Sailing, Stories & Sea Breezes: A Day at Sea Aboard the Aranui
Location: En route to Raiatea, Society Islands
️ Voyage: Aranui 5 – Austral & Society Islands Expedition
Day 10: November 10 – A Full Day at Sea
A Day to Drift, Digest, and Dive into Discovery
Every journey needs a moment to exhale — and today was exactly that. No rushing to tenders. No muddy hiking shoes. Just a full day to stretch out, slow down, and soak in the rhythm of life at sea aboard the Aranui 5.
I was up early again (my usual 5:30 a.m. routine) to work on podcast edits and organize the growing mountain of amazing content we’ve been gathering. With so many inspiring interviews, spontaneous moments, and unforgettable scenery, this trip is turning into a storyteller’s dream.
Polynesian Brunch, New Ships & Sacred Sites
The day officially kicked off with a Polynesian brunch — a relaxed and delicious affair that spanned most of the morning (and basically guaranteed no one left hungry). Everything from coconut-infused dishes to fresh tropical fruit — a feast that somehow felt both indulgent and laid-back at the same time.
From there, the day moved at its own pace — but there were some standout highlights, especially the presentations and lectures:
- Mark Eddowes gave another riveting talk, this time about Marae Taputapuātea, the sacred temple site on Raiatea that we’ll be visiting tomorrow. It’s considered one of the most important spiritual centers in all of Polynesia, and Mark’s depth of knowledge gave it real weight — this isn’t just a tourist site, it’s a place alive with cultural power.
- Later, we sat in on a fascinating update on the new Aranui ship, Aranoa, which is currently in the works. This next-generation vessel promises to keep the same mix of cargo-meets-cruise charm that makes the Aranui experience so special, but with even more modern features. Let’s just say… it certainly will not be our last Aranui adventure.
️ Conversations Across the Sea
Today was also a golden opportunity to record more podcast interviews — this time with Aranui staff and fellow travelers, capturing a wide range of perspectives on what makes this voyage so unique. From logistics and island delivery stories to personal reasons for sailing, everyone had a story worth sharing.
Kirsten relaxed in the sun with her book, Teyauna posted a full photo recap of our time in Raivavae, and Zak kept trying to convince someone to watch his newly learned playing card magic tricks.
Sky Bars & a Sunset That Doesn’t Quit
We had a briefing on what to expect tomorrow in Raiatea, and then headed into a mellow evening of music and mingling on the upper decks. A gentle breeze. A fiery sunset. And the kind of horizon that makes you forget what day of the week it is — in the best possible way.
Reflections: The Gift of the Slow Day
There’s something deeply special about sea days — a kind of pause button on the usual tempo of travel. A day to catch up, slow down, and really savor this rare moment in time where there’s nowhere to be but right here.
Tomorrow, we head to Raiatea, and our exploration of the Society Islands begins. But for now, we’ll drift off to the gentle rocking of the ship, full from both food and experience.
