Pearls of the Pacific: Exploring the Society and Tuamotu Islands
Experience idyllic islands and atolls of renowned biodiversity and untouched beauty. Begin with underwater explorations in the Tuamotu Archipelago and Fakarava, whose flora and fauna are so diverse that its breathtaking reefs and other habitats are protected by UNESCO. Makatea's sheer volcanic cliffs and Bora Bora's jagged Mount Otemanu create indelible memories and complement the underwater Gardens of Eden that surround these remote tropical islands.
Highlights
Discover an extraordinary undersea world via snorkeling, diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, glass-bottom boat, or swimming, plus watch for cetaceans from the expansive open deck
Swim into an otherworldly grotto on Makatea and float in a hidden cave surrounded by stalagmites and stalactites
Learn about Polynesian history and culture at Ra'iatea’s Marae Taputapuātea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
See iconic and awe-inspiring landscapes like Bora Bora’s verdant Mount Otemanu, jutting 2,400 feet above turquoise waters, and Makatea’s steep cliffs that drop straight to deserted beaches
Spend a day on the small island of Anaa and in its biodiverse lagoon, meeting fishermen and skilled local artisans
Be on the lookout for endemic birds like the blue lorikeet, chattering kingfisher, and Makatea fruit dove
Join Ashli Akins on the Jan. 29, 2025, departure
Ashli Akins
National Geographic Photography Expert
From
$10,910
/ per person
Does not include any flights
Join National Geographic Photography Expert Ricky Qi on the Feb. 28, 2025, departure
View our brochure for more details
South Pacific & French Polynesia 2023-25
From
$10,910
/ per person
Join National Geographic Photography Expert Ricky Qi on the Feb. 28, 2025, departure
View our brochure for more details
South Pacific & French Polynesia 2023-25
From
$10,910
/ per person
Join National Geographic Photography Expert Ricky Qi on the Feb. 28, 2025, departure
View our brochure for more details
South Pacific & French Polynesia 2023-25
Video
A Heroic History - The Story of Polynesian Voyaging
- Sep 2023
“The Pacific Ocean is absolutely enormous, and basically empty,” explains Christina Thompson, editor of Harvard Review and author of Sea People: The Puzzle of Polynesia. Yet 1,000 years ago, the Polynesian people made voyages almost unimaginable in their length. Watch as Christina takes us through the incredible history of the intrepid and innovative explorers who settled the last uninhabited part of the world.
Dates & Rates
Ships
National Geographic Orion
Guests
102
Cabins
53
An authentic expedition ship, purpose-built for exploring the South Pacific, Asia, and the Mediterranean
Featuring 53 cabins, the gracious and intimate National Geographic Orion takes travelers to little-known waters and isles in New Zealand, Australia, French Polynesia, the Pacific Islands, Asia, and the Mediterranean to experience each location's natural and cultural wonders up close. With her high ice-class rating, National Geographic Orion is strong enough to explore the polar regions, yet her elevated maneuverability allows for navigation practically anywhere accessible by sea.
Book now and join us on an unforgettable journey
Make a reservation
Talk to an Expedition Specialist
Expedition Team
Over 50+ years of exploring, Lindblad Expeditions’ veteran staff and the quality companionship they provide has established the company’s reputation. From expedition leaders to naturalists, most hold advanced degrees and are established authorities in their fields. Some join a few expeditions each year to explore the same sites, some of them spending some time in the field away from rigorous academic work. And others lead expeditions all around the world—with many guests saying, “Where you’re going, we’re going,” and returning time after time to travel with them. Browse our team directory to discover the full cast of expedition staff.
Special Offers
SUITE EXCLUSIVES
CELEBRATE LIFE'S MILESTONES
10% OFF BACK-TO-BACK VOYAGES
BRINGING THE KIDS
SAVE 5% TRAVELING AS A GROUP
COMBINING OFFERS
Combine now and save!
View our brochure for more details
South Pacific & French Polynesia 2023-25