Become one of the remarkable few likely to experience the July 2010 solar eclipse in the South Pacific by sailing to the remote French Polynesian islands of Tuamotus onboard Aranui 3, the ‘freighter to paradise’. Total eclipses often occur in some of the most isolated places on earth and this is no exception, the track barely touches land while it crosses the remote Southern Pacific Ocean from north east of New Zealand. And, by the time it reaches South America, the totally eclipsed sun will be setting fast.
Operating in French Polynesia with regular three weekly sailings from Papeete harbour to the Marquesas archipelago (around 900 miles northeast of Tahiti) the Aranui 3 – a cargo filled ship complete with cruise comforts – will be in the right place at the right time for the solar eclipse.
On the 29 June 2010 departure, having delivered supplies to the residents of the isolated Marquesas and before returning to Papeete, the Aranui 3 will visit the chain of tropical and sparsely inhabited atolls known as the Tuamotus. These islands have been identified as the prime location in French Polynesia to experience the solar eclipse and the Captain will ensure the ship is positioned for the best sighting.
Although the solar eclipse is a highlight of the cruise, guests will also enjoy eight adventure-filled days in the Marquesas Islands. A lifeline to the islands’ residents, the Aranui 3 delivers everything from four-wheel drive cars and cement to schoolbooks and livestock. While the ship loads and unloads, passengers will be taken ashore onboard a fleet of whaleboats to experience the islands’ local culture and to explore the unspoilt nature. The black sand beaches and steep volcanic peaks blanketed with thick forests are a stark contrast to the more traditional French Polynesian palm fringed atolls they will see whilst eclipse watching in the Tuamotus Islands.
The Solar Eclipse voyage departs from Papeete on Tuesday 29 June 2010 and returns on Monday 12 July 2010. The Aranui 3 operates a regular schedule to the Marquesas Islands, sailing every three weeks throughout the year.
Starting and ending in Tahiti, the 14-day Solar Eclipse adventure cruise costs Euros 3730 per person sharing a standard twin-bedded outside cabin with private facilities, including all taxes. Dormitory style accommodation with upper and lower berths and shared facilities is Euros 2144 per person. Flights to/from Tahiti are not included in these prices.
Aranui 3 - Purpose built in 2003 Aranui 3 is uniquely designed for its dual role as a freighter and passenger ship, carrying up to 2000 tons of cargo and 180 passengers. There are 86 fully air conditioned cabins ranging from top of the range suites with balconies to deluxe and twin-bedded cabins, with well-priced dormitory style accommodation on a lower deck. There are two comfortable lounges, a swimming pool and gym and a full program of lectures on the solar eclipse as well as Marquesan history, culture and art. English is widely spoken onboard.
www.aranui.com
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