Need help planning your holiday? And despite the rocking boat and the encroaching sunburn, there were far worse places to be stranded. Im not a big snorkelling person, so it takes a lot to impress me when my face is in the water. I changed my mind again and Im so glad I did. foot island aitutaki southern stamped passport pay weather take visit We provide pickups from your hotel, supply snorkelling gear, and provide a sumptuous buffet lunch comprising of smoked local fish, fresh local fruit and vegetables. That should tell you how good it was! E2s knowledge of the flats and legendary fish spotting ability helps tip the odds in your favour. With more than18 years of operating experience he knows every inch of the lagoon, so you will be in safe hands. We offer lifetime experiences for people from every walk of life. Its amazing thats it was one of the best experiences you ever had. With every post you write about the Cook Islands I am seriously tempted to buy a ticket for the first flight going there It looks ridiculously beautiful!!! How to Plan a Budget Trip to the South Pacific, 30 Incredible Things to Do in Melbourne, Australia, 22 Epic Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand, 21 Epic Things to Do in Rotorua, New Zealand: The 2022 Edition, The 15 Best Things To Do in Taupo, New Zealand, Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk: A Complete Guide, 29 Things to Do in Wellington, New Zealand, 21 Incredible Things to Do in Kathmandu, Nepal. And it was tiny. There's a snorkel in the lagoon to see giant clams and then the boat journeys over to One Foot Island for lunch and then there's a second snorkel in the lagoon on the way back. They provide snorkelling equipment and towels. Cheers! 
Being a small group on the islands you could feel like you were the only ones alive, on the lagoon it meant that the beautiful giant clams, fish and coral was all yours to enjoy, without bumping into people. This was the most spectacular sightId ever seen, leaving me feeling as thoughI was splashing my way through a photoshopped travel brochure. 52km and is arguably the best snorkelling lagoon in the world. Honeymoon Island with its long sandbar is the perfect spot! Online Payment BC Reg. The vaka has comfortable covered seating as well as deck sun loungers. Hi! Operates Mon-Sat with pick up from 8.30am and drop off from 4.30pm. Become one with nature and the amazing marine life, see turtles up close (near enough to touch), snorkel the clear waters,feed the array of tropical fish and discover the motus (islets). An exceptional experience to a secluded white sand beach amidst the turquoise lagoon. Two half-day tours operate Sunday to Friday: 9am-12noon or 1pm-4pm. Do you have FB messenger or can you email me at address below. After snorkeling and fish feeding your next stop will be Tapuaetai Motu or better known as - One Foot Island. Im also excited to read that someone had brought a younger child; I fully intend to travel with my kids and soon. Our boat dropped us off next to a cluster of several dozen of them andour captain gaveus instructions to swim to a nearby sand bar. After a big lunch on board the boat guests are dropped at the sand bar to wade over to One Foot Island and enjoy an hour at leisure to walk around the island, snorkel or just relax in the swimming lagoon. I have been enjoying all the pictures from the Cook Islands. Tea, coffee and water are provided anda full cash bar service is also available to guests. Our group descended onto the soft sand and said our wows in shellshocked wonder. Hi Lauren. Our first stop was to the insanely gorgeous Honeymoonisland to drop off our lunch for later. Also email at: kiaoranacruise@gmail.com. Baggage & Optional Fees, Contact Us Set in luscious rock waterfall garden features, the Te Vara Nui Village houses the most stunning entertainment venue showcasing a beautiful legend story, The Legend, Find a Travel Agent Our Kia Orana Seven Wonders cruise leaves at 09.00 am. Theres no doubt about it: this was a travel highlight thatll stay with me for a long time. Take a lagoon cruise. Also because its so remote there cant be so many people visiting. 2022 Etu Moana Beach Villas Limited, all rights reserved. Moreover, do you happen to know if there is any water taxi service, so one could go there in the morning and return in the afternoon? One question for you: How long were you let stay at One Foot Island? Experience memorable adventures such as a world-famous Aitutaki Lagoon Cruise with one of the reputable tour guides. Thebonefish are big by anyone's standards. Bishops Cruises also offer a variety of cruise and private boat options. Our Seven Wonders Cruise operates 6 days a week. Or takepart! Price - $150 per person NZD Bubbles BelowOur family business started back in 2004. I would love to go someday!! Just another benefit of being a solo traveller! Do you need a Visa to enter? Nope! Swimming through a shipwreck was a particular highlight, as I didnt think Id ever get to do so without going diving. Wow, someone else echoedas theyjumped after me. Your photos from this trip are amazing! This day cruise departs from Arutanga Wharf and journeys over to Honeymoon Island rich in bird-life. Hope you have an amazing time out on the water :-). Cruises depart either from Arutanga Harbour or Ootu Point at the southern tip of Aitutaki Island. They were vibrant, colourful, and seriously wildto see up close. Local guides share their knowledge of the islands, their history and the culture that is Aitutaki, Cook Islands. Haapai: My South Pacific Island Paradise. Let us know before your journey begins. 
We aim to also empower the traditional arts in Aitutaki so we and the next generation have a firmfoundation in our culturalidentity. Asmile spread across my face. Looks unbelievably beautiful. Seeing the tail fin of a GREAT WHALE before disappearing again in the Ocean is an experience like no other. Punarei Cultural Tours -Punarei Cultural Day Tour gives the opportunity for visitors to interact and discover the unique andhidden culture of Aitutaki - stories which havenot been told since the arrival of the missionaries in 1821. I kept such a tight grip on my dry bag :-). On One Foot Islandisland, we were given an hour todo whatever we wanted. If youre planning a trip to the Cook Islands, you have to go to Aitutaki, and you have to go on a lagoon cruise. Enjoy our online presentations from the comfort of your home. Terms and Conditions The Cook Islands are paradise, so I know youre going to have an incredible time there. Swim among tropical fish and brightly coloured corals. All day cruise operators pick-up guests from Aitutaki Beach Villas. Ugh! Operates Mon-Sat. My wife and I have been coming to Raro for the last 4 years and are back for our fifth time, and 4th time to Aitutaki day trip on the Vaka. AUGUST to SEPTEMBER seems the most preferred time for the great whales to come. This did. On the way back to theguesthouse, we chatted about his life in the Cook Islands: why he decided to start a tour company, his family, his tentative plans to move to HoneymoonIsland, and more. As well, Duration: 4.75 hours It wasnt the best end to a beautiful day, but the staff were apologetic and I get that these things happen. Depending on the wind you almost have the feeling to fly over the turquoise waters. I like the over-sized foot-print in the passportkind of screams I got stomped on all over in the cook islands but still manage to smile. On Never Ending Footsteps, I aim to show you how you can explore this planet safely, adventurously, and affordably. It was essentially a tiny shack on the beach, where its only purpose is to stamp tourists passports. Etu Moana offers special privileges for the athletes and their friends. Amazing Ive never seen anywhere so beautiful! Your thoughts? Get your FREE subscription today. Our objective is to restore parts of our Aitutakian culture back into ourcommunity and share this culturewith our visitors. Cheer on athletes and celebrate their success. This particular wreck the Alexander was a freighterthat used to bring cargoto the island, until it sunk in the 1930s. Kia Orana Cruise (Amuri) minerva cruisemapper And the foot in your passport is quite unique. How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Brunei? Learn how the warriors of old voyaged long distances to experience the music and drums of the Are Karioi, the House of Entertainment, where marathons of dancing and courtship were held. It must have taken us half an hour to splash our way across that short distance because we couldnt stop taking posing and taking photos. Its so worth it. Im a fan x, Aww, thank you so much, Miriam! When you arrive please phone Andrew to reconfirm your booking. My wife and I will be going to Aitutaki in November and we will definitely be taking a tour of the lagoon now. Um, I kind of hate it. I mean, its a place that time is always too little for a visitor to get enough of it. Aitutaki Kite School and Wetnwild offer everything you need. :). The cruise consists of a visit to the Motu of Akaiami - famous for one of the original landing spots for the now well known "Coral Route". Andrew Katu, is "Captain Fantastic" for the Kia Orana Cruise speedboat which goes out each day on the Aitutaki Lagoon. Its Paradise. Great post, looks absolutely amazing. :-), I wasnt holding my breath, thinking it would be this fun, after the previous post! MOTU2MOTU brings together enthusiastic outrigger canoe paddlers from all over the Pacific to battle it out. Sailing Aitutaki has a selection of windsurfing boards and sails available for hire. Youll be fine! Must say when you started talking about the passport, was expecting it to finish up at the bottom of the lagoon :D, Oh god, I know! Planning your next trip? Within seconds of the engine juddering to life, I reached formy camera because the colour of the lagoonwas already blowing my mind. Yep that looks like paradise all right! This trip is a not to miss for anyone wandering and umming and ahring whether to go, just do it and you wont be disappointed if you do. Scuba diving, especially outside the reef, is a doorway to the wonders of the South Pacific Ocean. Rus Lagoon Cruise is a locally family owned and operated business, whose boat is named after their late Great Grandfather, and Uncle Ru. Our toolkit is a great place to get started. Another primary service we offer is Discover dives for those who have never tried it before and wish to experience Aitutakis underwater world. Take me take me! Itll be the perfect region of the world for you :-). This would be the best day trip we have ever done. 
Aitutaki is quickly becoming a sought after windsurfing destination. Cruise beautiful Aitutaki Lagoon on aboard beautiful "Titi ai Tonga". I was thrilled to gaina locals insight intoCook Island life,and exploringplaces I wouldnt have otherwise seen was the icing on the cake. Gulp. During the five-day MANUREVA AQUAFEST held every AUGUST, visitors from all over the world watch competitors testing their water skills in course racing, freestyle kitesurfing tricks and big-air jumps. On this Cultural & Historical Tour of Aitutakis landmarks and villages hear how the ancient Polynesian warriors defended their island with the help of supernatural powers. BTW people have put worse things with their passports like Checkpoint Charlie stamps, Haha, I googled it. Discover the lagoon while experiencing an exhilarating ride on one of theirwindsurf boards. We told them that we wanted them to see why we enjoy coming to Raro and they might do the same in the future. The fishing grounds surrounding Aitutaki provide some of the most exciting pelagic fishing in the South Pacific, including Wahoo, Mahi Mahi & Yellow Fin Tuna. This day cruise aboard the beautiful catamaran "Te Vaka" is popular as a day-trip from Rarotonga and visits two islands with a snorkel stop in the lagoon. I decided to skip it because why would I pay to make myself feel terrible? I kept blinking because I was certain I was dreaming, and because I thought that if I did it enough times, Id be able to capture how incredible itfelt to be sitting there so I couldrevisit it in the future. Snorkel in the crystal clear waters of Aitutaki's lagoonbefore indulging in a delicious fresh fish barbecue lunch cooked right on-board, complimented by a wonderful array of fresh salads, local side dishes and fruit (vegetarian and non-fish eating option are also available). These are Aitutakis most popular tours which show you a whole new perspective on Aitutaki and are led by entertaining and informative guides: Bishops Cruises: 32 foot catamaran Lagoon Lova with upstairs sundeck. I cant say this part of the world has ever really been on my list until now. Tekings Lagoon Cruises are small and intimate, ensuring a more personal experience. The Lagoon is approx. Im such a failure at snorkelling! Thanks for sharing! That third picture with the sand? Includes two-island visit, BBQ lunch and bar service. Lunches on group tours are uniformly terrible in my experience, which is why I was so thrilled with Tekings offerings. Im not sure Ill ever visit anywhere more beautiful in my life and I cant recommend it enough! Enjoy the best things to see in Aitutaki with a plan including. Wow Beautiful !!! I am drooling over the photos! I'm here to help you explore this planet safely, adventurously, and affordably. But have you ever seen anythingcloser to paradise than this before? Our brochures are loaded with great ideas. No better way to create shared memories during your honeymoon. Take a private tour with local experts. Anyway, I dutifully shoved my passport into my bag when I left my guesthouse, and afterwe arrived on the island, handed it off to be stamped. Looking for an airfare only? As a 64 yr old, over weight, female, Im concerned about getting in and out of such a small boat. Blogs What a special island! The perfect end to a mostly-perfect day! 
Cant wait to read more about your trip in this part of the world (Im just catching up because reading is good procrastination when I have 10,000 essay words to write). Guests can book all tours on the island using the complimentary telephone at the villas. Ask the airfare experts at GowayAir. Whats it Like to Travel in the Cook Islands? These giant clams were wellover threefeet in length and there were hundreds of themscattered across the ocean floor. Instead, I stayed on the boat and chatted with the crew about what it was likegrowing up on Aitutaki, and the changes theyd witnessed as tourism increased. Everything Id read about Aitutaki cited a lagoon cruise as the number one thing to do on the island, but I get seasick and I dont like organised tours and seawater brings me out in a rash and snorkelling gives me a headache. Thank you for this informative post. Go on an Aitutaki Safari Tour for the opportunity to visit ancient sacred sites, called marae, where rituals and sacrifices were once performed. Call us at 800-889-1464 We arrived back on dry land as the sun was starting to set, salty and sweaty, and desperate for a cold shower. You can download this topographical map of Aitutaki here. Kiting towards heaven, full of fun and energy. Steady trade winds blow from May-October. This looks just like a lagoon cruise I did in Bora Bora! I cant write about my trip without mentioning that our boat broke down. And the tiny Aitutaki island holds an international marathon. Our trips depart Monday to Saturday from 10am for six hours of pure lagoon magic. It doesnt even look real. Safe Travels. Discover uninhabited motus, their white sand beaches, and enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch. At least its more discreet than a giant foot! Windsurfing lessons are available for all ages. Wow.. Hopefully one day Ill make it there too! I hopped on the back and grinned motorbikes make me happy. Prices vary for Private Charter. Privacy Policy aitutaki islands cook things whale Covid-19 Information & Latest News FROM ETU MOANA: The Cook Islands are open | Etu Moana won the 2022 Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Award|, One goes to Aitutaki to see the famous Lagoon. Ourfinalsnorkelling stop of the day wasall about thepurple coral. Heres the thing: when I was researching cruises, I reada lotof excited reports about how you could get your passport stamped while youre onOne FootIsland, home to the worlds smallest post office. I have a giant foot in my passport! You definitely should its much more affordable than people believe! Kids 4-10yrs $75, 11yrs up $150 Find inspiration while kayaking or sailing to an uninhabited motu where you can enjoy the white sand beach all to yourself. I was recently at the Maldives, we stayed at Gili Lankanfushi, we also saw huge sea clams but the clarity of the water in your photo is much better than what I saw in Maldives. We made our way toa nearby shipwreck, then were directed to remove all of our jewellery so thetrevallies wouldnt attempt to gobble it (or us). About Us REALLY hope you swam with the sting rays and black tip reef sharks in French Polynesia! Here a sit down lunch of fresh BBQ fish and selections of local salads, fruits and cool refreshing fruit juice is provided. Sailing Aitutakihave a range of sailing charters available to suit all, including families and groups. Explore all! #833-0; TICO Reg. Westopped at the main viewpoint, andItooka ton of photos, and then Teking took me to his favourite spot on the island one that few people know about. The Vaka Cruise -A day not to be missed! Just Married? Hi! You will love to sail with Ted on his Hobie Cat across the huge lagoon. You can drop me a message through my contact form on the site if you have questions. The crew provide all the snorkelling gear and lessons (if required). You have convinced us to add the Cook Islands to the end of our trip. This superb cruise takes you to two fantastic, remote islets and a snorkeling area where you can feed tropical fish and see giant clams. Next year :-), Oh Lauren, just when I thought your recent trip couldnt get any more awesome, you go ahead and publish this :) By the way, I really love how youve shaped your brand recently. Pick up at 10am from the landing next to the activities area. Current Vacation Specials Our target species are bonefish and trevally. PURSUIT IN PARADISE is the Aitutaki Marathon that criss-crosses the tiny island with each step revealing unspoilt nature. Mornings on the waterare spent aroundall things giant: the first stop involves snorkelling alongside giant trevallies and Napoleon wrasses around an old shipwreck, and the second is spent diving down to take a closer look at hundreds ofgiant clams. Teking, the tour company owner,met us off the boat to apologise for ourother one breaking down, then made me an offer I couldnt refuse. The average bonefish measures out at about 28 to 30 inches, with many larger. Looks like paradise! Most peopleran directlyinto the ocean to snorkel with a passing fever ofstingrays, but I decided to stay on the beach instead, burying my feet in the sand. Toilets are also accessible on-board. All you need to bring is sunscreen, a light change of clothes, a camera and your passport to be stamped on One Foot Island (optional). We provide lunch on full day trips, and snorkelling gear. Oh, there were tons of families in the Cook Islands! Discover your enthusiasm to explore the mesmerizing, turquoise, crystal clear waters with colourful marine life and white sandbars. Ill meet you there.. Love the white sand and turquoise sea. No matter your water sports preferences during your Cook Islands holidays, the lagoon will always create memories that stay for your entire life. Aitutaki Blue Lagoon Flyfish - Aitutaki Blue Lagoon Flyfish is a fly fishing specific guide service that offers full and half day guided fly fishing adventures on the Aitutaki lagoon. It is reasonably shallow and the waters are crystal clear. And as always, gorgeous photos! These days, its teeming with sealife and covered in barnacles. Being so huge, so protected, and so stunning, the Aitutaki lagoon hosts international competitions. Sailing Aitutaki guaranteean unforgettable time on the water! The lattergrow to somewhere aroundsix feet in length and spending timearound themwas both joyful and terrifying. :), Hahaha, it definitely has started a few conversations since :-). Site Map. Id rank it in the top ten experiences of my travels over the past ten years, even with the boat breaking down and my chronic seasickness. You would love the Yasawa Islands of Fiji too, they are the closest I have been to beach perfection, Argh, I was actually planning on visiting the Yasawa Islands a few weeks after the Cook Islands but ran out of time! I opted for Teking because the groups are small (no more than tenpeople to a boat) and because a percentage of my fee would be donatedtowards helping conserve and protectthe lagoon. For the hour I spent swimming around, I was surrounded by thousands of colourful fish, I spotted brightly coloured starfish for the first time in my life, I saw the most colourful coral ever, and I was terrified of the giant trevallies. Check out this photo of it from above: Yep: thelagoon is more thanthree times the size of the island, so if you remainon land, youre only seeing a small portionof what makes Aitutaki so special. Thats amazing to hear, Lucy! Experience three snorkel excursions & four motus. Its big and ugly andconspicuousand Im convinced its going to result in me not being let into a country somewhere down the line. Duration: 7.5 hours After lunch, you'll head out to the small beautiful motu(islets) for more exploring, relaxing and swimming. Need help in planning your perfect holiday? Departs 10am, Returns 4pm. $75 really does sound like good value for money. Enjoy one of our tours or book a private charter. P.O Box 45, Aitutaki The huge bonefish (Kio Kio) of Aitutaki are a challenge to catch and land. Do you think it would also be possible to dive there, or is the reef protected? Theres a platform they lower at the back of the boat thats at sea level, so you can just sit on that and slide in/climb out using the ladder underneath. The aluminium boat has seating downstairs and an observation deck upstairs great for taking pictures and sunbathing. Fresh fish barbecue with manytuna steaks, lots of rice, potato salad, and tons of fresh fruit. (which month). I am schedule to arrive on Feb 5th 2020 Aitutaki and have some questions. I skipped it, because my ill-fitting snorkelling mask had given me a pounding headache and I couldnt face swallowing even more seawater. Reminds me a bit of my day trip to the Tetiaroa Atoll in French Polyneisa. One that left my jaw aching for the rest of the day. aitutaki Good reading of your adventures in paradise. And guys. Weoffer PADIdive courses for travellers that have spare time on their trip to Aitutaki thatwould like to complete their open water certification.
Being a small group on the islands you could feel like you were the only ones alive, on the lagoon it meant that the beautiful giant clams, fish and coral was all yours to enjoy, without bumping into people. This was the most spectacular sightId ever seen, leaving me feeling as thoughI was splashing my way through a photoshopped travel brochure. 52km and is arguably the best snorkelling lagoon in the world. Honeymoon Island with its long sandbar is the perfect spot! Online Payment BC Reg. The vaka has comfortable covered seating as well as deck sun loungers. Hi! Operates Mon-Sat with pick up from 8.30am and drop off from 4.30pm. Become one with nature and the amazing marine life, see turtles up close (near enough to touch), snorkel the clear waters,feed the array of tropical fish and discover the motus (islets). An exceptional experience to a secluded white sand beach amidst the turquoise lagoon. Two half-day tours operate Sunday to Friday: 9am-12noon or 1pm-4pm. Do you have FB messenger or can you email me at address below. After snorkeling and fish feeding your next stop will be Tapuaetai Motu or better known as - One Foot Island. Im also excited to read that someone had brought a younger child; I fully intend to travel with my kids and soon. Our boat dropped us off next to a cluster of several dozen of them andour captain gaveus instructions to swim to a nearby sand bar. After a big lunch on board the boat guests are dropped at the sand bar to wade over to One Foot Island and enjoy an hour at leisure to walk around the island, snorkel or just relax in the swimming lagoon. I have been enjoying all the pictures from the Cook Islands. Tea, coffee and water are provided anda full cash bar service is also available to guests. Our group descended onto the soft sand and said our wows in shellshocked wonder. Hi Lauren. Our first stop was to the insanely gorgeous Honeymoonisland to drop off our lunch for later. Also email at: kiaoranacruise@gmail.com. Baggage & Optional Fees, Contact Us Set in luscious rock waterfall garden features, the Te Vara Nui Village houses the most stunning entertainment venue showcasing a beautiful legend story, The Legend, Find a Travel Agent Our Kia Orana Seven Wonders cruise leaves at 09.00 am. Theres no doubt about it: this was a travel highlight thatll stay with me for a long time. Take a lagoon cruise. Also because its so remote there cant be so many people visiting. 2022 Etu Moana Beach Villas Limited, all rights reserved. Moreover, do you happen to know if there is any water taxi service, so one could go there in the morning and return in the afternoon? One question for you: How long were you let stay at One Foot Island? Experience memorable adventures such as a world-famous Aitutaki Lagoon Cruise with one of the reputable tour guides. Thebonefish are big by anyone's standards. Bishops Cruises also offer a variety of cruise and private boat options. Our Seven Wonders Cruise operates 6 days a week. Or takepart! Price - $150 per person NZD Bubbles BelowOur family business started back in 2004. I would love to go someday!! Just another benefit of being a solo traveller! Do you need a Visa to enter? Nope! Swimming through a shipwreck was a particular highlight, as I didnt think Id ever get to do so without going diving. Wow, someone else echoedas theyjumped after me. Your photos from this trip are amazing! This day cruise departs from Arutanga Wharf and journeys over to Honeymoon Island rich in bird-life. Hope you have an amazing time out on the water :-). Cruises depart either from Arutanga Harbour or Ootu Point at the southern tip of Aitutaki Island. They were vibrant, colourful, and seriously wildto see up close. Local guides share their knowledge of the islands, their history and the culture that is Aitutaki, Cook Islands. Haapai: My South Pacific Island Paradise. Let us know before your journey begins. We aim to also empower the traditional arts in Aitutaki so we and the next generation have a firmfoundation in our culturalidentity. Asmile spread across my face. Looks unbelievably beautiful. Seeing the tail fin of a GREAT WHALE before disappearing again in the Ocean is an experience like no other. Punarei Cultural Tours -Punarei Cultural Day Tour gives the opportunity for visitors to interact and discover the unique andhidden culture of Aitutaki - stories which havenot been told since the arrival of the missionaries in 1821. I kept such a tight grip on my dry bag :-). On One Foot Islandisland, we were given an hour todo whatever we wanted. If youre planning a trip to the Cook Islands, you have to go to Aitutaki, and you have to go on a lagoon cruise. Enjoy our online presentations from the comfort of your home. Terms and Conditions The Cook Islands are paradise, so I know youre going to have an incredible time there. Swim among tropical fish and brightly coloured corals. All day cruise operators pick-up guests from Aitutaki Beach Villas. Ugh! Operates Mon-Sat. My wife and I have been coming to Raro for the last 4 years and are back for our fifth time, and 4th time to Aitutaki day trip on the Vaka. AUGUST to SEPTEMBER seems the most preferred time for the great whales to come. This did. On the way back to theguesthouse, we chatted about his life in the Cook Islands: why he decided to start a tour company, his family, his tentative plans to move to HoneymoonIsland, and more. As well, Duration: 4.75 hours It wasnt the best end to a beautiful day, but the staff were apologetic and I get that these things happen. Depending on the wind you almost have the feeling to fly over the turquoise waters. I like the over-sized foot-print in the passportkind of screams I got stomped on all over in the cook islands but still manage to smile. On Never Ending Footsteps, I aim to show you how you can explore this planet safely, adventurously, and affordably. It was essentially a tiny shack on the beach, where its only purpose is to stamp tourists passports. Etu Moana offers special privileges for the athletes and their friends. Amazing Ive never seen anywhere so beautiful! Your thoughts? Get your FREE subscription today. Our objective is to restore parts of our Aitutakian culture back into ourcommunity and share this culturewith our visitors. Cheer on athletes and celebrate their success. This particular wreck the Alexander was a freighterthat used to bring cargoto the island, until it sunk in the 1930s. Kia Orana Cruise (Amuri) minerva cruisemapper And the foot in your passport is quite unique. How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Brunei? Learn how the warriors of old voyaged long distances to experience the music and drums of the Are Karioi, the House of Entertainment, where marathons of dancing and courtship were held. It must have taken us half an hour to splash our way across that short distance because we couldnt stop taking posing and taking photos. Its so worth it. Im a fan x, Aww, thank you so much, Miriam! When you arrive please phone Andrew to reconfirm your booking. My wife and I will be going to Aitutaki in November and we will definitely be taking a tour of the lagoon now. Um, I kind of hate it. I mean, its a place that time is always too little for a visitor to get enough of it. Aitutaki Kite School and Wetnwild offer everything you need. :). The cruise consists of a visit to the Motu of Akaiami - famous for one of the original landing spots for the now well known "Coral Route". Andrew Katu, is "Captain Fantastic" for the Kia Orana Cruise speedboat which goes out each day on the Aitutaki Lagoon. Its Paradise. Great post, looks absolutely amazing. :-), I wasnt holding my breath, thinking it would be this fun, after the previous post! MOTU2MOTU brings together enthusiastic outrigger canoe paddlers from all over the Pacific to battle it out. Sailing Aitutaki has a selection of windsurfing boards and sails available for hire. Youll be fine! Must say when you started talking about the passport, was expecting it to finish up at the bottom of the lagoon :D, Oh god, I know! Planning your next trip? Within seconds of the engine juddering to life, I reached formy camera because the colour of the lagoonwas already blowing my mind. Yep that looks like paradise all right! This trip is a not to miss for anyone wandering and umming and ahring whether to go, just do it and you wont be disappointed if you do. Scuba diving, especially outside the reef, is a doorway to the wonders of the South Pacific Ocean. Rus Lagoon Cruise is a locally family owned and operated business, whose boat is named after their late Great Grandfather, and Uncle Ru. Our toolkit is a great place to get started. Another primary service we offer is Discover dives for those who have never tried it before and wish to experience Aitutakis underwater world. Take me take me! Itll be the perfect region of the world for you :-). This would be the best day trip we have ever done. Aitutaki is quickly becoming a sought after windsurfing destination. Cruise beautiful Aitutaki Lagoon on aboard beautiful "Titi ai Tonga". I was thrilled to gaina locals insight intoCook Island life,and exploringplaces I wouldnt have otherwise seen was the icing on the cake. Gulp. During the five-day MANUREVA AQUAFEST held every AUGUST, visitors from all over the world watch competitors testing their water skills in course racing, freestyle kitesurfing tricks and big-air jumps. On this Cultural & Historical Tour of Aitutakis landmarks and villages hear how the ancient Polynesian warriors defended their island with the help of supernatural powers. BTW people have put worse things with their passports like Checkpoint Charlie stamps, Haha, I googled it. Discover the lagoon while experiencing an exhilarating ride on one of theirwindsurf boards. We told them that we wanted them to see why we enjoy coming to Raro and they might do the same in the future. The fishing grounds surrounding Aitutaki provide some of the most exciting pelagic fishing in the South Pacific, including Wahoo, Mahi Mahi & Yellow Fin Tuna. This day cruise aboard the beautiful catamaran "Te Vaka" is popular as a day-trip from Rarotonga and visits two islands with a snorkel stop in the lagoon. I decided to skip it because why would I pay to make myself feel terrible? I kept blinking because I was certain I was dreaming, and because I thought that if I did it enough times, Id be able to capture how incredible itfelt to be sitting there so I couldrevisit it in the future. Snorkel in the crystal clear waters of Aitutaki's lagoonbefore indulging in a delicious fresh fish barbecue lunch cooked right on-board, complimented by a wonderful array of fresh salads, local side dishes and fruit (vegetarian and non-fish eating option are also available). These are Aitutakis most popular tours which show you a whole new perspective on Aitutaki and are led by entertaining and informative guides: Bishops Cruises: 32 foot catamaran Lagoon Lova with upstairs sundeck. I cant say this part of the world has ever really been on my list until now. Tekings Lagoon Cruises are small and intimate, ensuring a more personal experience. The Lagoon is approx. Im such a failure at snorkelling! Thanks for sharing! That third picture with the sand? Includes two-island visit, BBQ lunch and bar service. Lunches on group tours are uniformly terrible in my experience, which is why I was so thrilled with Tekings offerings. Im not sure Ill ever visit anywhere more beautiful in my life and I cant recommend it enough! Enjoy the best things to see in Aitutaki with a plan including. Wow Beautiful !!! I am drooling over the photos! I'm here to help you explore this planet safely, adventurously, and affordably. But have you ever seen anythingcloser to paradise than this before? Our brochures are loaded with great ideas. No better way to create shared memories during your honeymoon. Take a private tour with local experts. Anyway, I dutifully shoved my passport into my bag when I left my guesthouse, and afterwe arrived on the island, handed it off to be stamped. Looking for an airfare only? As a 64 yr old, over weight, female, Im concerned about getting in and out of such a small boat. Blogs What a special island! The perfect end to a mostly-perfect day! Cant wait to read more about your trip in this part of the world (Im just catching up because reading is good procrastination when I have 10,000 essay words to write). Guests can book all tours on the island using the complimentary telephone at the villas. Ask the airfare experts at GowayAir. Whats it Like to Travel in the Cook Islands? These giant clams were wellover threefeet in length and there were hundreds of themscattered across the ocean floor. Instead, I stayed on the boat and chatted with the crew about what it was likegrowing up on Aitutaki, and the changes theyd witnessed as tourism increased. Everything Id read about Aitutaki cited a lagoon cruise as the number one thing to do on the island, but I get seasick and I dont like organised tours and seawater brings me out in a rash and snorkelling gives me a headache. Thank you for this informative post. Go on an Aitutaki Safari Tour for the opportunity to visit ancient sacred sites, called marae, where rituals and sacrifices were once performed. Call us at 800-889-1464 We arrived back on dry land as the sun was starting to set, salty and sweaty, and desperate for a cold shower. You can download this topographical map of Aitutaki here. Kiting towards heaven, full of fun and energy. Steady trade winds blow from May-October. This looks just like a lagoon cruise I did in Bora Bora! I cant write about my trip without mentioning that our boat broke down. And the tiny Aitutaki island holds an international marathon. Our trips depart Monday to Saturday from 10am for six hours of pure lagoon magic. It doesnt even look real. Safe Travels. Discover uninhabited motus, their white sand beaches, and enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch. At least its more discreet than a giant foot! Windsurfing lessons are available for all ages. Wow.. Hopefully one day Ill make it there too! I hopped on the back and grinned motorbikes make me happy. Prices vary for Private Charter. Privacy Policy aitutaki islands cook things whale Covid-19 Information & Latest News FROM ETU MOANA: The Cook Islands are open | Etu Moana won the 2022 Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Award|, One goes to Aitutaki to see the famous Lagoon. Ourfinalsnorkelling stop of the day wasall about thepurple coral. Heres the thing: when I was researching cruises, I reada lotof excited reports about how you could get your passport stamped while youre onOne FootIsland, home to the worlds smallest post office. I have a giant foot in my passport! You definitely should its much more affordable than people believe! Kids 4-10yrs $75, 11yrs up $150 Find inspiration while kayaking or sailing to an uninhabited motu where you can enjoy the white sand beach all to yourself. I was recently at the Maldives, we stayed at Gili Lankanfushi, we also saw huge sea clams but the clarity of the water in your photo is much better than what I saw in Maldives. We made our way toa nearby shipwreck, then were directed to remove all of our jewellery so thetrevallies wouldnt attempt to gobble it (or us). About Us REALLY hope you swam with the sting rays and black tip reef sharks in French Polynesia! Here a sit down lunch of fresh BBQ fish and selections of local salads, fruits and cool refreshing fruit juice is provided. Sailing Aitutakihave a range of sailing charters available to suit all, including families and groups. Explore all! #833-0; TICO Reg. Westopped at the main viewpoint, andItooka ton of photos, and then Teking took me to his favourite spot on the island one that few people know about. The Vaka Cruise -A day not to be missed! Just Married? Hi! You will love to sail with Ted on his Hobie Cat across the huge lagoon. You can drop me a message through my contact form on the site if you have questions. The crew provide all the snorkelling gear and lessons (if required). You have convinced us to add the Cook Islands to the end of our trip. This superb cruise takes you to two fantastic, remote islets and a snorkeling area where you can feed tropical fish and see giant clams. Next year :-), Oh Lauren, just when I thought your recent trip couldnt get any more awesome, you go ahead and publish this :) By the way, I really love how youve shaped your brand recently. Pick up at 10am from the landing next to the activities area. Current Vacation Specials Our target species are bonefish and trevally. PURSUIT IN PARADISE is the Aitutaki Marathon that criss-crosses the tiny island with each step revealing unspoilt nature. Mornings on the waterare spent aroundall things giant: the first stop involves snorkelling alongside giant trevallies and Napoleon wrasses around an old shipwreck, and the second is spent diving down to take a closer look at hundreds ofgiant clams. Teking, the tour company owner,met us off the boat to apologise for ourother one breaking down, then made me an offer I couldnt refuse. The average bonefish measures out at about 28 to 30 inches, with many larger. Looks like paradise! Most peopleran directlyinto the ocean to snorkel with a passing fever ofstingrays, but I decided to stay on the beach instead, burying my feet in the sand. Toilets are also accessible on-board. All you need to bring is sunscreen, a light change of clothes, a camera and your passport to be stamped on One Foot Island (optional). We provide lunch on full day trips, and snorkelling gear. Oh, there were tons of families in the Cook Islands! Discover your enthusiasm to explore the mesmerizing, turquoise, crystal clear waters with colourful marine life and white sandbars. Ill meet you there.. Love the white sand and turquoise sea. No matter your water sports preferences during your Cook Islands holidays, the lagoon will always create memories that stay for your entire life. Aitutaki Blue Lagoon Flyfish - Aitutaki Blue Lagoon Flyfish is a fly fishing specific guide service that offers full and half day guided fly fishing adventures on the Aitutaki lagoon. It is reasonably shallow and the waters are crystal clear. And as always, gorgeous photos! These days, its teeming with sealife and covered in barnacles. Being so huge, so protected, and so stunning, the Aitutaki lagoon hosts international competitions. Sailing Aitutaki guaranteean unforgettable time on the water! The lattergrow to somewhere aroundsix feet in length and spending timearound themwas both joyful and terrifying. :), Hahaha, it definitely has started a few conversations since :-). Site Map. Id rank it in the top ten experiences of my travels over the past ten years, even with the boat breaking down and my chronic seasickness. You would love the Yasawa Islands of Fiji too, they are the closest I have been to beach perfection, Argh, I was actually planning on visiting the Yasawa Islands a few weeks after the Cook Islands but ran out of time! I opted for Teking because the groups are small (no more than tenpeople to a boat) and because a percentage of my fee would be donatedtowards helping conserve and protectthe lagoon. For the hour I spent swimming around, I was surrounded by thousands of colourful fish, I spotted brightly coloured starfish for the first time in my life, I saw the most colourful coral ever, and I was terrified of the giant trevallies. Check out this photo of it from above: Yep: thelagoon is more thanthree times the size of the island, so if you remainon land, youre only seeing a small portionof what makes Aitutaki so special. Thats amazing to hear, Lucy! Experience three snorkel excursions & four motus. Its big and ugly andconspicuousand Im convinced its going to result in me not being let into a country somewhere down the line. Duration: 7.5 hours After lunch, you'll head out to the small beautiful motu(islets) for more exploring, relaxing and swimming. Need help in planning your perfect holiday? Departs 10am, Returns 4pm. $75 really does sound like good value for money. Enjoy one of our tours or book a private charter. P.O Box 45, Aitutaki The huge bonefish (Kio Kio) of Aitutaki are a challenge to catch and land. Do you think it would also be possible to dive there, or is the reef protected? Theres a platform they lower at the back of the boat thats at sea level, so you can just sit on that and slide in/climb out using the ladder underneath. The aluminium boat has seating downstairs and an observation deck upstairs great for taking pictures and sunbathing. Fresh fish barbecue with manytuna steaks, lots of rice, potato salad, and tons of fresh fruit. (which month). I am schedule to arrive on Feb 5th 2020 Aitutaki and have some questions. I skipped it, because my ill-fitting snorkelling mask had given me a pounding headache and I couldnt face swallowing even more seawater. Reminds me a bit of my day trip to the Tetiaroa Atoll in French Polyneisa. One that left my jaw aching for the rest of the day. aitutaki Good reading of your adventures in paradise. And guys. Weoffer PADIdive courses for travellers that have spare time on their trip to Aitutaki thatwould like to complete their open water certification.
