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The July 2010 solar
eclipse in the remote Southern Pacific Ocean will be seen by very
few as the track barely touches land. But with regular sailings from
Papeete to the Marquesas Islands, the Aranui 3 will be in the right
place at the right time, positioned in the chain of islands known as
the Tuamotus, identified as the prime location in French Polynesia
to view the total eclipse.
Total eclipses often
occur in some of the most isolated places on earth and this time is
no exception. The eclipse track will barely touch land while it
crosses the remote Southern Pacific Ocean from northeast 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 harbor 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 June 29, 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 have eight 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 unspoiled 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, June 29,
2010, and returns on Monday, July 12, 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 3,730 euros ($5,215) 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 2,144 euros ($2,998)
per person. Flights to and from Tahiti are not included in these
prices.
Purpose built in 2003, Aranui 3 is designed for its dual role as a
freighter and passenger ship, carrying up to 2,000 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. For more info and to book:
Contact us. |
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