Moorea Shore Excursions - Holland America
Auto Safari Adventure
Board a 4-wheel-drive vehicle for a ride through Moorea's deep valleys and mountains. In the Paopao Valley you'll pass some pineapple plantations, then cross to the territorial property of Opunohu. A stop at one of the numerous marae (ancient, sacred site) allows you to learn more about Polynesian culture. Continue to the Belvedere lookout point for a panoramic view of Cook and Opunohu Bays. Return to the interior trails of the Agricultural School of Moorea and get acquainted with the local flora. At Papetoai Village, visit the island's first church, built by London Missionary Society in 1822. This is the oldest European building in use in the South Pacific. The Moorea Fruit Juice Factory produces delicious papaya, grapefruit, pineapple, mango, and passionfruit juices, as well as excellent fruit liqueurs from coconut, ginger, passionfruit and vanilla. The highlight of your tour will be the view from Magic Mountain lookout point, where there is a short but steep walk to the top of the mountain.
NOTES:
Bring water and mosquito spray.
Circle Island Tour & Belvedere
Tour the island of Moorea by air-conditioned bus. It is 38 miles around, and along the way you will pass Cook and Opunohu Bays and pineapple fields, and stop at a marae (an ancient, sacred site) and learn about Polynesian culture. Enjoy the breathtaking view from the Belvedere lookout point located up in the mountains between the two bays of Moorea. Continue to the village of Papetoai where the island's first church was built, and enjoy a 30-minute shopping stop at Le Petit Village, in Haapiti. Le Petit Village shopping area offers a large variety of local items, handicrafts, jewelry and souvenirs. Before returning to the pier, stop at the Kia Ora viewpoint overlooking one of the most beautiful white sand beaches of the island.
NOTES:
Bring water and mosquito spray.
Discover Moorea
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Moorea aboard an air-conditioned bus. See the highlights of the island while enjoying the tropical flora along this scenic drive. Visit a pineapple plantation and learn about the harvesting process of this tasteful fruit. Venture to the Belvedere "lookout" point for beautiful photos of Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay, before driving through the the island's volcanic crater. Visit the ancient Polynesian temple ( marae ) of Tetiroa and stop for shopping at Le Petit Village, where you will find more than twenty different shops!
NOTES:
Bring insect repellant and some money for shopping.
Lagoon Cruise with Picnic
Board a comfortable and modern covered boat and you're off across the beautiful lagoon of Moorea. The view from the water is little changed from the missionary days of the 1800s--the volcanic crater, green valleys, pineapple plantations and lush forests. At a shallow beach on one of the gorgeous white sandy islets, walk right off the boat on to the beach. In exchange for a piece of fish, stingrays will gracefully dance around you. Enjoy great snorkeling among the marine flora and fauna of Moorea. Learn how to make the famous Tahitian poisson cru (raw fish marinated with coconut milk). A local trio will play some typical Tahitian songs as you enjoy a picnic buffet of salads, Tahitian raw fish, grilled fish and chicken, fresh cut fruits, soft drinks and beer. Lunch will be followed by a coco and pareo show, and more time to snorkel, swim or just relax on the beach.
NOTES:
Wear your swimsuit; bring a towel, hat, water and sunscreen. Aqua shoes are recommended.
Motu Beach Picnic and Ray Feeding
Your experience begins when you board a comfortable, covered, motorized catamaran to the sounds of the crew playing welcome songs. From Cook's Bay you will visit Opunohu Bay and cruise along colorful lagoons and learn about the history and legends of the island. Upon arrival at your private motu (small atoll), you will have ample time to explore, swim, and snorkel around the turquoise lagoon, or simply relax on the beach or in the shaded tree area while the local crew prepare lunch. One of the highlights will be when the local guides attract schools of stingrays from the lagoon for a feeding. You are welcome to join in and touch and play with these gentle sea creatures. A delicious buffet-style lunch is served with soft island music in the background. After lunch you will be entertained further with more music and a coconut demonstration (coconut tree climbing and coconut preparation). Transfer by motorized catamaran back to Cook's Bay and the ship.
NOTES:
Wear swimwear and bring a towel.
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