Aranui Cruises has revealed its 2017 schedule will include two bonus sailings in response to strong demand for the freighter line’s new ship Aranui 5.
The cruise line will offer 19 departures in 2017 as global demand continues to soar following the launch of the 125-metre long freighter in December.
Aranui’s Regional Representative Australia New Zealand Laurent Wong said the company was thrilled with the reception Aranui 5 had received, especially out of this region where bookings were tipped to double this year.
“While our new ship offers 25 per cent more capacity than Aranui 3, most of the year’s cruises are already fully booked so we’ve decided to introduce two additional voyages in 2017 to help satisfy demand,” Mr Wong said.
“Aranui 5 offers the same great value 14-day adventure across three French Polynesian archipelagoes but with all the mod cons and elegant island styling of a modern freighter it has attracted even more new and returning Aranui guests.”
Earlybird rates for 2017 start from $5752* for Aranui 5’s June 8, 2017, departure including a 10 per cent discount. Seniors can also take advantage of a discounted fare on the September 30, 2017, departure which is priced from $5752* for travellers aged over 60 years.
The additional voyages will see a change in departure day from Saturday to either a Tuesday or Thursday in 2017, although the duration of the full Aranui cruise will remain unchanged. This is possible due to the turnaround of the ship, which remains in port stocking cargo for several days between itineraries.
Aranui’s 14-day roundtrip cruises from Papeete visit Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, Tahuata, Fatu Hiva, Hiva Oa, Ua Huka in the Marquesas, Takapoto and Rangiroa in the Tuamotus and the famed Society Island of Bora Bora. The freighter line dispenses a lifeline of food, fuel and other staples to remote island ports while passengers disembark and explore a range of complimentary excursions including hikes, 4WD tours, visits to archaeological sites and a picnic on a secluded beach in Bora Bora. Throughout the journey, guests enjoy the comforts of a cruise ship including a restaurant, two conference rooms, lounges, a library, a computer room, a boutique, a swimming pool, a fitness room, a spa and four bars including the popular Sky bar.
Aranui 5 replaced Aranui 3 which had spent more than 12 years servicing the remote Tuamotu and Marquesas archipelagoes. There is no Aranui 4 as the number is considered bad luck by the third generation Tahitian-Chinese family who own the cruise company.
For more information visit www.aranuicruises.com.au, call 03 9449 3778 or email info@aranuicruises.com.au
SOURCE: Aranui Cruises