The South Pacific is located in the Pacific Ocean, in the southern hemisphere. It stretches between Australia and South America and encompasses Australia and New Zealand in the southwest of the Pacific all the way to Hawaii.
South Pacific islands are culturally and geographically divided into Polynesia (from the Greek meaning ‘many islands’) and Melanesia (meaning ‘black islands’). Polynesian islands include Samoa, Tonga, Cook Islands, French Polynesia and Easter Island while Fiji, New Caledonia, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands are Melanesian.
When it comes to South Pacific cruises, most people think of the honeymoon-worthy destinations of Bora Bora and Fiji, but there is so much more to the South Pacific than just those popular islands.
Papeete cruises offer a taste of everything the South Pacific has to offer. No matter what kind of traveller you are, you’ll find an activity to enjoy here, whether you want to see historic sites, chase waterfalls, or play golf. It goes without saying that snorkelling, surfing, swimming, and jet-skiing are among the top things to do here.
Bora Bora is located on a dormant volcano island, set on one of the most beautiful and crystal-clear lagoons in the world, which are coloured in a million shades of blue. You’ll find classic activities like snorkelling, swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. Adventure seekers can go scuba diving in Anau Lagoon or scale the heights of Mount Pahia.
Honolulu is a modern city with a unique blend of cultures that serves as state capital and a gateway to the Hawaiian Islands. You can tour the historic downtown area, surf world-famous Waikiki Beach, shop in world-class stores, hike breathtaking coastal cliffs and dine at five-star restaurants.
Lautoka is the second-biggest city in Fiji and is known as “Sugar City” for its huge sugar cane industry. Explore the city’s most popular attractions like the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, or venture outside the city limits to the lush rainforest of Koroyanitu National Heritage Park. Fiji is famous for its beaches, so there’s plenty of sun and sand waiting for you at Natadola Beach or Saweni Beach.
Rarotonga is the most populous island of the Cook Islands, and the location of the country’s capital, Avarua. Join the locals in snorkelling, diving, fishing, bush walking, and playing squash and tennis. Another popular, if odd, and favourite activity is lining up along the sea wall adjacent to the airport’s runway to be jetblasted.
The capital of American Samoa, Pago Pago is more village than city. The town is dominated by looming Mount Pioa, whose summit draws moisture-bearing clouds, earning it the nickname of “The Rainmaker.” Learn about the legends of Pago Pago while you’re here and try traditional Samoan dishes like fa’apapa or sweet banana fritters called panikeke.
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