Star Collector: Passage to French Polynesia

Located on the Gulf of Nicoya, the small town of Puerto Caldera is one of Costa Rica’s top attractions, perfect for travelers who like more off the beaten path destinations where the native Tico lifestyle can be experienced. It is the gateway to San Jose, Jaco and the big city of Puntarenas, plus Los Suenos and Tortuga Island. Carara National Park is nearby, the rainforest home to crocodiles, over 400 species of birds and is considered the most likely place to see scarlet macaws.

Relax on sunny beaches, sample Tahitian fare, and take in the effervescent spirit of the city. But whatever you do, save time — and luggage space — for shopping. Black pearls and colorful crafts fill the market and local treasures are so plentiful you’ll have trouble making your choices but you won't be bothered with large crowds and big tour groups because French Tahiti is only accessible to small ships like ours.

Spend the morning in search of the perfect sailing conditions as we make our way toward Raiatea. This route offers the best chance to raise the sails and truly let the ship show what it can do. While exact timing depends on the wind and weather, we&#39;ve built flexibility into the itinerary to allow for sailing either in the morning or the evening before&mdash;whenever nature is most favorable. It&rsquo;s all part of the adventure, so keep an eye on the horizon and get ready for a dynamic, wind-powered experience.<br />
&nbsp;

Raiatea, &ldquo;The Sacred Island,&rdquo; is located just across the lagoon from Tahaa and shares the same barrier reef. (Legend claims the two were a single island until a conger eel possessed by the spirit of a princess separated them.) It used to be the center of religion and culture in the Society Islands. Taputapuatea, on the southeast coast, was once the most important marae around, the place where kings from the neighboring islands would gather for important ceremonies. Uturoa, the main town, reminds some people of Papeete in its younger days with its quaint low-rise buildings. Raiatea is also home to the only navigable river in the islands, the Fa&rsquo;aroa. Explore Polynesian history or climb Mount Temehani in search of the rare tiare apetahi flower, which grows only here.

Raiatea, &ldquo;The Sacred Island,&rdquo; is located just across the lagoon from Tahaa and shares the same barrier reef. (Legend claims the two were a single island until a conger eel possessed by the spirit of a princess separated them.) It used to be the center of religion and culture in the Society Islands. Taputapuatea, on the southeast coast, was once the most important marae around, the place where kings from the neighboring islands would gather for important ceremonies. Uturoa, the main town, reminds some people of Papeete in its younger days with its quaint low-rise buildings. Raiatea is also home to the only navigable river in the islands, the Fa&rsquo;aroa. Explore Polynesian history or climb Mount Temehani in search of the rare tiare apetahi flower, which grows only here.

We will spend the day on a private island complete with swaying palm trees and white-sand beaches. Swim, snorkel and enjoy a variety of water sports in the crystal-clear waters. There will be a delicious barbecue lunch and tropical drinks waiting for you. Explore Tahaa with optional excursions to discover the vanilla plantations and sacred sites of the island.

Our stay here allows plenty of time to capture the beauty in photographs &mdash; and you&rsquo;ll want plenty. These stunning waters will show a different kaleidoscope of blue in each frame. You&rsquo;ll have lots of options for exploration, whether you prefer the access provided by a 4-by-4, or the thrill of riding in the open air. Stretch out on stunning white-sand beaches, dive and swim in brightly colored seas, or sail among the tiny islands and lagoons. This is the stuff that dreams are made of and available to small ships.

Our stay here allows plenty of time to capture the beauty in photographs &mdash; and you&rsquo;ll want plenty. These stunning waters will show a different kaleidoscope of blue in each frame. You&rsquo;ll have lots of options for exploration, whether you prefer the access provided by a 4-by-4, or the thrill of riding in the open air. Stretch out on stunning white-sand beaches, dive and swim in brightly colored seas, or sail among the tiny islands and lagoons. This is the stuff that dreams are made of and available to small ships.

Anchor here in the place whose nickname is &ldquo;Garden of Eden.&rdquo; Take your time to explore the lush forests, the tropical landscapes, and the quaint villages to discover one of Polynesia&rsquo;s best kept secrets. Here, at a slower pace, see a glimpse of the authentic South Pacific island lifestyle. Stop by the Maeva archaeological site and wander around the 150-odd marae (temple sites) and 400-year-old stone fish traps that are still in use And you&rsquo;ll have your pick of the world&rsquo;s best snorkeling once again.<br />