First Look at Aranui 5 Reveals a Luxe Side to Cargo Cruising

Aranui Cruises has provided a glimpse into the plush future of cargo cruising in Tahiti, unveiling new images of its next ship Aranui 5.

Launching in 2016 with capacity for 260 passengers, the 125-metre long freighter will offer a range of accommodation options, from the operator’s first single staterooms to new premium and deluxe categories.

The renderings of the ship’s interior reveal spacious cabins styled in a natural colour palette, with Polynesian flourishes including Marquesan-inspired décor, Paul Gauguin prints and original paintings by Erhard Lux, a German artist who lives part-time in Moorea.

The cruise line has announced that to cater to the demand for balcony cabins, more than half of the ship’s rooms (60) will feature a private balcony - five times more than Aranui 3.

The new cruise freighter will also offer suites with king beds, air-conditioned public spaces including a restaurant, a disco, two conference rooms, lounges, a library, a video and computer room, a boutique, a swimming pool with a whirlpool, a fitness room, a spa and four bars, including the popular Sky bar on the open deck.

Aranui’s Regional Representative Australia New Zealand Laurent Wong said Aranui 5 would offer new levels of comfort and style.

“With the introduction of Aranui 5 in 2016 we will offer a more comfortable and luxurious way for cruisers to discover a vast area of French Polynesia. With all the mod cons and elegant island styling we’ve added to Aranui 5, the adventure of a lifetime in the South Pacific is set to become an even more sought-after and enjoyable experience,” Mr Wong said.

Packages for Aranui 5’s first five voyages of 2016 start from $9139* in a stateroom or $10,155* in a superior deluxe balcony cabin including all meals, excursions and wine with lunch and dinner onboard, return economy airfares from Auckland with Air Tahiti Nui, luxury transfers to the nearest international airport, four nights’ accommodation at Manava Suite Tahiti with breakfast, taxes and transfers in Tahiti.

Aranui’s 14-day roundtrip cruises from Papeete visit Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, Tahuata, Fatu Hiva, Hiva Oa, Ua Huka in the Marquesas, Takapoto and Rangiroa in the Tuamotus and the famed Society Island of Bora Bora. The freighter line dispenses a lifeline of food, fuel and other staples to remote island ports while passengers disembark and explore a range of complimentary excursions including hikes, 4WD tours, a visit to the Paul Gauguin museum and a picnic on a secluded beach in Bora Bora.

Aranui 5 is due to commence sailing the picturesque waters of the South Pacific in 2016, replacing Aranui 3 which will be retired after more than 12 years servicing the remote Tuamotu and Marquesas archipelagoes. There will not be an Aranui 4 as the number is considered bad luck by the third generation Tahitian-Chinese family who own the cruise company.

For more information or to book visit www.aranuicruises.com.au or call +613 9449 3778. To book the package, call Ultimate Cruising on 0800 485 846.

*Subject to availability, conditions apply. On sale until August 31, 2015, for travel on Aranui 5’s departures between January and April, 2016. Prices are in $NZD per person twin share. Single occupancy attracts a 50 per cent surcharge. Add $300 for return flights from Wellington or Christchurch.