Mangareva
Spend a day at sea scanning the horizon with naturalists or relaxing on deck with a good book. Then arrive at Mangareva, the largest of the Gambier Islands, with its interesting history and beautiful lagoon. Venture underwater to snorkel, meet islanders to learn about their culture and the missionaries who made their home here or go on a hike with naturalists.
Day 10-11
At Sea / Mangareva
Spend a day at sea scanning the horizon with naturalists or relaxing on deck with a good book. Then arrive at Mangareva, the largest of the Gambier Islands, with its interesting history and beautiful lagoon. Venture underwater to snorkel, meet islanders to learn about their culture and the missionaries who made their home here or go on a hike with naturalists.
Day 12-16
At Sea / Tuamotu Archipelago
A day at sea brings you to the furthest reaches of the Tuamotu Archipelago, where the captain and expedition leader will determine the next spot for exploration. In true expedition mode, you'll visit some of the Tuamotus' most remote islands, taking the opportunity to explore them by land and by sea. Navigate reefs and islets as you make your way west and explore one of French Polynesia's many uninhabited atolls, such as Tahanea. Continue to Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Snorkel the protected reefs or ride the current into the lagoon on a world-famous drift snorkel.
Day 12-16
At Sea / Tuamotu Archipelago
A day at sea brings you to the furthest reaches of the Tuamotu Archipelago, where the captain and expedition leader will determine the next spot for exploration. In true expedition mode, you'll visit some of the Tuamotus' most remote islands, taking the opportunity to explore them by land and by sea. Navigate reefs and islets as you make your way west and explore one of French Polynesia's many uninhabited atolls, such as Tahanea. Continue to Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Snorkel the protected reefs or ride the current into the lagoon on a world-famous drift snorkel.
Day 17
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. This specific island of Makatea gives its name to all other uplifted coral atolls worldwide. Spend the day exploring the island's limestone caves and grottos with your expedition team and local guides, or search for endemic fruit doves and myriad seabirds, then swim among colorful fish on the nearby reef.
Day 17
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. This specific island of Makatea gives its name to all other uplifted coral atolls worldwide. Spend the day exploring the island's limestone caves and grottos with your expedition team and local guides, or search for endemic fruit doves and myriad seabirds, then swim among colorful fish on the nearby reef.
Day 18
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia / Disembark Ship
Disembark in Papeete, Tahiti and transfer to the airport for flights home.
Day 18
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia / Disembark Ship
Disembark in Papeete, Tahiti and transfer to the airport for flights home.
Ship & Suites
National Geographic Orion
Expedition Deck
Main Deck
Upper Deck
Bridge Deck
Observation Deck
01
Cabins feature an oval window; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; two armchairs; writing desk with chair; coffee table; three closets; and a bathroom with a roomy shower.
02
Cabins feature one or two oval windows; two single beds that convert to a queen; bedside table; armchair; writing desk with chair; coffee table; three closets; and a bathroom with a roomy shower.
1S
Cabins feature a window or two portholes; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; armchair; writing desk with chair; coffee table; three closets; and a bathroom with a roomy shower. Cabin 301 features a double bed and no bedside table.
03
Cabins feature a large window; two single beds that convert to a queen; bedside table; sofa that converts to a single bed; one or two armchairs; writing desk with chair; coffee table; four closets; and a bathroom with a roomy shower. Cabins 401, 402, and 418 do not contain a sofa.
04
Suites feature a large window; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; sofa that converts to a single bed; armchair; writing desk with chair; coffee table; espresso maker; four closets; and a bathroom with a roomy shower. Guests receive complimentary laundry, special turn down service, and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
05
Suites feature a shared balcony; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; sofa that converts to a single bed; armchair; writing desk with chair; coffee table; espresso maker; four closets; and a bathroom with a roomy shower. Guests receive complimentary laundry, special turn down service, and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
06
Suites feature a private French balcony or floor-to-ceiling windows; two single beds that convert to a queen; two bedside tables; cabinet with drawers and shelves; sofa that converts to a single bed; two armchairs; writing desk with chair; coffee table; espresso maker; five closets; and a bathroom with a roomy shower. Guests receive complimentary laundry, special turn down service, and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.Cabin 509 features two windows instead of a balcony. Cabin 502 offers a soaking tub in addition to a shower.
3S
Cabins feature two large windows; two single beds; bedside shelf; two armchairs; writing desk with chair; coffee table; three closets; and a bathroom with a roomy shower. Guests receive complimentary laundry, special turn down service, and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
Restaurant
Meals are served in a single, unassigned seating for a relaxed and informal atmosphere.
Lounge
The lounge contains a full bar and state-of-the-art presentation facilities for talks, presentations, and evening Recaps.
Global Gallery
The Global Gallery offers a unique selection of handcrafted gifts, as well as expedition gear such as hats, jackets and sunshirts.
Outdoor Dining
Select meals can be enjoyed al fresco at the outdoor café, weather permitting.
Bridge
The fleet's open bridge policy allows guests to visit anytime to chat with the captain and crew, conditions permitting.
Observation Lounge and Library
The Observation Lounge is equipped with a library, nautical chart table, tea and coffee station, and two photo kiosks.
Hot Tub
Located on the Observation Deck, the hot tub doubles as a plunge pool in warmer climates.
Fitness Center
The fitness center offers cardio equipment, weights, resistance bands, and an excellent view.
LEXspa
Treatments in the LEXspa are available by appointment.
Sauna
Relax in the sauna, located on the Observation Deck.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
FFL-Eligible
For a limited time, guests who join a qualifying voyage booked by May 1, 2026, will automatically be enrolled in Friends for Life* upon disembarkation.
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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