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Aranui Cruises augments fleet with a new ship
Aranui Cruises announced the addition of a second ship to its fleet today, 2nd April, as it introduces the ARANOA which will sail the waters of the South Pacific from 2027. With a wholly Polynesian crew, ARANOA, (meaning a great “awakening” in Tahitian) will accommodate 198 passengers on each voyage, featuring 93 cabins, of which 62 cabins will include a private balcony. The ship will also feature two restaurants, two bars, two whirlpools, one boutique, a spa, a fitness centre, and a tattoo salon. Marketing, communications, and operations director Romina Wong said: “Aranui Cruises has a proud heritage of helping in the development of the economies of remote Tahitian Islands by supplying the islanders of the Marquesas, and we are delighted that through the launch of Aranoa in 2027, we will be able to continue this tradition by supplying the remote Austral Islands and their residents with the provisions they require the most.” Wong explained that this is the first cruise of its kind to bring tourist exploration to the Australs on a regular basis. She remarked: “In addition to contributing to the development of tourism in the Austral archipelago, we hope to provide new economic opportunities for the islanders by showcasing to our passengers these magnificent and untouched islands, vibrant landscapes, and rich culture, as well as promoting important inter-island exchanges.” Designed for sustainable sailing The ship, which is currently under construction at a shipyard in China, will be a mixed passenger/freighter vessel (length of116m/381ft and breadth 21m/69ft). Designed to minimise its environmental impact, it will be equipped with a diesel-electric propulsion system featuring a state-of-the-art azimuth system. Its environmentally friendly antifouling coating will optimise fuel efficiency and reduce air pollution. The design of the propellers will also significantly reduce acoustic impact, thereby helping to preserve marine life, including whales. While stabilisers and a dynamic positioning system will ensure smooth and secure navigation even in rough seas. Continuing a long-standing commitment to adventure in a new location For over 40 years, Aranui Cruises has inspired cultural immersion for adventurers seeking an out-of-the-ordinary cruise experience by transporting passengers and cargo to the remote islands of the Marquesas aboard its part cargo/part cruise ship Aranui V. Whilst Aranui V will continue to serve the Marquesas Islands, ARANOA will extend this unique model of inclusive tourism and will, for the first time, offer a regular series of cargo carrying cruises to the remote Austral islands. Located in the south of French Polynesia, the Austral Islands are an off-the-beaten-path haven of peace, still untouched by mass tourism. Made up of five main islands, namely Rimatara, Rurutu, Tubuai, Raivavae, and Rapa, this archipelago captivates with its wild landscapes, featuring lush green mountains, turquoise lagoons, and white sandy beaches. Several archaeological sites bear witness to a well-organised pre-European community with diverse cultural and religious practices. It's a land of traditions where time seems to slow down, providing visitors with a one-of-a-kind glimpse into an intimate and unspoiled Polynesia. The islands are known for their exquisite craftsmanship, particularly weaving, as well as their legends and traditional way of life. On the round-trip cruise from Tahiti, passengers will visit picturesque villages, learn about the islanders' livelihoods, and meet the craftspeople who create colourful artwork.
Aranui Cruises celebrates female crew members aboard the Aranui 5
Aranui Cruises director of marketing, communication, and operations Romina Wong gathered together a group of female crew members aboard the Aranui 5 in recognition of their contributions to the company. The commemorative event comes ahead of International Women’s Day on 8th March. Affectionately known as the freighter to paradise, Aranui 5 is based in Papeete, Tahiti, and is staffed by an all-Polynesian crew of which 51 are women. There are, at present, a total of 76 women working in the company. Where women are held in honour The Wong family, which owns and operates Aranui Cruises, has long believed in equality in the workplace, with women holding the same place within the organisation and participating in decision-making as well as men and have held key positions in the company for many years. Women play other key roles, particularly in hospitality management, though there are those employed in roles that have traditionally been held by men. Wong said: “I think we are starting to see more gender equality in the workplace and the female contribution is being recognised more, bringing with it greater creativity, energy, and compassion as well as an understanding of human relationships, which are often key factors in customer facing roles. We believe that women can manage a ship or a team just as effectively as men, particularly when it comes to machinery. These women, who are just as capable as men, have had to demonstrate character and perseverance in this male-dominated environment to advance to these positions. Aranui considers the person's maritime function and skills to be more important than their gender.” She added that Aranui Cruises is fortunate to have employees who have stayed with them for as long as four decades in some cases, and that low turnover of staff is a further reward for the company as a whole.
Aranui Cruises celebrates its 40th anniversary with a new ‘Tiki Club’ loyalty programme for returning passengers
To reward its returning passengers and as part of the celebrations for its 40th anniversary as a passenger carrying company, Aranui Cruises has launched a new ‘Tiki Club’ loyalty programme. Affectionately known by its loyal fans as the Freighter to Paradise, the new programme aboard the unique passenger/cargo ship, Aranui 5 will apply to cruises booked for travel from the start of 2025 onwards, to either the remote French Polynesian islands of the Marquesas or the recently added cruise to the far-flung Austral Islands, a mysterious land where white sand beaches meet intense blue lagoons in the South Pacific. Depending on the number of times a passenger has travelled with Aranui Cruises there are four tiers of rewards – Bronze, Silver, Gold and Pearl - with an increasing scale of exclusive benefits. Discounts range from 5% - 12.5 % on future cruises and 20% - 25% disounts for onboard expenses. Additional benefits include complimentary upgrades (subject to availability), wifi credits, free modifications to bookings and a ‘welcome back’ cocktail with other members of the Tiki Club. T&Cs apply*. The club discounts are applicable to all returning guests whatever their mode of reservation, either directly with the company or via a travel agent. Commenting on the news Vaima Devimeux, European Sales and Marketing Director for Aranui Cruises said “We are delighted to be able to recognise our many loyal returning passengers with this new reward programme. Across the European markets we have a couple from the UK who has travelled with us on four different voyages, a German couple on their fifth voyage and one gentleman from France who has returned six times to sail with us. They say they enjoy the fact that the route of the cruise is determined by the cargo ship rather than the passengers' needs, allowing them to see the real Polynesia and meet genuine islanders. They also love that fact that the ship feels like one big family, with the crew creating a great atmosphere and caring for everyone”. Whilst some passengers might wish to return to The Marquesas for its mysterious unspoiled beauty and wild coasts, the recently added Austral Islands is newer option. Located 300 miles south of Tahiti, the Austral islands are off the beaten track and rarely visited by most passenger cruise vessels meaning that few people have up to now seen these untouched lands where breathtaking landscapes range from sheer mountains to deep valleys. Departing Papeete in Tahiti on three dates during 2025: 5-17 April 2025 6-18 September 2025 1-13 November 2025 The new 13-day cruise will visit the five inhabited raised atolls in the Australs islands, with the addition of a brand-new call at the Society islands of Raiatea and a day at Bora Bora - the ‘Pearl of the Pacific’. In 2025 the 13-day Austral Islands cruise on board Aranui 5 costs from 5,281 Euros pp. Price includes accommodation in a Double Stateroom with obstructed view, (based on two sharing), all meals (incl. wine with meals taken on board), taxes and scheduled excursions. Excludes international flights. Alternatively, those returning to the Marquesas Islands will be able to join one of the regular sailings to the islands including a special cruise over Christmas 2025 to join the spectacular Marquesas Islands Arts Festival. Club discounts will also be available on two early bird departures to the Marquesas Islands in 2025 with a low season saving of 10% for those choosing to travel from 22 February – 5th March 2025 (Voyage #1) and a 10% senior’s discount for those aged over 60 when travelling on voyage #8 departing 31 May – 11 June 2025. En route to the Marquesas the cruise weaves its way through the Tuamotu archipelago with a stop at either the UNESCO ‘biosphere reserve’ of Fakarava, or the flora and fauna rich island of Kauehi, depending on the voyage. In 2025 the 12-day Discover the Marquesas Cruise on board Aranui 5 costs from 5,012 Euros pp. Price includes accommodation in a Double Stateroom with obstructed view, all meals (incl. wine with meals taken on board), taxes and scheduled excursions. Excludes international flights. On board the Ship Aranui 5 accommodates up to 230 guests in 103 comfortable and beautifully appointed suites, staterooms, many with balconies, plus some dormitory-style cabins. ‘Polynesian casual’ best describes the atmosphere on board as you leave the hustle and bustle of the outside world behind and join in a variety of cultural classes. Lessons include local dances or languages, the weaving of palm fronds, learning to play the ukulele, a cooking demonstration, and a class on how to wear and tie a local pareo dress. French and Polynesian style cuisine is served in the dining room, after which passengers can retire to a choice of three bars, including the panoramic Skybar with its 180-degree views over to the cargo bay, or join the Aranui band of musicians in the Veranda bar to sing and dance the night away. There is also a fresh water outdoor swimming pool, a fitness room, a boutique, a spa with a range of locally inspired treatments and an authentic tattoo parlour.
Aranui Cruises announces discount for Austral Islands cruises in 2024
Departing 30th March 2024 and 2 November 2024, passenger-freighter Aranui 5 has announced exceptional savings for its two Austral Islands cruise departures in 2024, with a 50% discount for the second passenger sharing a cabin or a no single supplement offer for solo travellers on these two voyages (N°6 and N°20) Located 300 miles south of Tahiti, the Austral islands are an untouched and mysterious land where white sand beaches meet intense blue lagoons and the breath-taking landscapes of sheer mountain tops contrast with lush, verdant valleys and caves sheltering ancient burials sites. Departing Papeete in Tahiti the 11-day cruise to this remote group of islands, visits the five inhabited raised atolls in the Austral’s rich and varied necklace of islands. Whilst there is no freight carried on these two voyages, highlights of the cruise include the chance to explore the basalt and limestone cliffs of Rurutu, once occupied by early settlements and the breath-taking views of white sand beaches and bays. Passengers will see intricate ‘tifaifai’ patchwork quilts and be treated to a demonstration of the traditional custom of ‘stone lifting’ by some of Rurutu’s strongest islanders. On Rimatara passengers will be welcomed with an ancient ceremonial walk through ‘purification smoke’ and watch the preparation of fara pae’ore leaves that are used to make cloth. A huge emerald lagoon and white sand beaches await on nearby Raivavae whilst its southerly neighbour, Rapa, features a fjord-like coastline deeply indented by 12 bays and is as remote as it gets. Passengers can join the islanders in the unique dances of Rapa and then opt to choose one of two different hikes, either around the beautiful bay or up to the remnant of an old mountain top fort. The 11-day The AUSTRAL ISLANDS Cruise on board Aranui 5 costs from Euros 5,209.00pp with a 50% discount of the second passenger, based on two people sharing or no single supplement for solo travellers. Price includes accommodation in a Double Stateroom with obstructed view, all meals (incl. wine with meals taken on board the ship), taxes and scheduled excursions. Excludes international flights. Life on board Aranui 5 Aranui 5 accommodates up to 230 guests in 103 comfortable and beautifully appointed suites, staterooms, many with balconies, plus some dormitory-style cabins. ‘Polynesian casual’ best describes the atmosphere on board as you leave the hustle and bustle of the outside world behind and join in a variety of cultural classes. Lessons include local dances or languages, the weaving of palm fronds, learning to play the ukulele, a cooking demonstration, and a class on how to wear and tie a local pareo dress. French and Polynesian style cuisine is served in the dining room, after which passengers can retire to a choice of three bars, including the panoramic Skybar with its 180-degree views over to the cargo bay, or join the Aranui band of musicians in the Veranda bar to sing and dance the night away. There is also a fresh water outdoor swimming pool, a fitness room, a boutique, a spa with a range of locally inspired treatments and an authentic tattoo parlour.
Royals on tour: Five ways to experience Abel Tasman National Park like Harry and Meghan
Abel Tasman National Park Royal couple Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, arrived at Totaranui in Abel Tasman National Park on Monday 29 October. Here’s how you can experience the same location – without being a royal or a serious hiker. You can discover New Zealand’s most popular seaside paradise with a boat cruise, by kayaking or with a thrilling skydive. It’s not quite Piccadilly Circus or Times Square, but New Zealand’s smallest national park is one of its busiest, up there with icons such as Fiordland and Tongariro. Unsurprisingly, the summer months see the most visitors, but is this really the best time to go? Time your trip to discover Abel Tasman off-peak, when great weather and thin crowds are just part of its allure. April through September is a terrific time to encounter the national park’s remarkable wildlife. Super-cute New Zealand fur seals / kekeno are at their most active during winter, especially playful pups who push the boundaries while their mothers are pregnant again. Dolphins are also regular visitors through these cooler months. There are plenty of seabirds to spot, including penguins popping up among the waves, and shags (cormorants) on the wing or perched on high. In the forest, birds such as weka, fantail, and the beautiful native pigeon, the kereru, reveal themselves more readily without the crowds. Walk the Great Walk Abel Tasman hikers If hiking Abel Tasman’s Coast Track is on your hit list, consider visiting from May through November when the region’s friendly climate produces plenty of sunshine and T-shirt temperatures. The park’s golden sands, sparkling seas, sculpted cliffs and lush forest appear just as gorgeous as they do in summer, too. Abel Tasman’s tourist numbers drop dramatically after Easter, leaving space on boat transport and in the track’s huts and campsites. Don't be deterred by the thought of cold mornings and nights – the Great Walk huts have solid fuel heaters, while lodge accommodation offers hot showers, hearty meals and snuggly beds. Kayak the Coast Abel Tasman kayakers Solitude, settled weather and calm seas are good reasons to embark on the park’s deservedly popular kayak trip out of peak season. So is the crisp air that brings the coastal scenery and crystal-clear depths into even sharper focus. Sure, the ambient air temperatures may take a dive, but this is nothing that a respectable paddling rate and an extra layer of clothing can’t counter. It’s not as if you actually have to get your feet wet… Go swimming Abel Tasman golden sands and beaches Chances are, an Abel Tasman off-peak swim won’t actually kill you. Reaching mid-winter lows of 10°C, the biggest risks are hyperventilation and shrinkage of bodily extremities. Among many upsides are potentially uninterrupted skinny-dipping and the thrilling invigoration that comes from a bracing plunge. Not feeling convinced? Read on. Cruise Split Apple Rock, Abel Tasman National Park Nearly three-quarters of Abel Tasman’s visitors take a dip on a day trip, and it’s not hard to see why. A cruise is a particularly great way to experience the park off-peak, especially on larger boats with their comfortable onboard lounges, viewing decks and freshly prepared food and hot drinks. There are plenty of tour options to suit your itinerary and interests. Sit back and enjoy the views on the way to highlights such as Split Apple Rock and Tonga Island seal colony, or hop off at iconic beaches such as Anchorage or Awaroa. Skydive Sky diving over Abel Tasman National Park If you want to see it all in one go, you can always choose to leap out of a plane with Skydive Abel Tasman. It's the only skydive drop zone in New Zealand with views over both islands as well as mountains and the ocean at the same time – from volcanic Mt Taranaki on the western extremity of the North Island, across the sea and the national park, and all the way south to the northern Southern Alps and the Marlborough Sounds to the east.
Signature Luxury Travel & Style magazine unveils luxury cruise awards
The Cruise Issue of Signature Luxury Travel & Style magazine includes the 2017 Best-of-the-Best Luxury Cruise Awards, Australia’s first awards dedicated solely to luxury cruising. Travel’s fastest growing sector in Australia is cruising, with a growth rate of 21% in the past year, according to the latest report from Cruise Lines International Association Australasia. Last year, one in 19 Australians – 1.28 million – went on an ocean cruise, the highest per-capita rate in the world. As we become more seasoned cruisers, more of us – across all age groups – are seeking the best ships and the most inspiring itineraries. To meet demand, there are more cruise lines, more destinations and itineraries catering for travellers, from polar expeditions to Caribbean island-hopping. These five-star experiences are honoured in the awards that provide a guide for those seeking the best cruising has to offer. The judges were 10 Australian and New Zealand luxury travel advisors with knowledge of the cruise industry and an understanding both from personal and client experiences. They voted across seven categories covering ocean, river and expedition cruising. The judges ranked their selections for each sub-category (including cabins, service, cuisine, shore excursions, value, itineraries and embarkation process, plus expedition team for the two expedition categories), which were then converted to points to determine the overall winners. Full list of categories: Sea: Large Ships Sea: Small Ships Sea: Boutique Ships Sea: Tall Ships River Cruising Expedition: Luxury Expedition: Speciality The winners are listed below, with more information online at www.signatureluxurytravel.com.au/cruise-awards-2017 THE WINNERS LARGE SHIPS (751-2500+ passengers) Oceania Cruises (Marina and Riviera) Crystal Cruises Viking Ocean Cruises Cunard MSC (MSC Yacht Club) Signature congratulates all winners for their superior product and services. The winners are invited to celebrate at a presentation luncheon on Tuesday 8 August 2017. SMALL SHIPS (251-750 passengers) Regent Seven Seas Cruises Seabourn Oceania Cruises (Insignia, Nautica, Regatta and Sirena) Silversea Azamara Club Cruises Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Ponant (L’Austral, Le Boréal, Le Soléal) BOUTIQUE SHIPS (50-250 passengers) Crystal Yacht Cruises SeaDream Yacht Club Ponant (Le Lyrial) Windstar Cruises (Star Pride, Star Breeze, Star Legend) TALL SHIPS Ponant (Le Ponant) Windstar Cruises (Wind Surf, Wind Spirit, Wind Star) Sea Cloud Cruises Star Clippers RIVER SHIPS RIVER SHIPS Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection =2. Avalon Waterways =2. Tauck Crystal River Cruises Belmond AmaWaterways Aqua Expeditions Sanctuary Retreats EXPEDITION: Luxury Expedition Ponant Silversea Expeditions True North Adventure Cruises Hapag-Lloyd Cruises EXPEDITION: Four-star ship, five-star experience Lindblad Expeditions Quark Expeditions Coral Expeditions Aurora Expeditions Aranui Cruises The winter edition of Signature Luxury Travel & Style celebrates everything about travel’s fastest-growing industry: cruising.
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