Society Islands, Tuamotus & Marquesas: Moorea and Nuku Hiva · Nov 2026
Pure South Seas: Marquesas and Tuamotu
What makes the voyage of the Le Jacques Cartier to Polynesia and Melanesia special?
For fourteen nights this round trip from Papeete travels through the Society Islands, the Tuamotu atoll of Rangiroa and the remote Marquesas group. With just 184 guests, Le Jacques Cartier has the agility to enter small bays where the sixteen Zodiacs ensure safe landings. The Blue Eye underwater lounge is a particularly striking place at the coral reefs. Between the island groups lie several days at sea, leaving space for the pool, the marina and the premium all-inclusive service on board.
Route highlights
- Papeete: Capital of Tahiti, beginning of a voyage through three archipelagos.
- Moorea: Volcanic island with Cooks Bay and Opunohu Bay set against a backdrop of pointed ridges.
- Rangiroa: One of the world's largest atolls, with an extensive lagoon and coral passes.
- Ua Pou: Marquesan island with the distinctive phonolite spires above Hakahau.
- Nuku Hiva: Largest of the Marquesas, with Taiohae and the valley of Hatiheu in the north.
- Hiva Oa: Home of the Calvaire cemetery with the graves of Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel.
- Fatu Hiva: With Hanavave and Omoa, two bays of the Baie des Vierges, often called the most beautiful landscape in Polynesia.
- Fakarava: UNESCO biosphere reserve in the Tuamotu Archipelago, with notable reef life.
What is the route of the cruise aboard the Le Jacques Cartier to Polynesia and Melanesia?
14 nights round trip from Papeete, including Moorea, Makatea (Rangiroa), Rangiroa Atoll.
Papeete
14 nights
Papeete
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Papeete, Tahiti · Embarkation
The capital of Tahiti on the north-west coast of the main island of French Polynesia is the gateway to the South Seas. It combines a colourful market scene at the Marché de Pape'ete with pearl jewellery boutiques, creole cafés and the harbourside roulottes food stalls. Papeete is the start and end point of almost every Polynesia cruise.
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Moorea
Just 17 kilometres off Tahiti lies Moorea - jagged volcanic peaks, turquoise lagoons and white coral reefs sit closer together here than anywhere else in the South Seas. Cook's Bay (Baie de Cook) and Opunohu Bay are among the finest natural settings in Polynesia.
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Makatea, Tuamotu-Archipel
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Rangiroa, Tuamotu-Archipel
Rangiroa is one of the largest atolls in the world and belongs to the Tuamotu Archipelago in French Polynesia. Its crystal-clear lagoon and the famous Tiputa and Avatoru passes are among the finest dive sites in the South Pacific.
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At sea
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Hakahetau, Insel Ua Pou
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Hatiheu, Nuku Hiva
On the north coast of the Marquesas island of Nuku Hiva in French Polynesia lies the village of Hatiheu in a striking amphitheatre bay. A Madonna statue watches over the village from a 300-metre basalt spire, surrounded by the extensive Kamuihei archaeological tiki sites with the largest stone figures in the archipelago.
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Taiohae, Nuku Hiva
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Ua Huka (Marquesas)
Ua Huka belongs to the Marquesas archipelago in the north-east of French Polynesia, around 1,500 kilometres from Tahiti. The arid volcanic island is known for its wood-carving tradition, free-roaming horses and important archaeological tiki sites in its fertile valleys.
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Puama'u, Hiva Oa
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Atuona, Hiva Oa
Atuona is the main settlement of the Marquesan island of Hiva Oa in French Polynesia and the final home of the painter Paul Gauguin and the singer Jacques Brel, both buried in the Calvaire cemetery. The jagged green peaks above Tahauku Bay rank among the most dramatic island settings in the Pacific.
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Omoa, Fatu Hiva
Omoa is the main village of Fatu Hiva in the Marquesas Islands, set picturesquely in a deep bay. The settlement is renowned for its tapa art, made from the inner bark of native trees.
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Hanavave (Bay of Virgins), Fatu Hiva
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Hapatoni, Tahuata
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At sea
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Fakarava, Tuamotu-Archipel
Fakarava is the second largest atoll of the Tuamotu Islands in French Polynesia and is protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Its southern pass at Tetamanu is world-famous for diving amid large shoals of sharks.
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Papeete, Tahiti · Disembarkation
Climate & best time to sail
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air °C | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 30 | 31 |
| Sea °C | 29 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 29 |
| Rain mm | 250 | 240 | 180 | 140 | 100 | 80 | 70 | 70 | 80 | 110 | 180 | 320 |
| Season | wet | wet | wet | wet | dry | dry | dry | dry | dry | dry | wet | wet |
Long-term monthly normals · Reference: Tahiti / Society Islands
What are the highlights of the cruise aboard the Le Jacques Cartier to Polynesia and Melanesia?
Highlights of this route: Papeete · Moorea · Makatea (Rangiroa)
Papeete
The capital of Tahiti on the north-west coast of the main island of French Polynesia is the gateway to the South Seas.
Moorea
Just 17 kilometres off Tahiti lies Moorea - jagged volcanic peaks, turquoise lagoons and white coral reefs sit closer together here than anywhere else in the South Seas.
Makatea (Rangiroa)
Makatea is an unusual uplifted coral island in French Polynesia.
Atoll Rangiroa
Rangiroa is one of the largest atolls in the world.
Ua Pou
Ua Pou is part of the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia and is famed for its dramatic basalt spires rising more than 1,200 metres.
Hatiheu
Hatiheu lies on the northern coast of the Marquesan island of Nuku Hiva, set in a deep bay enclosed by steep mountains.
What does the Le Jacques Cartier offer?
Le Jacques Cartier entered service in 2020 as the fifth ship of the Explorer class. 184 guests, Blue Eye Lounge, state-of-the-art environmental technology. The ship benefits from all improvements Ponant has built into the class since 2018.
Impressions of the Le Jacques Cartier
What cabins does the Le Jacques Cartier offer?
Owner's Suite
The most exclusive suite on board, located on Deck 6. Separate bedroom, balneo bathtub, panoramic views, butler service and personalised attention from the crew.
Cabin layout
Prestige Suite with Balcony
Elegant suites on Decks 5 and 6. Separate living and sleeping areas, two dressing rooms, generous balcony. Round-the-clock butler service.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Suite with Balcony
Spacious suites on Deck 6 with a separate bathtub and shower, sitting area and a private balcony. Butler service included.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Cabin
Outside cabin with a large panoramic window on Deck 3. Ideal for solo travellers or couples. All on-board amenities included.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Cabin with Balcony
Comfortable outside cabins on Decks 3 and 4 with a private balcony. Convertible twin or double beds, shower bathroom.
Cabin layout
Prestige Cabin with Balcony
The most popular category: premium cabins on Decks 4-6 with a private balcony, sitting area and convertible beds. Unobstructed views of the destination.
Cabin layout
What does the deck plan of the Le Jacques Cartier look like?
What does the cruise aboard the Le Jacques Cartier to Polynesia and Melanesia cost?
From € 11,100 p.p., 14 nights, departure 29.11.2026.
Prices per person in double cabin (suites: based on double occupancy), all-inclusive. Subject to availability.
| Category | Price p.P. | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Stateroom | € 11.100 | On request | Book |
| Prestige Deck 4 | € 12.260 | Available | Book |
| Prestige Deck 5 | € 12.850 | Available | Book |
| Prestige Deck 6 | € 13.560 | Available | Book |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 3 | € 18.700 | Available | Book |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 4 | € 18.700 | On request | Book |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 5 | € 18.700 | Available | Book |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 6 | € 18.700 | Available | Book |
| Prestige Deck 5 Suite | € 25.160 | On request | Book |
| Prestige Deck 6 Suite | € 26.440 | Available | Book |
| Privilege Suite Deck 5 | € 27.730 | Available | Book |
| Privilege Suite Deck 6 | € 27.730 | Available | Book |
| Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6 | € 30.420 | Available | Book |
| Owner's Suite | € 33.570 | Available | Book |
What is included as standard in the ship voyage of the Le Jacques Cartier?
On board
- Schiffsreise in der gewählten Kabinenkategorie
- Vollpension an Bord: Frühstücksbuffet, französische Brasserie-Küche zum Mittagessen, mehrgängiges Abendessen
- Große Auswahl an Getränken in Markenqualität (Mineralwasser, Softdrinks, Wein, Bier, Champagner, Kaffee, Tee, ausgewählte Spirituosen)
- Inhalt der Minibar
- 24-Stunden-Roomservice
- Unbegrenzter WiFi-Zugang an Bord
- Ein Landausflug pro Person und Anlaufhafen
- Vorträge und Begleitung der Naturforscher und Lektoren an Bord
- Abendunterhaltung, Vorträge und Shows
- Zugang zu Fitnessbereich und Sauna
- Nicht-motorisierte Wassersport-Aktivitäten (Kajak, Stand-up-Paddle)
- Bei Expeditionsreisen: Zodiac-Anlandungen und Ausfahrten
- Hafen- und Sicherheitsgebühren
Not included
- An- und Abreise zum Schiff (Flüge, Bahn)
- Flughafentransfers
- Reiseversicherung
- Trinkgelder für Crew (übliche Empfehlung 8 bis 10 Euro pro Person und Tag)
- Premium-Spirituosen und ausgewählte Edel-Weine
- Zusätzliche, optionale Landausflüge
- Spa- und Wellness-Anwendungen
- Persönliche Ausgaben (Wäscheservice, Boutique)
- Tauchgänge
This voyage on other dates
Similar route, different departure
- 29.11.2026 – 13.12.2026 this page
- 27.12.2026 – 10.01.2027 from € 10.940 view →
- 10.01.2027 – 24.01.2027 from € 11.040 view →
- 24.01.2027 – 07.02.2027 from € 11.040 view →
Frequently asked questions
How do I book the voyage aboard the Le Jacques Cartier to Polynesia and Melanesia?
Send an enquiry to IVENT-SAILING via the booking form on this page. Our team of experienced travel experts will be in touch shortly with a personal offer. We would be glad to advise you.
What is included in the price?
The base price per person (twin cabin) includes the cabin in your chosen category, full board, all port fees and the onboard programme. Flights and transfers are quoted separately. 14 nights from EUR 11.100 p.p. With Ponant, selected wines and beverages at meals are included.
How many guests sail on the Le Jacques Cartier?
A maximum of 184 guests - extraordinarily intimate compared to standard cruise ships. The high crew-to-guest ratio ensures personal attention throughout the voyage.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes - all itineraries are subject to weather, port availability and the captain's decisions. This is part of the charm of small-ship cruising: flexibility allows for unexpected discoveries.
Are there specials for early bookers or solo travellers?
Yes. Early bookers receive discounts for timely booking. Solo travellers often benefit from a reduced or waived single supplement. Simply mention your preferences in the enquiry.
Is my booking protected?
Yes. As a German tour operator, ivent-sailing provides a travel protection certificate (Reisesicherungsschein) under German law. Your payment is fully insured.
What about flights and transfers?
We arrange flights and transfers on request as part of your personal offer. This allows us to find the best connections for your specific departure date and home airport.
Are there shore excursions?
Yes. All cruise lines offer shore excursions - from guided cultural tours to nature experiences. The concepts vary by fleet. We are happy to provide details on available excursions for your chosen voyage.
What water sports and activities are available?
Depending on the ship and route: snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddling, diving, and Zodiac landings (on expedition voyages). Many ships have a marina platform for direct access to the water. We will be happy to tell you exactly what is available on your voyage.
When is the best time for a cruise to Polynesia and Melanesia?
The best time to sail this route is May to October (dry season).
