A “double island day” was enjoyed by guests aboard National Geographic Orion. We had the privilege to visit the spiritual heart of Polynesia today and the sacred marae of Taputapuatea on Ra’iatea Island. Hikes around the surrounding area and photography-centered walks were offered as well. In the afternoon, the ship repositioned to Taha’a Island. A tour of a vanilla farm was offered. Local growers explained the science of cultivation as well as the struggles currently facing vanilla production, like youth disinterest, a shifting economy, and climate change.
4/14/2024
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National Geographic Orion
Tahaa Island, French Polynesia
La orana and greetings! Welcome to beautiful Tahaa Island, known as the vanilla island of French Polynesia. Today National Geographic Orion anchored in the lagoon of Tahaa Island in French Polynesia. To start the day, we ventured to a vanilla plantation where we were hosted by plantation co-owner, Bryan. He explained the intricacies of planting, caring for, and harvesting the vanilla bean. Our visit was followed by snorkelling in a pristine lagoon off the shore of Mahaea Islet and a fantastic beach BBQ put together by Chef Lorenzo and his team. Needless to say, our guests welcomed the great variety of delicacies provided, not to mention the service from our incredible hospitality staff, led by Hotel Manager Fran and maître d’ Mio. The day’s outdoor activities ended with a swim with the whitetip sharks of Tahaa. An experience our guests could not stop talking about. Expeditions with Lindblad/National Geographic are about sharing unique moments and today was no exception. Photos by Alex Joesph and Tua Pittman