The day starts with a transfer from your Rarotonga accommodation and a 40 minute flight to Aitutaki. On descent, the stunning colours of the lagoon come into view and this is usually where everyone has their phone against the windows - capturing the magical landscape below. On arrival at Aitutaki, take a 45 minute tour of the island by "Les Truck" taking in views of inland plantations and the main villages. Then the highlight of the day. The renowned Vaka Cruise - six hours of cruising the magnificient blue lagoon aboard the Polynesian styled vaka Titi-ai-Tonga. Visit three (Moturakau, Akaiami, One Foot Island) small motu (islets) fringing the lagoon with time for snorkelling at each one. Experience the solitude of pristine white sand beaches and warm crystal clear water. Highlights include the iconic One Foot Island (Tapuaetai) and Akaiami - where giant TEAL flying boats used to stopover for refuelling on the famous Coral Route between Fiji, Samoa and Tahiti. Lunch is served on board. A delicious medley of barbecued pelagic fish steaks served with a variety of fresh salads and tropical fruit all sourced from local farmers. Lunch is accompanied by complimentary tea, coffee, and water, and a cash bar for wine, beer, champagne, and soft drinks is available. The day ends with an arrival back in Rarotonga at 5.30pm and a transfer back to your accommodation.
Meal
Breakfast
Aitutaki Day Tour
Your Accommodation
Manuia Beach Resort
On the sheltered, sunset coast of Rarotonga, Manuia Beach Resort is just 10 minutes from the airport, 5 minutes from the golf course, and only 15 minutes from the main town of Avarua. Wander down the hibiscus clad driveway and you have some of Rarotonga's best restaurants to experience. The historic palace of Tinomana Ariki (Paramount Chief of Arorangi), is a fine example of a historic limestone churches to visit, walking tracks to Raemaru (Table top flat mountain with a scared marae at its base) or try the Rarotonga hospital hill... fantastic views are your reward at the top of either of these hills nearby. Sparkling blue water, an amazing white sand beach and tropical gardens frame the small and intimate boutique resort. Sand paths separate just 24 Polynesian style suites.
