cruise-collection-2016-2017

Tahiti to Easter Island ABOARD THE CALEDONIAN SKY

With its dreamy scenery of palm-fringed beaches and azure lagoons, Polynesia is the very definition of paradise. From legendary Tahiti, you’ll head to the Marquesas, with their sky-piercing volcanoes and chiseled bays, and the remote atolls of the Tuamotus, where some of the world’s most dazzling snorkeling can be experienced. Step ashore on seldom-visited Pitcairn, witness the amazing birdlife of uninhabited Henderson and Ducie Islands, and end the journey at exotic Easter Island, with its mysterious moais .

DAYS 1-4 PAPEETE / RANGIROA From Papeete, cruise to Rangiroa, one of the atolls of the Tuamotu chain, for unparalleled snorkeling in its dazzling lagoon, while birders can watch for blue lorikeets, red- footed boobies, and great frigatebirds. DAYS 5-7 MARQUESAS ISLANDS In the Marquesas, considered one of the most beautiful island groups in the South Pacific (and beloved by the artist Paul Gauguin), immerse yourself in the local culture, visit open-air markets and archaeological sites, and snorkel or dive against an underwater backdrop of sheer walls and dramatic arches covered in soft corals. DAYS 8-10 TUAMOTUS The far-flung Tuamotus are the world’s largest atoll chain. On Pukapuka, visit a small village whose residents raise taro, bananas, and coconut palms for copra, and on Pukarua, stroll along the lagoon shores watching crested

terns circling overhead. Friendly islanders welcome you with fragrant flower leis and entrancing dances, and on snorkeling excursions, you’ll find a bounty of vibrant corals and iridescent reef fishes.

Henderson and Ducie Islands, home to rare endemic bird species, from red-tailed tropicbirds to the Henderson Island crake and Stephen’s lorikeet. Days 15-16 are at sea. DAYS 17-19 EASTER ISLAND Ponder the mysteries of Easter Island (Rapa Nui) as you explore restored ancient ceremonial sites and view the famous moais carved from volcanic rock by an early civilization that has since disappeared. These enigmatic statues faced not outward, to the sea, but inward, and little is known about the people who created them. Visit Rano Kau volcano to view the giant caldera, its sprawling floor dotted with lakes, and the ceremonial village of Orongo, dedicated to the fascinating “birdman” cult. Depart on Day 19.

DAYS 11-16 MANGAREVA, GAMBIER ISLANDS / PITCAIRN / HENDERSON AND DUCIE ISLANDS Go ashore at Rikitea on Mangareva to ascend the slopes of Mt. Duff for nature walks. Remote, volcano-crowned Pitcairn was the fabled hideout of the HMS Bounty mutineers in 1790, and today it’s inhabited by their descendants. Visit Adamstown, the only settlement on the island, then sail to

DATES Nov 5-24, 2017

TRIP COST From $19,980

Price is per person and depends on cabin type

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