The tans may fade, yet the memories of summer will last forever… and that’s if your summer holiday is somewhere spectacular.
Enter the fun-filled South Pacific – a day-dreamy series of island paradises. Ideal for lazy-day beach and reef snorkel holidays, perfect for a little well-deserved rest and relaxation, maybe some exploring and a smidge of adventure… let’s explore all of those lovely islands and go on a cruise!
While the South Pacific in itself already has tons of activities waiting for the willing traveler, cruising doubles or perhaps even triples your choice of things to do. Onboard your floating hotel you will find exciting waterslides, freshwater pools & hot tubs, Comedians and Broadway-calibre musicals, art galleries, relaxation spas, gyms, kids clubs, shopping avenues and even a Vegas-style casino.
Some cruiselines have an ice-skating rink, surfing, skydiving, dodgem cars, a multitude of sports like golf, tennis, basketball, soccer, volleyball and more. Combine them all as you indulge in world-class cuisine, comfortable cabins (maybe pamper yourself with one of the more luxurious suites), and then, as cruise around the South Pacific, each paradise island opens up with any number of premium shore excursions, designed to immerse you in island culture.
Let’s take a look at our 4 most popular Pacific Island destinations:
New Caledonia
As showcased recently in this year’s “The Bachelor”, New Caledonia’s gorgeous locations are the talk of the town and HOT, HOT, HOT! With a lagoon worthy of its UNESCO’s World Heritage Site distinction, you are guaranteed to have a wonderful time peeking into New Caledonia’s underwater world. Swim, dive and snorkel her exceptional reefs for shimmering fish and brightly colored corals. Or head inland with the locals through Lifou’s tropical jungles exploring grottos and temples that hide beneath thick canopies and lush forests. Grab you special someone and romance them with a week in one of the many luxurious resorts dotted around the island, alternatively you can cruise to this lovely island paradise direct from Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland!
Fiji
Ahh, Fiji – our most popular holiday island still gives you that desert island feeling. It’s exotic tropical locations complement a truly distinct island culture and her smiling friendly locals. Make sure you give “kava” a try, it’s Fiji’s national drink, or maybe a fresh coconut straight from the tree – just delish! Make it a point to cruise out to the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands for beaches that will make your jaw drop and island life to make you smile. Lovely!
Vanuatu
Is adventure your thing? And does your bucket-list include exploring volcanoes? Then Vanuatu is a destination you shouldn’t miss. Wild jungles and sandy beaches meet the cosmopolitan capitol of Port Vila, where some of the best shopping in the South Pacific begins. Spend the day cruising the markets, restaurants or head further afield to discover deserted beaches or set out on a round-trip island discovery. Ready to check out those volcanoes? Make your way to the island of Tanna and ride a 4×4 up Mount Yasur, the most accessible volcano in the world. Get there at sunrise for a spectacular view from the top, or an evening sunset as the fire of the sun sinks into the sea and the fantastic firework display from Mother Nature herself comes out to play. Ready to go? Color us interested!
Tahiti
The legendary islands of French Polynesia are a diver’s perfect escape from the heady madness of the modern world. Cruise to Tahiti on a Transpacific cruise, sail around the islands in luxury or fly to this island nation and take a few glorious days to relax in an over-the-water bungalow for a truly unique accommodation experience. For the thrill-seekers and adventurers, take a gander at the massive surf-break at Teahupo’o on the south-east coast of Tahiti. Do you surf? Or kitesurf? Do you dare face these 7m waves? If you want to take it easier, then make time to head for the Tuamotu Atolls for some world-class diving – well worth the trip, or perhaps a gentle hike to the beautiful mountain waterfalls or maybe cruise to the stunningly beautiful Bora Bora, just nearby.
The South Pacific is known to many as one of the world’s most popular cruising destinations, and travelers are often surprised that they can select a cruise based around itinerary, budget, and personal preferences. Cruising from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Fiji, New Zealand, Hawaii, Tahiti and more, the choice is yours to make.
For cruises with great value, P&O and Carnival are an ideal option for families cruising with younger children, while on the other hand, if you want to splurge a little more, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean can offer you great cabin choices, exclusive onshore excursions and a little more luxury to boot! For the ultimate in holiday cruises, we recommend Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line – both offering a world-class luxurious onboard escape to the South Pacific.
Excited for the enchanting appeal of dreamy beaches and awe-inspiring lagoons of the South Pacific? We are too! Speak with a Travel Specialists for a summer island paradise you won’t forget.
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