2009 Pearls Of Polynesia

Pearls of Polynesia

Presented by our partners zegrahm expeditions

October 18 - 31, 2009 aboard the clipper Odyssey

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oin us aboard the superb expedition vessel, Clipper Odyssey, as we sail from Tahiti, first to explore the low-lying Tuamotus, boasting one of the largest lagoons on the planet and an ecosystem rich in botanical and avian wonders. On Raroia, imagine Thor Heyerdahl’s intrepid voyage on his hand-hewn raft, Kon Tiki, and snorkel or dive in the surrounding warm waters to view giant tridacna clams. The Marquesas dazzle with their lushly-carpeted peaks, deep canyons, and exquisite sandy bays. Dancers, drummers, and the blowing of the conch shell continue time-honored traditions of hospitality. Search for rare birds such as the gray-backed, or spectacled, tern and the Marquesas swiftlet, walk among banyan trees and fragrant plumeria, peruse colorful markets, and explore reefs teeming with fish.

Day 1: Papeete, Tahiti Depart on your independent flight to Papeete, Tahiti. Transfer to our hotel for dinner and overnight. Day 2: Papeete / Embark Clipper Odyssey After a morning at leisure and lunch at our hotel, we explore this bustling tropical capital city, beginning with a visit to the superb Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands—dedicated to the history and culture of the people of the South Pacific. We drive past dazzling white sand beaches and the district of Mataiea, where Paul Gauguin lived from 1891–1893. The Gauguin Museum and memorial bring to life his time here through photographs, letters, writings, and household objects, along with reproductions of his paintings. Next we follow the coastal road to the James Norman Hall Home, an exact replica of the original colonial home of the writer famous for the Mutiny on the Bounty trilogy. We end our tour at the Papeete pier late this afternoon and embark the Clipper Odyssey. Day 3: Fakarava, Tuamotus Of all the islands in the South Pacific, few have the physical “low profile” of the Tuamotus. These coral constructions rise just high enough above the water to be called land and if it weren’t for their waving coconut

palms, they might be entirely invisible from any distance. Joined together, the 76 islands would form a mere 248 square kilometres of actual land mass. Nine thousand people, known as Paumotu, inhabit just 46 of the islands. At Fakarava Island we sail through an opening in its wreath of coral and across one of the largest lagoons in the world to the ancient capital of the Tuamotus. Villagers greet us on the beach with flower leis and warrior demonstrations. The pristine ecosystem here is rich in rare birds, plants, and crustaceans. We will enjoy a nature walk amid the tropical flora found among the pink sand beaches. Divers explore the waters outside the coral ring, while snorkelers witness the teeming undersea world inside the lagoon. Day 4: Tahanea / Motu Tunga Our exploration at Tahanea Atoll offers the chance to spot Fraser’s dolphins and search for the endemic Tuamotu sandpiper—the Holy Grail of South Pacific birding. After lunch onboard avid snorkelers and divers return to the water to spy the velvety, rainbow-hued mantles of giant tridacna clams, while birders comb the tropical bush at uninhabited Motu Tunga.

Day 5: Raroia This morning we board Zodiacs and explore the low-lying atoll where Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki raft landed in 1947. Watch sporting contests, weaving demonstrations, and learn how copra, dried coconut, is produced. Inland, witness trees laden with nesting black noddies. After lunch enjoy beach walks or outstanding snorkeling and diving. Day 6: Napuka, Disappointment Islands Magellan, looking to resupply his ship with fresh water, named this island group after 59 days of sailing from Chile’s Straits of Magellan. We comb the beaches of the atoll’s sandy islets and snorkel amidst a rainbow-hued gallery of tropical fish this morning. Day 7-9: Marquesas Considered one of the most beautiful island groups in the South Pacific, the Marquesas lie farther from a continental coast than any other islands in the world—5472 kilometres from the west coast of South America. They were also far removed from the traditional marine highways used by the 16th- and 17th-century European explorers. Unlike other Polynesian islands, the Marquesas have no surrounding reefs or placid lagoons; wide, deep bays are the havens for vessels such as ours.

The Marquesas showoff a dazzling collection of islands whose vertical peaks reach into the clouds, while carpets of lush tropical vegetation drape cliffs and canyons that descend to sea-sculpted bays. Countless sooty, fairy, and bridled terns circle tiny, rocky pinnacle islets, and birders will closely scan the scene for the very rare gray-backed, or spectacled, tern. Zodiacs whisk us ashore on a variety of islands; we are greeted on some by dancers and drummers adorned in leis and tapa cloth, and welcomed to others by sailors in outrigger canoes blowing large conch shells—the traditional greeting. During shore walks, we may see petroglyphs or tiki figures— representing deified ancestors—flanked by banyan trees, fragrant plumeria, blooming orchids and silvery waterfalls. Open-air markets display local handicrafts such as baskets, woven purses, shell jewelry, rock tools, and wood carvings. Watch for wild horses on the upland plateaus as we search for the endemic Nuku Hiva pigeon and Marquesas swiftlet. Divers and snorkelers enjoy coral-encrusted rock walls and a staggering variety of fish off islands such as Fatu Hiva, Hiva Oa, Nuku Hiva, and Ua Pou. Day 10: At Sea As we sail the sapphire waters toward the Tuamotu Islands, our lecture series offers insight into the natural and cultural wonders of Polynesia.

Day 11: Rangiroa, Tuamotus Rangiroa’s name translates into “far sky.” Here, more than 240 motu, or islets—which top off at an elevation of three feet—comprise the ring of coral through which flow at least 100 channels. In the afternoon we enter the lagoon, a dazzling color palette of blues and greens, hailed as one of the world’s greatest dive destinations. Whether by snorkeling, diving, or glassbottom-boat, unparalleled underwater vistas are a rich reward. Birders watch for the blue lorikeet, red-footed boobies, and great frigatebirds, while beach walkers relax and meet the friendly locals of Tiputa village who demonstrate energetic Tuamotuan dances. Day 12: Makatea In vivid contrast, Makatea is an upraised atoll of eroded limestone cliffs rising some 200 feet from the sea. On shore this morning, on the island plateau, we visit the village which is home to about 100 Polynesians. Birders scour the hillsides and grottos in search of the endemic Makatea fruit dove in this seabird haven. Behind the Scenes in Moorea Traditional Polynesian ceremonies are no longer a common occurrence on Moorea. When they occur it is very rare for visitors to participate. We are pleased to offer this once-ina-lifetime opportunity to get behind the scenes and attend the opening of the Atitia Center on beautiful Cook’s Bay. The Center, funded by Seacology—a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving island environments and cultures—is being constructed in the style of a traditional fare (pronounced far–A), a Polynesian house. It will be used for instruction in traditional Polynesian cultural practices as well as to emphasize the importance of respecting no-fishing restrictions on parts of the Moorea lagoon. The ceremony will consist of traditional singing and dancing, a Tahitian feast, the presentation of traditional tapa cloth gifts, and more. Afterwards we will have the opportunity to snorkel in Moorea lagoon. Our guide for the opening ceremony is Duane Silverstein, the executive director of Seacology, who will accompany us on this voyage.

Day 13: Vaitape, Bora Bora, Society Islands Our ship enters the spectacular lagoon of Bora Bora, whose rugged central peak rises dramatically above its white sandy beaches and indigo waters. We have a choice of two excursions onshore this morning. Circle the island in open-air minivans, known locally as “le trucks,” and drive along a 17-mile coral lane lined with hibiscus and fragrant plumeria. Highlights include the Faanui Protestant Church; marae, or stone, temples; World War II remnants; and Bloody Mary’s Restaurant. Or, circle the island in open-air, off-road vehicles, learn about the island’s local legends and lore, and photograph Bora Bora’s fabled multi-colored lagoons from isolated panoramic viewpoints. Our local guides point out native flora and fauna and we keep an eye out for the endemic Bora Bora, or chattering kingfisher. Day 14: Cook’s Bay, Moorea / Papeete, Tahiti / Disembark Clipper Odyssey After breakfast we disembark in Cook’s Bay where we attend a special Polynesian ceremony for the opening of the Atitia Center. After we enjoy the performance and Tahitian feast, we have the opportunity to snorkel in Moorea lagoon. We return to Papeete in the afternoon to enjoy our final dinner together. MARQUESAS ISLANDS

FRENCH POLYNESIA DISAPPOINTMENT ISLANDS

Rangiroa Makatea

Bora Bora Cook’s Bay

Fakarava

Moorea

Tahiti

Papeete

Tahanea

Motu Tunga

The Clipper Odyssey

The Clipper Odyssey is a 110-passenger luxury expedition vessel. Facilities on board include 64 ocean-view cabins (all with private facilities), a dining room, lounge, small library and gym, outdoor pool, massage room, and gift shop. The Clipper Odyssey also carries a fleet of Zodiacs, which permits us to land anywhere nature or curiosity dictates. For expeditions in warmweather regions, her glass-bottom boat gives us a topside-look at the undersea world.

INFIRMAR Y

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ELEVATOR

DINING ROOM

Voyage

Pearls of Polynesia

Dates

Oct 18 - 31, 2009

Category

1

$9,800

2

$10,480

3

$10,980

4

$11,480

5

$11, 980

6

$12,880

7

$15,980

All prices are USD. Fares Do Not Include: Category 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Amenities

Double Lower Forward, 2 lower berths, porthole window. Double Main, 2 lower berths, porthole window. Double Main Forward, two lower berths, shower, porthole window Double, two lower berths, shower, porthole window. Bridge Double, two lower berths, shower, porthole window. Bridge Double Forward, shower, midship, two lower berths, porthole window. Suite, two lower berths, shower, picture window.

• Flights, Charters • Mandatory medical / evacuation insurance • Personal expenses (laundry, alcoholic beverages, phone calls, onboard medical fees) • Additional expenses in the event of delays or itinerary changes • Discretionary gratuities to ship’s crew (approximately $10 - 14 per passenger per day) • Visas, or innoculations, if required • Fees for physician’s notes confirming you are fit to travel • Possible fuel surcharges

Fares Include:

• Your complete itinerary • Team of resource specialists • Educational program and pre-departure materials • All meals, except occasional optional meal ashore • All Zodiac excursions • Service charges and port fees

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Release, Terms and Conditions Please read this important information carefully. The delivery by the passenger of the deposit together with a signed copy of this document to Adventure Canada shall constitute the passenger’s consent and agreement to all of the provisions contained herein. Please note that fuel surcharges may be levied to offset rising oil prices. Payment Schedule and Rates A deposit of $1,000 USD per passenger is required to reserve a position for a tour. The balance of payment for the tour must be received by Adventure Canada at least 120 days prior to the scheduled departure date. Adventure Canada will only issue pre-departure boarding documents to a passenger once it has received full payment together with all required documents duly completed by the passenger. Tour fees quoted are based on (i) prices in effect at the time of printing (June 2009) and as such are subject to change without notice prior to departure and (ii) group participation. Prices are cash/cheque discounted, and in US dollars. Credit Card pricing is as follows: Pearls of Polynesia: C1 $10,379, C2 $10,899, C3 $11,419, C4 $11,939, C5 $12,459, C6 $13,395, C7 $16,619, Gems of the South Pacific: C1 $10,171, C2 $10,691, C3 $11,211, C4 $11,835, C5 $12,459, C6 $13,291, C7 $16,411 – Ecuador & Galápagos Islands 2010: C1 $5,923, C2 $7,069, C3 $7,795, C4 $8,315, C5 $9,043, C6 $9,875, C7 $11,019.– Ecuador & Galápagos Islands 2011: C1 $6,131, C2 $7,275, C3 $8,003, C4 $8,529, C5 $9,251, C6 $10,083, C7 $11,227 – Antarctica Uncut C1 $10,317, C2 $12,444, C3 $14,565, C4 $15,272, C5 $16,687, C6 $17,345, C7 $19,053– Classic Antarctica C1 $5,808, C2 $6,958, C3 $8,107, C4 $8,492, C5 $9,261, C6 $9,719, C7 $10,566 – High Arctic Adventure: C1 $4,571, C2 $5,403, C3 $6,443, C4 $7,483, C5 $8,627, C6 $9,620, C7 $9, 979, C8 $10,395, C9 $10,811, C10 $11,435 – Into the Northwest Passage: C1 $4,571 + GST, C2 $5,507 + GST, C3 $6,755 + GST, C4 $7,795 + GST, C5 $9,043 + GST, C6 $10,083 + GST, C7 $10,395 + GST, C8 $10,811 + GST, C9 $11,435 + GST, C10 $11,955 + GST – Heart of the Arctic: C1 $3,843, C2 $4,467, C3 $5,611, C4 $6,651, C5 $7,795, C6 $8,731, C7 $9,251, C8 $9,771, C9 $10,291, C10 $10,603 – Atlantic Arts Float:C1 $2,699, C2 $3,843, C3 $4,987, C4 $5,715. C5 $6,547, C6 $7,275, C7 $8,315, C8 $9,147, C9 $9,563, C10 $10,083. Trinidad & Tobago 2009 $3,588 – Trinidad & Tobago 2010 $3,692, Yukon Quest $3,115 + GST, Africa $10,395, Santa Fe $2,595, Machu Picchu 2010 $2,803, Machu Picchu 2011 $3,011, Birding the Andes 2010 & 2011 $1,035, Birding Argentina $1,404. For wire transfers, passengers should note that the transferring financial institution may charge a service fee, which shall be at the passenger’s expense. Returned cheques, credit card changes and refunds are subject to a $25 USD fee. Adventure Canada is a member in good standing of the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (“TICO”) which administers the Ontario Travel Compensation Fund, a fund established by registered travel agents and travel wholesalers in Ontario to insure payments such as those made to Adventure Canada in connection herewith. For more information on TICO, visit www.tico.on.ca . Cancellations and Refunds All requests for cancellations must be received in writing. Upon Adventure Canada receiving a written notice of cancellation at least 120 days prior to the scheduled date of departure, the passenger shall receive a full refund of its tour fees, less an administrative penalty of $500 per person. If a written notice of cancellation is received by Adventure Canada between 91 and 120 days prior to the scheduled date of departure, the passenger shall receive a refund of 35% of its tour fees. Please note that within the 90-day limit, all fees, deposits and tariffs received by Adventure Canada are forfeited. For these and other reasons mentioned below, passengers are strongly advised to obtain trip cancellation insurance. No refunds shall be made to passengers who do not participate in any part of, or otherwise do not complete, the tour for any reason whatsoever. Delays In the event of a delay, passengers will be responsible all costs and expenses associated therewith, including, without limitation, any additional food, lodging or transportation costs resulting from such delay.

Baggage Baggage is solely at the passenger’s risk and expense. Baggage is limited to a maximum weight of 20 KG in most cases. Also, airline luggage allowance is typically two pieces per passenger and one piece of carry-on luggage, subject to weight restrictions, but please check with your airline for current standards. Excess baggage is not permitted on charter flights. Any excess baggage charges for commercial flights are the responsibility of the passenger. Land-Based Group Size and Trip Costs In keeping with our philosophy of small group travel, most of our land based programs operate with 10 - 30 participants. If we do not get the required number of people and cancel a tour, you will be notified as soon as possible. In the event of a cancellation, all deposits and tariffs paid will be returned to the passenger in full with no further obligation on the part of Adventure Canada (AC) and Eagle-Eye Tours (EE). Single rooms, if available, will be provided on request for an additional fee as outlined in program literature. For participants travelling alone, but wishing to share, AC will arrange for a room if possible. If a roommate is not available, a single supplement will be charged. Insurance Due to the nature of the tour in which the passenger will be participating, passengers should have in place prior to departure comprehensive insurance coverage including without limitation medical, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, accident and baggage insurance. Emergency medical and evacuation coverage is mandatory for trip participation and policy documentation will be required. Any losses sustained by the undersigned passenger as a result of its failing to obtain proper insurance coverage shall be the sole responsibility of the passenger. For full coverage passengers are recommended to obtain insurance at the time of deposit. Images and Privacy On these trips we take many photos, some of which we use for promotional purposes. If you would not like photos which include you to be used, please let us know in advance. We may also celebrate your birthday onboard, let us know if you would like to abstain. Itinerary The itineraries/programs described is subject to change at the discretion of the ship’s master. These are expeditions to remote parts of the world. AC, EE, ZE, PS reserves the exclusive right, in its sole discretion, to alter or omit any part of the itinerary or change any reservation, staff member, feature and/or means of conveyance without notice and for any reason whatsoever including but not limited to weather conditions, availability of anchorages, force majeure, political conditions and other factors beyond our control and without allowance or refund and with any and all extra costs resulting there from paid by the passengers. AC, EE, ZE, PS expressly reserves the right to cancel, without prior notice to the passengers, any tour prior to departure, in which case tour fees will be refunded without further obligation on the part of AC, EE, ZE, PS including, but not limited to the payment of interest accrued thereon. Decisions to alter the itinerary/program as aforesaid shall be made in the best interest of all passengers aboard the vessel. AC, EE, ZE, PS expressly reserves the right in its sole discretion to cancel the reservation of, or remove from the tour, any passenger at any time. Additional Documentation Adventure Canada is a sub-charterer of the Cessna Grand Caravan, Clipper Adventurer, Clipper Odyssey, M/V Polar Star and MS Islander. Prior to boarding the vessels, passengers will receive a Passage Contract Ticket, which is the standard passenger contract and liability waiver of the vessels mentioned herein. Passengers are encouraged to read this document upon receipt. In accepting this Passage Contract Ticket, passengers agree to be bound by its terms and conditions. Passage Contract Tickets may be obtained from Adventure Canada on written request.