The islands of the Pacific conjure up images of wild and mysterious adventures in unspoilt beauty. And in a new three-part documentary series for ITV, starting this week, actor Martin Clunes embarks on an epic 10,000-mile ocean wide adventure in search of the real Pacific.
In Thursday’s opening episode, Clunes boards the passenger-freighter Aranui 5 to be transported to the remote and enchanting Marquesas Islands of French Polynesia.
On board he talks with the Polynesian crew, and on the island of Ua Huka he meets a local horseman who tames and trains the local wild horses. He rides with him, and watches as he trains a horse in the sea.
Commenting on the programme, Clunes says: “For centuries we have been sold the idea that paradise on earth is here in the Pacific Islands. But in our uncertain, changing world, how much of that paradise is left, and how long can it survive? To find out I am travelling 10,000 miles from East to West, in search of the real Pacific, and to discover its magical islands.”
Viewers wishing to follow in the footsteps of the Doc Martin star can join a new ‘Marquesas Island’ cruise aboard Aranui 5, which visits all six inhabited islands in the Marquesas – Nuku Hiva, Ua Huka, Ua Pou, Hiva Oa, Fatu Hiva and Tahuata – with inclusive excursions in every port.
Martin Clunes meets a Polynesian horseman on the island of Ua Huka during his voyage on Aranui 5, below
In the programme Clunes also travels to Rangiroa, one of the largest atolls in the Pacific, with a reputation for having the best sea life anywhere in the world.
Passengers also visit Rangiroa as part of the 12-day voyage and experience its seemingly endless blue lagoon which attracts fish of every size and hue. These include the lagoon’s majestic Manta rays, which can be seen on a glass bottom boat tour or by swimming, snorkelling or diving in the lagoon.
The island is also known of its pearl production and passengers will be able to learn more about these rare gems and see how they are grown at one of the finest pearl farms in the Tuamotus.
The 12-day Discover the Marquesas Cruise costs from €4,363 per person.for accommodation in a double stateroom with obstructed view, all meals (including wine), taxes and scheduled excursions. On selected dates from January to April 2022, solo passengers can take advantage of new no single supplement fares
Martin Clunes Islands of the Pacific – Thursday 13 January at 9pm on ITV