129-NT Ring Of Fire: Hidden Gems

Aloha Honolulu. Synonymous with lilting music and magnificent beaches, like world-famous Waikiki, it’s also awash with shops, restaurants, and a multitude of historic, cultural and scenic attractions. The wider island, Oahu, is a Pacific crossroads and a tapestry of cultural diversity, from Polynesian sensuality and Oriental mystique to American pragmatism.

The Garden Isle is a relaxed reminder of old-time Hawai’i. Villages like Hanapepe invite you to get your toes in the sand at one of the island’s many beaches, or step up to a roadside truck or stand for a refreshing, neon-tinted “shave ice.”

Prepare for a breathtaking vision of South Pacific beauty. The dark green silhouette of Mount Otemanu presides proudly over flawless beaches, all set in a lagoon swirled with luminous shades of green and blue. Stand in crystalline waters where graceful manta rays flock, or browse local stores for the region's famed black pearls.

Huahine weaves its magic from the very moment you set foot on its shores. This picturesque island, with its lush forests, untamed landscapes, and charming villages, remains one of French Polynesia's best-kept secrets. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life.

Discover Papeete, a bustling place by South Pacific standards. With its white sands and aquamarine lagoons, this Polynesian Eden holds much the same allure today that it had in the past. Visit the museum of one of Tahiti's most famous expatriates, painter Paul Gauguin.

The second-largest of the Society Islands is practically twinned with its neighbor Taha’a. Actually they are connected by a reef in the same lagoon and may have been one island in the past. The main town, Uturoa is where most of the population lives. It’s lively, although no competition for Tahiti.

There’s no experience quite like crossing the International Date Line on an ocean voyage. This imaginary line stretches around the world, and the date changes along the line. Crossing the International Date Line is a time-honoured travel milestone. Heading east across this imaginary line sets the clock back 24 hours, effectively gaining a day. Raise a glass to the event!

It may be Fiji’s capital with 85,000 inhabitants, but Suva’s laid-back atmosphere, spectacular scenery and village-style hospitality is something of an antidote to the typical perception of city life. What’s more, it may be on Fiji’s famed coast, but it’s not a beach resort. Suva is lined by mangroves, giving it a lush backdrop. The closest beach is 25 miles away, but there’s plenty to enjoy here. A city of some 85,000 residents, the harbour town of Suva is perched on a peninsula that juts out from the coast of Viti Levu, the most populated of Fiji’s 332 islands. When Suva was established, it covered just one square mile, and in 1952 it was expanded to reach eight square miles. In this same year, Suva became Fiji’s first official city. Most of Suva’s residents are indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians, but there are many minority cultures in the city, which gives it a multicultural feel. Visitors to Suva are welcomed heartily by Fijians, who are known for their friendly hospitality. Wandering around Suva’s streets reveals an intriguing blend of colonial and modern architecture, painting a picture of the city’s history. Government House was once the home of Fiji’s colonial governors, but it is now the Presidential palace. Built in 1882, the building was destroyed by lightning in 1921 and was rebuilt seven years later. Although the public cannot see inside the palace, you may be lucky enough to catch the monthly changing of the guard ceremony, featuring vividly coloured uniforms. For a glimpse of traditional Fijian culture, Suva cruise passengers should pay a visit to The Fiji Museum in Thurston Gardens. One of the city’s 78 green spaces, this garden was opened in the early 20th century and boasts colourful plants and flowers, as well as the city’s museum. It is here that you can examine the largest Fijian artefact collection in the world, with some items dating back as far as 3,700 years. There are plenty of shopping options in vibrant Suva where you can find gifts and souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Cumming Street and Victoria Parade are known for their modern shops and malls, where duty-free bargains can often be discovered. For a shopping trip with a little more local flavour, try one of Suva’s lively markets, such as the Suva Municipal Market. Overflowing with fresh produce, clothing and handicrafts, residents and tourists alike can be found scouring the colourful marketplace for treasures. To slow down the pace, enjoy a walk along Queen Elizabeth Drive, which lines the city’s shoreline. Venturing a little way out of the city will take you to natural attractions such as Colo-i- Suva Forest Park, which is known for its waterfalls, natural rock pools and tranquil rainforest walks. The tropical climate means that temperatures in Suva remain constant throughout the year, with an average low of 22°C and average highs of 28°C. There is not really a dry season here, so it is best to pack some light, waterproof clothing to be prepared for rain and humidity.

Discover the rare gem of Fiji – Dravuni Island, a tiny paradise nestled in the Kadavu Group. Like a postcard of Fiji's natural beauty, it boasts pristine white sands, gently swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear azure waters. Unlike the more urbanized ports in the country, Dravuni Island offers an authentic Fiji experience.

Situated at the southern tip of the Vanuatu archipelago, beckons with its pristine allure. Its crystal-clear waters and powdery shores, swaying beneath the shade of coconut-laden palm trees, make it a captivating destination.

The warm embrace of the Loyalty Islands awaits your exploration in this seaside settlement with breathtaking, panoramic views of jewel-toned Santal Bay. At approximately 60km long and 35km wide, Lifou is the largest, encompassing a world of wonder within its tranquil borders.

North of Auckland along the narrow Northland peninsula lies the shady cathedral, created by some of the largest trees in the world: the giant kauri trees which can stand up to 170 feet tall and are over 1,200 years old. Here the captivating Bay of Islands shelters 150 islands, enchanting wetlands of birdlife, fish, seals, dolphins, and even whales.

In a nation where stunning scenery is taken for granted, this water wonderland sparkles like a freshly polished jewel. Over 48 extinct volcanoes cloaked in wild mountainous scenery encircle the City of Sails. An undulating succession of bays and inlets stretch along its endless shores. Even the downtown area with its expansive, farm-like parks exudes a sense of spacious beauty.

In a nation where stunning scenery is taken for granted, this water wonderland sparkles like a freshly polished jewel. Over 48 extinct volcanoes cloaked in wild mountainous scenery encircle the City of Sails. An undulating succession of bays and inlets stretch along its endless shores. Even the downtown area with its expansive, farm-like parks exudes a sense of spacious beauty.

New Zealand's capital and cruise port Wellington, is blessed with a wonderful setting, overlooking a glittering harbour filled with bobbing sailing boats. Behind the gleaming modern skyscrapers of its centre, you will find the city's history well preserved in some outstanding old buildings. Visit the second-largest wooden building in the world, the old Government Building which was built in 1876. To see New Zealand's story brought most vividly to life, visit the Te Papa Museum, a multi-level extravaganza of hands-on learning where you can explore a Maori meeting house, take a virtual reality bungee jump or even experience an earthquake.

Kaikoura draws visitors from all over the world for the prolific marine life in the surrounding waters. Whale (including sperm whales), dolphin and seal watching tours operate year-round. There is a scenic walkway from the town center out to Point Kean, and there are colonies of fur seals on the rocky shores.

Akaroa, meaning long harbour in Maori, certainly lives up to its name. Set on a beautiful, sheltered harbour, Akaroa is now a popular resort. Seek out the best spots for dolphin watching with tours from the harbour or relax on land at one of the welcoming bars or restaurants. Alternatively take a tour to Christchurch.

Akaroa means ‘long harbour’ in Maori, and the town certainly lives up to its name. Overlooked by a dormant volcano on its thin peninsula, the sheltered Akaroa is a popular resort with stunning views. Akaroa harbour provides boat tours that feature the South Island’s diminutive dolphins – and the town has several welcoming bars or restaurants. Christchurch is 52 miles away by road.

Stewart Island overflows with opportunities to get up close to New Zealand’s untouched landscapes, rich Maori heritage, and unique birdlife. Lush forests, rare flora and fauna, golden beaches, and rugged coastlines, provide a diverse ecosystem oasis for nature enthusiasts.

As you sail through parts of Fiordland National Park, you will appreciate how it has mesmerised and intrigued travellers and tourists over the centuries, with its graceful and mostly untouched beauty. Amongst and beyond the glacier-carved fjords of Doubtful and Milford Sound, stand impressive snow-capped peaks, luscious green slopes and forests that are home to unusual and unique species.

Located on the northwest end of the South Island, Nelson enjoys the sunniest weather in New Zealand, giving it the dual nicknames “Sunny Nelson” and “Top of the South.” The city is the oldest on South Island, and the second-oldest in New Zealand, having been founded in 1841 as a speculative endeavor by a development company, which purchased land from the Maori inhabitants.

Australia’s oldest and largest city was born in 1788 with the arrival of the "First Fleet" that transported 760 British convicts. Gold and sheep breeding propelled Sydney’s development; today it is the largest port in the entire South Pacific. Mark Twain called it “the wonder of the world”. James Michener wrote, “It is a thing of beauty, a fairy-tale body of water”.

Australia’s oldest and largest city was born in 1788 with the arrival of the "First Fleet" that transported 760 British convicts. Gold and sheep breeding propelled Sydney’s development; today it is the largest port in the entire South Pacific. Mark Twain called it “the wonder of the world”. James Michener wrote, “It is a thing of beauty, a fairy-tale body of water”.

Originally part of New South Wales, Victoria became a colony in its own right in 1851. The discovery of gold and the development of agriculture propelled Melbourne’s rise to prominence and prosperity. Melbourne is a green and welcoming city, teeming with cultural institutions as well as cafés, bars and restaurants serving a spectrum of international cuisine. Melbourne is also an event city, home to the Australian Open Tennis, the Melbourne Cup and numerous other sporting occasions. Anyone who gets to know the city finds it has a kaleidoscopic character. Signs of Melbourne’s heritage are everywhere, and yet the city bears the glass and steel hallmarks of a modern metropolis. A visit here guarantees myriad experiences, most within easy walking range, and others a short ride aboard one of the historic trams that criss-cross the city.

Originally part of New South Wales, Victoria became a colony in its own right in 1851. The discovery of gold and the development of agriculture propelled Melbourne’s rise to prominence and prosperity. Melbourne is a green and welcoming city, teeming with cultural institutions as well as cafés, bars and restaurants serving a spectrum of international cuisine. Melbourne is also an event city, home to the Australian Open Tennis, the Melbourne Cup and numerous other sporting occasions. Anyone who gets to know the city finds it has a kaleidoscopic character. Signs of Melbourne’s heritage are everywhere, and yet the city bears the glass and steel hallmarks of a modern metropolis. A visit here guarantees myriad experiences, most within easy walking range, and others a short ride aboard one of the historic trams that criss-cross the city.

Wave goodbye to any preconceptions you may have of Australia, as you say hello to wonderful Hobart on the southeastern coast of Tasmania. Revel in the capital's splendid heritage, scenery and culture. Hobart has a distinctly European look and feel, and a unique local character. Capital of Australia’s Island State, with Mt. Wellington as its backdrop, it has plenty to offer the adventurous and the inquisitive.

Steeped in heritage and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, this charming coastal town offers an unparalleled mix of nature, history, and maritime allure. From the playful antics of migrating Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales to the art installations and sculptures that line the picturesque foreshore, Portland is a uniquely vibrant escape.

Delve into the stories of its First Nations heritage and marvel at the ancient rock art found throughout Talbot Bay, where extreme natural wonders await exploration. Explore its rocky shores and steep cliffs, comprised of deformed quartz sandstones blended with volcanic rock.

Nestled upon the picturesque Dudley Peninsula, Penneshaw stands as Kangaroo Island's second-largest town and gateway to a wildlife realm renowned for its colony of adorable and diminutive Little Blue Penguins. Follow the road less traveled and discover unique wildlife, mouth-watering food and wine, breathtaking scenery and a laid-back lifestyle.

Connoisseurs of New World wines are in luck. With around 200 wineries a stone’s throw from the city, Adelaide is one of Australia’s best kept secrets. A charming city fringed by scenic countryside and sandy beaches, with a fantastic food market, captivating art scene, and plenty of options for sighting native Australian wildlife. One of Australia’s best-kept secrets, Adelaide is a beautiful, well-planned city nestled between fine sand beaches and hillside villages. Ringed by sweeping foothills, the city is one of culture and sophistication with a surprisingly European feel. A thriving art, theatre and food scene is giving Adelaide renewed kudos while annual events, like Adelaide Fringe, attract world-class entertainers to the city.

Long beaches and rocky outcrops define the shore, while venturing inland reveals over 100 premium wineries. The area is also known for its dramatic limestone caves whose incredible formations are tied to Aboriginal mythology. Margaret River is a beautiful natural setting in Australia’s southwest corner. Busselton has grown into one of Western Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. Circled by swathes of wetlands and bordered by tranquil Geographe Bay, where scores of humpbacks and blue whales seek respite on their migrations, Busselton’s white beaches and calm blue waters offer visitors unparalleled swimming. Rocky outcrops and tall forests rise from the water’s edge, while great granite buttresses shield the beaches from the Indian Ocean’s swell. In the heart of the town, Busselton’s beloved jetty stretches out over the turquoise surf, its observatory offering breath-taking views of the reef below.

Perth’s explosive growth in recent decades has engulfed the old historic port of Fremantle. Eighty-percent of Western Australia’s population lives in and around Perth. This bustling port, known as “Freo” to the locals, sits on the Indian Ocean and offers a romantic, artsy ambiance to residents and visitors alike. The city’s urban sprawl is awash with fusion flavours, fashionable boutiques and innovative museums but Western Australia’s capital impresses in other ways too. Perth is famously isolated; a cosmopolitan drop in the ocean that is Australia’s outback. Stroll along the banks of the Swan River where you’ll find countless spots to sit and watch kayakers paddle by.

Exmouth's unspoiled beaches, pristine deep blue ocean, and dramatic red ochre coastline are an unrivaled sight to behold. Located 1,270 kilometers north of Perth, this remote gem only emerged in 1964 as a support town for the United States Naval Communications Centre.

Perched on the Northwest edge of Western Australia, Broome was once an isolated gem, reachable only by a rugged dirt road until the mid-1980s. The town is nestled on a narrow peninsula, encircled by the crystal-clear sapphire waters of the Indian Ocean and the tranquil expanse of Roebuck Bay.

Kuri Bay, situated on the remote northwestern coast of Western Australia, is a place of pristine and untouched wilderness. This secluded bay is renowned for its rugged, untouched beauty, where ancient red cliffs meet the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

On the remote northern shores of Australia's Top End', balmy Darwin has grown from frontier settlement into a multicultural modern city. Discover the region's dramatic history from Aboriginal heritage to World War II air raids and the devastating Cyclone Tracey in the museums and galleries.

This hidden gem, while only 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Bali, feels worlds away from some of the more widely traveled ports of Indonesia. Its untouched natural beauty, unique cultural treasures, and serene ambiance call to those who want a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience.

It is a vision of ethereal beauty, where ribbons of white unravel along an azure sea, emerald rice terraces and stone-carved temples pierce a jade landscape; and Hindu gods inspire the highest form of human creativity. Bali is a place of such physical, cultural and spiritual beauty; it can truly be called a paradise.

Nestled on Java's tranquil shores, this lush tropical port and the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life that surround it, make this bay a haven for underwater exploration. Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting allure of Komodo, where a realm of rare beauty and untamed wilderness awaits.

Known as Makassar, Ujung Pandang is Sulawesi's largest city, nestled on the exotic, orchid-shaped island of Indonesia's eastern archipelago. A gem hiding in plain sight, with a population surpassing 1.5 million, this bustling city retains a unique, laid-back ambiance, particularly along its waterfront.

Located on Palawan Island in the western Philippines, Puerto Princesa brings an enchanting blend of tropical beauty and energetic city life. White beaches peppered with palm trees, colourful colonial buildings, and the unique Subterranean River National Park are just a handful of the attractions that keep visitors returning to Puerto Princesa. Known for its scenic beauty and varied wildlife, Puerto Princesa is truly one of gems of the Philippines. Stretch out and relax on miles of soft sand, explore centuries of history, and discover an array of captivating creatures from fireflies to dolphins.

Hong Kong may boast some 236 islands but most of the five million inhabitants of this former British Crown Colony are concentrated on just one, Hong Kong Island, and one city, Kowloon, on the facing peninsula. It is known as one of the most crowded and vibrant places in the world, making Hong King cruises a must see. Be energised just walking down its teeming streets where you can buy anything from a handmade suit, fancy jewellery and the latest duty-free electronic gizmos to Asian antiques. Go on a trip between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island with the Star Ferry, giving you the experience of the world's busiest crossings. For one of the steepest journeys, try the tram which travels to the top of Victoria Peak,

Hong Kong may boast some 236 islands but most of the five million inhabitants of this former British Crown Colony are concentrated on just one, Hong Kong Island, and one city, Kowloon, on the facing peninsula. It is known as one of the most crowded and vibrant places in the world, making Hong King cruises a must see. Be energised just walking down its teeming streets where you can buy anything from a handmade suit, fancy jewellery and the latest duty-free electronic gizmos to Asian antiques. Go on a trip between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island with the Star Ferry, giving you the experience of the world's busiest crossings. For one of the steepest journeys, try the tram which travels to the top of Victoria Peak,

Taiwan’s second-largest city, Kaohsiung is a growing, fascinating, cultural hub featuring a unique blend of tradition, natural beauty, and modernity. The city's modern skyline captivates with architectural wonders like the 85 Sky Tower, offering panoramic views of Kaohsiung's bustling harbor and the sprawling city below.

Often known as the gateway to the breathtaking Taroko Gorge, Hualien’s glistening lakes, pristine beaches, epic hiking trails, picturesque rice terraces, and vibrant night markets have a presence all their own.

This vibrant urban hub sits in Japan’s Yaeyama Islands, beguiling the world with its cultural and natural contrasts. The inland boasts lively palm forests, meandering mangrove-lined rivers, and lush jungle-covered mountains.

Amami Oshima is the ideal escape for travelers seeking authentic experiences away from the crowds of traditional tourist destinations. This subtropical paradise presents travelers with the perfect opportunity for relaxation on diverse and pristine beaches, as well as exploration of enchanting mangrove forests.

Central to Kagawa, Japan's smallest prefecture, this hidden gem offers travelers a unique chance to immerse themselves in the history and serenity of this petite paradise.

This unparalleled hot spring haven makes for an extraordinary spa day. Celebrated for its remarkable abundance of thermal waters, an array of baths each offering a unique experience – from ordinary hot water baths to rejuvenating mud baths, natural exfoliation in sand baths, and detoxifying steam baths.

South Korea's second largest city after Seoul, Busan likes its attractions to be gargantuan! Head to the world's largest department store, Centum City, or spend the day relaxing on Haeundae Beach Korea's largest. If a more cultural experience beckons, admire the pagodas, gates, temple halls, and shrines of Beomeosa Temple.

South Korea's second largest city after Seoul, Busan likes its attractions to be gargantuan! Head to the world's largest department store, Centum City, or spend the day relaxing on Haeundae Beach Korea's largest. If a more cultural experience beckons, admire the pagodas, gates, temple halls, and shrines of Beomeosa Temple.

This splendid castle town, with over 400 years of history, beckons visitors to its unique time capsule of history and culture. As the seat of the Maeda Clan during the Edo Period, it rivaled Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) in cultural achievements, making it a city with a rich legacy.

This splendid castle town, with over 400 years of history, beckons visitors to its unique time capsule of history and culture. As the seat of the Maeda Clan during the Edo Period, it rivaled Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) in cultural achievements, making it a city with a rich legacy.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Japan’s natural landscape around the Aomori Prefecture. Located in the north of Japan’s main island, the city mixes ultramodern architecture with sleepy fairytale castles, surrounded by scented cherry blossoms. Visit the World Heritage Site of the Shirakami Mountains with its majestic forest of beech trees; follow the Oirase River from mystic Lake Towada and explore two national parks at Tsugaru to the west and Shimokita across Mutsu Bay.

Set along the east coast of the Iwate Prefecture, Miyako was Japan’s main seaport for hundreds of years before a series of tsunamis took their toll. Yet what the city lacks in historical buildings, it more than makes up for in natural attractions such as Sanriku Fukkō National Park.

Yokohama is an exciting city filled with Japanese charm and culture, and is less than 30 minutes’ train ride from Tokyo, so there’s an opportunity to sample two of Japan’s greatest urban centres. Located directly south of the capital Tokyo and set beside the waters of Tokyo Bay, Japan’s second city is enveloped in the modern and forward-thinking ideology of the country, proving to be a fantastic base for those who wish to immerse themselves in the diverse identity of Japan. There is no better way of capturing the culture of a new city than sampling the cuisine. A number of small and cosy seafood eateries, with kaki furai, or deep-fried oysters, being a particular favourite. Shabu-shabu restaurants are all-you-can-eat establishments allowing you to sample a vast array of Japanese food – perfect if you are unfamiliar with the local cuisine and would like to try lots of dishes. A number of fantastic sushi bars serve the very best of Japan’s most iconic culinary treat.

Yokohama is an exciting city filled with Japanese charm and culture, and is less than 30 minutes’ train ride from Tokyo, so there’s an opportunity to sample two of Japan’s greatest urban centres. Located directly south of the capital Tokyo and set beside the waters of Tokyo Bay, Japan’s second city is enveloped in the modern and forward-thinking ideology of the country, proving to be a fantastic base for those who wish to immerse themselves in the diverse identity of Japan. There is no better way of capturing the culture of a new city than sampling the cuisine. A number of small and cosy seafood eateries, with kaki furai, or deep-fried oysters, being a particular favourite. Shabu-shabu restaurants are all-you-can-eat establishments allowing you to sample a vast array of Japanese food – perfect if you are unfamiliar with the local cuisine and would like to try lots of dishes. A number of fantastic sushi bars serve the very best of Japan’s most iconic culinary treat.

Get a glimpse of bygone Japan in the port city of Hitachinaka, located around 100 miles northeast of Tokyo on Honshu. Hitachi Seaside Park is considered one of the most beautiful places in the entire country, blanketed in millions of flowering plants; during late spring, the park is awash in a sea of vibrant blue nemophila blossoms.

Renowned for its exquisite festivals, diverse dining experiences, and warm hospitality, Sendai is a city where visitors make lasting memories and genuine connections. Steeped in history and tradition, ancient landmarks like the Osaki Hachimangu Shrine and Zuihoden Mausoleum, invite you to immerse yourself in the authenticity and richness of their heritage.

Hakodate is one of the most popular city destinations in Japan. Here you can experience diverse dynamic architecture, the last Shogun battlefield and enjoy shimmering night views from Mount Hakodate.

Kushiro is surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty, which is often overlaid with a thick mist, giving it a surreal feel.

There’s no experience quite like crossing the International Date Line on an ocean voyage. This imaginary line stretches around the world, and the date changes along the line. Crossing the International Date Line is a time-honoured travel milestone. Heading east across this imaginary line sets the clock back 24 hours, effectively gaining a day. Raise a glass to the event!

Known as the Emerald Isle, Kodiak is a heaven for all kinds of wildlife. Kodiak’s mountains more or less glint with the same luminous green as the stone they resemble, while the water that laps the island’s shores is positively sapphire in its blueness. The island is two thirds national park and is dedicated to the protection of its native brown bears, 250 species of birds and six kinds of Pacific salmon. Explore the good choice of bars and restaurants or join an entertaining tour of the island’s microbrewery. Discover the native heritage museums and explore breathtaking historical trails either by organised excursion or at your own pace.

Glacier Bay is the crowning jewel of Alaska's Inside Passage. Part of a 25-million-acre World Heritage Site, it's home to an array of wildlife and some of the world's most amazing tidewater glaciers.

Sitka is a hidden beauty located on the east coast of Baranof Island in south east Alaska. Towered over by snowy mountains in the distance, it was previously known as the Indian River Park and Totem Park. Sitka enjoys a blended history as diverse as its scenery. Russian, Tlingit and American settlers have all imprinted on the city. Art and culture thrive as richly as Pacific salmon here, and while small compared to other Alaskan communities, Sitka boasts countless treasures for visitors to admire. Visit Sitka’s Whale Park for one of the best opportunities for whale spotting in Alaska or the Sitka National Historical Park, the oldest national park in Alaska, a must-see destination. High-quality seafood sets the bar for Sitka’s restaurants. The surrounding waters offer some of the best fishing in Alaska, and every year visitors descend on Sitka for a chance to hook king salmon or an infamously weighty halibut. The warm welcome and natural wonders of Sitka simply cannot be missed.

The Tlingit village of Klawock sits midway along the western coast of Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska, otherwise known as the state’s “panhandle.” Prince of Wales — call it “P.O.W.” — is the fourth largest island in the United States, a vast, wildlife-rich wilderness of more than 2,500 square miles; yet fewer than 6,000 people live there, around 800 of whom reside in Klawock.

Prince Rupert is a port city in the province of British Columbia, Canada. Its location is on Kaien Island near the Alaskan panhandle.

The Inside Passage consists of over 1,000 islands, bays and fjords. With boundless, ever-changing scenery, it's one of the most spectacular maritime journeys in the world.

Vancouver provides stunning scenery to discover in endless outdoor fashion all year-round. Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge are just two of the top highlights. British Columbia’s marine parks offer remote fjords and vast lakes perfect for whale-watching and hiking, or swimming and kayaking from May to September. Vancouver’s Gulf Islands are teaming with wildlife, keep your cameras close and binoculars at the ready for spotting pods of dolphins, seals, eagles, whales, otters and sea lions.