South Pacific Cruise
Islands clad in emerald green beckon you from across the sea. Their names alone filled with romance. Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea evoke images of soft-sand beaches lined with palm trees. Here you can linger in the sun, go golfing, snorkeling and shopping. The adventures are as varied as the scenery is spectacular. That’s what paradise is all about.
It is not surprising that Tahiti, the largest of the Society Islands, attracted the attention of explorers, scientists, and other luminaries who took the arduous journey to heed its call. But today’s travelers don’t need to spend months at sea to arrive in Papeete, French Polynesia’s laissez-faire capital. One of the first things you’ll notice are the brightly painted jitney buses called ‘Le Truck’ which careen all over town. Another is Marche’ Papeete, overflowing with fresh fruits and flowers. And lastly the people, who display an open warmth that is unfeigned and purely natural.
Cruise Deals:
Your first view of Moorea is from Tahiti. Which is like being in paradise and seeing the Garden of Eden wave at you on the horizon. Seen from across the opalescent Sea of the Moon, Moorea’s jagged peaks, cloaked by lush green and encircled by blue, are everyone’s dream of Polynesia.
Today the islands have a few more people and certain modern conveniences such as banks, schools and hospitals, but the islander’s native customs and the scenery remain spectacularly unchanged. Travelers to South Pacific islands will find a population of warm and happy people eager to welcome you and share their way of life.
What can I do on a South Pacific cruise?
A cruise to the South Pacific is the perfect combination for both leisure and adventure. Languish on the beaches and swim and snorkel in the clean clear water. Or take a more active approach and dive the reefs and lagoons looking for sharks. And between August and October humpback whales are often seen near shore. Sailing, parasailing, and deep sea fishing are also at their best.
On land the most popular adventures are hiking and four-wheel safaris. The lush tropical foliage is filled with amazing flowers and herbs, and you will be delighted by the heavenly fragrance of jasmine, hibiscus and vanilla. Among the exotic natural features, coconut and pineapple plantations cover the lower slopes of the mountains, and provide interesting stopping points.
Shopping is quite good on some of the islands. You can find hand-painted designs on clothing that is ideal for the tropical climate, as well as precious black pearls, curios and perfumes. In addition, many of the local crafts are skillfully created and true works of art. The islanders are anxious to share their culture with you directly. Historically there is no written language, so stories and traditions were passed through the generations through dance. You can take part in traditional welcoming ceremonies upon your arrival, and enjoy other performances throughout your cruise. There are also craft and cooking demonstrations, where there is sure to be something good to eat!
Cruise Deals:
Where does a South Pacific cruise go?
The islands of the South Pacific are grouped into named chains, mostly based on their proximity to one another. These include The Marquesas, Polynesia, which is also knows as the Society Islands, The Cook Islands, Samoa, Fiji and more.
The most regular departures are among the Society Islands and you can expect to visit the following ports of call:
|
|
The Marquesas were made popular by the popular television show Survivor. They are near the Society Ilsands and are usually included on longer itineraries including:
|
|
The longest itineraries may also include a selection of the following:
|
|
The Hawaiian Islands are also often included in South Pacific itineraries, although there are cruises that visit Hawaii exclusively. Not far from the Hawaiian chain is Christmas Island (Republic of Kiribati), which is visited on some Hawaii itineraries as well as being included in those sailing through the South Pacific.
When can I go on a South Pacific Cruise?
Cruises among the islands of the South Pacific, specifically Polynesia, are offered year-round. However, some cruise lines only visit the region between September and April.
How do I get there?
Radisson Seven Seas, Windstar and Princess Cruises offer year-round itineraries in Polynesia and The Marguesas. The ships usually sail round-trip from Papeete, Tahiti for 7, 10, 12 or 14 nights. At least one additional night before and after the cruise is also recommended just for travel time; however longer stays are encouraged. There are a host of resorts on the larger islands offering romantic settings and even over-the-water bungalows.
Luxury cruise lines on world cruise itineraries or lengthy repositioning cruises of 15 nights or longer also sail through the South Pacific once or twice each year. These itineraries will usually include one or more of the Hawaiian Islands, as well.