ARANUI 5
Sail Where Few Have Sailed Before
Step aboard Aranui 5, the legendary passenger–freighter linking Tahiti with the remote Marquesas Islands. This part adventure, part cultural voyage blends authentic island life with the comfort of modern cruising revealing a side of French Polynesia few ever see.
Aranui 5
2026 Sailing Schedule & Rate Information
FRENCH POLYNESIA CRUISE
The Aranui Experience
Soft adventure. Hidden paths. Cultural connection. The heart and soul of Polynesia this is the Aranui experience.
For over 40 years, Aranui Cruises has been guiding travellers through the remote Marquesas and Austral Islands, blending exploration with authentic Polynesian culture. The Aranui 5 (since 2015) and the upcoming Aranoa (launching 2027) uniquely combine the comfort of a modern cruise with the purpose of a working cargo ship, delivering essential goods to distant islands.
Carrying just 230 and 198 guests, these boutique vessels offer an intimate and genuine way to experience French Polynesia where adventure, community, and discovery come together in one unforgettable journey.
The Cultural Experience
Travel Like a Local, Not a Tourist
What makes Aranui 5 truly special is its authenticity. This is not a cruise designed around glamour — it’s a voyage designed around connection. You’ll visit remote villages, meet island artisans, taste local cuisine, and witness ceremonies that few outsiders ever experience. The crew, many of whom are Marquesan, share their stories and heritage freely, turning each day into a cultural exchange.
It’s more than travel, it’s participation in the living heartbeat of Polynesia.
