Island Life in Tahiti and French Polynesia
Feb. 7 to 15, 2010

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Experience the sublime paradise of the South Seas while sailing aboard the incomparable S.Y. Star Flyer, an intimate sailing vessel that calls to mind the sleek clipper ships that plied the waters of the Pacific during the 19th century. Following in the wake of Captain James Cook, Robert Louis Stevenson and Paul Gauguin, immerse yourself in the beauty of Tahiti and French Polynesia. View ancient stone temples on tranquil Huahine; savor the seductive charm of Bora Bora, “the Pearl of the Pacific;” and visit Moorea, the tropical Eden that inspired James Michener to write Tales of the South Pacific.

Waitlist Only

Trip length: 9 days

Pricing: Cruise only prices range from $3,995 to $6,995 per person, based on double occupancy and dependent on the type of cabin chosen aboard the S.Y. Star Flyer. Call for pricing for single occupancy. Call for airfare pricing from your hometown.

Discount: Book before Aug. 17, 2009 and receive a $1,000 per person discount.

Provider: Thomas P. Gohagan & Company

Learn more by downloading our brochure.

To receive a brochure in the mail, click here.

To make a reservation on the phone with a credit card, call Wolf Treks Travel Coordinator Kathy Hart at 800.627.2586 or 919.515.3375.

Activity Level: Moderately Active

Itinerary

Day
1 – Depart the U.S./Papeete, Tahiti, Society Islands/Embark S.Y. Star Flyer
2 – Huahine
3 – Taha’a
4 – Bora Bora
5 – Raiatea
6 – Moorea
7 – Moorea/Papeete, Tahiti
8 – Papeete/Disembark S.Y. Star Flyer/Return to the U.S.
9 – Arrive in the U.S.

Highlights

Sail aboard the four-masted S.Y. Star Flyer to the fabled isles of Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora and discover an earthly paradise where forest-clad mountains rise dramatically from the azure waters of tropical lagoons and the ancient customs and traditional hospitality of the islanders survive to the present day. Enjoy state-of-the art amenities, impeccable standards of comfort and service and the distinctive experience that only a sailing yacht can provide. Attend an exclusive Village Forum and become acquainted with local residents who will provide a fascinating and candid look at life on the islands in the South Pacific. Learn about the region’s fascinating ecosystem, natural history and the challenges facing its environment during a specially arranged series of lectures and presentations by guest speakers and expert naturalists. Discover a magical underwater wonderland of dazzling corals, brightly colored fish and playful dolphins during special opportunities to snorkel and swim in the pristine tropical waters of the South Seas. In Bora Bora’s forested interior, observe villagers cultivating breadfruit, coconuts and taro and ascend the island hills for spectacular vistas of Mount Otemanu, the surrounding lush island countryside and the pristine, reef-tinged lagoons that encircle the “Pearl of the Pacific.” Experience the eternal allure of the South Seas on Moorea, an island paradise of jagged peaks, stately coconut palms and thatch-roofed dwellings. Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Taha’a, which is dominated by the imposing profile of Mount Ohiri, named for the Polynesian god of thieves.

S.Y. Star Flyer

Return to the Golden Age of Sail aboard the S.Y. Star Flyer, an impeccably crafted barkentine that calls to mind the sleek, swift clipper ships that plied the Pacific Ocean during the 19th century. Guests are accommodated in 85 tastefully appointed cabins, which include private marble bathroom facilities, air conditioning, television, audio system and safe. All meals are served in single open seatings in the dining room, where skilled chefs specialize in savory international cuisine featuring fresh, local ingredients. The ship’s public areas include an indoor-outdoor bar, piano bar, library with Internet, boutique and two dipping pools. A highly trained crew offers personalized and attentive service in an intimate and casual atmosphere.

Program Features

On board the S.Y. Star Flyer

• Seven-night cruise round trip from Papeete, Tahiti, Society Islands, with port calls at the idyllic islands of Huahine, Raiatea, Taha’a, Bora Bora and Moorea.
  
• Comfortable and stylishly appointed outside cabin with private bathroom facilities and air conditioning.
  
• Captain’s welcome and farewell receptions
  
• Delectable international cuisine served each day at single seatings – continental breakfast, full breakfast, lunch and dinner.
  
• Opportunities to snorkel and swim in the pristine waters and lagoons surrounding the islands.

All tours and excursions below are led by expert local guides:

• Excursion on the island of Huahine, with a focus on the cultural treasures of the ancient Polynesians.
  
• Visit to a vanilla plantation and a black pearl farm on the enchanting island of Taha’a.
  
• Excursion on idyllic Bora Bora, including a circuit of the island by “le truck,” the local open-air transport.
  
• Tour of Moorea, the tropical paradise that inspired James Michener’s Tales of the South Pacific, featuring magnificent Belvedere Point.

A full program of educational and cultural enrichment including:

• An exclusive Village Forum with local residents discussing life in French Polynesia.
  
• Specially arranged lecture by a local cultural historian and environmental expert on natural history, traditional culture, global warming and other contemporary environmental issues affecting the Society Islands and Polynesia.
  
• A series of tours that will bring to life Tahiti’s vibrant history, culture and mythology.

In Papeete

• Day room accommodations in the deluxe InterContinental Resort Tahiti upon disembarkation, prior to return flights home.

Enhanced Travel Services

• All transfers and luggage handling abroad for all participants who have purchased their air tickets through Gohagan & Company and whose arrival(s)/departure(s) coincide with the scheduled group transfer(s).
  
• All excursions and visits, as outlined in the itinerary, led by experienced, English-speaking local guides.
  
• Gratuities for local guides and drivers on included excursions and transfers.
  
• Experienced Program Directors to accompany you throughout the travel program.
  
• Hospitality desk aboard the ship and in the hotel.
  
• Travel document wallet, name badge and pre-departure information for each participant. Automatic $250,000 flight insurance for each participant ticketed on flights by Gohagan & Company.

Papeete Pre-Program Option

Prior to your cruise, spend two nights in Papeete in the deluxe InterContinental Resort Tahiti, located on the shore of an idyllic lagoon. Here, experience the timeless allure of an island that captivated legendary figures including Captain James Cook, Robert Louis Stevenson and Paul Gauguin. This carefully crafted itinerary offers a perfect balance of organized activities and leisure. Specially arranged excursions will provide unique insights into the culture and history of French Polynesia and allow you to admire the scenic treasures of this unspoiled island.

Moorea Post-Program Option

Extend your stay in the South Pacific with two nights in the seaside Sofitel Moorea Beach Resort on the fabled isle of Moorea. This exquisite property offers a romantic setting on a crystal clear lagoon with deluxe accommodations in bungalows, providing a truly authentic Polynesian experience. Explore the “Green Garden of Polynesia,” visit centuries-old maraes (temples) and sample tasty liqueurs at a local distillery. Gain insights into regional flora and fauna during a visit to the Atitia Outreach Center. Visit a private home on the shores of Cook’s Bay and enjoy a tropical beverage and a stroll through splendid gardens.