Explore lost civilizations amid idyllic, seldom-seen isles while sailing from the remote and enigmatic Easter Island, one of the most isolated landfalls of Polynesia, to Tahiti through the “low islands” of the Tuamotu Archipelago and the historically significant Pitcairn Islands. See the legendary moai statues up close, walk the length of untouched tropical beaches, meet the descendants of HMS Bounty mutineers, and drift dive or snorkel through an atoll pass.

Dive or snorkel the stunning reefs of Fakarava, part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and the Pitcairn Islands, one of the world’s most unspoiled reef
systems. Delve into the intriguing lost culture of Easter Island and examine ancient burial sites and towering moai with an archaeologist. Trace the legend of the ill-fated H.M.S. Bounty from Tahiti to Pitcairn Island, where descendants of its mutineers still live today. Explore the unusual geology and wildlife of Henderson Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The 138-guest National Geographic Resolution expedition ship is technologically advanced, fully stabilized and equipped with a well-rounded set of exploration tools including an ROV and enough kayaks and Zodiacs to send all guests out exploring at the same time. Additionally, select cabins offer private balconies for special moments taking in the awe-inspiring wilderness and the bar tab is included for all passengers. Theis expedition ship is small enough to access remote locations yet large enough to provide a taste of luxury.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Chile cruises, Pacific Island cruises and Tahiti, Fiji & Bora Bora Small Ship Cruises.

Eastbound Easter Island to Tahiti: Tales of the Pacific Itinerary

Papeete, Tahiti, French PolynesiaEaster Island, Fly to Santiago, Chile & Depart

On the eastbound 16-day itinerary, begin with a flight to Easter Island to embark the ship. Cruise east, exploring the Tuamoto Archipelago before disembarking at Papeete, Tahiti. Finish by flying home via Santiago, Chile.

Route map of Tales of the Pacific: Easter Island to Tahiti Chile small ship cruise, operating from Santiago, Chile to Easter Island and ending in Papeete, Tahiti, with visits to the Pitcairn Islands, Mangareva, French Polynesia and the Tuamotu Archipelago.

Arrive in Papeete and transfer directly to the hospitality room before embarking the ship in the afternoon. This evening, set sail as you acclimate to island time.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Lunch

An uplifted coral atoll, the island of Makatea is one of the most unique landforms in the Pacific. Spend the day exploring limestone caves and grottos with the expedition team and local guides, or search for endemic fruit doves and myriad seabirds, then snorkel among colorful fish on the nearby reef.

 

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

Arrive at Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This coral atoll is home to many rare species of birds, plants and crustaceans, and you will have the opportunity to snorkel its protected reefs. Spend time exploring Rotoava, the main village on Fakarava. Take a leisurely bike ride, visit a pearl shop or stroll along the turquoise waterfront with a fresh coconut. Snorkel through Fakarava’s Tumakohua Pass, one of the most famous drift snorkels in the world.

Experience the furthest reaches of the Tuamotu Archipelago, where the captain and expedition leader will determine the next spot for exploration. Spend a day at sea scanning the horizon with naturalists or relaxing on deck with a good book.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

Visit Mangareva, the largest of the Gambier Islands, with its interesting history and beautiful lagoon. Venture underwater to snorkel, meet islanders to learn about their culture and the missionaries who made their home here or go on a hike with naturalists.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

Explore the famed Pitcairn Islands. Many of the mutineers of the legendary HMS Bounty made their home here in the late 18th century, and about 50 of their descendants still live here today. Meet the residents and hear a few words of the unusual Pitkern dialect—a combination of English “sailor speak” and Polynesian phrases. Visit the gravesite of the last surviving Bounty mutineer, John Adams, and see the Bounty’s anchor, which was salvaged in 1957.

Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Henderson Island, an uplifted atoll that is uninhabited and virtually untouched by humans. Discover the island’s four endemic bird species, rich flora and fauna and fascinating geology.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

As you journey east toward Easter Island, head up to the bridge to watch for wildlife and observe expert navigation at work as the skilled captain and officers sail these historic waters. There is also time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, work out in the gym and browse in the library. Each day, naturalists offer talks that add depth to your experience.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

Over the next two days, explore Easter Island’s volcanic calderas, jagged lava fields and sweeping grasslands to discover the colossal moai statues—the astonishing legacy of a long-lost culture. Join archaeologists to examine these statues and discuss their meaning and creation. Visit burial sites, quarries and intricately carved ceremonial altars.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

Disembark and transfer to the airport for the flight to Santiago, Chile. Arrive in Santiago and connect to late-night homebound flights.

ACCOMMODATIONS n/a
MEALS Breakfast

Included

Accommodations; meals indicated; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens. Complimentary beer & wine on National Geographic Venture, National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Sea Lion, National Geographic Sea Bird, with a complimentary full bar on all other ships.

Exclusions

One-way charter flight from Easter Island to Santiago (inquire for pricing); diving (advance reservations, certification and experience required-contact your Adventure Specialist); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The eastbound Easter Island to Tahiti: Tales of the South Pacific cruise begins in Papeete, Tahiti (PPT), and ends in Santiago, Chile (SCL)Plan flights to arrive to Papeete anytime on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Santiago anytime in the evening on Day 16; guests on the group flight to Los Angeles have an included transfer upon departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

A group charter flight from Easter Island to Santiago, Chile, is required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions and inquire with an Adventure Specialist for pricing. There is a strict luggage limit of 1 checked bag weighing up to 50 lbs (23 kg) and 1 carry-on bag weighing up to 11 lbs (5 kg).

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include snorkeling, diving (excluded), inflatable boat/skiff excursions, cultural and historical visits, hiking/land treks and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options. See the Deals section of this trip for any applicable child discounts.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Westbound Easter Island to Tahiti: Tales of the Pacific Itinerary

Santiago, ChilePapeete, Tahiti & Depart

On the westbound 18-day itinerary, begin with a flight to Santiago, Chile, with an overnight there on Day 1. Then fly to Easter Island for 2 days of exploration before embarking the ship, cruising west to Papeete, Tahiti, and disembarking.

Route map of small ship cruise through the Easter Islands where National Geographic Resolution cruises

Arrive in Santiago, Chile, and transfer to the Mandarin Oriental Santiago (or similar) located in central Santiago. Join your fellow travelers this evening for a welcome reception.

 

ACCOMMODATIONS Mandarin Oriental Santiago (or similar)
MEALS Dinner

Early the next morning, board a flight to Easter Island where you will check into the Nayara Hangaroa (or similar) for two nights. Over the next two days, explore volcanic calderas, jagged lava fields, and sweeping grasslands to discover the colossal moai statues–the astonishing legacy of a long-lost culture. Join archaeologists to examine these statues and discuss their meaning and creation. Visit burial sites, quarries, and intricately carved ceremonial altars.

On Day 4, embark the ship.

ACCOMMODATIONS Nayara Hangaroa (or similar) & National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

As you set sail and journey west from Easter Island, head up to the bridge to watch for wildlife and observe expert navigation at work as the skilled captain and officers sail these historic waters. There is also time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, work out in the gym and browse through the library. Each day the naturalists offer talks that add depth to your experience.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

Begin your exploration at the famed Pitcairn Island. Many of the mutineers of the legendary HMS Bounty made their home here in the late 18th century, and about 50 of their descendants still live here today. Meet the residents and hear a few words of the unusual Pitkern dialect–a combination of English ”sailor speak” and Polynesian phrases. Visit the gravesite of the last surviving Bounty mutineer, John Adams, and see the Bounty’s anchor, which was salvaged in 1957. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Henderson Island, an uplifted atoll that is uninhabited and virtually untouched by humans. Discover the island’s four endemic bird species, rich flora and fauna and fascinating geology. At Ducie Atoll, spend time looking for frigatebirds and boobies or snorkel among spectacular reefs.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

Spend a day at sea scanning the horizon with naturalists or relaxing on deck with a good book. Then arrive at Mangareva, the largest of the Gambier Islands, with its interesting history and beautiful lagoon. Venture underwater to snorkel, meet islanders to learn about their culture and the missionaries who made their home here or go on a hike with naturalists.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

A day at sea brings you to the furthest reaches of the Tuamotu Archipelago, where the captain and expedition leader will determine the next spot for exploration. In true expedition mode, you’ll visit some of the Tuamotus’ most remote islands, taking the opportunity to explore them by land and by sea. Navigate reefs and islets as you make your way west and explore one of French Polynesia’s many uninhabited atolls, such as Tahanea. Continue to Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Snorkel the protected reefs or ride the current into the lagoon on a world-famous drift dive.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

An uplifted coral atoll, the island of Makatea is one of the most unique landforms in the Pacific. A makatea is a raised coral atoll that is tilted due to plate tectonics. This specific island of Makatea gives its name to all other uplifted coral atolls worldwide. Spend the day exploring the island’s limestone caves and grottos with our expedition team and local guides, or search for endemic fruit doves and myriad seabirds.

ACCOMMODATIONS National Geographic Resolution
MEALS Breakfast

Disembark in Papeete, Tahiti and transfer to the airport for flights home.

ACCOMMODATIONS n/a
MEALS Breakfast

Included

Accommodations; meals indicated; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens. Complimentary beer & wine on National Geographic Venture, National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Sea Lion, National Geographic Sea Bird, with a complimentary full bar on all other ships.

Exclusions

Mandatory charter flight from Santiago to Easter Island ($915 per person in 2027); diving (advance reservations, certification and experience required-contact your Adventure Specialist); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The westbound Easter Island to Tahiti: Tales of the South Pacific cruise begins in Santiago, Chile (SCL), and ends in Papeete, Tahiti (PPT)Plan flights to arrive to Santiago ahead of the evening briefing on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Papeete anytime in the evening on Day 18. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

A group charter flight from Santiago, Chile, to Easter Island is required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions and inquire with an Adventure Specialist to confirm pricing. There is a strict luggage limit of 1 checked bag weighing up to 50 lbs (23 kg) and 1 carry-on bag weighing up to 11 lbs (5 kg).

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include snorkeling, diving (excluded), inflatable boat/skiff excursions, cultural and historical visits, hiking/land treks and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options. See the Deals section of this trip for any applicable child discounts.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

The National Geographic Resolution is one of the newest additions to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability, efficiency, scholarship and long-range exploration in the polar regions.

Luxury 138 GUESTS 408 FEET
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