Life Aboard the Aranui III Freighter

The Aranui III is a mixed passenger/cargo vessel that operates between the islands of Tahiti and the Marquesas Islands.

She offers comfortable, air-conditioned accommodations for fewer than 100 passengers, creating an intimate environment for her guests. Passengers will be able to sunbathe on deck, swim in the pool, or enjoy exotic tropical drinks while the Aranui navigates her way among the islands of the Marquesas.

Vessel Particulars

Length: 104 meters (343 feet)
Draft: 5 meters (15 feet)
Cruising Speed: 15 knots
Capacity: 60-100 passengers
Displacement: 4,000 DWT

The name “Aranui” means “The Great Highway” in Maori, another great Polynesian culture. The first Aranui was purchased from a New Zealand ship owner in 1959. CPTM kept her original name, because it suited her. Serving as a link between the remote Marquesas and the rest of the world, she truly was a “Great Highway” on which cargo and passengers traveled. The original Aranui was too small to meet the needs of the islands as trade increased. CPTM therefore retired her, and purchased a new vessel, which was also named the Aranui.

The current Aranui was originally built as a freighter for the Baltic trades, with unusually thick hull plates because of floating ice often found in that area. She was modified in Germany in 1990, when additional passenger cabins were added.

The ship features a small boutique where various sundries, clothing and souvenirs are available. There are washing machines and dryers aboard. There is also a bar and video room, which has a television, VCR and a small collection of videotapes.

The vessel operates under the French flag, and her crew are all Polynesian, primarily Marquesans.   They are extremely skillfull and very hospitable. It is often their custom to give an impromptu concert in the evenings, both for their own and our passengers pleasure.

For more information contact The Travelgal at 800 644-6659 or Teresa@luxuryhideaways.net

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The Star Flyer Tall Ship is sailing to the Mediterranean in 2010

Star Clippers Tall Ships - Discover a new age of sail, where the traditions of the past are combined with the modern comforts and amenities of the present.

Perfect for cruising in casual elegance, the Star Flyer will be leaving Tahiti and sailing for the Mediterranean, the exotic Far East and the Caribbean.

You are invited to join the Star Flyer crew on a trip of a lifetime. You’ll be able to jump on board along the way or just take the month off and sail half way around the world with them!

As the Star Flyer makes its way back to the Mediterranean from Tahiti, the itinerary includes a 34-night voyage from Papeete, Tahiti, to Balboa, Panama.
The ship will make maiden calls at Hiva Oa and Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas Islands before heading east across the Pacific.

If you would like to cruise the world aboard a ship carrying only 128 passengers, Call Me at 1-800-644-6659
Your ‘Cruise Specialist’ at Luxury Hideaways

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