Raiatea Cultural Cruise

OVERVIEW

Cruise through the turquoise-blue lagoon that surrounds Raiatea and become immersed in traditional Tahitian culture by visiting an ancient holy site along the coast. From the covered deck of the motorized catamaran, you will enjoy uninterrupted views of the island’s beautiful eastern shore and natural highlights such as Mount Tapioi and the Temehani plateau. After passing through a break in the lagoon reef, you will disembark at Marae Taputapuātea, a sacred setting for political, religious and funerary events that dates back more than a millennium. This marae is a place of such cultural and spiritual significance that UNESCO deemed it a World Heritage site. The guide will elaborate on its history and the ceremonies that once took place on the stone platforms and within the shrines. Later, you will pause along the bay-like Faaroa River, the only navigable river in French Polynesia. The tropical forests that blanket its banks are absolutely breathtaking.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise a catamaran through the naturally beautiful lagoon that surrounds Raiatea.
• Visit a UNESCO World Heritage site where ancient Polynesians held sacred ceremonies.
• Admire the gorgeous tropical scenery lining the wide, deep-water Faaroa River.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.