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Oceania Cruises Announces Seven New 2025 Summer Sailings to French Polynesia and Hawaii

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: September 21, 2023  - Last updated: September 22, 2023

Oceania Cruises has announced seven additional summer 2025 sailings to French Polynesia and Hawaii aboard the 670-guest boutique-style ship Regatta .

Oceania ‘s new cruises will visit French Polynesia and Hawaii during the months of August, September, and October, when the islands enjoy plenty of sunshine, mild temperatures, and decreased humidity.

The itineraries include the beautiful blue lagoon of Bora Bora, Tahiti’s black sand beaches, the colorful coral reefs of Raiatea, the mountains and jungles in Nuku Hiva, and more. Four of the seven new sailings connect French Polynesia to the Hawaiian archipelago’s lush waterfalls and spectacular canyons.

Discovering French Polynesia and Hawaii with Oceania Cruises

The premium-plus cruise line lets guests experience the traditions of native Polynesian culture, taste the fresh flavors of local cuisine, and explore the communities and surrounding natural wonders firsthand on immersive tours.

“At Oceania Cruises, we offer a captivating array of sailings in French Polynesia and Hawaii, charting lesser-known coastlines and taking travelers to boutique ports and off-the-beaten-track islands thanks to our small, luxurious ships,” commented Frank A. Del Rio , President of Oceania Cruises.

“One of the highlights of these parts of the world is undoubtedly the food. Whether you’re exploring Bora Bora and Nuku Hiva or Nawiliwili and Hilo, the flavors of these islands are meant to be savored and enjoyed just as much as the spectacular scenery,” Del Rio continued in a press release.

The seven new cruises vary from 10 to 18 days and depart from Tahiti or Honolulu , offering plenty of time for exploration, adventure, and leisure in these spectacular parts of the world. Tahiti’s capital Papeete is easily accessible by flights from New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, and Sydney, with 8-hour non-stop flights from Los Angeles and 5-hour non-stop flights from Auckland.

Similarly, Honolulu is just a 6-hour direct flight away from Los Angeles and an 8 ½-hour direct flight from Auckland.

In addition to the seven new sailings aboard Regatta in 2025, Oceania Cruises also offers dozens of other destination-rich itineraries in the South Pacific—as well as Australia and New Zealand—in 2024 and 2025.

Oceania’s new French Polynesia and Hawaii itineraries

The seven new cruise itineraries for 2025 will go on sale on October 4, 2023 , and include:

Polynesian Dreams : 15 days from Honolulu to Papeete aboard Regatta , visiting Honolulu, Nawiliwili, Lahaina, Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Papeete. Departs August 1. The September 15, 2025 sailing offers the itinerary in reverse.

Tahitian Legends : 10 days from Papeete to Papeete aboard Regatta , visiting Papeete, Moorea, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Bora Bora, and Raiatea. Departs August 16 and 26, and September 5, 2025.

Divine Pacific Oases : 15 days from Honolulu to Papeete aboard Regatta , visiting Honolulu, Nawiliwili, Kahului, Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Papeete. Departs September 30, 2025.

Song of Polynesia : 18 days from Papeete to Los Angeles aboard Regatta , visiting Papeete, Moorea, Rangiroa, Nuku Hiva, Hilo, Lahaina, Honolulu, Nawiliwili and Los Angeles. Departs October 15, 2025.

Related: Visiting Ka’anapali Beach Hawaii From Maui Cruise Ports

What to expect aboard Oceania’s Regatta

Regatta , with a capacity of only 670 passengers, offers a boutique experience for travelers looking to explore the region, with itineraries designed to present a distinct flavor of the South Pacific. Offering 340 suites and staterooms—over 70 percent of which have private verandas— Regatta guests can cruise in small-ship luxury.

Cruisers can enjoy the top-of-ship library’s hundreds of volumes, relax and revitalize in the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center , or chat with old and new friends in one of the ship’s eight lounges and bars. Dine at one of the four gourmet open-seating restaurants, and after dinner, take in a show or spend the evening in the casino.

Related: Which Cruise Lines Have All-Inclusive Cruises?

Enjoy the best of French Polynesian and Hawaiian cuisine

Trying the food is one of the best ways to learn about the local island culture, and both French Polynesia and Hawaii offer many delicious specialties.

Poisson cru , French Polynesia’s version of ceviche, consists of raw local fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice, and is often accompanied by vegetables. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to try it on shore excursions, since the dish frequently appears on local menus.

Enjoying a mahi-mahi burger and a mai tai at Bloody Mary’s is a must-do in Bora Bora. The thatched-roof restaurant with sand floors has served celebrities including Jimmy Buffet, Ronnie Wood of The Rolling Stones, Goldie Hawn, and Kurt Russell.

Breadfruit , known as uru in Tahitian, is a French Polynesian staple. The versatile starch will appear on the table in various recipes, but a popular format on Nuku Hiva involves roasting it over hot coals and then mashing it with coconut milk to create a dish called kaka .

Traditional poke , a raw fish dish beloved for its simplicity and freshness, is unmissable when visiting Hawaii. Though many versions have become popular around the world, for an authentic taste of the classic dish, try ahi poke or tako poke (octopus) at its birthplace.

Kalua pork , another Hawaiian staple found throughout the islands, is a must-have at luaus. Slow roasting the pig in an imu—a subterranean pit—and seasoning it with local sea salt produces luscious, smoky meat that is often served with rice and sautéed cabbage or coleslaw.

Related: Oceania Cruises Launches Simply MORE Program to Offer More Included Amenities

Notable destinations on Oceania’s French Polynesia and Hawaii itineraries

One of the most photogenic islands in French Polynesia, Bora Bora is dominated by two 2000-foot-high peaks: Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia. They form a dramatic background for Bora Bora’s sparkling lagoon, known for its gorgeous turquoise water. The reef surrounding the island provides a home for turtles and a variety of unusual fish. Explore the glittering lagoon of Bora Bora, embark on a guided off-road adventure across the island, or view sharks and stingrays from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat.

The capital of French Polynesia, Papeete , Tahiti features swaying palm trees, mild weather, and a rich island culture. Enjoy a wide range of eateries and some of the greatest shopping in the region, including hand-carved wooden figurines and bowls, as well as colorful patchwork fabrics known as tifaifai. Or stroll to Fautaua Waterfall, Tahiti’s highest at 443 feet. Visit the Robert Wan Pearl Museum to learn about the iridescence and brilliance of pearls, or enjoy a walking tour of the colorful and innovative street art and murals painted by international artists.

Hilo , Hawaii, is located on the Big Island’s east coast and is known for its lush greenery. See how Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes, reawakened in 2018 and altered the landscape of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Active excursions include a helicopter ride to Kilauea Volcano and zip-lining through a river valley. Or, visit Richardson Ocean Park, a black sand beach carved into the rocky shoreline, or stroll through farmers markets with aisles of colorful foods, vegetables, and flowers, for a relaxing day ashore.

Hawaii’s Kailua-Kona boasts a laid-back feel and lots to do, like exploring a national park, swimming or snorkeling, or playing a game of golf on one of three courses overlooking the sea. Visit Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation to learn about various beans and roasts, as well as to taste their fresh brews. Or check out Magic Sands Beach, a magnificent stretch of turquoise ocean and white sand.

For the lowest fares on Oceania cruises, I always use CruiseDirect . They offer a best price guarantee, exclusive perks, and never charge a booking fee.

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Have you taken a French Polynesia or Hawaii cruise with Oceania? What were your highlights of the voyage? Let me know in the comments below!

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Home » Cruise » Oceania Cruises » Oceania Cruises Announces New 2025 French Polynesia and Hawaii Sailings

Oceania Cruises Announces New 2025 French Polynesia and Hawaii Sailings

Oceania Cruises announces seven new Summer 2025 French Polynesia and Hawaii sailings onboard Oceania Regatta.

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Oceania cruises announces seven new 2025 summer sailings to french polynesia and hawaii.

Explore Far-Flung Destinations and Discover Exquisite Food on These New Exotic Cruises

Oceania Cruises announces seven new 2025 French Polynesia and Hawaii sailings on board the 670-guest boutique hotel-style  Regatta . These itineraries will open for reservations on October 4, 2023. Sailing with Oceania Cruises is the ultimate way to visit these stunning destinations that offer a utopia of cultural encounters, memorable adventures, and pristine natural surroundings. 

The new cruises will visit French Polynesia and Hawaii during the ideal months of August, September, and October when the regions boast abundant sunshine, pleasant, balmy temperatures, and lower humidity. Sailing from Tahiti or Honolulu, the seven new voyages range from 10 to 18 days, allowing plenty of time for exploration, adventure, and relaxation in these stunning regions of the world.

Itineraries span the gorgeous blue lagoon of Bora Bora, the black sand beaches of Tahiti, the colorful coral reefs of Raiatea, the soaring mountains in the verdant jungles of Nuku Hiva, and more. Four of the seven new sailings link French Polynesia with the captivating craters, dramatic canyons, and lush waterfalls of the Hawaiian archipelago.

With Oceania Cruises, you can experience the paradise of these islands firsthand on immersive itineraries, discovering the traditions of native Polynesian culture, tasting the fresh flavors of the local cuisine, and exploring the local communities and surrounding natural wonders.

In addition to the seven new sailings aboard  Regatta  in 2025, there are dozens of other destination-rich itineraries to choose from in the South Pacific, as well as Australia and New Zealand, in 2024 and 2025 with Oceania Cruises.

NEW SUMMER SAILINGS IN 2025

• Polynesian Dreams: 15 days from Honolulu to Papeete aboard  Regatta,  visiting Honolulu, Nawiliwili, Lahaina, Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Papeete. Departs August 1 and September 15, 2025, which offers the itinerary in reverse.
• Tahitian Legends:   10 days from Papeete to Papeete aboard  Regatta,  visiting Papeete, Moorea, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Bora Bora and Raiatea. Departs August 16 and 26, and September 5, 2025.
• Divine Pacific Oases: 15 days from Honolulu to Papeete   aboard  Regatta,  visiting Honolulu, Nawiliwili, Kahului, Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Papeete. Departs September 30, 2025. 
• Song of Polynesia:   18 days from Papeete to Los Angeles   aboard  Regatta,  visiting Papeete, Moorea, Rangiroa, Nuku Hiva, Hilo, Lahaina, Honolulu, Nawiliwili and Los Angeles. Departs October 15, 2025.

REGATTA SHIPBOARD HIGHLIGHTS

Carrying just 670 guests,  Regatta  provides a boutique experience for travelers to explore the region, with itineraries designed to offer a unique flavor of the South Pacific. Guests will experience the ultimate in small ship luxury, with just 340 lavish suites and luxurious staterooms, nearly 70% of which feature private verandas.

Lose yourself in one of the hundreds of books in the top-of-ship library. Relax and rejuvenate in the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center. Or socialize with old and new friends in one of the eight lounges and bars on board. After dinner in one of the four gourmet, open-seating restaurants, take in a show or spend the evening in the casino.

EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH FRENCH POLYNESIA & HAWAII

One of the best ways to delve into the local island culture is through food. Both French Polynesia and Hawaii serve up some mouth-watering specialties, exotic dishes, and delicious delicacies. 

• Try  poisson cru : French Polynesia’s version of ceviche. This dish features local raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice, often with vegetables. You’ll have plenty of chances to try it on a variety of excursions, and you’ll regularly see it on local menus.
• The  mahi mahi burger  and a  mai tai  at Bloody Mary’s in Bora Bora are not to be missed. The thatched-roof restaurant with sand floors has served well-known faces including Jimmy Buffet, Ronnie Wood of The Rolling Stones, and movie star couple Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell. It’s an experience to remember.
• Don’t pass on the breadfruit: Called  uru  in Tahitian. This strangely versatile starch will appear on the table prepared in more ways than you can keep track of and is quintessentially French Polynesian. A staple form on Nuku Hiva involves roasting it over hot coals and then mashing it with coconut milk to create a dish called  kaka .
• You can’t visit Hawaii without trying traditional poke, a raw fish bowl favored for its simplicity and freshness. Though all sorts of variations have become popular, try  ahi poke or tako poke  – octopus – in its birthplace for a true taste of the classic dish.
• A must-have at luaus,  kalua pork  is another Hawaiian favorite you’ll find across the islands. The traditional method of slow roasting the pork in an imu, or underground pit, and seasoning it with local sea salt results in a succulent, smoky meat.

DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS

Bora bora, french polynesia.

One of the most photogenic islands, Bora Bora is dominated by two peaks – Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia – both more than 2,000 feet high. Covered in emerald greenery, they create a dramatic backdrop for Bora Bora’s shimmering lagoon, renowned for its breathtaking turquoise water.

Under the sea, the reef encircling the island is a haven for a rainbow of exotic fish and turtles. Explore Bora Bora’s dazzling lagoon. Go on a guided off-road adventure across the island. Or see sharks and stingrays from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat.

Papeete, Tahiti

The capital of French Polynesia, Papeete has clear blue waters, palm trees, balmy weather, and rich island culture. Enjoy a wide variety of restaurants and the best shopping in the region. Be sure to look out for exquisite hand-carved wooden figurines and bowls as well as colorful patchwork textiles called tifaifai, appliqued quilts that are often handed down for generations.

Feeling energetic? Then be sure to hike inland a couple of miles to Fautaua Waterfall, Tahiti’s highest at an incredible 443 feet. Learn about the iridescence and luster of pearls at the Robert Wan Pearl Museum. Or take a walking tour of the colorful and creative street art and murals painted by talented international artists.

Hilo, Hawaii

On the east coast of the Big Island, Hilo is renowned for its lush greenery. See how the 2018 reawakening of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes, has changed the landscape at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Thrill seekers can choose from excursions such as a helicopter ride to Kilauea Volcano or zip-lining through a river gorge. For those who want to take it easier, visit Richardson Ocean Park, a black sand beach carved into the rocky shoreline. Or a stroll through farmers markets with aisles of colorful fruits, vegetables, and flowers would be perfect.

Kailua-Kona on Hawaii

Kailua-Kona has a laid-back vibe and myriad things to do. Roam a national park, swim or snorkel in the sea, or play a round of golf at one of three courses overlooking the ocean. Visit Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation to learn about different beans and roasts and sample some of the aromatic fresh brews.

Experience Magic Sands Beach, a beautiful stretch of turquoise water and white sand – when it’s there. It’s named Magic Sands Beach because every so often a big storm will take all the sand out to sea, exposing rock until the sandy beach is returned by the sea over time.

simply  MORE

Oceania Cruises offers travelers  simply  MORE, with virtually everything included in the voyage fare. Free roundtrip airfare; free airport transfers; a generous shore excursion credit; and a comprehensive beverage package available during lunch and dinner at onboard restaurants featuring dozens of vintage Champagnes, premium wines and international beers. 

Created to elevate the guest experience,  simply  MORE means travelers receive the greatest value in luxury cruising.

SOURCE Oceania Cruises

Are you excited to hear that Oceania Cruises announces new 2025 French Polynesia and Hawaii sailings? Have you explored this region on a cruise yet? Drop us an anchor below to share your experiences visiting French Polynesia and Hawaii.

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Sail away to a paradise full of clear blue ocean waters, hot sunny days and sparkling island sunsets with a South Pacific cruise.

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French Polynesia, Hawaii On The Itinerary For Oceania Cruises In Summer 2025

September 26, 2023

Oceania Cruises has released details of seven new summer sailings to French Polynesia and Hawaii on board the 670-guest Regatta in 2025. Reservations open on Oct. 4, 2023.

The new cruises will visit French Polynesia and Hawaii during the months of August, September and October, with itineraries featuring Bora Bora, Tahiti, Raiatea, Nuku Hiva and more.

Four of the seven new sailings link French Polynesia with the craters, canyons and waterfalls of the Hawaiian archipelago.

Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises, said that: “At Oceania Cruises, we offer a captivating array of sailings in French Polynesia and Hawaii, charting lesser-known coastlines and taking travellers to boutique ports and off-the-beaten-track islands thanks to our small, luxurious ships.”

Del Rio continued: commented: “One of the highlights of these parts of the world is undoubtedly the food. Whether you’re exploring Bora Bora and Nuku Hiva or Nawiliwili and Hilo, the flavors of these islands are meant to be savored and enjoyed just as much as the spectacular scenery.”

Sailing from Tahiti or Honolulu, the seven new voyages range from 10 to 18 days and for more information, sail on over to www.oceaniacruises.com .

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Oceania to French Polynesia - Bad idea?

By hokie_fan , June 9, 2021 in Oceania Cruises

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I started researching here be cause French Polynesia is on the bucket list and it seems that cruising is the best bang for my buck. I have never cruised with Oceania, but the prices seem really good and oddly less than NCL.  I read a thread on this site that Windstar or PG would be better for this area, but are they really worth paying DOUBLE for a shorter cruise?  I am more of a "the cheaper you go, the more you go" kind of person to a point.

 I am looking at a 10 day leaving  March 17, 2023.  I live on the east coast and do cruises to escape as much of the winter as possible.  Is March a much less desirable time to go?  I never travel during the summer.  I would not take their airfare deal, because I had rather have couple of days in Papeete to adjust to  the time change.

So far from reading this board, I realize that I need to find a TA rather than deal with the person from Oceania that keeps calling me. Yes, I did make the mistake of filling out one of those forms.  He sends attachments of menus and can't stop talking about the food  and does not seem too detailed.  I can see he will not be super helpful like a TA. I have a AMEX platinum card and was excited to see those bonuses if they still exist when I cruise.  

I am a HA cruiser and certainly feel the same love here as I do from HA cruisers. Sorry for multiple questions in one thread and thanks in advance.

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I would  say if you decide to use Oceania  to FP  you may want to do the math on the airfare

 You can pay the deviation fee  to fly in or stay longer  with the Oceania air  deal

Price out  when the time comes what air will cost  from your location  then  you can decide what works best  for you

Unless of course you have  miles to use   then it is  a moot point

If you want bus class air  the  do your own

Enjoy what ever cruise you choose

There was a previous topic on this, might be some helpful info in there?

We have been on PG, Regent and Oceania in FP.  Loved all 4 and I suspect Windstar is a wonderful experience also.  We have found O represents best value for us.  I second the idea about :doing the math" on the air portion. I'd also recommend setting up your own excursions as O's tend to be a bit pricey.  If you look on Regatta Roll Call board you'll find 2022 cruises similar to yours with recommendations and links to various providers in FP.  I think you'll love it , so enjoy.

 The previous topic was what made me question my decision to choose Oceania.  The other lines are double the price and that was a 7 day versus the Oceania 10 day.  I am looking for value, not necessarily perfection.  Just wanted to know if booking O would be a huge mistake. 

Thanks for the airfare tip.  Who knows what things will cost in 2023!

Probably no kids, YES! And for Value, take Oceania and the Free Air. If you find a better air price, then adjust and take the credit. We have had friends on the last Regatta FP cruise in March 2020 and loved it.  Great people, great service and GREAT FOOD. Tours can be pricy but when combining the Free ones included in the O-Life amenities offer with others, the average price drops way down, especially if you use the Your World program discount  (25%).

We have done FP on Princess but it is NOT Oceania Value.

Have fun one and all.

We have sailed on the Paul Gauguin three times in French Polynesia on Regent Navigator once and on Oceania twice. The Paul Gauguin was definitely the best experience. Between the quality of the speakers and the Les Gauguins, you really get a French Polynesian experience.  I'm sure Windstar is similar. When comparing the price the Regent and Paul Gauguin cruises include alcohol, depending on how much you drink that maybe an equalizer.  In the for what it's worth category we are returning the French Polynesia on Oceania Regatta in March of 2022 covid permitting.

Flatbush Flyer

1 hour ago, hokie_fan said:  The previous topic was what made me question my decision to choose Oceania.  The other lines are double the price and that was a 7 day versus the Oceania 10 day.  I am looking for value, not necessarily perfection.  Just wanted to know if booking O would be a huge mistake.  Thanks for the airfare tip.  Who knows what things will cost in 2023!

O is perfect for FP. Take the air credit in O Life (and the tours perk) and get Bizclass air tix. Check United’s FP pricing, which is good. Also, in Papeete, check out staying at the Intercontinental. And in Bora Bora do the private/small group tour with Patrick of Maohe Nui.

I loved our March cruise to French Polynesia on Oceania.  It was amazing.  Weather can be a bit touchy, but we were lucky and only had one day that was really bad.  The cruise before us had 11 out of 12 days were overcast and rainy.  Best time of the year for FP is Sept-Nov, but as a fellow east-coaster, I am with you on Jan-Feb trips to warm locales 😉 . 

My friend Hoopster wrote the most comprehensive review of this cruise - it details everything you ever want to know about FP and Oceania.  It is long, but worth to read before making your decision. 

Ironically, our first trip to those islands was on Renaissance Cruise Line's R4  (now one of "O" ships).  We have since returned 3 times.  For what its worth our least favorite island is Tahiti and Bora Bora would be our favorite.  I do think that the size of the O ships is fine for the islands and I do like the itinerary of the cruise you are considering.  We would also give you the warning (already mentioned) that round trip airfare can be a big expense.   If you are a bit more adventurous and have the time you might want to consider extending your trip and looking at different air options such as spending some time in Hawaii or perhaps using the islands as a stopover on your way from/to other places such as New Zealand or Australia.  

If you don't mind the high prices and love being on the water you could also consider extending your trip to the islands and spending a few days in a decent resort.  

We did FP on Marina about 6 years ago and it was wonderful.  Would do it again if they offered it.  One of the best trips we ever did. 

8 hours ago, hokie_fan said: I have never cruised with Oceania... I am more of a "the cheaper you go, the more you go" kind of person to a point.

So, you'd rather go to McDonalds 10 times, even on your anniversary or milestone birthday?

I suspect you may change your mind (like you have seen so many profess on this forum) once you sail on Oceania.

8 hours ago, hokie_fan said: I had rather have couple of days in Papeete to adjust to  the time change.

Take a hard look at my review, and specifically the beginning and end for this comparison of pre/post cruise stay Moorea vs. Papeete... I strongly recommend not staying in Papeete pre-cruise. Take the easy transportation to Moorea for 2-3 days pre-cruise.

4 hours ago, delee78 said: It was amazing.

delee!!!!!! My great friend and fellow cruisepal! Didn't think you were on CC much anymore. I've been lurking every so often. Low and behold the day I'm logged in to check things out you posted.

I miss you guys... we need to make plans in the year ahead as things open up.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2524044-marinafrench-polynesia-mar-4-192018-review-wlots-of-photos/

Unfortunately when Cruise Critic "upgraded" about 2 years ago, all my videos disappeared from this review. Nonetheless, most of the photos are intact.

I can say I have waaaaaay too many places in the world to see and not enough time to do them all, that there are so very few places I would go back to rather than hitting my next several bucket list localtions. However, I'll tell you right now that if any of my cruise buddies were to call me up and say "Hey Hoopster, rather than hitting your next bucket list, why not sail with us on Oceania next year back to FP again" they wouldn't have the time to hang up and I would have already booked!

One of my best cruises/vacations of all time, and since it was my first coming from mainstream cruise lines (like you OP coming from HAL) you will be impressed by Oceania.

Personally, I would never go to French Polynesia in March. Too humid. And rainy. 

I already liking the O-Team.  Wow, so much useful information. My takeaways are:

• Add the airfare and remove later if I use miles or other methods.  
• Although  Paul Gauguin is better, the O Regatta will suit my needs.  
• Book the  private/small group tour with Patrick of Maohe Nui
• The comment about going cheaper was comparing PG to O.  Seems there is no point in paying double for PG. The Carnival/RCL days are over since my kids are grown. 
• Don't go that far for just the cruise.   Moorea for 2-3 days pre-cruise sounds perfect. I'll see what Marriott offers since I get a lot of perks there.  Thanks Hoopster95 for the wealth of information and delee78 for pointing me to the review.
• Now the BIG concern is if want to risk dropping $10,000+ for a trip that might have terrible weather.  I can handle humidity (remember east coast) but clouds and rain would make me really sad. All the other Oceania itineraries  that include FP are super long which I am not ready for yet.  That is the only decision left now and a tough one. 

Your concern about "terrible weather" is valid and one that haunts us with every expensive trip.   We like to talk about a Plan B in case of lousy weather, but there really is not any Plan B for those islands.   I guess one could pray to Tiki (not sure that Tiki handles weather).  

One benefit to PG is there are many more options on when you could go. 

3 minutes ago, ORV said: One benefit to PG is there are many more options on when you could go. 

Good point!

Absolutely no where within the very detailed earlier thread did a single poster write that taking Oceania was a “ Bad Idea”. No one. What many of us that have taken Oceania, and the other lines, said was that even though we enjoyed Oceania, the other lines provided a far better experience. How does that possibly translate into a “ Bad Idea”?

Some one asks about a $30 bottle of wine, I might tell them it’s a very good wine but maybe for the price they should consider X. I never said the original queried bottle was bad, just that better options may exist!

All have been very positive for choosing Oceania for FP. I am certain it will meet my needs.  At this point it comes down to the weather risk in March. 

True, there are many choices with PG, but I really like to be home during the nice weather months and escape the bad ones.  Tough decision, but I do have some time.  Maybe Tiki will come through for me!

I will definitely be booking something with Oceania, even if I decide against the FP trip in March. The choices are endless.

3 hours ago, hokie_fan said: I already liking the O-Team.  Wow, so much useful information. My takeaways are: Add the airfare and remove later if I use miles or other methods.   Although  Paul Gauguin is better, the O Regatta will suit my needs.   Book the  private/small group tour with Patrick of Maohe Nui The comment about going cheaper was comparing PG to O.  Seems there is no point in paying double for PG. The Carnival/RCL days are over since my kids are grown.  Don't go that far for just the cruise.   Moorea for 2-3 days pre-cruise sounds perfect. I'll see what Marriott offers since I get a lot of perks there.  Thanks Hoopster95 for the wealth of information and delee78 for pointing me to the review. Now the BIG concern is if want to risk dropping $10,000+ for a trip that might have terrible weather.  I can handle humidity (remember east coast) but clouds and rain would make me really sad. All the other Oceania itineraries  that include FP are super long which I am not ready for yet.  That is the only decision left now and a tough one. 

You’ll find that Polynesia (or Hawaii et al.) weather is different than Caribbean and Swamplandia. What humidity exists is bearable and, when it rains, many times it will be showers for  just minutes at a time and it can be refreshing while you pretty much dry off quickly afterwards.  We love Kauai’s north shore specifically for the lush vegetation and the refreshing rain showers!

PG’s food will never equal O’s

Do fly bizclass and consider United via SFO where you could add a few land days (as well as land time pre/post cruise in FP. If you do choose to do bizclass, DO NOT take the O Air. Do O Life w/o air and take the excursions perk (Search CC threads on how best to use the Excursions option).

The problem with O air for bizclass is that you need to pay the initial economy air cost in the fare to get a bizclass quote and the economy fare is not credited for bizclass. In essence, you buy two tix per person.

I would ask the poster if he's ever been on an R class ship.   If he can handle a tiny bathroom and super tiny shower...then a standard room on Regatta will suit and it'll be a wonderful time.  We've opted to sail in a PH whenever on R class because of the bathroom size and because we are likely to be aboard for 2 weeks or more.  Still enjoyed Regatta very much.

I have to chuckle  at how people  will discount the  lower cabin cat  because of the bathrooms

People must have large bathrooms at home 😉

 No judgments  just an observation

We have spent many days  in the A, B & C cat cabins on the R ships  even  a couple of 30+ day  cruises

without an issue

it is good to have choices in life  🙂

Since the OP said “ cheaper is always better “, I’d say that in itself would rule out a PH.

Host Jazzbeau

No mention of TAs by name (or hints) please.

6 hours ago, Flatbush Flyer said: You’ll find that Polynesia (or Hawaii et al.) weather is different than Caribbean and Swamplandia. What humidity exists is bearable and, when it rains, many times it will be showers for  just minutes at a time and it can be refreshing while you pretty much dry off quickly afterwards.  We love Kauai’s north shore specifically for the lush vegetation and the refreshing rain showers!   PG’s food will never equal O’s   Do fly bizclass and consider United via SFO where you could add a few land days (as well as land time pre/post cruise in FP. If you do choose to do bizclass, DO NOT take the O Air. Do O Life w/o air and take the excursions perk (Search CC threads on how best to use the Excursions option). The problem with O air for bizclass is that you need to pay the initial economy air cost in the fare to get a bizclass quote and the economy fare is not credited for bizclass. In essence, you buy two tix per person.

I agree with you that the north shore of Kauai is delightful. However, Tahiti is a whole other ball of wax. It is far more humid than Hawaii, particularly in our winter months (their summer).

We were booked on a HAL French Polynesia cruise in March 2020. It was cancelled three days prior due to COVID crisis. We ended up adding more days in Moorea and stayed 7 nights before Tahiti shutdown its border. The humidity hit us upon first arriving in Tahiti but it let up right away. We had a shower just one evening in a Moorea. We loved it and can’t wait for this cruise 

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Oceania Cruises announces free pre-cruise hotel stays for select 2025-2026 voyages

Oceania Cruises has unveiled an enticing offer for travelers looking to embark on unforgettable journeys during late 2024 and 2025. Guests booking select sailings will enjoy a complimentary pre-cruise hotel stay, adding an extra layer of convenience and exploration to their vacation experience.

This offer extends to 33 destination-immersive voyages spanning diverse locales such as Brazil, the Canary Islands, Japan, Singapore , Bali, and New Zealand. Ranging from 11-day adventures to extensive 35-day odysseys, these itineraries promise enriching experiences in captivating destinations. Reservations for these voyages can be made between April 1, 2024, and May 31, 2024, allowing travelers ample time to plan their dream cruise.

With the added benefit of a free pre-cruise hotel stay, guests can delve deeper into the charm and allure of their departure port before embarking on their journey. Whether strolling through Tokyo 's Ginza District, soaking in the beauty of Table Mountain in Cape Town , or immersing themselves in the vibrant culture of Rio de Janeiro , travelers can kickstart their cruise adventure with relaxation and exploration.

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