How Windstar Incorporates Tahitian Culture and History on a Cruise

Sacred sites, or marae, offer a glimpse into the history of French Polynesia, and there are several shore excursions that offer access to these historical attractions. One of the most notable is the Taputapuatea marae, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located on Raiatea, which is referred to as “The Sacred Island,” the marae at Taputapuatea is believed to have been established as early as 1000 AD. Raiatea is considered the ancestral homeland of the Polynesian people, as it is the oldest inhabited island in French Polynesia. The ceremonial site served as the base for expansion to Hawaii and New Zealand, and the islands were first settled by migrating Polynesians as early as 500 BC.  

The island of Huahine is famous for having one of the largest groups of pre-European marae in French Polynesia, and you’ll find 30 excavated sites at the Maeva marae. This group of structures and ancient fish traps are believed to have been built as early as the 13th century AD. The adjacent museum displays artifacts like paddles, blades, jewelry, pestles and tattoo combs, and you can also learn about the history of excavations, which began in the 1920s.   

Just a short distance from Moorea’s Belvedere Lookout, you can wander around the remains of several ancient marae, including Titiroa (pictured above) and Ahu-o-Mahine. Built among a dense forest of chestnut trees, a hiking trail leads to the tohua, or council platform, plus two smaller marae and an altar consisting of several steps layered with stones.