The Crew, the Guests and the Services

Archipels crews are special as they form a close knit team, almost a family.   There are 12 to 15 people operating the fleet of 5 catamarans, deeply committed to their guests, their boat and to sharing their passion for Polynesia. These are the people who have made Archipels a success, thanks to their skills as sailors and gracious hosts. 
Aboard each catamaran you will find a licensed captain and a cook/hostess assisted by a deck hand or a second hostess.  They all speak English, some with a distinct French or Tahitian accent, but their knowledge of sailing and of the Polynesian environment is only matched by their desir to make your cruise the best it can be.

Because this is not an ordinary cruise, the Guests on Archipels Cruises are always a compatible group: an international mix of sophisticated young couples (30 to 55), all sharing a love of adventure, of the sea and an appreciation of life in general. Most are well traveled and gregarious, quick to make friends, happy to trade interesting travel memories or share a good laugh over the funny "incident" of the day while recounting the amazing dive or excursion they were on. Many lifelong friendships have taken seed on these memorable cruises.

About the Services...

One of the first priorities aboard a French vessel is to offer delicious food...

Breakfast starts around 7:30 a.m.  The sun is already high, and a plentiful and varied breakfast awaits you on the deck, surrounded by turquoise water and lush islands. You can have pancakes, fresh fruit salads, eggs in any fashion, or all kinds of little French treats with your coffee or tea. You may be joined by the captain who will go over the day's program -- or, all refreshed after an early swim in the inviting crystal water you might choose to quietly meditate on the beauty of the site over a good cup of coffee.

Lunch is casual and light.  It is often a mix of fresh salads, quiches, cold cuts and desserts.  Sometimes, a fun picnic is organized on the shore of a deserted motu.

Dinner is the culinary highlight of the day.  After a magical sunset enhanced by expertly mixed cocktails, dinner is elegantly served around 7:30 p.m. and features multiple courses in a variety of gourmet French, Italian, or exotic Tahitian dishes.

Beverages -- Included in the cruise cost are the breakfast drinks, a good table wine during meals, and fresh lemonade at any time.  Soft drinks, a good variety of fine wines and alcohols or cocktails are available for a charge, payable at the end of the cruise.

Housekeeping --
    *Cabins, bathrooms and all common areas are thoroughly cleaned daily.
    *Linens and towels are usually changed every three days.

Activities -- The crew will be your guides and instructors for the nautical activities available during the cruise (snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, windsurfing, lagoon & reef discovery by dinghies, etc..)  They are also very environmentally conscious and will show you how to enjoy the best of the lagoons without compromising the fragile ecosystem.

Land Activities -- You will be guided by a crew member or by a specialized guide during the island visits and excursions.

Transfers -- A Cruise representative will welcome you in traditional Tahitian fashion at the airport and will take you to the boat. At he end of the cruise, after a sad farewell, you will be taken back to the airport, carrying with you fond memories of this special cruise in Paradise, along with the addresses of new lifelong friends.