Shore Excursions

Nuku Hiva’s spectacular beauty is yours to discover during this off-road adventure in the Taipivai Valley.

Depart the pier for the ride to the Taipivai Valley, one of the richest archaeological sites in the Marquesas Islands.The Taipivai Valley is a location made famous by the American writer and former sailor, Herman Melville (1819-1891), who deserted his ship and hid in this valley. Captured by indigenous natives, he lived in the Taipivai Valley for three weeks, a period during which he observed their way of life. This experience was the inspiration for his first novel, Typee.

En route to the Taipivai Valley, you will ride through the island’s interior along a steep trail lined with lush flora and vegetation, then traverse exquisite mountain terrain. Along the way, you’ll enjoy many opportunities to take magnificent photographs, as you stop several times to take in spectacular vistas of the coastline, bays, and valleys. At one particular stop, you will see your ship anchored in the Bay of Taihoae. Next, you will drive through Taipivai’s small agricultural villages, then proceed to a long stretch of beach at the end of the village. Here, you will stop again to admire splendid vistas of the valley and surrounding mountains.

Following your visit, you will reboard your off-road vehicle for the return ride to the pier.

Please note: As this tour involves travel over rough, uneven terrain, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems. The tour involves very little walking. Guests are encouraged to wear insect repellant or coconut oil for the skin (monoi) to ward off small beach mosquitoes (nonos). Pricing listed is per person. Space is imited to a maximum of 4 guests per vehicle. It is recommended that families and friends wishing to ride together contact the Travel Concierge Desk aboard ship in order to be assigned the same vehicle. Although the drivers used are the best available, they are not guides, and their command of English is poor. Your patience and understanding are greatly appreciated.

The Waisali Reserve is one of the few remaining unexploited forests in Fiji and is the natural habitat for the native Fijian hardwood - some of the trees being over 100 years old. On the two hour forest trail engulfed by majestic trees you may be fortunate to see or hear the red breasted musk parrot or the beautiful orange dove -both endemic and rare bird species. The quiet serene is disturbed only by the occasional sound of the barking pigeon and moving stream water. Take time to rest in the bure beside the rock pool which is home to finfish species, eel, prawn and freshwater snails. The reserve freshwater fauna are unique so the pool is kept undisturbed and is not suitable for swimming. This tour involves uphill walking so good walking shoes are recommended.

Please note: Guests are encouraged to wear a hat, sunglasses, sun screen and comfortable walking shoes for this tour. Please bring bottled water from the ship. This tour is not recommended for guests with heart conditions, as this tour includes strenuous uphill and downhill walking.

Start your tour with a short introduction on how to drive your VX Yamaha 250CC Waverunner. Afterwards, your guide will take you for a ride around the north-eastern side of Taha'a's lagoon. Stop for explanations on the way to your snorkeling stop. The Waverunner has a spacious compartment where you can store your snorkeling gear. You will stop at one of the most beautiful coral gardens and have one of the most memorable snorkeling experiences during your cruise.

Please note: Bring your snorkel gear from the ship. Tour Ends at Motu Mahana

Dr. Michael Poole's team will take you on this exciting and educational boat-based eco-tour where you can observe humpback whales in their natural environment, the ocean. If conditions are favorable (a calm sea; calm whale behavior) and participants who are strong snorkelers, then you may also snorkel in the water to observe the whales. You can also bask in the dramatic beauty of Moorea and learn about its geology.

From July through October humpback whales come to Moorea's waters to rest, mate, give birth, and nurse their calves. Whales are found during 95% of these tours, and you may also see schools of dolphins. The primary objective will be to find and observe humpback whales, and if possible, to slip into the water to observe them underwater. Getting into the water is not obligatory or always possible, so people who simply want to observe whales from the boat are also welcome

In February 2019 Dr. Poole and his research and conservation efforts on humpback whales were featured on Animal Planet and ABC TV. His team operates with the utmost respect in the presence of these incredible giants. A guarantee cannot be given that whales will be found nor that it will be possible to get into the water, but the team will do their best. Participation is limited to 12 people maximum.

Please note: Wear a swimsuit under a cover-up, and bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel and snorkel gear from the ship. Operation of this tour is subject to guide availability.