Swim, snorkel, or sail through the tranquil lagoons of the Cook Islands on this Independent trip, where nature and tradition breathe life into every moment.
Trip Overview:
Swim, snorkel, or sail through the tranquil lagoons of the Cook Islands on this Independent trip, where nature and tradition breathe life into every moment.
Highlights:
- Arrive in Rarotonga, where swaying palms and turquoise lagoons set a serene island tone.
- Explore the island’s lush landscapes and local culture on a guided discovery tour.
- Enjoy unhurried days to swim, snorkel or stroll along Rarotonga’s sun-kissed beaches.
- Sail the crystal lagoon with Captain Tama’s crew, snorkelling vibrant reefs and feasting island-style.
- Savour more leisurely days soaking up Cook Islands charm before your journey home.
Included Services:
- Meet and greet on arrival with bottled water and a cold towel
- Shared arrival and departure airport transfers
- 8 nights accommodation at Sunset Resort with daily tropical-style breakfast
- Guest Laundry (washing machine and powder are complimentary)
- Free Wi-Fi
- Complimentary Market Transfers and Church Transfers are available to the Punanga Nui Market on Saturday morning and the local Arorangi church services on Sunday morning
- Use of Hospitality Guest Suite on arrival and departure
- Shared Circle Island Sightseeing Tour
- Shared Lagoon Cruise with BBQ lunch
Excluded Services:
- Travel insurance
- International, domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
- Gratuities
- Optional excursions
- Items of a personal nature
- Passport & Visa fees, if applicable
Day 1: Arrive in RarotongaHotel: Sunset Resort Rarotonga (3 Star Rating)
Sunset Resort Rarotonga is idyllically situated on the sheltered western side of the island only minutes from Avarua Township. The secluded beachfront location provides guests with an unspoilt view of Rarotonga's crystal clear aqua blue lagoon and breathtaking sunsets. The Resort offers 35 spacious rooms situated either on the beachfront overlooking the lagoon or beside either of our two swimming pools set amid lush tropical gardens.
![]()
Day 2: Island Discovery TourStart your holiday in the Cook Islands with an orientated cultural tour of scenic Rarotonga in a modern air-conditioned coach. Explore the history and culture of the Cook Island people in the company of your qualified, friendly tour guides.
Follow the roads and paths used by our ancestors dating back to 1100AD; visit a sacred marae (ancient gathering place for royalty) and explore historical sites once inhabited by our people.
Learn where the best snorkelling spots are located in Rarotonga, see why the coconut tree is known as the Tree of Life.
Day 3: Day at Leisure in RarotongaDay 4: Captain Tama's Lagoon CruiseCaptain Tamas award winning Lagoon Cruise is undoubtedly one of the best ways to discover and experience the stunning Muri lagoon. Be entertained by Captain Tama's and his crew on this once in a lifetime, most unforgettable experience. Watch the magical ocean through the glass bottomed boat, listen to island stories with typical Cook Island humour.
Leap off the boat, snorkel and meet the reef fish up close and personal. Or chill out and float above the coral paradise. Muri beach offers beautiful clear, shallow water - so it's ideal snorkelling fun for everyone, from beginners to advanced and if you can't snorkel, don't worry, the crew will teach you. After your snorkel the boat heads to a small island in the lagoon to enjoy a delicious fresh fish BBQ which includes: Fish cooked "Raro style" over an open fire, BBQ bananas (the captains speciality), a range of salads all accompanied by seasonal fruits and French bread.
Captain Tama's and his entertaining crew have been sharing their tropical island playground with visitors since 1992 on this award-winning Muri Lagoon cruise.
Day 5: Day at Leisure in RarotongaDay 6: Day at Leisure in RarotongaDay 7: Day at Leisure in RarotongaDay 8: Day at Leisure in RarotongaDay 9: Depart from Rarotonga