French Polynesia’s Tuamotus: Hidden Atolls and Coral Seas
Venture deep into the remote Tuamotu Archipelago, where coral atolls, luminous lagoons and thriving marine ecosystems define one of the most spectacular regions of French Polynesia. From the uplifted cliffs and limestone caves of Makatea to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed reefs of Fakarava and the sweeping lagoon of Rangiroa, discover stunning islands shaped by volcanic forces.
Expedition Gallery
Overview
Venture deep into the remote Tuamotu Archipelago, where coral atolls, luminous lagoons and thriving marine ecosystems define one of the most spectacular regions of French Polynesia. From the uplifted cliffs and limestone caves of Makatea to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed reefs of Fakarava and the sweeping lagoon of Rangiroa, discover stunning islands shaped by volcanic forces. Explore crystalline waters and coral passes, search for endemic seabirds and experience the slower rhythms of life across some of the South Pacific’s most remote and untamed atolls.
Expedition Details
- Operator: Lindblad Expeditions
- Ship: National Geographic Orion
- Region: SOUTH PACIFIC
- Duration: 6 nights
- From AUD 13,143 per person
Places Visited
- Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia / Embark Ship
- Makatea
- Rangiroa
- Fakarava
- At Sea / Mo’orea
- Mo'orea / Papeete / Disembark Ship
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia / Embark Ship
Arrive in Papeete, the vibrant capital of French Polynesia. Transfer from the airport to the meetup hotel for breakfast before embarking the ship.
Day 1
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia / Embark Ship
Arrive in Papeete, the vibrant capital of French Polynesia. Transfer from the airport to the meetup hotel for breakfast before embarking the ship.
Day 2
Makatea
An uplifted coral atoll, the island of Makatea is among the Pacific’s most unusual and geologically fascinating landforms. Raised dramatically from the sea by tectonic forces, Makatea stands in striking contrast to the region’s low-lying atolls, with towering limestone cliffs and rugged elevated terrain. So distinctive is this rare formation that the island’s name has become the term used for uplifted coral atolls around the world. Spend the day with your naturalists and local guides, in search of endemic fruit doves and a myriad of seabirds. Explore the island’s limestone caves and swim in the crystal-clear waters of its stalactite- and stalagmite-filled grotto.
Day 2
Makatea
An uplifted coral atoll, the island of Makatea is among the Pacific’s most unusual and geologically fascinating landforms. Raised dramatically from the sea by tectonic forces, Makatea stands in striking contrast to the region’s low-lying atolls, with towering limestone cliffs and rugged elevated terrain. So distinctive is this rare formation that the island’s name has become the term used for uplifted coral atolls around the world. Spend the day with your naturalists and local guides, in search of endemic fruit doves and a myriad of seabirds. Explore the island’s limestone caves and swim in the crystal-clear waters of its stalactite- and stalagmite-filled grotto.
Day 3
Rangiroa
The atoll of Rangiroa is a necklace of slender islands surrounding one of the world’s largest lagoons, renowned for its turquoise waters and rich marine ecosystems. Beneath the surface lies large schools of reef fish, dolphins and other marine life. Take in the lagoon's extraordinary beauty, with opportunities to swim in the warm waters of this South Pacific paradise.
Day 3
Rangiroa
The atoll of Rangiroa is a necklace of slender islands surrounding one of the world’s largest lagoons, renowned for its turquoise waters and rich marine ecosystems. Beneath the surface lies large schools of reef fish, dolphins and other marine life. Take in the lagoon's extraordinary beauty, with opportunities to swim in the warm waters of this South Pacific paradise.
Day 4-5
Fakarava
Arrive at Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its extraordinary marine life and biodiversity. Go ashore in the village of Rotoava, where opportunities to explore by bicycle, browse local pearl shops or stroll the waterfront offer a glimpse into daily life on this remote island.
Day 4-5
Fakarava
Arrive at Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its extraordinary marine life and biodiversity. Go ashore in the village of Rotoava, where opportunities to explore by bicycle, browse local pearl shops or stroll the waterfront offer a glimpse into daily life on this remote island.
Day 6
At Sea / Mo’orea
Arrive at the lush volcanic island of Mo'orea, where towering emerald peaks, deep bays and vibrant lagoons create a breathtaking backdrop for your final day of exploration. Venture inland through tropical forests to panoramic viewpoints overlooking Cook’s and Opunohu Bays, or explore calm turquoise waters teeming with marine life. Back on board this evening, gather with fellow travelers for a farewell dinner as you celebrate your journey through French Polynesia.
Day 6
At Sea / Mo’orea
Arrive at the lush volcanic island of Mo'orea, where towering emerald peaks, deep bays and vibrant lagoons create a breathtaking backdrop for your final day of exploration. Venture inland through tropical forests to panoramic viewpoints overlooking Cook’s and Opunohu Bays, or explore calm turquoise waters teeming with marine life. Back on board this evening, gather with fellow travelers for a farewell dinner as you celebrate your journey through French Polynesia.
Day 7
Mo'orea / Papeete / Disembark Ship
Begin the day with one final opportunity to explore the lush landscapes and crystalline waters of Mo'orea.In the afternoon, disembark in Papeete and enjoy a dinner ashore before transferring to the airport for flights home.
Day 7
Mo'orea / Papeete / Disembark Ship
Begin the day with one final opportunity to explore the lush landscapes and crystalline waters of Mo'orea.In the afternoon, disembark in Papeete and enjoy a dinner ashore before transferring 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.
Special Offers
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.
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.
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
Ready to explore?
Speak to a CruiseLiaise expert and secure your cabin.