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Tahiti, French Polynesia & South Pacific Cruises

Enchanting isles cast a magical, mesmerizing spell.

There’s more than one paradise to be found on a South Pacific cruise. It’s where hidden jewels like “Mystery Island” and the Tuamotu Archipelago invite exploration. Take a Tahiti cruise, and other South Pacific cruises and you’ll not only discover the pearls of the South Pacific, you’ll also be introduced to its wonderful color, culture and flavors through unique programs on board and ashore that will change you forever.

Cruise Tahiti & French Polynesia

Enjoy the welcoming spirit and the idyllic islands of French Polynesia, sailing from Tahiti. You’ll discover sparkling lagoons and pristine beaches with overnight stays in Bora Bora, Papeete and a late-night stay in Raiatea.

Cruise The South Pacific

The South Pacific is full of treasures including Papua New Guinea, Fiji, & Vanuatu. Each island shares stunning natural beauty, colorful cultures and rich histories making cruising the best way to experience these enchanting locales.

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Why Cruise Tahiti & French Polynesia?

Tahiti & French Polynesia cruise highlights

Simply paradise

Rimmed by coral reefs, aquamarine lagoons and pristine beaches, the French Polynesian islands have lured those seeking paradise for centuries. Tahiti is the largest of the chain, and its capital, Papeete, is a great base from which it explore its treasures. Gorgeous Moorea, with awe-inspiring vistas from the top of its mounts, to the less frequented yet stunning destinations of Rangiroa and Raiatea; Bora Bora, the cradle of Polynesian culture, and Huahine, two pristine islands connected by a graceful bridge.

Ultimate water playground

The waters of French Polynesia have been called the richest aquarium on Earth, teeming with stunning snorkeling and diving experiences with reef sharks, rays and more. Its crystal-clear waters are home to the most exquisitely colored pearls in the world. Enjoy the island’s wonders on a catamaran to Moorea’s top snorkel spots. Spy Bora Bora’s under-the-sea wonders on a glass-bottom boat, and visit the freshwater eels of Huahine – where you can feed them by hand.

More time to discover these jewels

With our More Ashore program, guests enjoy more time to explore these tropical playgrounds. Enjoy a late-night departure from Raiatea and overnight experiences in beautiful Bora Bora and Tahiti. Indulge in the regional cuisine, sip vanilla-infused cocktails, and dance to Polynesian music under stars that shine more brightly than any place on Earth.

Why Cruise the South Pacific?

South Pacific cruise highlights

History & culture

Explore the life, culture, history and tradition the South Pacific as, a traditional village as it comes to life with tribal chants, see fire walking in Port Vila, and discover the Māori world of myths and legends while enjoying a delectable feast in Tauranga .

Natural wonders

Witness the amazing diversity of colored reef fish while snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystalline waters of the Isles of Pines, enjoy the sparkling beaches of Champagne Bay, and be in awe of the atoll of the Conflict Islands in Papua New Guinea.

Taste the local flavors

Savor authentic regional tastes created by our chefs and influenced by the destinations you are visiting, such as an exotic papaya & banana soufflé, Polynesian chicken pupu, grilled Wahoo fillet with mango salsa or even a traditional Hangi dinner.

Award-Winning shore excursions

See more of the South Pacific ashore with our award-winning shore excursions. Take a scenic drive and visit the renowned “Aquarium des Lagons” in Noumea, or go on a fishing expedition in Port Denarau.

2024 - 2025 Tahiti, French Polynesia & South Pacific New Cruise Itineraries. Learn more

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Witness the remote South Pacific paradise islands with Norwegian Cruise Line

Experience the lush forests, crystal-clear turquoise waters and colourful undersea life of the South Pacific's untouched islands. Nuku Hiva will feel like journeying back in time. On the second largest island in French Polynesia, it’s not uncommon to see locals pass through town on horseback. --> From paddle boarding and skydiving to off-road tours, you can view paradise from most every angle in Mo'orea . Ready for romance? Step ashore in Bora Bora and discover for yourself why it’s a world-famous romantic destination. Whether you gravitate to the sea or the mountains, you’ll encounter memorable vistas at every curve on a South Pacific cruise.

SAMPLE --> Hawaii and French Polynesia Cruises

These unique itineraries allow you to explore two of the world's most popular destinations, Hawaii and French Polynesia , in one holiday. Departing from Pape’ete or Honolulu, these itineraries have been designed to help you make the most out of your time in the region. Paddle board in Maui, explore the ocean’s depths in Tahiti, or simply sit back and take in the stunning views in Raiatea . Who wouldn’t want to visit paradise? Leaving, on the other hand, takes a lot of convincing.

SAMPLE --> South Pacific and Australia Cruises

Spend more time in these distant islands and take the opportunity to go where few travellers have gone before, departing from Sydney. Explore secret beaches in Noumea, New Caledonia , where electric blue water enclosed by natural rock formations meet in a “Natural Pool”, which has been designated a World Heritage site. Some of these itineraries also include overnight stays in Bora Bora and Tahiti , giving you plenty of time to explore and indulge in some of the world’s most romantic destinations.

South Pacific Cruise Image Gallery

• Rangiroa, French Polynesia
• Raiatea, French Polynesia
• Papeete (Tahiti), French Polynesia
• Noumea, New Caledonia
• Moorea, French Polynesia
• Lautoka, Fiji
• Dravuni, Fiji
• Bora Bora, French Polynesia
• Apia, Samoa Islands
• Tropical Fruits & Vegetables in French Polynesia

Explore South Pacific Cruise Ports

Best South Pacific EXCURSIONS

We know the destinations you'll be visiting and what there is to see, do and experience. We offer you a variety of excursions to choose from, in every port you'll visit.

Aito Off-Road Safari

Experience the exquisite beauty and flavors of Moorea during a picturesque, off-road excursion through this idyllic island....

Tahiti's Natural Treasures

The natural treasures of Tahiti are yours to discover during this scenic, half-day orientation tour of the island's east coast. ...

Motu Beach Escapade

Enjoy a wonderful ride in the clear lagoon of Moorea with great views of the island's sharp mountain peaks, lush green valleys and picturesque coastal shoreline, then enjoy a typic...

Lagoon Cruise & Beach Break

This wonderful combination tour allows you to explore Bora Bora’s magical lagoon on board a covered boat, snorkel and relax on a pristine beach. ...

Read THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT South Pacific Cruises

Explore the South Pacific Islands

On a Norwegian South Pacific sailing, you can experience some of the world's most exotic paradises and swim in crystal clear turquoise waters.

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From casual buffets to exquisite speciality restaurants, learn everything there is to know about dining on our ships.

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Pacific Islands Escape 2023-24

South pacific, one of the most culturally fascinating regions in the world.

Papua New Guinea | Solomon Islands | Vanuatu | Indonesia | Philippines

Experience a feast for the senses with hypnotic music, traditional dances and magnificent natural wonders that leave you spellbound. Aboard our  luxury   expedition ship,  Heritage Adventurer , explore the remote, tucked-away corners of the Pacific, where larger ships can't go. Wake up to far-flung uninhabited islands with golden-sand and pristine forest canopies, and meet locals whose spirit will touch your heart. From warm hospitality and dazzling cultural traditions to coral reefs teeming with marine life, each day is an epic adventure of discovery. Whether you have a passion for indigenous cultures, wildlife, photography, history or you're simply an adventurous spirit, these expeditions offer an unparalleled travel experience.

Indonesian Explorer: Raja Ampat to Papua New Guinea

Discover the Secrets of Melanesia: Exploring Papua New Guinea, The Solomon Islands and Vanuatu

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About heritage expeditions, ambassadors for conservation, pioneers of discovery, and leaders in expedition travel to the world’s best-kept secrets..

For over 35 years, Heritage Expeditions has pioneered voyages to some of the most wild and biologically rich regions on the planet. Our mission is to increase awareness and conservation of the natural world through responsible expedition travel.

Expert Team

Our team of naturalists, historians, biologists and ornithologists bring an enormous wealth of experience, knowledge and passion to our expeditions, both in the field and onboard our ship during our lecture series.

Our new flagship, the 140-guest Heritage Adventurer , combines the highest passenger ship iceclass rating with an international flair and luxury amenities. Guests enjoy spacious suites, elegant common areas and cuisine prepared by top chefs.

Introducing: Heritage Adventurer

Heritage Adventurer is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree. Setting a peerless standard in authentic expedition travel, Heritage Adventurer (formerly known as MS Hanseatic ) brings an impressive history of Polar exploration. Having held records for the most northern and southern Arctic and Antarctic navigations, and for traversing both the Northwest and Northeast Passages, makes Heritage Adventurer perfect for our signature expeditions. Originally designed for 184 guests, Heritage Adventurer now welcomes just 140 expeditioners ensuring spacious, stylish and comfortable voyages, while a fleet of 14 Zodiacs ensures all guests are able to maximise their expedition adventure. 

Indulge in an awe-inducing Observation Lounge with library, bar and sweeping 270-degree views, or relax the Oberservation Deck with 360-degree views and comfortable sun loungers. Reinvigorate in the heated salt water pool, well-equipped gym, enclosed hot tub, sauna and steam room. Savor daily international gourmet cuisine from talented chefs across two lavish restaurants, and settle into spacious and well-appointed accommodations each night.

Technical Specs

Year Built: 1991

Shipyard: Rauma, Finland

Classification: Lloyds 1AS, GL E4

Accommodation: 140 guests

Length: 124 metres

Beam: 18 metres

Draft: 4.97 metres

Gross Tonnage: 8,378gt

Engines: 3,940 horsepower (x2)

Maximum Speed: 15 knots

Cruising Speed: 12 knots

Range: 8,600 nautical miles

Zodiacs: 14

South Pacific Season 2024

Join us on these extraordinary voyages.

19 DAYS  13 – 31 Oct 2024  FREE flight Port Moresby to Cairns* Bali - Port Moresby - Cairns

18 DAYS  29 Sep – 16 Oct 2025 Bali - Madang - Cairns

Aboard  Heritage Adventurer

• Enjoy the unforgettable of swimming with the gentle Whale Sharks of Cenderawasih Bay
• Visit Komodo National Park - land of the Komodo Dragon
• Discover Jacques Cousteau's "underwater nirvana" Wakatobi National Park
• Explore the forgotten tropical paradise of Raja Ampat
• Snorkel pristine coral gardens looking for Dugong, Parrotfish, Clownfish, Manta Rays and Pygmy seahorses
• Discover ancient rock in hidden caves on rarely visited islands
• Brilliant birding with up to 14 species of Bird-of-paradise including Red Bird-of-paradise, Wilson's Bird-of-paradise, Magnificent Bird-of-paradise and Lesser Bird-of-paradise
• Swim with thousands of stingless jellyfish of and explore Tomolol Caves
• Trek into the lush rolling hills and tropical rainforest of the Arfak Mountains
• Thrilling cultural encounters at villages largely cut off from the outside world
• Discover WWII relics and snorkel Japanese war plane wrecks

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Discover the Secrets of Melanesia: Papua New Guinea, The Solomon Islands & Vanuatu

17 DAYS 30 Oct – 15 Nov 2024  FREE flight, Cairns to Port Moresby* 15 – 31 Oct 2025

Cairns, Australia - Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea - Port Vila, Vanuatu

• Discover the hidden gems of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu
• Be some of the first travellers in over two decades to return to the spectacular island of Bougainville
• Superb snorkeling in crystalline waters
• Mangrove Zodiac cruise in search of Dugong and crocodiles
• Meet friendly local villagers – remarkable and diverse cultural visits from island to island
• A Naturalist and Marine Biologist will also be on this expedition
• Exeptional birding including Manus Friarbird, Mussau Monarch, Superb Pitta, Roviana Rail, Solomon Sea Eagle, Beck's Petrel, Vanikoro White-eye, Kolombangara Monarch, Vanuatu Megapode and White-headed Fruit Dove
• Visit isolated Ambrym - ‘island of volcanoes' and home to traditional Rom dance
• Swimming at iconic Champagne Beach

Undiscovered Philippines and Indonesia: Cruising the Remote Islands of the Philippines and Indonesia, Manila to Darwin

15 DAYS 

24 Jun - 6 Jul 2024 Manila, Philippines to Darwin, Australia Aboard  Heritage Adventurer

• Discover tropical islands, snorkel pristine reefs, visit historic sites and experience forgotten cultures and incredible wildlife encounters
• Explore the 'Galapagos of Asia' Sibuyan Island
• Visit the 'Whale Shark Capital of the World' and swim with these gentle giants at Donsol
• Experience the power of Catandayagan Falls
• Discover the 'eight wonder of the world', Bohol Island's Chocolate Hills
• Snorkel the 'mother of all living coral reefs'
• Tojoman Lagoon/Sohoton Jellyfish Sanctuary
• Bucas Grande Island's iconic Blue Lagoon
• See the smallest primate in the world the saucer-eyed Tarsier
• Visit the Sultan of Ternate's palace and learn history of the Spice Islands
• Wildlife-filled Tangoko Nature Reserve, Banggai, Taliabu, Buru, Banda Neira and Tanimbar Islands

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Grand Pacific Odyssey: A Tropical Pacific Island Cruise from New Zealand to Japan

15/25 DAYS 13 - 27 Mar / 13 Mar - 6 Apr 2025 Auckland, New Zealand to Kavieng, Papua New Guinea / Osaka, Japan

Aboard Heritage Adventurer

• Explore reef-fringed tropical islands, visit historic sites and experience forgotten cultures and incredible wildlife encounters
• Cross both the Tropics of Capricorn and Cancer, and the Equator
• Disembark in Kavieng, Papua New Guinea, or continue on a specially priced extension through to Japan (2025 only)
• Visit former Australian penal colony now UNESCO World Heritage Site Norfolk Island
• World War II history, wrecks and relics at Honiara and on Bougainville Island
• Hidden gems of the South Pacific including New Caledonia, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and Japan
• Superb whale watching
• Experience unique time-honoured traditions and unforgettable cultural encounters and welcomes
• Explore and shop among locals at fascinating markets
• Visit Japan's Bonin Islands including the 'Galapagos of the Orient' Chichi-Jima Island
• Explore verdant forests and deserted beaches
• Swim and snorkel in crystalline waters

Western Pacific Odyssey: Birding Cruise from New Zealand to Japan

• Known as WPO in birding circles, this expedition is a 'must do' for all serious birders
• Perfect for those with a keen interest in rare birds, colourful cultures and exotic marine life
• Travel with some of the world's leading pelagic birding guides
• See some of the rarest seabirds in the world, plus many island endemics such as the unique Kagu, rare Heinroth’s Shearwater, Beck’s Petrel, Izu Thrush, Short Tailed Albatross, Japanese Murrelet
• Look for two new species of sea bird recently discovered on the WPO: the New Caledonian Storm Petrel and 'Heritage Lava Petrel'
• Hidden gems of the South Pacific including Norfolk Island, New Caledonia, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon and Japan
• Five days in the Solomon Islands birding on Santa Ana, Anuta Island, Tetepare and Kolombangara
• Bonin Islands: Search for the Short-Tailed Albatross and Japanese Murrelet
• Picturesque volcanic Hachijō-jima Island, home to the endemic Izu Thrush, Ijima’s Leaf-warbler and Owston’s Tit
• Explore verdant forests and deserted beaches; join early morning birding excursions

For all voyages, exact landings depend on weather and ice conditions and wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed; however, our 35+ years of experience in operating expeditions mean that we are well equipped to make the most of the conditions at the time. Past trip logs and species lists are available for all expeditions. 

What our travellers are saying:

What a fantastic trip! Not only did we get to five islands way off the beaten track, never before visited by a commercial expedition boat, but the friendliness and welcome, culture, activities, birds and freedom to roam made every stop unforgettable. And the hospitality on board was superb, meeting new friends - even getting to suggest special dishes. Looking forward to travelling with you again.

What an amazing trip! We visited remote communities that had rarely and in some cases never had visitors before. The welcomes were amazing and it was a real privilege being able to be part of such an experience. This was our 2nd trip with Heritage and it exceeded expectations. They are a true expedition company with great leaders and guides - we have no hesitation in recommending them.

Thanks for a truly wonderful trip. A great insight into the lives of the people of PNG, the Solomon islands and of Vanuatu. Wonderful snorkelling opportunities. A great crew! Thank you Aaron for your very capable and calm leadership. Thanks to Suzanne for your knowledge of local customs and the informative notices pinned up daily. Katrin for looking after our hospitality needs so well and the chefs for great food! Also a great bunch of fellow travellers!!

Choose Your Adventure!

Select your voyage(s) to receive the e-brochure, heritage expeditions.

Spanning two hemispheres — Antarctica’s Ross Sea and the Subantarctic Islands , New Zealand , Australia's Kimberley coast , Vanuatu , Solomon Islands , Papua New Guinea , Indonesia , Philippines , South Korea and Japan — we journey to UNESCO World Heritage sites, pristine nature reserves, and far-flung indigenous communities steeped in tradition.

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NEW! 2025-2026 SOUTH PACIFIC & TAHITI VOYAGES

Featuring boutique ports & free simply more™ amenities.

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• South Pacific & Tahiti Experiences

The Island Dream

Welcome to paradise. This far corner of the world has a mindset all its own – and it’s free of watches, routine and worries. Instead, blue lagoons, coral atolls, ukulele rhythms and lingering sunsets will fill the days of your Tahiti cruise. Whether you’re dreaming of Tahiti, Bora Bora or Fiji, our South Pacific cruises bring you the chance to discover some of the most remote and gorgeous islands in the world. What are you waiting for?

South Pacific & Tahiti Cruise Special Offers

From motu picnics and lagoon catamaran sailings to black pearl farm tours and safari adventures, our South Pacific shore excursions bring you the best of the local culture, natural beauty and cuisine. Extended evening stays and overnights across the region give you the chance to more fully embrace the iconic wonders and island life with explorations ashore and leisurely, meaningful touring.

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Dream. Plan. Discover.

Follow your bliss.

South Pacific & Tahiti Ports

Extend your stay before or after your South Pacific cruise at one of these luxurious hotels, carefully selected for their superb location, ambiance, world-class standards of service, cuisine and amenities. Our hotel packages include free air date changes up to 3 days before or after your cruise and free transfers between the airport, hotel and ship as well as porterage. You’ll also enjoy the services of our exclusive Oceania Cruises hospitality desk at each hotel.

Featured South Pacific & Tahiti Hotels

InterContinental Tahiti Resort

Papeete, french polynesia.

InterContinental Tahiti Resort has long been rated the top hotel on the island of Tahiti. Located alongside the lagoon with a view of Tahiti’s sister island, Moorea, it's the perfect place to begin or end a visit to French Polynesia. Nestled in a sumptuous garden setting covering nearly 30 acres, the resort boasts two superb infinity pools and offers an extensive range of activities.

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour

Sydney, australia.

Choose a sophisticated setting with the beautiful harbor-side haven of Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, featuring 590 luxurious rooms, 35 of which are lavish suites. Spread over 35 floors in Darling Harbour’s tallest building, enjoy the latest technology and contemporary decor with chic French touches, plus unique dining experiences overlooking the harbor. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the harbor and skyline, laze the day away by the infinity pool or indulge at the Champagne Bar.

Grand Windsor Hotel

Auckland, new zealand.

Set in an art deco building dating from 1936, this refined hotel in the city center is a seven-minute walk from restaurants and bars in Viaduct Harbour and a nine-minute walk from the landmark Sky Tower. Stylish rooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi and flat-screen televisions as well as mini-fridges and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Amenities include a wellness center and a chic fine dining restaurant and bar serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel

Los angeles, california.

For decades, Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel has been a preferred address for Hollywood celebrities and the international elite – from Elvis Presley, John Lennon and Warren Beatty to the Aga Khan, Dalai Lama and the British royal family. This luxury hotel in Beverly Hills, California features 395 stylish guest rooms, including 137 spacious suites. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining, a world-class spa and warmly hospitable Four Seasons service. A landmark since opening in 1928, Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel combines history and glamour in the heart of Beverly Hills, California – just steps from Rodeo Drive shopping and dining.

Our South Pacific Pre- and Post-Cruise Land Programs invite you to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures, cuisines and rich history of this region. These multi-day, in-depth Land Programs include exclusive tours, premium hotel stays, airport transfers when arriving and departing the day your program begins and ends, and oftentimes locally inspired meals and porterage too.

Featured South Pacific & Tahiti Land Programs

Romantic Escape

The name Bora Bora alone conjures images of an island paradise and the reality of visiting this crown jewel in French Polynesia far exceeds even the wildest imaginations. Impossibly beautiful and extraordinarily romantic, Bora Bora is the tropical gold standard, an island surrounded by a crystalline lagoon that resembles as artist’s palette of aqua blues and emerald greens. What better way to enjoy it than from the comfort of a private overwater bungalow in a luxury resort with towering Mount Otemanu as a backdrop?

• 1 night in Bora Bora in a private overwater bungalow
• 1 American buffet breakfast and 1 three-course dinner
• Non-motorized watersports
• Roundtrip boat transfers between Vaitape and the resort
• Welcome cocktail and flower lei

Scenic Blue Mountains

Nature dominates this adventure into the Blue Mountains, a massive UNESCO World Heritage site blanketed with eucalypt forest and pristine bushland. Explore Jenolan Caves, a labyrinth of limestone chasms that underground rivers carved over eons. Behold roaring Wentworth Falls and hear Aboriginal legends about the weathered Three Sisters peaks. Options in Scenic World alone include riding the world’s steepest incline railway, traveling between clifftops in a glass-bottom tram and descending into the ancient Jamison Valley by cableway. Stroll Australia’s most elevated botanical gardens for good measure.

• 1 night in Sydney
• 2 nights in Katoomba at the historic Carrington Hotel
• Visit a farm to see to kangaroos, emus, wombats and koalas
• Walk to Wentworth Falls
• Incline railway at Scenic World
• Visit the English-styled gardens at Mount Wilson
• Visit the Jenolan Caves
• Eplore the village of Leura
• Select meals

Today’s Featured South Pacific & Tahiti Cruises

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From the Oceania Cruises Blog

PARADISE FOUND: THE ALLURE OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC

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Why Choose a Pacific Island Cruise

Our Pacific Island cruises explore far-off islands that only a small ship or yacht can reach, offering the perfectly intimate mode of transport and ability to be ever-ready to observe the marine life, sunsets and coastlines. Cruise in the company of expert naturalist guides with daily off-vessel explorations to actively experience the Pacific Islands up close. With our diverse selection of small ship South Pacific cruises in 2024, let the AdventureSmith team guide you through the sprinkling of islands that reside in this incredible destination. The best South Pacific cruises by small ship focus on remote unexplored regions away from big ship crowds. Visit Hawaii as you never have before, exploring several islands while never missing a sunset. A truly cultural experience, Papua New Guinea cruises offer a look into a world that very few outsiders see. French Polynesia, including Tahiti and Bora Bora, focus on explorations of secluded atolls, lush volcanic peaks, pristine coral reef, remote cultures and infinite shades of azure. Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, is cloaked in mystery with its widely known but seldomly visited, intriguing moai statues. We are Pacific Island cruise specialists with the perfect small ship for your interests, style and budget.

Follow in the wake of Captain Cook on this cruise between New Zealand and the Solomon Islands. Board 102-guest Nat Geo Orion for an itinerary full of native cultures, historic sites and stunning nature.

This unique 8-day, 4-island itinerary offers discovery of Hawaii's rich traditions and natural wonders, including a thrilling night snorkel. Experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean aboard the 36-guest Safari Explorer luxury yacht.

On this Tuamotu and Society Islands cruise aboard 102-guest National Geographic Orion, swim, snorkel, dive, paddle, hike and connect with locals alongside expert National Geographic guides.

Pacific Island Cruises

The Pacific Islands and Polynesia span over 7,000 miles from Hawaii to Rapa Nui and over 4,000 from Rapa Nui to New Zealand, comprising some 30,000 islands in the Pacific Ocean. Pacific Island cruises are a traveler’s paradise—and not just for the tropical landscapes and diverse sea life. Everywhere, you are greeted by warm smiles of a culture where wealth is measured not by how much they have but by how much they can give away. With limited air travel to small islands, there is no better way to explore the vast Pacific than on our small ship cruises in the Pacific Islands. Pacific Island cruises, including South Pacific cruises, encompass a wide range of exciting geography amid pristine crystal-clear waters. The best South Pacific cruises feature spectacularly beautiful land formations. Explore dramatic volcanic and coral islands while having the unique chance of meeting many of the locals whose rich cultural heritage is evident in fascinating archaeological ruins. Small ship cruises in the Pacific Islands are the ultimate way to explore the Pacific Islands and Polynesia.

Pacific Island Cruises with AdventureSmith

Pacific Island cruises by small ship focus on remote unexplored regions away from big ship crowds. Discover Easter Island’s moai statues, French Polynesia’s azure seas, Papua New Guinea’s unique communities and Hawaii’s lesser-known gems in an active way with expert guides. Why book your Pacific Island cruise with AdventureSmith?

Personalized

Work one-on-one with a dedicated Adventure Specialist to research, book & prepare for your South Pacific cruise.

Our South Pacific cruises get you out hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, diving & stand-up paddleboarding.

Let our experience with South Pacific cruises help match you with the best small ship cruises in the pacific islands.

Our longstanding partnerships in South Pacific cruise destinations translate into savings for you.

What Are The Best South Pacific Cruises?

The best South Pacific cruises incorporate your priorities, whether they be cultural visits , education, celebration , activity, romance or all of the above. Our experienced Adventure Specialists are ready to talk through all of your options for small ship cruises in the Pacific Islands, with insights into which Pacific Island is the best to visit based on your interests. Our options for South Pacific cruises in 2024 & 2025 range from the crystal-clear waters of Hawaii to Easter Island, Papua New Guinea and French Polynesia’s Tahiti, the Marquesas and Bora Bora.

Luxury South Pacific Cruises

Cruise around the Pacific Islands in style aboard the refined yet relaxed Safari Explorer . Ideally sized at only 36 guests, this ship offers many opportunities for camaraderie with fellow guests as well as private spaces to take in amazing Hawaiian sunsets. Or consider exploring the islands of French Polynesia on luxury South Pacific cruises in 2024 that feature the best guides from National Geographic.

Our South Pacific luxury cruises all feature stunning scenery, abundant wildlife and unique visits to locations without the tourist crowds; they also emphasize the luxury of time to truly explore, with most luxury South Pacific cruises spanning well over a week.

“ Pacific Island cruises by small ship focus on remote unexplored regions away from big ship crowds. ”

Temperature & Rainfall

Ideal Pacific Islands Weather for Cruising

Small ship cruises in the Pacific Islands operate during the Northern Hemisphere’s cooler months, October through May. Take the opportunity to escape the cold and enjoy some sun, pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters on South Pacific cruises during North American winter. While our small ship cruises in the Pacific Islands sail the North Pacific, South Pacific and Indian Ocean, they all offer a lush climate that’s easy to enjoy. Note that the climate data referenced above is for Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Chile, in the South Pacific Ocean.

When Is The Best Time To Travel To The Pacific Islands?

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Small Ships Cruising the South Pacific

Small ships are at the heart of our Pacific Island cruises as we venture away from big ship crowds and busy resort towns. The small ships and yachts we offer provide unparalleled access to remote wilderness areas, spectacular coral reef, historical sites and authentic villages. Small ship South Pacific cruises provide travelers an expedition that is simply incomparable to travel on larger vessels. While often described as expedition ships, these vessels truly offer luxury South Pacific cruises; they’re stable enough to transit the open Pacific yet small enough to explore pristine beaches, reef and remote villages. Return to the ship each evening for a tropical cocktail, a spectacular sunset, an informative lecture and restful sleep in a comfortable cabin. The ship cruises while you sleep and you’ll awake each morning in an exciting new destination to explore.

The 120-guest Coral Adventurer Australian expedition ship offers a wine cellar, open galley, private balconies and efficient ship-to-shore operations.

102-guest National Geographic Orion is one of the most sophisticated vessel in its class. Small ship cruises aboard the Orion offer a luxurious exploration of Chile, Tahiti, Australia, New Zealand and beyond.

This luxury motor yacht embodies an ambiance of refinement and relaxation, with just 36 guests. The Safari Explorer cruises the Hawaiian Islands, Alaska's Inside Passage. and the Gulf of Alaska.

Pacific Island Cruise & Ship Reviews

To cruise around the Pacific Islands is an indescribable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. But with so many choices it can be difficult to determine the best South Pacific cruise for you. Our Pacific Island cruise reviews are honest reports of what cruising in this region is really like. What is the food like? How much activity can I expect? What are cabins like on the ships? These reviews will not only inform you on subtle nuances of small ship cruises in the Pacific Islands, but they will also inspire you for the voyage ahead.

Adventure Specialist Andrew Browning reviews his 14-day Islands of the South Pacific cruise aboard the 72-guest Coral Discoverer.

An AdventureSmith expert shares his experience on the 8-day Hawaiian Seascapes cruise aboard the 36-guest Safari Explorer.

An AdventureSmith cruise expert goes aboard in Australia to write this ship review of the 120-guest Coral Adventurer. Read about her favorite features and cabin insights.

As I drift off to sleep I begin to dream of the amazing experiences that I couldn't even have imagined only seven days ago. I dream of diving with manta rays, of Pele, the goddess of fire, of paddle boarding at Shark's Fin Cove and swimming in the cool water under the cascading falls of Moâ'oula.

What’s the first question a newly-married couple gets? “Where did you guys go on your Honeymoon?” We are outdoorsy and adventurous. We enjoy hiking and getting out there, we want to experience things that others could only read about. We didn't want to completely rough it on our honeymoon but we also didn't want the resort or the 2,000 person cruise ship.

What Travelers Say About Their Pacific Island Cruises

We've always wanted to see Hawaii but didn't want resorts or large cruise ships. This trip was very active, yet relaxed and intimate -- perfect for us.

The trip leaders were all excellent. Friendly, accommodating, helpful, fun. No request was ever too much, unless it was unsafe.

The guides were always enthusiastic, considerate of all passengers' abilities and extremely knowledgeable. The entrees were always fresh and locally sourced. Thank you Arielle for your help and quick response to questions.

We loved the luxury of the cruise, combined with the various active adventures. Perfect!

We wanted to experience the different islands of Hawaii, and we love water adventures, so this was a perfect fit!

This was an ideal trip -- so many fun activities in a beautiful variety of Hawaiian locations, and yet without crowds and hustle-bustle. We loved the snorkeling and whale watching most. Both gave us a sense of awe at nature's variety and beauty, and the small groups with expert guides provided a rare atmosphere of intimacy. Everyone in our group of 25 was good-natured and enthusiastic. The night snorkel with manta rays was a disappointment because only one ray appeared that evening, but there were dozens of unruly tourists.

This trip was a blissful contrast to the "touristy" experience one often finds elsewhere in Hawaii. We've always wanted to see Hawaii but didn't want resorts or large cruise ships.  This trip was very active, yet relaxed and intimate -- perfect for us.

Accommodations Review

The ship was comfortable and welcoming.  Our cabin, while not large, had plenty of storage and was well appointed.

Meals Review

We thought the food was superb.  Both the chef and pastry chef offered a wonderful variety of delights at every meal, and we were always given choices.  The service was always capable and gracious

Crew & Guides Review

Our leaders (Jill Q. and Jill B) couldn't have been better.  They were highly knowledgeable, obviously loved nature and Hawaii, always positive and helpful -- they had that elusive balance of energy and even temper.  They went out of their way to give us a beautiful experience!

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

The information provided and Aaron's helpfulness were great.

Traveler Advice

Try to plan some time in Hawaii before and after the cruise.  The "before" allowed us to explore another part of the islands -- and gave the airline time to get our luggage to us two days late!  The "after" gives a chance to transition from the relaxation of the cruise to the hassle of the flight home.

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Hawaiian Seascapes Cruise
• Safari Explorer

This is a well tuned adventure. The staff are very experienced with the itinerary, the excursions and activities, the ship, and seemed to really enjoy working with each other. The itinerary is busy if you participate in everything, but allows opting out choices for people who want to relax. The route is a slow pace, and flexible to allow for sudden changes in weather or whale sightings. The weather was perfect, and we got up close and personal with whales, dolphins, green sea turtles and many fish while snorkeling. We also got insights into life in the less visited islands of Lana'i and Moloka'i.

The rooms are pleasant, simple and functional. There was plenty of hot and fresh water. The beds are very comfortable.

The food was excellent - local, varied, and very flexible. The pastry chef was even more amazing. For this particular chef, he seemed to love garlic and salt. I would recommend easing up on both.

It's a fabulous adventure.

Beyond excellent in all ways! Snorkeling every day in a wide diversity of settings was our favorite activity. We also felt that all the excursions were planned so that you were fully immersed in the Hawaiian culture and experience.

Our ship quarters were compact but had ample storage even for over-packers like us.

The entrees were always fresh and locally sourced. Portion size was not overwhelming which I appreciated. You were always able to modify a dish or even request salads or oatmeal. Desserts were amazing, quality over quantity. Great specialty drinks and appetizers.

The guides were always enthusiastic, considerate of all passengers' abilities and extremely knowledgeable. 

Thank you Arielle for your help and quick response to questions.

• Arielle Lightcap

Simply fantastic. We loved the luxury of the cruise, combined with the various active adventures. Perfect!

We had wanted to see Hawaii, but are not overly enthusiastic about crowds and commercialism. We wanted to see multiple islands, but did not know which ones to pick. This cruise was perfect, since they took us to 4 different islands and arranged lots of great activities. It was especially great because everything (including the alcohol) was included in one price.

Amazingly good food!

Maria and Jess did great jobs as our expedition leader/guide. We thoroughly enjoyed the activities and their enthusiasm.

We appreciated the advance information. And my questions were promptly and accurately answered.

There was one hike that was a bit grueling for me, but they were up front about it at the beginning. In spite of that, it was good to be out in the forest in Hawaii and see some things we don't see at home.

This trip exceeded our expectations! We wanted to experience the different islands of Hawaii, and we love water adventures, so this was a perfect fit! We enjoyed all the water activities the most...mostly because that’s what we enjoy, and they were worth the effort. We saw lots of great fish, coral and other wildlife. We loved the whales, they put on quite a show! The group seemed to connect fairly quickly. Some great new friends!

The room on Safari Explorer was very nice. Bed was very comfortable!

All the meals were excellent!

We had everything we needed, and everything was well prepared for our travel and reservation.  

The entire crew was amazing. They got to know us within minutes of our first encounter, and always seemed to have a genuine concern for us. Jessica and Lauren were amazing. Both we well informed and found the best opportunities for us in every situation. Always very concerned and watching out for our safety. Both had a great sense of humor, Lauren tells some pretty good jokes! Jessica was always very positive and optimistic, and authentically sincere! They were an absolute delight! I don’t remember the name of the boat driver in Kona, he drove the Black Pearl. He was very informative and a lot of fun.

Deals on Pacific Island Cruises

The experts at AdventureSmith can help you find the latest discounts, explain the ins-and-outs of the islands and secure your dream South Pacific cruise at the best rate. From early-booking deals to discounts on new routes, browse our current deals on small ship South Pacific cruises in 2024 & 2025, Pacific Island cruises and other itineraries for ways to save.

Get a group of 6 or more together and receive 5% off on your select 2025 small ship cruise.

Save 15% per person when you book your select 2025 adventure cruise sailing the warm waters of Baja, California or Hawaii.

Book your select 2025 departure in Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico (Baja, California), or the Galapagos Islands and receive 2024 pricing + 10% off.

Experience a new aloha aboard Safari Explorer and visit four islands in one week! Book your select 2024 Hawaiian Seascapes cruise and save 10% off any cabin category.

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on a variety of 2024 or 2025 National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Gather a group of 6 or more to save 5% off the booking on select 2025 departures of the below-linked small ship cruises worldwide.

Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and may be combined with select offers. See all  cruise deals  for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.

• Alaska Fjords & Glaciers
• Alaska’s Glacier Wilderness with Glacier Bay
• Inside Passage with Olympic National Park & 2 Days in Glacier Bay
• Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise with 2 Days in Glacier Bay
• Northern Passages with Glacier Bay & Sitka
• Wild & Woolly Alaska Cruise
• Prince William Sound Explorer
• Baja California’s Whales & Sealife
• Northern Gulf of California: Whales, Birds & Sealife
• Darwin’s Galapagos Discoveries
• Exploring British Columbia & The San Juan Islands

Save 15% on select 2025 departures of the below-linked cruises sailing the warm waters of Baja, California or Hawaii.

Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and may not be combined with other offers. Valid on any cabin category. A deposit of $500 is required upon booking. See all  cruise deals  for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.

Book your select 2025 departure of the below-linked small ship cruises in Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico (Baja, California) and the Galapagos Islands to lock in 2024 pricing and receive 10% off.

Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and can be combined with other select offers. See all  small ship cruise deals  for a comprehensive list of current savings on this and other adventures.

Save 10% on any cabin category when you book your select 2024 Hawaiian Seascapes cruise aboard Safari Explorer.

Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and can be combined with UnCruise loyalty savings, referral savings, military, and REI member benefits. See all small ship cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on this and other adventures. Valid for departures on March 2, 9, 30; April 13, 20; November 1, 23, 30; December 7, 14, 21, 28, 2024.

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on select 2024 and 2025 departures of the below-linked National Geographic expeditions.

Offer valid on new bookings only, for a limited time upon availability and may be combined with other select offers. Applicable on voyage fares only, not valid on extensions or airfare. Deposit, final payments, and cancellation policies for group travel vary from the standard policy. See all  cruise deals  for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.

• Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness
• Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia
• Prince William Sound Cruise & Rail Adventure
• Great Bear Rainforest Cruise: The Land of the Spirit Bear
• A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii
• Wild Alaska Escape: Juneau & Ketchikan
• Wild Alaska Escape: Sitka & Juneau
• Northwest Passage: Greenland to Alaska
• High Arctic Archipelago: Canada & Greenland
• Coastal Wonders of Norway, the Faroe Islands & Iceland
• Norway’s Fjords & Arctic Svalbard
• Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard & The Northern Fjords Cruise
• National Geographic Land of the Ice Bears
• Svalbard, Iceland & Greenland’s East Coast Cruise
• A Circumnavigation of Iceland
• Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Cruise
• Iceland’s Wild West Coast to East Greenland Cruise
• Baja California: Among The Great Whales
• Baja California: A Remarkable Journey
• A Southern Migration: From The Channel Islands to Baja California
• Wild California Escape: Channel Islands National Park
• Baja California Holiday Voyage: A Living Sea & Desert Isles
• The Canadian Maritimes & Newfoundland
• Fabled Lands of the North: Greenland to Newfoundland
• Panama & Colombia: Exploring The Caribbean Coast
• Sailing the Caribbean Aboard Sea Cloud
• National Geographic Endeavour II Galapagos Cruises
• National Geographic Wild Galapagos Escape Cruise
• Best of Chilean Patagonia: From Torres del Paine to Cape Horn
• Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island
• Southern Patagonia: Glaciers, Fjords & Wildlife Cruise
• Costa Rica & The Panama Canal
• Mediterranean Gems: Southern Italy & Sicily Aboard Sea Cloud
• Sailing the Greek Isles Aboard Sea Cloud
• Isles of Antiquity: Malta, Sardinia & the Balearic Sea Aboard Sea Cloud
• Corsica & Sardinia Aboard Sea Cloud
• Sailing The Ancient Shores of Sicily & Malta
• Under Sail: Greece & The Dalmatian Coast Aboard Sea Cloud
• Scotland’s Highlands & Islands
• Pearls of the Pacific: Exploring The Society & Tuamotu Islands
• Rites & Relics: Fiji Firewalking, Vanuatu Volcanoes & Beyond
• Fiji & Tahiti Adventure: Vibrant Reefs & Cultural History
• Columbia & Snake Rivers Journey
• National Geographic Upper Amazon Cruise
• Vietnam & Cambodia: Along the Mekong River, Including Angkor & Saigon
• Wild Costa Rica Escape: Guanacaste Cruise
• National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands
• National Geographic The White Continent
• National Geographic South Georgia & The Falklands
• Antarctica & Patagonia: Legendary Ice & Epic Fjords
• Coastal New Zealand: Scenic Fjords, Māori History & Abundant Wildlife
• Southern Odyssey: New Zealand & The Sub-Antarctic Islands
• Roots of the Pacific: Exploring New Zealand & Melanesia
• Kimberley Expedition: Northwest Australia & Indonesia
• Exploring Indonesia: Bali, Raja Ampat & Papua New Guinea
• Jewels of The Java Sea: An Exploration Between Bali & Singapore

Our Experts Are Your Best Route to a Tropical Island Cruise

Our tropical cruise destinations span beyond the Pacific Islands too. Our experts are just a phone call or email away to assist you in narrowing down all the lush-locale cruise options. Contact us to receive a personalized recommendation on the best tropical cruise for your travel style, budget and timing needs, or head to our Trip Finder  to do your own research.

Contact Us - Pacific Island Cruises

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Cruises to the South Pacific 2023

Embrace paradise today.

CHOOSE FUN ON A 2023 SOUTH PACIFIC CRUISE!

South Pacific cruises in 2023 mean white sand, pristine beaches, tropical rainforests, and some of the best hospitality you will ever encounter.

Cruising the South Pacific with Carnival means visiting some of the most beautiful islands on earth, and experiencing everything they have to offer.

Enjoy the friendly people of French Polynesia, Vanuatu, and Fiji, and marvel at the magnificent marine life and natural beauty of the whole region.

Cruising to the South Pacific with Carnival also means making the most of more than more than 45 activities onboard .

With one of our South Pacific Island cruises in 2023, you and your family will make memories that will last forever.

VIEW 2023 South Pacific CRUISES

Commonly Asked Questions

Are there south pacific islands cruises in 2023.

What better way to get away from it all and relax than with one of our South Pacific Island cruises in 2023. A Carnival cruise from Sydney and Brisbane, Australia can take you to some amazing places for visits and shore excursions including:

• Isle of Pines
• Dravuni Island
• Mystery Island
• Port Denarau

What islands make up the South Pacific?

There are about 180 islands in the South Pacific, and about 40 of them are inhabited. Our South Pacific Island cruises in 2023 visit a fair few of them, mostly from the three main countries in the area:

• New Caledonia

When is the best time to cruise to the South Pacific?

There really is no bad time to go cruising to the South Pacific. And that’s why we offer South Pacific Island cruises from Sydney and Brisbane most months of the year. You can escape the Australian winter or enjoy the stunning South Pacific summer.

What is the weather like in the South Pacific?

There’s a lot of great things about our South Pacific Island cruises in 2023, including the:

• Natural beauty
• Chrystal-clear water
• Marine life
• Tropical rainforests

And, of course, the weather is a big one. When it comes to temperature, the region averages between high 20s and low 30s Celsius for the whole year.

What are the best cruises to the South Pacific Islands in 2023?

Keep updating this page to find the best South Pacific Island cruises in 2023 for you and your family. There are plenty of great deals and a heap of dates to choose from.

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2026 Voyages Unveiled

2024 voyages, solo travelers save, 2025 voyages open for sale, 2025 boutique crossing collection, condé nast traveler readers' choice top 2 favorite, for kids & families.

• Itineraries Select Itinerary Tahiti & the Society Islands Society Islands & Tuamotus Cook Islands & Society Islands Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands More Society Islands & Tahiti Islands of the Marquesas & Tuamotus Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands Crossing Oceania: Fiji to Bali Immersive Indonesia: Singapore to Australia Crossing Melanesia: Australia to Fiji More Tuamotus & Society Islands
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Spend more time enjoying your cruise vacation and less time worrying about every little detail when it’s all been taken care of—from gourmet dining to onboard gratuities, and so much more.

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Explore paradise with French Polynesia’s destination expert and enjoy Bonus Savings of up to 30% on the widest variety of all-inclusive journeys in the region when you book now. These islands have been our home for more than 25 years and our expertise in revealing them with artful authenticity is unmatched.

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PACIFIC ISLANDS CRUISES ON SALE

Our best Pacific Islands cruise deals right now, created by our travel experts to offer you incredible holidays at serious value.

Contact your local House of Travel cruise consultant to find a cruise that suits you

P&O Cruises

2025 Short Break - 90's and 00's

3 night from Sydney, departs 21 Feb 2025, from $547 per person twin share Sydney, At Sea, Sydney Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, Click below for live pricing & actual availability

2025 Fiji Encounter - June

9 night Fiji Encounter from Auckland, departs 27 June 2025, from $1,305 per person twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, Click below for live pricing and actual availability

2025 Short Break - 80's

3 nights cruise from Auckland, departs 16 May 2025, from $521 per person twin share Auckland, At Sea, Auckland Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, Click below for live pricing & actual availability

2024 Picton Shortbreak

4 night Picton Shortbreak from Auckland, departs 29 Aug 2024, from $837 per person in a Oceanview stateroom twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, click below for live pricing & actual availability

2024 Country Music Cruise

3 night Country Music Cruise, Round trip from Auckland, departs 16 Aug 2024, from $741 per person in a Suite stateroom twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, click below for live pricing & actual availability

2024 Comedy Cruise

4 night Comedy Cruise, Sydney to Auckland, departs 04 Jul 2024, from $488 per person in a Oceanview stateroom twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, click below for live pricing & actual availability

2024 Pacific Island Hopper

9 night Pacific Island Hopper from Auckland, departs 08 Jul 2024, from $1,796 per person twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, click below for live pricing & actual availability

2024 Fiji Encounter

8 night Fiji Encounter from Auckland, departs 17 Jul 2024, from $1,514 per person twin share in a Interior Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, click below for live pricing & actual availability

2024 Bounty Discovery

10 night Bounty Discovery from Auckland, departs 10 Sep 2024, from $1,727 per person in a Interior stateroom twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, click below for live pricing & actual availability

2024 Bounty Adventure

13 night Bounty Adventure from Auckland, departs 03 Aug 2024, from $2,197 per person in a Interior twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, click below for live pricing & actual availability

2024 Tongan Discovery

10 night Tongan Discovery from Auckland, departs 19 Aug 2024, from $1,535 per person twin share in a Interior Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, click below for live pricing & actual availability

2024 80's Party Themed Cruise

3 night 80's Party Theme cruise, Round trip from Auckland, departs 20 Sep 2024, from $945 per person in a Oceanview twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, click below for live pricing & actual availability

2024 Fiji Encounter - September

8 night Fiji Encounter from Auckland, departs 23 Sep 2024, from $1,400 per person twin share in a Interior Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, click below for live pricing & actual availability

2024 Pacific Island Hopper - October

9 night Pacific Island Hopper from Auckland, departs 01 Oct 2024, from $5,700 per person twin share in a Suite Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, click below for live pricing & actual availability

2025 Pacific Island Hopper - April

8 nights cruise from Auckland, departs 11 April 2025, from $1,253 per person twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, Click below for live pricing and actual availability

2025 Pacific Island Hopper - May

8 night Pacific Island Hopper from Auckland, departs 23 May 2025, from $991 per person twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, Click below for live pricing and actual availability

2025 Fiji Encounter- April

9 nights cruise from Auckland, departs 19 April 2025, from $1,228 per person twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, Click below for live pricing and actual availability

2025 Pacific Island Hopper

8 nights cruise from Auckland, departs 28 April 2025, from $1,179 per person twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, Click below for live pricing and actual availability

2025 Bounty Discovery - June

10 night Bounty Discovery from Auckland, departs 3 June 2025, from $1,275 per person twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, Click below for live pricing and actual availability

2025 Pacific Island Hopper - July

8 night Pacific Island Hopper from Auckland, departs 6 July 2025, from $1,221 per person twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, Click below for live pricing and actual availability

2025 Bounty Discovery - May

10 nights cruise from Auckland, departs 6 May 2025, from $1,430 per person twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, Click below for live pricing and actual availability

2025 Queensland Explorer

14 night Queensland Explorer from Auckland, departs 13 June 2025, from $1,566 per person twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, Click below for live pricing and actual availability

2025 Bay Of Islands

4 nights cruise from Auckland, departs 19 May 2025, from $542 per person twin share Based on Value Fares as at 19Apr24, Click below for live pricing and actual availability

Paul Gauguin

Society Islands & The Tuamotus Cruise

10 nights from $8485 per person share twin in a Window Stateroom Departs 6 Mar & 24 Apr 2024

Tahiti & Society Islands Cruise

7 nights from $6582 per person share twin in a Window Stateroom Departs 6 Apr 2024

Cook Islands and Society Islands

11 nights from $8935 per person share twin in a Porthole Stateroom 11 Departures in 2023 and 2024

Blue Lagoon Cruises

Blue Lagoon Cruises - Escape to Paradise

7 night Cruise from $4,305 per person share twin Multiple dates available in 2024 & 2025

Blue Lagoon Cruises - Wanderer Cruise

4 night Cruise from $2,750 per person share twin Multiple dates available in 2024 & 2025

Captain Cook Cruises

Lau and Kadavu Discovery Cruise

11 night Cruise from $12,889 per person in a Standard Suite share twin Fiji Luxury Small Ship Cruising Available from 11 Nov 23 to 31 Mar 25

CAPTAIN COOK CRUISES

Northern Yasawa Islands Cruise

4 nights Cruise from $4,687 per person in a Standard Suite share twin Fiji Luxury Small Ship Cruising Available from 11 Nov 23 to 31 Mar 25

Mamanuca & Yasawa Island Cruise

7 night Cruise from $8,202 per person in a standard suite twin share Fiji Luxury Small Ship Cruising Available from 11 Nov 23 to 31 March 2025

Mamanuca & Yasawa Islands Cruise

3 nights Mamanuca & the Yasawa Cruise from $3,515 per person in a Standard Suite share twin Fiji Luxury Small Ship Cruising Available from 11 Nov 23 to March 2025

Southern Lau and Tonga, Northern Fiji and Samoa cruise

14 night Cruise from $16,404 per person in a standard suite twin share Fiji Luxury Small Ship Cruising Available from 11 Nov 23 to 31 March 2025

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Snorkelling and diving aficionados, travellers in search of genuine authenticity, modern explorers… The Oceania and Pacific islands cruises have been created specifically with you in mind. With ports of call at the idyllic beaches of French Polynesia and New Caledonia, these cruises provide exceptional opportunities to go snorkelling and admire some of the most beautiful seabed environments in the world.

The wild, untamed region of Kimberley and particular parts of New Zealand's volcanic regions are home to simply spectacular scenery. Meeting the local peoples of Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea is a profound experience of human brotherhood and fraternity.

All about cruises Oceania & Pacific Islands

Pearls of The Society Islands

• Last staterooms

Australia's Iconic Kimberley

Cook Islands & Society Islands

Society Islands & The Tuamotus

Marquesas in depth, Tuamotus & Society Islands

Tahiti & the Society Islands

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Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.

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Our cruises Oceania & Pacific Islands

Papua new guinea, vanuatu & solomon islands, french polynesia, easter island, new zealand, the kimberley, new caledonia, reasons to discover oceania and pacific islands.

Their names make them sound like the Garden of Eden . Tahiti, Bora Bora, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, the Kimberley in Australia… Oceania and the South Pacific are packed with islands and wild landscapes with traditional cultures. Here is why these destinations are completely unique.

Essential Oceania and Pacific Islands

A vast region made up of countless islands, from the little dots of Micronesia to huge Australian territories, exploring Oceania and the South Pacific Islands involves the water, fabulous excursions and unforgettable encounters. Here are 10 things you must do .

Explore Oceania and Pacific Islands

Meet the Remote Populations in Oceania

Dance, diving and traditional Kai Kai: experience a day in the Marquesas

Take a closer look at… the Kimberley, the untamed Australian treasure

4 reasons to discover Oceania and Pacific Islands?

To learn about ancestral cultures

In northern Australia, meeting the locals is quite the experience. Papuans from the Asmat region, Tiwi people from the "islands of smiles", the Yolngu from Elcho Island, the Yirrkala: all are proud to share their customs and traditional dances with visitors. The same goes for the Maoris of New Zealand, the Polynesians and the tribes of Vanikoro and Vanuatu. The warm welcome given to travellers is always an emotional moment .

For unforgettable dives

The turquoise lagoons of Bora Bora, the translucent waters of Tahiti, the Micronesian islands and Kouaré Island in New Caledonia, the open-air aquarium in Rangiroa, considered one of the most beautiful underwater sites on the planet by Jacques Cousteau… Watching tropical fish, multicoloured coral, manta rays and grey reef sharks never gets boring, whether you're scuba diving or freediving.

For the variety of unspoilt scenery

Oceania and the Pacific Islands are destinations that are all about land and water . The myriad of blue shades in the water are offset by a palette of every imaginable green . As well as turquoise lagoons, clear waters, tempestuous waterfalls and deep seas, there are mangroves, beaches edged by coconut trees, rocky peaks, mountains and volcanoes covered with trees, jungles and tropical forests. These nuanced patchworks of scenery and varied landscapes are reliably enchanting.

For the historic sites

Oceania and the Pacific are brimming with important historical sites . Remnants of the Second World War can still be found in Rabaul (Papua New Guinea) and on Guadalcanal (Solomon Islands), where the Battle for Henderson Field took place in 1942. Lovers of wreck diving will find the remains of the entire Japanese army, air force and navy fleet in Chuuk, Micronesia. The Japanese were bombed by the Americans in February 1944 in retaliation for the Pearl Harbour attack.

See the water music women in action - Maewa Island, Vanuatu

Vanuatu is one of those idyllic archipelagos in the South Pacific. White-sand beaches, sparkling waters and wild "blue holes" surrounded by lush vegetation create just the kind of picture-postcard scenery you might imagine. This region has its own unique music tradition. This is performed by the water music women , who sing and hit the water to the beat using precise techniques passed down from mother to daughter. The result is a poetic melody that is harmonious and full of emotion.

Dive off idyllic islands and atolls - Micronesia

With its 607 islands dotted across 3,000 kilometres in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Micronesia is a real wonderland for divers . It offers a range of underwater playgrounds. The most unusual site is undoubtedly Chuuk Lagoon, with its wrecks from the Japanese fleet sunk by the US army during the Second World War. However, Micronesia's location on the fringes of the Coral Triangle means it has huge biodiversity in its caves and on its walls and other faults. This area contains 76% of known coral species and 56% of known reef fish. Depending where you dive, you may see manta rays, grey reef sharks, silvertip sharks, blacktip reef sharks, whale sharks or thousands of fish.

Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park - Big Island, Hawaii

Hawaii has several volcanoes, including two with world records. Kīlauea, one of the most active in the world, and Mauna Loa, the highest on the planet (17 km tall), are part of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and create spectacular landscapes. A solidified lava lake emitting steam, a lava tunnel formed 500 years ago, boiling water, magma flows pouring into the sea... This intense volcanic activity is making the island grow each year: 200 hectares have been created in the past 30 years!

Watch dolphins and whales - Moorea, French Polynesia

Moorea is a great place to watch dolphins and whales in French Polynesia. You can see spinner dolphins, rough-toothed dolphins and pilot whales along the coast all year round. Excursions are led by Dr Michael Poole: an American dolphin and whale specialist who has lived in Polynesia since 1987 (or his assistant). From August to mid-November, humpback whales also come to mate or give birth in the lagoon.

Try Polynesian wine and rum - Tuamotus, French Polynesia

Although it might seem unusual, Polynesia does make wine and rum. The Rangiroa Winery produces dry and sweet white wines and rosé in the heart of the Tuamotus. These fresh wines are the fruit of work by men and women who are keen to showcase their terroir and share its riches. Visiting the estate will teach you more about the history of wine in Polynesia and give you the chance to try Manao rum : Polynesia's first pure sugar cane rum.

See the moai - Easter Island

Over 4,000 kilometres from the coast of Tahiti, Easter Island is one of the world's most isolated...and the most mysterious. It has many huge statues known as moai . Ahu Tahai and Ahu Akivi are the most iconic sites. The latter, built around 1460 BC, has no fewer than seven statues which are four metres tall and weigh 12 tonnes.

Walk through the thermal marvels of Wai-O-Tapu - New Zealand

The Wai-O-Tapu site (meaning "sacred waters") is totally unique. This geothermal basin sculpted by millennia of volcanic activity has various walks that take you to its different marvels: the steaming "champagne pool" in orange and green shades, fumeroles, huge volcanic craters, colourful hot and cold water springs , and more.

Be moved by the beautiful Marlborough fiord landscapes - New Zealand

The Marlborough fiords are an amazing set of submerged and interlaced valleys. The vegetation on the sides of the cliffs plunges into colour-changing waters that are sometimes turquoise and sometimes navy. Walkers can go along the Queen Charlotte Track to enjoy fabulous viewpoints taking in the surroundings and coast below.

Fly over the Bungle Bungle Range - Kimberley, Australia

The Kimberley is one of the last-remaining fully wild areas on the planet. This huge region in ochres and reds has some extraordinary scenery. In Purnululu National Park , the Bungle Bungle Range has orange and grey striped domes (thanks to iron and clay) which have been gradually eroded for millennia. Although this Park, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2003, is accessible by road, the best way to see it is to fly over it in a Cessna-type plane. Seen from above, you can take in the territory's 3,000 square metres of rocks, dry river beds, gorges and maze-like landforms.

Meet the Asmat warriors - Papua New Guinea

The Asmats are famous warriors. Although their period of cannibalism is over, their ancestral culture endures. According to their belief system, reality and the supernatural are as one and items that belonged to previous generations, which some consider primitive art, are actually sacred. For the Asmat people, shields, statues, musical instruments and masks contain the souls of their ancestors. Today, locals welcome travellers on board their superb war canoes, share their traditional ceremonies and dances and give tours of their village.

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Ports of call in Oceania

Tahiti, Bora Bora, Vanuatu, Moreea, Easter Island... Oceania and the Pacific Islands are like the Garden of Eden: from the heavenly beaches of Polynesia and New Caledonia to the discovery of the wild Kimberley region, the fabulous panoramas of New Zealand and the ancestral cultures of Polynesia, your cruise will take you under enchanting skies, to discoveries rich in emotion.

View Ports of Call

• Abrolhos Islands Marine Park (Australia)
• Adamstown, Pitcairn Island (Pitcairn)
• Aitutaki (Cook Islands)
• Akaroa (New Zealand)
• Albany (Australia)
• Alotau (Papua New Guinea)
• Amédée Island (New Caledonia)
• Anaa, Tuamotu Islands (French Polynesia)
• Antipodes Islands (New Zealand)
• Ashmore Reef (technical stop) (Australia)
• Asmat, Papua (Indonesia)
• Atuona, Hiva Oa Island (French Polynesia)
• Auckland (New Zealand)
• Badas, Sumbawa (Indonesia)
• Banda Neira, Maluku Islands (Indonesia)
• Barat Daya Islands (Indonesia)
• Bay of Islands (New Zealand)
• Benoa, Bali (Indonesia)
• Beqa Island (Fiji)
• Bora Bora, Society Islands (French Polynesia)
• Bougainville (Papua New Guinea)
• Broome (Australia)
• Burrup Peninsula (Australia)
• Cairns (Australia)
• Campbell Island (New Zealand)
• Cape Peron (Australia)
• Cape York (Australia)
• Careening Bay (Australia)
• Cenderawasih Bay (Indonesia)
• Chuuk (ex Truk) (Micronesia)
• Collier Bay (Australia)
• Crossing the International Date Line
• Darwin (Australia)
• Dili (East Timor)
• Dobu Island (Papua New Guinea)
• Doubtful Sound (New Zealand)
• Dunedin (New Zealand)
• Dusky Sound (New Zealand)
• Enderby Island, Auckland Islands (New Zealand)
• Esperance (Australia)
• Espiritu Santo Island (Vanuatu)
• Fakarava, Tuamotu Islands (French Polynesia)
• Fergusson Island (Papua New Guinea)
• Fleurieu Peninsula (Australia)
• Fremantle (Australia)
• Gaferut Atoll (Micronesia)
• Ghizo Island (Solomon Islands)
• Gisborne (New Zealand)
• Guam (Guam)
• Hakahau, Ua Pou Island (French Polynesia)
• Hakahetau, Ua Pou Island (French Polynesia)
• Hanavave (Bay of Virgins), Fatu Hiva Island (French Polynesia)
• Hanga Roa, Easter Island (Chile)
• Hapatoni, Tahuata Island (French Polynesia)
• Hatiheu, Nuka Hiva Island (French Polynesia)
• Hobart, Tasmania (Australia)
• Honiara, Guadalcanal Island (Solomon Islands)
• Huahine, Society Islands (French Polynesia)
• Hunter River (Australia)
• Ifalik Atoll (Micronesia)
• Jayapura, Papua (Indonesia)
• Jurien Bay Marine Park (Australia)
• Kaikoura (New Zealand)
• Kalabahi, Alor (Indonesia)
• Kei Islands, Maluku Islands (Indonesia)
• King George River (Australia)
• King Island, Tasmania (Australia)
• Kiriwina Island (Papua New Guinea)
• Kitikiti Waterfall, Mommon (Indonesia)
• Komodo National Park (Indonesia)
• Kopar (Papua New Guinea)
• Lacepede Islands (Australia)
• Lamotrek Atoll (Micronesia)
• Lautoka, Viti Levu Island (Fiji)
• Lifou (New Caledonia)
• Lizard Island (Australia)
• Lusancay Islands (Papua New Guinea)
• Lyttelton (New Zealand)
• Macquarie Island (Australia)
• Madang (Papua New Guinea)
• Makatea, Tuamotu Islands (French Polynesia)
• Malaita Island (Solomon Islands)
• Maria Island, Tasmania (Australia)
• Marlborough Sounds (New Zealand)
• Maré, Loyalty Islands (New Caledonia)
• Maumere, Flores (Indonesia)
• Milford Sound (New Zealand)
• Montebello Islands (Australia)
• Moorea Island (French Polynesia)
• Morobe Harbour (Papua New Guinea)
• Motu Mahana, Taha'a Island, Society Islands (French Polynesia)
• Musgrave Inlet, Auckland Islands (New Zealand)
• Napier (New Zealand)
• Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area (Australia)
• Njari Island (Solomon Islands)
• Norfolk Island (Australia)
• Nouméa (New Caledonia)
• Oban, Stewart Island (New Zealand)
• Omoa, Fatu Hiva Island (French Polynesia)
• Papeete, Tahiti Island (French Polynesia)
• Parai Beach (Indonesia)
• Picton (New Zealand)
• Pink Beach, Komodo National Park (Indonesia)
• Port Lincoln (Australia)
• Port Vila, Efate (Vanuatu)
• Promise Bay, Tasmania (Australia)
• Puama'u, Hiva Oa Island (French Polynesia)
• Pulap Island (Micronesia)
• Rabaul, Bismarck Archipelago (Papua New Guinea)
• Raiatea, Society Islands (French Polynesia)
• Raja Ampat Islands, West Papua (Indonesia)
• Rangiroa, Tuamotu Islands (French Polynesia)
• Rarotonga (Cook Islands)
• Recherche Archipelago (Australia)
• Rikitea, Gambier Islands (French Polynesia)
• Roderick Bay, Florida Islands (Solomon Islands)
• Ross Sea Region (Antarctica)
• Sailing Doubtful Sound (New Zealand)
• Sailing Dusky Sound (New Zealand)
• Sailing Milford Sound (New Zealand)
• Sailing Tasman Peninsula (Australia)
• Sailing in the Marlborough Sounds (New Zealand)
• Samarai Island (Papua New Guinea)
• Santa Ana Island (Solomon Islands)
• Satawal Island (Micronesia)
• Savusavu, Vanua Levu Island (Fiji)
• Semarang (Indonesia)
• Shark Bay World Heritage Area (Australia)
• Singapore (Singapore)
• Stanley, Tasmania (Australia)
• Surabaya, Java (Indonesia)
• Suva, Viti Levu Island (Fiji)
• Swift Bay (Australia)
• Taiohae, Nuku Hiva Island (French Polynesia)
• Tamar Valley, Tasmania (Australia)
• Tami Islands (Papua New Guinea)
• Tasman Peninsula (Australia)
• Tauranga (New Zealand)
• The Snares (New Zealand)
• Thursday Island (Australia)
• Triton Bay, West Papua (Indonesia)
• Tufi (Papua New Guinea)
• Ulva Island (New Zealand)
• Vansittart Bay (Australia)
• Vava'u Islands (Tonga)
• Waiheke Island (New Zealand)
• Wellington (New Zealand)
• Whakatane (New Zealand)

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• Pacific Islands

DISCOVER THE PACIFIC ISLANDS WITH P&O

We have been cruising to the Pacific Islands for over 86 years, so we know all the best spots and experiences to make your holiday in paradise one to remember. Cruises to Fiji, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Tonga, Solomon Islands and more.

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Suites & Staterooms

Please select your stateroom or suite type and room category from the available options.

• Daily housekeeping
• Complimentary 24-hour room service
• Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
• Luxurious bathrobes
• Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
• Generous storage
• Fresh fruit upon request
• Ice service
• TV with On Demand movies, programming

Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms.

These expansive staterooms include include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and bath tub with premium massage showerheads.

Signature Suite

• Whirlpool bath

These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed for one person. The bathroom includes a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, and an additional shower stall.

Neptune Suite

• Premium bathrobes, slippers
• Fresh flowers
• One-Touch concierge service
• Whirlpool bath (suite dependent)
• In-suite coffee, espresso
• Complimentary laundry
• Pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in suite
• Welcome glass of sparkling wine
• Priority boarding for tender ports, priority dining/seating requests, special disembarkation service
• High tea in suite on request
• Exclusive tote bag

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, plus additional shower stall. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

Your Ship: Westerdam

A fascinating destination in her own right, Westerdam has won multiple Best Cruise Ship awards and features superb bar, entertainment and dining venues. During the day, rejuvenate with a spa treatment at the heavenly Greenhouse Spa & Salon®. Head to the upper decks for a friendly game of Pickleball at Sea with top-deck views. Catch a performance at the World Stage or spend your evening on the dance floor at Rolling Stone Lounge.

• 1916 Guests
• 936 ft. Length
• 105.8 ft. Width

Dining & Onboard Activities

Each day on board offers delicious dining options, world-class entertainment and enriching activities

Pinnacle Grill

The ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of Prime steaks, seafood and wine.

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality — as well as classic steakhouse dishes and innovative recipes from James Beard Award-winning chef and Culinary Council® member, David Burke. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

*Meals at Pinnacle Grill are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Canaletto is a relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine that is best enjoyed when shared.

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Meals at Canaletto are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Lido Market

A casual, modern marketplace, Lido Market offers the widest range of food options on board for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late-night snack.

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

This casual poolside grill serves up the best burgers at sea, Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dogs, golden French fries and more.

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

24-Hour Room Service

Enjoy breakfast in bed or an early dinner on your verandah — entrées and more are available whenever you wish.

Sleep in and have breakfast delivered. Enjoy an early dinner on your verandah before an evening excursion. Order a salad, sandwich or entrée any time. Room Service is only a phone call away. All selections are included in your cruise fare unless otherwise noted on the in-room menu.

Explorations Cafe

Our relaxing café with panoramic views is your home for handcrafted espresso drinks during the day and refreshing cocktails in the evening.

At Explorations Café, sink into plush chairs and sofas in a comfortable environment. Sip elegantly prepared espresso drinks and nosh on fresh pastries from the coffee bar. You can also take in fantastic views, catch up on your favorite book or browse the web. 

The Dining Room

Our flagship dining experience is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. 

Crow's Nest

BARS AND LOUNGES

Enjoy cocktails and sunsets in this lounge, featuring panoramic views.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges onboard. The panoramic view takes center stage in The Crow's Nest at the top of the ship, where you can relax just about any time of day and enjoy your favorite drink.

Explorer's Lounge

Elegant and refined, stop by for a glass of wine or your favorite cocktail.

The Explorer’s Lounge is an elegant and refined space to enjoy a glass of wine, a cocktail, or your favorite liqueur.

Enjoy cocktails and ocean views while listening to live music.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges. This popular bar is at the top of the atrium and is the perfect locale for cocktails and dancing.

Gallery Bar

In this art-themed bar, order your favorite cocktail or try one from our signature cocktail menu.

This sophisticated venue is adorned with an eclectic and whimsical mix of artwork including portraits, landscapes, still life and abstract pieces. Order your favorite cocktail or try one from our signature cocktail menu.

Billboard Onboard

ENTERTAINMENT

Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the room each night.

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

World Stage

World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

World Stage, the largest theater on board is home to a variety of performances day and night. Our exclusive EXC® Talk lecture series features captivating regional stories told by local experts and narrated by your Cruise & Travel Director. In the evenings, Step One Dance Company, vocal sensation Cantaré, BBC Earth in Concert and more take the stage.  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam  bring the World Stage experience to the next level by surrounding you in spectacular sight and sound with a two-story, panoramic LED screen.

Rolling Stone Lounge

Our 7-piece band brings you the best in rock, pop, country and more.

Dance to your favorite songs with one of the best bands at sea. From rock and pop to country and beyond, we provide the perfect playlist live, each and every cruise.

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard.

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Fitness Center

Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Holland America Line Navigator

Personalize your cruise experience with our free mobile-friendly tool.

Personalize your cruise experience once you’re on the ship with our free mobile-friendly tool. Plan your daily activities, browse and purchase shore excursions, view restaurant menus, make dining reservations, check your account balance and more. 

Casino Action

The Casino offers games for all levels.

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Pickleball at Sea

Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with amazing top-deck views.

Play the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with Holland America Line, the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. All our cruise ships feature pickleball courts with amazing top-deck views. The equipment and courts are available for a match anytime, so long as the weather allows. Frequent pickler? Join a pickleball tournament at sea and put your dink shot to the test. Hesitant amateur? Learn the basics at complimentary beginner’s lessons, starting in spring 2023. Commemorative starter kits will soon be available in our retail shops — purchase as gifts for avid players or as souvenirs, so that you can always look back on your pickleball cruise memories.

Kids ages 3 to 17 can enjoy an array of activities. Registration required for children under 13.

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Kids Club, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties. Note: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard.

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EMBRACE THE ISLAND LIFE

South pacific cruises.

Find an island oasis that's wild, beautiful and brimming with life in the South Pacific.

The South Pacific islands are the definition of paradise, and the abundance of wildlife is sure to capture your lust for adventure. Beaches of warm, powdery white sand and aqua waters are surrounded by tropical rainforests and soaring mountains. The world's second-largest double barrier reef surrounds the islands of New Caledonia, where a lagoon teems with a kaleidoscope of fish and sea-life. Majestic humpback whales glide between the islands of Tonga, the only South Pacific area to escape colonisation. The Loyalty Islands have a wild beauty that will spark your imagination, while the friendly locals will make you feel right at home. Cruise to the South Pacific to settle into island time and relax into the simple life.

Spread Your Fins in the South Pacific

Find an island oasis that is wild, beautiful and brimming with life in the South Pacific

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A WHALE OF A TIME

Whether you dive, snorkel or swim, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the sparkling warm waters and colourful coral gardens. See marine life and shipwrecks off Vanuatu's remote Espiritu Santo Island, or spot humpback whales in the waters near Tonga and Moorea .  

NEW ZEALAND

PERFECT DAY AT LELEPA

STEP OUT OF YOUR SHELL

Celebrate your visit by shaking your hips to lively, traditional music. Let locals show you around hidden beaches and guide you through rainforests teeming with tropical wildlife. Check out the traditional village on Tanna Island near Vanuatu or Taga Village in Samoa. 

MYSTERY ISLAND

ALL THE WAYS TO EXPLORE ISLAND HOP THROUGH THE SOUTH PACIFIC

Let the gentle trade winds take you from the lagoons of Tahiti to the white sands of Fiji . No island is the same, and each beach is more beautiful than the next with an extensive things to do selection.

AUSTRALIA SYDNEY & MELBOURNE

EXPLORE MORE

NEW ZEALAND & TASMANIA

VANUATU & FIJI ISLAND

ASIA THAILAND

Off the beach, make sure you cover your shoulders and wear knee-length shorts to respect local customs.

The South Pacific islands are a dream year-round, though the dry season from May to October tends to have more rain-free days.

Car hire is easy to come by and recommended if you want to explore the islands at your own pace.

Related Ports

A new adventure awaits in Tahiti and French Polynesia, where everything has a subtle hint of French style. Go for impressive hikes that end in waterfalls in Vanuatu. Or dive into the sparkling aqua waters of the island-sized lagoon in New Caledonia.

Brisbane, Australia

Auckland, New Zealand

Adelaide, Australia

Airlie Beach, Queensland

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Lautoka, Fiji Islands

Moorea, French Polynesia

Cairns (Yorkeys Knob), Australia

Isle of Pines, New Caledonia

Lifou, Loyalty Islands

Mare, New Caledonia

Akaroa, New Zealand

Bay Of Islands, New Zealand

Darwin, Australia

Doubtful Sound (Cruising), New Zealand

Esperance, Australia

Geraldton, Australia

Hobart, Tasmania

Melbourne, Australia

Mystery Island, Vanuatu

Noumea, New Caledonia

Nuku'alofa, Tonga

Papeete, Tahiti

Champagne Bay, Vanuatu

Dunedin, New Zealand

Dusky Sound (Cruising), New Zealand

Tauranga, New Zealand

Vavau (Neiafu), Tonga

Wellington, New Zealand

Milford Sound (Cruising), New Zealand

Napier, New Zealand

Newcastle, Australia

Perth (Fremantle), Australia

Picton, New Zealand

Port Douglas, Australia

Port Hedland, Australia

Port Vila, Vanuatu

Suva, Fiji Islands

Sydney (White Bay), Australia

Sydney, Australia

Willis Island (Cruising), Australia

Wollongong (Port Kembla), Australia

Lyttelton (Christchurch), New Zealand

Eden, Australia

Port Arthur, Tasmania

Cairns, Australia

Penneshaw, Australia

Gladstone, Australia

Exmouth, Australia

Raiatea, French Polynesia

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• It List 2024 Overview: It List 2024
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Travel + Leisure’s 2024 It List.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

For the first time, we’re spotlighting new cruise ships on Travel + Leisure ’s It List, as these exceptional vessels become more and more like floating resorts — celebrity chefs, crystal chandeliers, and Rolex boutiques included.

Explora Journeys’ Explora I

Paul Brady/Travel + Leisure

It’s not every day a new cruise line arrives. The debut of the remarkable Explora I was a moment years in the making for Explora Journeys , the upstart luxury operator that aims to bring a European sensibility to the world of vacations at sea. So far, the project is a smashing success, thanks to the ship’s low-key vibe, standout food and beverage, and intriguing itineraries that visit in-demand ports in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. My own August 2023 trip on Explora I , from Copenhagen to Hamburg, Germany, included fulfilling visits to places such as Oslo and the town of Stavanger, Norway, a gateway to adventurous hiking with a postcard-perfect Old Town. The ship itself was also a destination, with its abundance of outdoor space — including an alfresco fitness center — and pools at seemingly every turn. The 461 suites, all of them with balconies, are filled with luxurious touches such as Frette linens and robes, heated marble floors, and Dyson hair dryers. But Explora I truly shines when it comes to food: During the week I was aboard, it was impossible to find a bad meal — and I was often astonished at the quality of, in particular, the pasta served in the Emporium Marketplace and the sushi on offer at Sakura, two of the nine restaurants aboard. The most ambitious of them all is Anthology, a rotating-chef concept that has seen a residency from seafood whiz Mario Ulaissi, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant on Italy's Adriatic coast, and that recently welcomed Emma Bengtsson, from Aquavit , in New York City. Much has been made of Explora I ’s Rolex boutique — the first on any cruise ship — but for my money, the other shops on board were more interesting: The company has tapped family-owned businesses around the world to create capsule collections of resort wear, handbags, fragrances, sunglasses, and beautiful gifts that can’t be found elsewhere. From $2,050 per person for a six-day sailing. Accessible ship. — Paul Brady

Oceania Cruises’ Vista

Nick Tortajada/Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

The new Oceania Vista is in a class of its own; no really, it’s the first in Oceania Cruises ’ new Allura class. Of its 11 bars and restaurants, three are entirely new to the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings–owned brand — including a high-end cocktail spot called Founders’ Bar, serving 26 intricate drinks that use house-made syrups and top-shelf booze like Whistle Pig and parsley-infused Grey Goose. As Oceania levels up, the cruise line has produced a ship that feels more like a floating resort than the vessels that came before. There’s pickleball; a health-conscious restaurant, Aquamar, serving made-to-order salads and pressed juices; and a coffee shop that looks like one in walking distance of my home in L.A. (marble counters, gold accents, leather bar stools) and pulls an espresso shot of similar quality. Vista has more suites than others in the Oceania fleet, too: There are 14 Oceania Suites (up to 1,200 square feet); eight Vista Suites (up to 1,850 square feet); and three Owner’s Suites with Ralph Lauren Home decor and two massive terraces (2,400 square feet). But the most hotel-like touch? A celebrity chef–driven restaurant, Toscana, where Giada De Laurentiis — the ship’s godmother — supplied two recipes for the menu. As someone who watched a lot of Everyday Italian in the early aughts, I was particularly excited to try her signature, Capri-inspired lemon spaghetti, and lemon-cream sauce with grilled shrimp and capers didn’t disappoint. From $2,499 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sixth ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur , sailed its inaugural season in December, joining sibling ships Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor as the newest member of the luxury fleet. The cruise line is a favorite among T+L readers for its gorgeous ships and all-inclusive pricing that covers unlimited shore excursions, dining at specialty restaurants, and even round-trip airfare. Grandeur lives up to its name thanks to stunning, art-filled spaces designed by cruise ship interior experts Studio Dado: signature restaurant Compass Rose is enchanting with interiors inspired by a fairy-tale forest; the Observation Lounge sparkles with an undulating chandelier and swanky bar; and the $11,000-per-night Regent Suite has a private en suite spa and custom Treesse mini pool. As I boarded Grandeur for the ship’s inaugural sailing, I was mesmerized by the grand staircase and glittering chandelier. And with a maximum capacity of 744 guests, I found it easy to take time to myself in the myriad of quiet spots tucked throughout the ship, whether in the Serene Spa and Wellness area, in the Library, or on the Sports Deck overlooking the ocean. Seven restaurants include specialty steakhouse Prime 7, pan-Asian restaurant Pacific Rim, and breakfast and lunch buffet La Veranda, which refines the cruise buffet experience with daily specials like paella and sushi. Several bars and lounges, a pool and hot tubs, a casino, Broadway-style productions, and cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen make the ship a destination in itself, though guests will want to take advantage of those included excursions on Caribbean, Central American, North American, and European itineraries, ranging from seven to 16 nights, during the ship’s 2024 season. From $4,669 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Silversea’s Silver Nova

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Carrying 728 passengers, Silver Nova is big for the luxury sector, but boasts a hugely important metric: a capacious passenger space ratio — that is, the number of guests relative to the size of the ship. Simply put, this ship offers more elbow room per passenger than almost any other cruise vessel. Silver Nova is wrapped in glass, with an asymmetrical layout; the funnel is positioned off-center, so is the pool, offering an expansive, uncluttered pool deck. Many features of the brand-new ship recall previous Silversea successes, my favorite of which is the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program, expanded for Silver Nova . S.A.L.T. perks include a gorgeous, sea-facing lab for hands-on culinary lessons (at no additional cost), plus a new concept, the Chef’s Table, where an 11-course menu is prepared for just 24 diners. All facets of the S.A.L.T. ecosystem, including ingredients, a bar, lectures, and shore excursions, are keyed to the region Nova is sailing. While food is a drawing card for Silver Nova , accommodations also received a revamp. Tied to the theme of bringing the outside in, there are brilliant new suites found in the aft starboard corner of the ship, with wraparound balconies revealing a 270-degree view.  This is where you can tuck me in when I win the lottery and head off on a world cruise. But until then, Silver Nova will summer in Alaska and spend northern hemisphere winters in Australia and New Zealand, places where top-deck views should prove ceaselessly rewarding. From $3,250 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — David Swanson

It List 2024

Protect Your Trip »

The 7 best 3-day cruise itineraries for 2024.

Plan a long weekend getaway aboard a cruise for fun, scenery and entertainment.

The Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Hop aboard the Carnival Radiance for a short but fun-filled cruise weekend.

Whether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

Book a Norwegian cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Conrad Schutt | Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

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Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List
• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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Moscow (Russia)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Russia Rivers

Local Time 2024-04-26 03:13

Moscow is a Volga River cruise port, Russia's capital and largest city (population over 12,2 million, metro 17 million). Moscow City covers a total area of approx 2610 km 2 (970 mi2). By population, the city is ranked the world's 14th largest. Moscow is one of the Russian Federation's all 3 federal cities - together with St Petersburg and Sevastopol .

Being Russian Federation's capital, Moscow is a major economic, political, scientific and cultural center, as well as Europe's biggest city.

According to Forbes 2013, Moscow has been ranked as the 9th most expensive city in the world by Mercer and has one of the largest urban economies, being ranked as an alpha global city according to Globalization and World Cities Research Network. It is also one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the world according to MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index. Moscow is the northernmost and the coldest megacity and metropolis on the Earth. It's home to Ostankino Tower, the tallest free-standing European structure; the Federation Tower, the tallest European skyscraper; and the Moscow International Business Center. 

Moscow is situated on Moskva River in the Central Federal District of European Russia, which makes it the most populated inland city in the world. Moscow city is well known for architecture, particularly its historic buildings like Saint Basil's Cathedral. With over 40% of its territory covered by greenery, it's one of the greenest capitals and major cities in Europe and the world. Moscow is the seat of power of the Russian Government, being the site of Moscow Kremlin, a medieval city-fortress that is now the residence of the President of Russia. Moscow Kremlin and Red Square are among the several World Heritage Sites in the city. 

Moscow has 2 passenger terminals, North River Terminal (Rechnoy vokzal) and South River Terminal. The regular ship routes and cruises along Moskva and Oka rivers are used mostly for entertainment. North River Terminal (1937-built) is currently the main hub for long-range routes along the river. There are 3 freight ports that serve Moscow.

In late-July 2021 the city announced plans to incorporate a fleet (unspecified number) of fully electric passenger ferries into its public transportation network from summer 2022, the goal being to reduce the dependence on cars.

• The boats are designed with length ~22 m (72 ft), passenger capacity 42, modern amenities (Wi-Fi, USB charging points, tables for working commuters), spaces for storing scooters and bicycles.
• Moscow Transport confirmed that two routes (with max daily capacity ~16,000 passengers) have already been mapped out.
• Passengers will be able to pay via bank cards, the city’s Troika card (smart card for travel by any public transportation) or biometric payment cards. Those with monthly/yearly public transit tickets will use the boats at no extra cost.
• The new electric ferry service is up to 5 times faster (in comparison to other city public transports) and ~2 times faster than by car.

Moscow cruise terminal

Moscow's cruise terminal is called North River Terminal or River Station  ("Rechnoy Vokzal" / "речной вокзал").

The terminal was opened in 1937 and is one of 2 passenger terminals (the other being South River Terminal) of the city's river transport. North River Terminal is the main hub for long-range (including cruise) shipping routes. 

South River Terminal (above photo) was opened in 1985.

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Moscow - user reviews and comments

The 8 best Hawaii cruises in 2024 and 2025

C ruising the Hawaiian Islands offers U.S. travelers an immersive South Pacific escape with all the comforts of home. In fact, the Aloha State is in many ways an ideal cruise destination. It has year-round sunny weather, four main islands featuring varied topographies — including sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, volcanic mountains and vibrant green valleys — and a wide array of land- and water-based activities.

The main caveat? Hawaii cruise options are somewhat limited — just a fraction of what's available in the Caribbean — and many itineraries involve multiday crossings from the West Coast. Only one cruise line offers Hawaii itineraries throughout the year; most others visit during specific months or when repositioning ships in spring and fall.

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Looking for the Hawaiian Islands sailing that's right for you? Here's a look at the eight best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line's 7-night Inter-island Hawaii

For travelers who want more aloha time than the typical eight-hour port call allows, Norwegian Cruise Line has a solution. Its 2,186-passenger Pride of America lets vacationers sample four Hawaiian islands over seven days, with overnights in Maui and Kauai, plus port calls on both Hilo and Kona on the island of Hawaii. In total, this itinerary offers nearly 100 hours of shore time.

Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu every Saturday year-round. As a U.S.-flagged ship, it's the only large vessel permitted to sail this way. Not only do you skip the long Pacific crossing that most cruise ships do to reach Hawaii, but passports are not required for U.S. citizens, and you can tack on pre- or post-cruise stays on Oahu.

The overnights on Maui and Kauai also mean it's possible to try several of Hawaii's signature experiences that most port calls don't allow. Passengers can catch dusk or dawn from atop Maui's massive 10,023-foot dormant volcano with sunrise and sunset excursions to the Haleakala Crater. And with the ship in port all night on Kauai, guests who want to enjoy traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music and hula performances can book the Luau Kalamaku for a fun evening out.

Pride of America, which has been cruising Hawaii since 2005, doesn't have the onboard thrills (race track, virtual-reality gaming, waterslides) of Norwegian's newer ships , but that's okay because the islands, not the ship, are your main destination. Its American-themed decor celebrates U.S. cities in a vibrant, and at times, kitschy way, but a 2021 refurbishment left its cabins and public spaces feeling refreshed.

Many of Norwegian's specialty dining venues (which incur a surcharge) are on board, including Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro (here, it's Jefferson's Bistro), Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki.

Who should go: Anyone seeking a convenient way to island-hop — and see a lot of Hawaii — by making the most of the generous shore time with a combination of independent exploration and shore excursions. Most sailings attract couples ages 50 and older, although summer and holiday sailings have plenty of families on board.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

UnCruise Adventures' 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes

Cruisers seeking a less traditional, more carefree Hawaii experience can have it from November to April aboard UnCruise Adventures ' 36-passenger Safari Explorer. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary, which begins either on Molokai or the island of Hawaii, is an unconventional one designed for those who enjoy going off the beaten path in an intimate and more authentic setting. U.S. passports aren't required to sail.

UnCruise visits four islands — Maui and Lanai plus Molokai and Hawaii — and focuses on not only their striking landscapes and underwater beauty but also the cultural traditions, cuisine and music of the Hawaiian people. On Molokai, where there's not a single traffic light and the lifestyle is slow-paced, passengers get a chance to "talk story" with locals and enjoy a pa'ina (feast) and evening jam session. Lanai activities range from snorkel, paddleboard and kayak excursions to off-road adventures exploring the privately owned island's dramatic sea cliffs, red rock formations and vast fields once filled with Dole pineapples.

Most UnCruise sailings are during Maui's humpback whale season, so sightings while cruising off the coast of Maui are possible. You might also catch glimpses of dolphins and sea turtles. A "Captain's Choice" day is a wild card determined by the weather, marine life in the area and other factors, while the final two days are spent exploring the Big Island of Hawaii — including a hike up Hualalai volcano and a skiff ride along the rugged coast.

Constructed in 1998, Safari Explorer was designed with adventure itineraries in mind (in summer the U.S.-flagged ship repositions to Alaska). Its size allows it to navigate areas larger ships can't reach, which in Hawaii means bays and coves ideal for snorkeling or watersports.

With such a small number of passengers aboard, guests get to know each other — and Safari Explorer's friendly and knowledgeable crew — quite well. Passengers come together over meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, and as all UnCruise fares include unlimited wines, spirits and microbrews, shipmates can raise a glass without worrying who's buying a round. It all lends itself to an exclusive yet utterly relaxed week of cruising.

Who should go: The ship's laid-back onboard vibe paired with its land- and water-based activities make the Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary ideal for active travelers seeking a nature-focused itinerary — although cruise fares (which start around $5,900 per person) are among the priciest for a Hawaii cruise.

Related: Why it's easier to meet new people on a smaller cruise ship

Holland America's 17-night Circle Hawaii

Travelers who have more than two weeks to spare and who prefer to arrive in Hawaii via ship rather than an airplane can do so on Holland America 's 17-night Circle Hawaii itinerary. They'd better also love sea days because crossing the Pacific from San Diego or Vancouver to Honolulu and back requires 10 days.

That means passengers enjoy five or six days in Hawaii on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the island of Hawaii. Some itineraries stay in select ports overnight. Cruises departing from San Diego also call on Ensenada, Mexico. With either departure port, passports will be required.

The itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and 1,432-passenger Zaandam.

Travelers with more time on their hands can also visit Hawaii as part of longer Pacific island cruises with Holland America. Koningsdam will sail a 35-night Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary in 2025 that combines visits to four Hawaiian islands with calls on five islands in French Polynesia and Fanning Island, Kiribati (and 20 sea days).

Related: Holland America unveils epic cruise to Hawaii and Alaska for 2025

Zaandam will also sail 51- to 56-night Tales of the South Pacific itineraries that visit multiple islands in Hawaii and French Polynesia along with ports in the Cook Islands, American Samoa and Fiji.

Holland America is popular with cruisers ages 60 and older, many of them retired, who have time to enjoy longer itineraries on ships that offer good value with a focus on culinary and musical enjoyment. Two of Koningsdam's most popular venues are its live entertainment area with three venues — B.B. King's Blues Club (for Memphis-style rhythm and blues), Billboard Onboard (for chart-topping hits played by a live pianist) and Rolling Stone Rock Room (for a live band playing classic rock), and World Stage, a theater with a 270-degree screen used for both special BBC Earth in Concert and theatrical productions.

Onboard specialty dining options (at an added cost) include Pinnacle Grill for steaks and seafood, Tamarind for Pan-Asian cuisine and Rudi's Sel de Mer for French Brasserie specialties and seafood.

Who should go: Mature travelers who prefer not to fly and who enjoy a more traditional cruise experience. They should also love sea days as much (or even more so) than port exploration.

Related: 16 mistakes cruisers make on cruise ship sea days

Princess Cruises' 15- or 16-night Hawaiian Islands

Princess Cruises is also a good option for longer sailings. The cruise line offers numerous round-trip itineraries to Hawaii from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego in the fall and winter.

The majority of sailings are aboard the 3,080-passenger Crown Princess and Ruby Princess from San Francisco, and the 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess from Los Angeles.

Ships are in port for nine to 11 hours in Hawaii (Hilo), Kauai and Maui and for 16 hours in Oahu. Itineraries include a stop in Ensenada, Mexico (so passports are required), plus nine or 10 sea days.

The ships feature many of Princess' popular dining venues, including Alfredo's Pizzeria (a sit-down venue serving personal-size pizzas), Crown Grill for steaks and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. There's plenty of outdoor space for soaking up the sun — including an adults-only sun deck — and a dazzling Piazza for enjoying cocktails, gelato and pop-up street performers.

Fans of Princess' Movies Under the Stars poolside screenings (with free popcorn) and Discovery at SEA enrichment programming will have ample time to enjoy these perks on a Hawaii sailing.

Who should go: These sailings will appeal to couples or groups of friends who prefer to have a wide choice of sailing dates, can take the time to enjoy a leisurely Pacific crossing and appreciate Princess' focus on quality cuisine and a sun deck designed for relaxation rather than thrills.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Celebrity's 9- to 12-night Hawaii Cruise

Travelers seeking modern interior decor on a ship designed with couples in mind can visit Hawaii aboard Celebrity Cruises ' 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice or 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge on itineraries ranging from nine to 13 nights — but only if the timing is right. That's because the line offers only two sailings per ship each year (in spring and fall) as the ships reposition between Alaska and destinations in the Pacific. The itineraries are one-way (Vancouver to Honolulu or vice versa) with passports required.

These cruises call on three ports on two islands: Honolulu (Oahu) and Hilo and Kona (Hawaii), with one or two overnights in port and 10 hours ashore on one-day visits. All include five days in a row at sea. Since the itineraries either begin or end in Honolulu, there's also a chance for some pre- or post-cruise exploration.

Sea days offer opportunities to enjoy the chic, grown-up ambience and amenities aboard these ships. Each vessel offers multiple complimentary and extra-fee specialty restaurants. Celebrity Solstice features Tuscan Grille for Italian specialties and steak and Murano for modern French cuisine, while Celebrity Edge offers the whimsical Le Petit Chef and the international Eden Restaurant.

Celebrity's signature Martini Bar and many other onboard watering holes keep the grown-up vibe going day and night. Choose cruise fares that include alcohol and Wi-Fi, or pay a lower rate and pay for your drinks as you go.

Who should go: The slightly shorter one-way sailings and the ships' contemporary ambience make these itineraries ideal for couples and groups of friends seeking a relaxing escape — especially Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s, who are Celebrity's target market.

Related: 6 national parks you can reach by cruise ship (and 2 are in Hawaii)

Carnival's 14- or 15-night Hawaii from Los Angeles

If fun is your cruise mantra, the "Fun Ship" brand Carnival Cruise Line offers a handful of round-trip sailings to Hawaii from Los Angeles (Long Beach) aboard the 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance. Like other roundtrips from the West Coast, these itineraries spend just five days in Hawaii, offering eight to 14 hours of shore time in ports on four islands: Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii. Along with enjoying eight sea days, guests will also call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Carnival Radiance first sailed under that name in 2021, but it's not a new ship. Before an epic makeover, it sailed for the cruise line as Carnival Victory. Ship features include many of Carnival's signature complimentary and extra-fee dining venues, including Guy's Burger Joint and Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi Express.

Additional guest favorite destinations on board include the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and WaterWorks aquapark. Expect high-voltage theater shows from Playlist Productions at night and poolside interactive contests by day.

Who should go: Socially inclined cruisers who love Carnival's emphasis on onboard fun and can appreciate a colorful ship with a lively ambience and lots of day and evening activities.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise tips for getting the most from your island-hopping trip

Royal Caribbean's 9- to 13-night Hawaii Cruises

A megaship cruise experience to Hawaii is available, too — with pricing that's quite affordable. Royal Caribbean cruises there on two vessels in one of its newer classes of ships: the 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas.

All are one-way cruises just before or after the Alaska cruise season (so late April or early October) between Oahu and Vancouver (or vice versa). The ships call on two Hawaiian islands and spend four or five days in a row at sea. Passports are required since these itineraries begin or end in Vancouver.

Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas feature a mix of thrills for all ages. These include RipCord by iFly simulated sky diving, FlowRider simulated surfing, bumper car racing in the SeaPlex indoor activity complex and the North Star sightseeing capsule, which ascends 300 feet above the top deck for 360-degree views.

Both ships also offer 14 dining venues, including the innovative Wonderland, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and kid-favorite Dog House, as well as bar options that include Schooner Bar for by-request piano tunes, Boleros for mojitos and merengue and Bionic Bar for drinks poured by robotic bartenders. Entertainment includes live cover bands in the Music Hall and multimedia music and dance performances in Two70.

Who should go: Cruisers who love a big ship with a wide array of dining choices, all kinds of evening entertainment and plenty of exciting activities to pass the time on sea days. Quantum-class ships are great for families, but the sail dates might not work for those with school-age kids.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Viking's 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn

For a guaranteed adults-only sailing in a relaxed, boutique-style setting, upscale cruise line Viking also offers round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 on its 930-passenger Viking Neptune.

What sets Viking apart from most of the other lines offering Hawaii cruises is that it includes a free shore excursion in every port. These include a highlights tour of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor on Oahu and a visit to a scenic waterfall and the Kilohana sugar plantation on Kauai. Additional excursions can be booked at an extra charge.

The 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn sailings visit four islands — Hawaii (Hilo), Oahu, Kauai and Maui — and like other round-trip sailings from the West Coast include 10 sea days and a call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Viking Neptune will also do 32-night Grand Hawaii and Polynesia sailings round-trip from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 that visit four islands in Hawaii and four in French Polynesia.

The ship, which debuted in 2022, features sleek Scandinavian-inspired decor, a soothing spa with a complimentary thermal area, an aft infinity pool and hot tub, a panoramic Explorer's Lounge and five onboard restaurants. Specialty restaurant Manfredi's serves an extensive menu of Italian specialties, while The Chef's Table offers rotating five-course themed menus, including Asian, French and California-inspired.

In addition to the free shore excursions, pricing includes complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner, specialty dining at no extra charge, crew gratuities and transfers.

Who should go: Couples who prefer the quieter ambience of a ship that doesn't allow anyone under 18 onboard, doesn't have a casino and offers presentations by regional experts that enhance immersion into local culture. Viking cruisers are generally over age 55.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.