Aboard the Panorama II, a graceful two-masted motorsailer carrying just 49 guests, embark on a captivating voyage through the Society Islands of French Polynesia. Discover the legendary isles of Bora Bora, Taha'a, Mo'orea, Huahine, and Raiatea—storied lands shaped by verdant, sky-piercing peaks and fringed by luminous turquoise lagoons. Traveling by small ship offers an intimate perspective on these enchanting islands, where dramatic ridgelines draped with waterfalls rise above tranquil atolls encircled by crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful marine life. Swim, snorkel, and enjoy a variety of water activities to your heart's colntent, explore evocative archaeological sites, enjoy picnics on pristine white-sand beaches, and learn about the islands' rich history and sacred Polynesian legends from expert guides. Throughout the journey, the Panorama II serves as a welcoming home away from home and the perfect vessel for discovering the irresistible beauty and timeless allure of French Polynesia.
Arrive: Papeete, Tahiti
Depart: Papeete, Tahiti
Note: This trip is not exclusive to, nor operated by, Wilderness Travel, who acts solely as an agent in booking your reservation with the operator. Please download the Rate Sheet in the Dates & Pricing section to see the full pricing details and contact our Cruise Collection Specialists to check availability.
Your adventure begins at the picturesque Papeete port, Society Islands, where you'll board the sleek beauty M/Y Panorama II (boarding Time: 2-3pm). As you step on board, immerse yourself in a world of ambiance and hospitality with a gracious welcome, a refreshing drink, and a delectable Welcome Dinner that sets the perfect tone for your journey ahead. As twilight descends, bid farewell to Papeete and set sail for the enchanting island of Moorea.
Mo'orea, often referred to as "The Magical Island," is said to have been the muse behind the mythical Bali Hai from James Michener's Tales of the South Pacific, and it stands as one of the most breathtaking gems in French Polynesia. Lying at anchor in Moorea, you will enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and water sports from the swimming platform in beautiful sapphire waters. A delicious lunch will boost your energy for your afternoon exploration of the island. Join an enchanting 3.5-hour optional island tour where your knowledgeable guide will regale you with captivating tales of Mo'orea's rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse ecology. Traverse through the lush Opunohu Valley, ascend the slopes of Mt. Tohi'e'a, and meander past the picturesque Cook's and Opunohu Bays. After this optional tour, relish in some free time to explore Mo'orea at your leisure before settin sail for the next destination, Huahine.
Huahine, often likened to the mythical Garden of Eden, emerges as a vast tropical paradise teeming with life. Its lush expanses are adorned with coconut groves, vanilla orchids, banana plantations, breadfruit trees, and sprawling watermelon fields, creating a tapestry of vibrant colors and fragrant scents Today offers the freedom to explore Huahine at your own pace or partake in our meticulously crafted optional Private Motu Picnic and Snorkeling tour: Board the comfortable, traditional outrigger canoe for a cruise to Huahine. Along the way your guides will share the island`s history and sacred legends and provide insight into island life. Then there is a stop in the coral gardens for snorkeling among the many species of tropical fish. After working up a good appetite, you will enjoy a delectable picnic on a white, sandy motu. On the way back, stop at the aquarium to meet the fish and reef sharks.
The following day, explore Huahine at your leisure or opt for an optional tour taking you to many of the island's temples and small villages offering a chance to see and feed the sacred blue-eyed eels of Faie Bay, as well as visit a vanilla plantation. If you're a keen cook, we recommend you purchase vanilla beans while here; you won't find tastier—or cheaper!—versions elsewhere.
Without a doubt, Bora Bora reigns supreme as the crown jewel of the South Pacific, holding the spotlight as French Polynesia's undisputed star. Today, you can experience the essence of Bora Bora with a unique optional excursion aboard Le Truck, a vibrant journey lasting approximately 2.5 hours. Climb aboard this colorful chariot as it guides you through Bora Bora's picturesque landscapes. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Tahitian history, traditions, and cultures as your knowledgeable guide narrates the 22-mile road encircling this legendary island. Explore the villages of Farepiti, Faanui, and Anau, each adorned with ancient "Marae" shrouded in mystery. And as your adventure unfolds, be captivated by the breathtaking vistas from Matira Point, a vantage point offering unparalleled panoramas of paradise.
Your second day in Bora Bora is brimming with unforgettable moments that will linger with you for years to come. Whether you choose to explore at your own pace or join us on one of the meticulously crafted optional shore excursions, seize the opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Taha’a fondly referred to as Vanilla Island, boasts an exquisite natural landscape. Its verdant valleys are adorned with lush banana, watermelon, and coconut plantations. Resembling a flower in shape, the island serves as a sprawling sanctuary for the prized Tahitian vanilla orchid. Taha'a shares a continuous coral reef and crystal-clear lagoon, enhancing its allure as an idyllic retreat. As the ship lies at anchor in Taha’a, you will enjoy swimming, snorkeling and water sports from the swimming platform. You can opt for a leisurely exploration or embark on an enticing Vanilla Plantation & Rhumerie optional shore excursion, promising a delightful journey into Taha'a's aromatic world.
With its name translating to "faraway heaven," Raiatea once stood as the paramount cultural and religious hub of the Society Islands. Today, Raiatea is believed to be a sacred resting place for the spirits of these ancestors, drawing pilgrims seeking spiritual connection. Embark on an enriching optional shore excursion to the Faaroa River with a Motu Beach break, where you'll journey aboard a traditional Polynesian outrigger canoe. Arriving at a serene motu, or islet, immerse yourself in the warm embrace of the sea and bask in the rejuvenating sun, a perfect interlude to your Raiatea exploration.
On Day 9, iommerse yourself in the captivating tales and ancient legends, beckoning you to uncover its mysteries. Whether you yearn to traverse its verdant jungles or plunge into its sapphire-blue waters, Raiatea promises an enriching journey. Savor the freedom to craft your day at your leisure, or opt to join one of the tailored optional shore excursions, curated to offer a deeper immersion into the island's unique ambiance, allowing you to embrace the essence of Mana. After dinner, set sail for Moorea.
Today, the voyage brings you back to Mo'orea. It's no wonder that this isle continues to captivate; it's a true marvel of nature. Today grants you the freedom to explore at your own pace or partake in one of the optional shore excursions. Overnight at sea to Papeete.
Discover the capital of Tahiti. Begin your day with the half-day included excursion to the West Coast, visiting the Venus Point, the Faarumai Waterfalls (20-minute hike, very easy) and the Arahoho blowhole. The east coast is considered to be the "wild side" of Tahiti where you can only see black-sand beach without any lagoon. Return to the ship for lunch and then take some free time to wander through the downtown municipal market, Le Marché, or explore La Centre Vaima. For an authentic local experience, visit Vai'ete Square after sunset. Dinner on board.
After breakfast on board, disembark at 9:00 am.
Day 1: Papeete, Tahiti
Day 2: Mo'orea
Day 3: Raiatea
Day 4: Taha'a
Days 5-6: Bora Bora
Day 7: Huahine
Day 8: Papeete , Tahiti
Day 1: Papeete, Tahiti
Day 2: Mo'orea
Days 3-4: Huahine
Days 5-6: Bora Bora
Day 7: Taha'a
Days 8-9: Raiatea
Day 10: Mo'orea
Day 11: Papeete, Tahiti
Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.
The trip is rated Level 1+, Easy, and is appropriate for anyone in good health who is physically active. Zodiac landing crafts are used to explore the coastline and transport passengers ashore for walks to wildlife sanctuaries, scenic nature areas, and local towns and villages. There are also ample opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. Some agility is required for getting in and out of the Zodiac landing crafts.
Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!
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With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult.