Overview
We are partnering with Trips & Ships for you to embark on an extraordinary odyssey through the turquoise waters and lush landscapes of French Polynesia, where every moment is a brushstroke in the masterpiece: Papeete, Moorea, Raiatea, Motu Maha’a (Tahaa), Bora Bora, and Huahine. Join us as we explore these exotic gems, each one a chapter in the captivating story of tropical enchantment.
Begin your adventure in Papeete, the lively capital of Tahiti, where French flair meets Polynesian charm. Dive into the bustling markets, where the aroma of tropical fruits mingles with the beats of traditional music. Discover the heart of Tahitian culture as you wander the vibrant streets, set against a backdrop of azure waters. Delve into the peace of the LDS Tahitian temple.
Set sail to Moorea, an island of emerald peaks and crystalline lagoons. Dive into the translucent waters, snorkeling amidst vibrant coral gardens. Traverse the pineapple plantations and botanical wonders, soaking in the natural beauty that inspired James Michener’s “Bali Hai.”
Explore Raiatea, the cradle of Polynesian civilization, where ancient marae temples whisper tales of spiritual significance. Sail through the Faaroa River, a tranquil journey through lush landscapes and sacred valleys.
Discover the allure of Motu Maha’a, where vanilla-scented breezes sweep over pristine beaches. Engage in a sensory journey through vanilla plantations, learning the art of cultivation and indulging in exquisite tastings. Let the tranquility of this secluded paradise capture your heart.
Immerse yourself in the iconic beauty of Bora Bora, where overwater bungalows dot the turquoise horizon. Snorkel in the famed lagoon, surrounded by schools of vibrant fish. Witness the sunset from Matira Beach, a spectacle that paints the sky in hues of pink and gold.
Conclude your voyage in Huahine, a hidden gem with lush landscapes and untouched authenticity. Bike through vanilla plantations, encounter sacred blue-eyed eels, and explore ancient marae sites. Huahine is a sanctuary of tranquility, inviting you to savor the unhurried pace of Polynesian life.
Your Passport to Paradise Awaits! Join Us for a Journey of Unforgettable Beauty and Bliss.
Tour Guide
ANGELA HUGHES
Angela Hughes, coaching and creating marketing strategies for travel professionals and travel companies has always been her passion. For 40+ years, she has been actively selling and running Trips & Ships Luxury Travel, a full service host travel agency.
She has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, The Daily Beast, Travel Market Report, Travel Weekly, Luxury Travel Advisor, LuxuryWise, appeared on Fox35 TV as a regular travel contributor, and often guest speaks internationally in the tourism industry and on social media. Angela lectures as an adjunct professor at BYU in Geography and Travel & Tourism. She has traveled to over 98+ countries, & continents and previously lived in Osaka, Japan.
Angela also gives back through travel via their non-profit Color My World, creating humanitarian trips meeting sustainable development goals around the world.
Itinerary
July 16 – Flights leave for Tahiti
Plan for your flights to arrive in Tahiti the evening of July 16 or early morning on July 17. Please be advised that when traveling internationally for a cruise, we recommend booking flights to arrive 24-48 hours in advance of cruise departure, so you will have time to make adjustments in case of a delayed or cancelled flight. (No meals included)
July 17 – Papeete
Relax on sunny beaches, sample Tahitian fare, and take the effervescent spirit of the city. But whatever you do, save time- and luggage space- for shopping.
Black pearls and colorful crafts fill the market, and local treasures are so plentiful you’ll have trouble making your choices. But you won’t be bothered with large crowds and big tours groups, because French Tahiti is only accessible to small ships like ours. (Meals included: Dinner)
July 18 – Moorea
Welcome to paradise, where your stunning surroundings soak up superlatives and call for more. In our stay here you’ll have plenty of time to do it all. Be sure to consider the opportunity to hone your photography talents on an optional tour of the island in the company of a professional photographer.
Your choices here are endless. Hike the majestic Three Coconut Trail. Visit dolphins in their native habitat. Or spend your time swimming and kayaking from Wind Spirit’s platform as we lay anchor in these beautiful sapphire seas. (Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
July 19 – Raiatea
Raiatea, “The Sacred Island,” is located just across the lagoon from Taha’a and shares the same barrier reef. (Legend claims the two were a single island until a conger eel, possessed by the spirit of a princess, separated them.) It used to be the center of religion and culture in the Society Islands.
Taputapuatea, on the southeast coast, was once the most important marae around, the place where kings from the neighboring islands would gather for important ceremonies. Uturoa, the main town, reminds some people of Papeete in its younger days with its quaint low-rise buildings.
Raiatea is also home to the only navigable river in the islands, the Fa’aroa. Explore Polynesian history or climb Mount Temehani in search of the rare tiara apetahi flower, which grows only here. (Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
July 20 – Motu Mahaea (Taha’a)
We will spend the day on a private island complete with swaying palm trees and white-sand beaches. Swim, snorkel and enjoy a variety of water sports in the crystal-clear waters. There will be a delicious barbecue lunch and tropical drinks waiting for you.
Explore Taha’a with optional excursions to discover the vanilla plantations and sacred sites of the island. (Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
July 21 – Bora Bora
Our stay here allows plenty of time to capture the beauty in photographs- and you’ll want plenty. These stunning waters will show a different kaleidoscope of blue in each frame.
You’ll have lots of options for exploration, whether you prefer the access provided by a 4-by-4, or the trill of riding in the open air. Stretch out on stunning white-sand beaches, dive and swim in brightly colored seas, or sail among the tiny islands and lagoons. (Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
July 22 – Bora Bora
One of the highlights here will be the WindStar Destination Discovery Event-
Bora Bora is surrounded by a number of tiny islets called “motus” – small, pristine, secluded paradises that offer privacy, beauty and relaxing ambiance. You will spend the evening on one of these perfect Polynesian oases accompanied only by other Windstar guests. As has long been the tradition in Tahiti, you will be welcomed to the motu with a fragrant flower lei.
Your private feast on the beach promises to be extraordinary. The menu has been carefully selected by an executive chef and is sure to please and tantalize your palate.
When your meal is complete and the stars begin to shine, the highlight of this enchanted evening will begin. Fire dancing has long been deeply embedded in the Polynesian culture as a way to send messages to the gods. Your fire dancing experts will be wearing traditional loincloths and will dazzle you with high-speed acrobatic moves, throwing flames so hot you’ll feel the warmth 10 feet away. (Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
July 23 – Huahine
Anchor here in the place whose nickname is the “Garden of Eden.” Take your time to explore the lush forests, the tropical landscapes, and the quaint villages to discover one of Polynesia’s best kept secrets.
Here, at a slower pace, see a glimpse of the authentic South Pacific island lifestyle.
Stop by the Maeva archaeological site and wander around the 150-odd stone marae (temple sites) and 400-year-old stone fish traps that are still in use.
You’ll have your pick of the worlds best snorkeling once again. (Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
July 24 – Papeete
Return to Papeete. (Meals included: Breakfast)
Plan for your flight to leave any time after noon on July 24. The ship disembarks by 9:00 am, and the airport is only three miles from the port.
July 25 – Arrive home
Arrive home refreshed and with amazing memories.
What’s Included
Included
- World class tour guides
- Airport transfers (If arriving with the group)
- Meals as indicated on itinerary
What’s not Included
- Incidentals
- Personal Items
- International flights
- Traveler’s Insurance (Click to purchase insurance)
“Pack your bags, get your air tickets, and we’ll take care of everything else!”
Pricing
Starting at
$2,880
Per Person
Based on Double Occupancy
Find Your Tour
Find the perfect trip and book today - our expert guides are ready to give you a trip to remember full of engaging history and excitement.