Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, is a remote island located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean.

Renowned for its pristine natural landscapes, including rugged coastlines, volcanic craters, and sandy beaches, the island has a rich Polynesian heritage and is home to a vibrant culture, with traditional music, dance, and crafts still practiced today.

Despite its remote location, Rapa Nui attracts adventure seekers from around the world who are drawn to its fascinating history, stunning scenery, and sense of mystery.

Nearly all arrive by plane but a handful each year get to arrive by sea!

In April, June, July and September 2026 we are working with two beautiful traditional vessels – a Dutch family run ex-herring drifter and a traditional square rigged Dutch tall ship – both sailing to and onwards from the Easter Island on blue water expeditions.

• 17 Apr 2026 21 days €4.872,77 Sail Galapagos to Rapa Nui (Easter Island) 2026
• 09 Jun 2026 30 days €7.680,57 Sail Easter Island > Tahiti 
• 23 Jun 2026 28 days €7.984,98 Pacific Voyage Tall Ship Galápagos to Easter Island (Rapa Nui)
• 10 Jul 2026 16 days €4.089,04 Sail Austral Islands French Polynesia (+Easter Island) 
• 12 Sep 2026 26 days €4.656,96 Sail Rapa Nui (Easter Island) to Patagonia

It’s a special year to have two hands on sailing vessels in the area!

These are hands-on sailing blue water voyages, you can join as guest crew and learn the ropes along the way. Both ships welcome new and experienced sailors alike. The vessels are both absolutely beautifully maintained traditional sailing ships but do note… this is NOT a cruise!

The Dutch family run ex-herring drifter
A graceful family-run schooner built in the early 20th century and lovingly refitted for modern adventure, this vessel combines classic lines with a spirit of true exploration. With a small, hands-on crew and room for only a dozen or so guest sailors, life aboard feels intimate and purposeful. Voyages on this ship are ideal for those who want to learn traditional seamanship, hoist sails, stand watch, and be part of the working rhythm of an ocean passage. She’s known for her long-distance expeditions to remote parts of the world — from the Southern Ocean to the Pacific’s wildest islands — offering authenticity, camaraderie, and a strong sense of adventure.

Traditional square rigged Dutch tall ship
One of the world’s most iconic tall ships, this three-masted barque carries the elegance of a bygone era and the warmth of a floating home. With nearly 30 sails, she’s a true wind-powered voyager, crossing oceans and reaching the ends of the Earth, including regular journeys to Antarctica and beyond. Life aboard is immersive: guests are fully involved in sailing, climbing the rigging, and standing watch under a canopy of stars. Her atmosphere blends old-world romance with global adventure, appealing to those drawn to slow, purposeful travel and the rare experience of joining a real tall ship crew.

There are so many reasons to visit Rapa Nui, from its mesmerising Moai statues and breathtaking natural landscapes to its rich Polynesian culture and fascinating history.

Here are 5 reasons we know you’ll want to add it to your travel bucket list.

1) Learn about the remarkable history of the Polynesians.

From their mastery of celestial navigation to their intricate agricultural systems, the Polynesians left an indelible mark on the Pacific region.

One of their most enduring legacies are the massive stone statues on Rapa Nui, called Moai.

Crafted centuries ago by the island’s ancient Polynesian inhabitants, what makes these statues truly remarkable is not just their size but the mystery surrounding their creation and transportation.

Some of these monoliths weigh up to 80 tons and were carved from volcanic rock quarries before being moved across the island.

Beyond the iconic Moai, Rapa Nui  also boasts a wealth of archaeological wonders, including sacred ceremonial sites and intricate petroglyphs that offer clues to the island’s past.

In addition to their architectural achievements, the Polynesians developed sophisticated agricultural techniques, such as the ingenious “moai kavakava” system, which allowed them to thrive in the island’s challenging environment.

2) Experience the beauty of the Island

In addition to its archaeological wonders, Rapa Nui boasts breathtaking natural landscapes that rival any tropical paradise.

From pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters to rugged volcanic terrain and lush green valleys, the island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Explore hidden coves, hike along scenic trails, or simply bask in the serenity of this remote island paradise, where every vista is a postcard-worthy masterpiece waiting to be discovered.

The island is home to several species of seabirds as well as several endemic bird species, meaning they are found nowhere else in the world.

Rapa Nui’s coastal waters are home to a diverse array of marine life, including colourful reef fish, sea turtles, and dolphins.

The island’s surrounding coral reefs support a variety of marine species, making it a popular destination for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.

3) Immerse yourself in the local culture

The Rapa Nui people have a rich and vibrant culture, with long standing traditions and a deep connection to the land and sea that sustains them.

Their traditions are woven into the fabric of daily life, from the rhythmic chants that accompany traditional dances to the intricate tattoos that adorn their bodies, each symbolising a unique aspect of their identity.

As stewards of their ancestral homeland, the Rapa Nui people continue to honour their past while embracing the challenges of the present.

As a visitor, the island offers you a wealth of cultural experiences, from captivating dance performances and traditional music to artisanal crafts and mouthwatering cuisine.

Engage with local communities, participate in cultural workshops, and gain insight into the unique way of life that has flourished on Rapa Nui for centuries.

4) See the night sky like never before

Rapa Nui’s remote location and minimal light pollution make it an ideal destination for stargazers.

As night falls over the island, the sky comes alive with a dazzling display of stars, planets, and constellations, offering a breathtaking celestial spectacle.

From the Southern Cross to the Milky Way, the night sky on Rapa Nui is a sight to behold. 

Connecting with the night sky in Rapa Nui is about far more than just stargazing, as you stare into the night sky you can imagine and connect to the celestial knowledge of the Rapa Nui people.

The Rapa Nui people, like many other Polynesian cultures, were skilled navigators who relied on celestial cues to navigate the vast Pacific Ocean.

Using the stars, sun, moon, and other celestial bodies, they were able to determine their position at sea with remarkable accuracy.

One key technique used by Rapa Nui navigators was star compass navigation, where they memorized the rising and setting points of important stars and used them as reference points for navigation.

5) Sail to Rapa Nui and connect with the island’s seafaring heritage.

You could fly to or from Rapa Nui but where’s the adventure in that? Joining a sailing expedition to Rapa Nui offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the thrill of navigating the open seas and arriving at this mystical destination in a way that echoes the voyages of ancient Polynesian explorers.

Sailing to Rapa Nui not only provides an unforgettable adventure but also a deeper appreciation for the island’s seafaring heritage and connection to the ocean.

When you join a hands-on voyage you become part of the crew.

With no previous sailing experience necessary you will be given all the training you need to participate in the watch system and sailing the ship covering everything from hoisting sails to navigating the rigging. Tune into the rhythms of the ocean and disconnect from the speed of modern life.

From its iconic Moai statues to its pristine natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Rapa Nui beckons travellers with the promise of an unforgettable journey.

Whether exploring ancient archaeological sites, soaking up the sun on secluded beaches, or immersing yourself in the island’s vibrant culture, a visit to Rapa Nui is an experience that will leave a lasting impression on your soul.

Make an enquiry to join us in 2026 on a voyage of discovery to Rapa Nui (Easter Island)!

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