I know a bunch of folks are doing PIP in May 2005 but is anyone thinking about the 17 Dec or 28 Dec 2005 cruises? I particularly like the 17 Dec as it goes to the Marquesas and Tuamotus and has a couple of sea days. The price is significantly higher (even on a per diem basis) than the 10 Dec usual 7 day itinerery. Those of you who've been to the Marquesas, does this look like a worth while sample? Can anyone tell me anything about Rangiroa? I'd love to hear from more experienced travelers commenting on the pros and cons of the two itinereries and of going on one of PG's swan songs in general.
Greg

Here is what I have on Rangiroa. Been there twice.

RANGIROA

Rangiroa is an atoll in the Tuamotu Islands.

Sailing through the pass is really neat. Dolphins were playing around the ship and the land was very close on each side.

This port is primarily for the divers as there are some great dives here. Particularly the drift dive where the tide carries you through the pass into the lagoon.

Two tenders operate. One to the beach and one to the small town of Tiputa .

The Tiputa village is small with a church, school, couple of shops and homes. There was no shopping for souvenirs here, it was Sunday but I still did not see any souvenir type shops:.A little boy approached me he was about seven years old. He handed me a leaf with flowers and said “for you:” It was pretty touching. The Church is the only thing to really see here and it was charming. We also walked past the school and there was a volley ball game taking place and all the kids were sitting watching the game.

The Beach is not much really and a further walk than we had realized. It is pleasant to sit on the beach but it does not compare to beaches we have been to in French Polynesia before.

The Pearl Farm
This is at the end of the six mile paved road. It is on land so there is no need to get there by boat as you need to do in many other places. They did a good job of explaining the process of making the pearls and of course pearls were for sale.

The Emerald Lagoon – Snorkeling
The people that did this excursion did like it. Good fish and a beautiful spot.

Greg,
My husband and I will be on the Dec 28th PG cruise - for "The Final Sunset." Let us know if you will be joining us!
Miriam :cool: