34-nt Hidden Hawaiian & South Pacific Pearls

Aloha Honolulu. Synonymous with lilting music and magnificent beaches, the vibrant capital of Hawaii is also brimming with shops, restaurants, and a multitude of historic, cultural and scenic attractions. From the iconic beaches of Waikiki to historic Pearl Harbour and lush mountain trails, it offers sun-soaked adventures. The wider island, Oahu, is a Pacific crossroads and a rich mosaic of cultures, blending Polynesian warmth, Oriental mystique, and 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.

Maroe Bay is a serene and picturesque anchorage nestled between the lush islands of Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti in French Polynesia. Surrounded by emerald mountains and crystal-clear lagoon waters, the bay offers a peaceful gateway to the island’s rich cultural heritage, archaeological sites, and unspoiled natural beauty. Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking authentic Polynesian charm, Maroe Bay is a tranquil stop perfect for exploration or quiet relaxation.

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 and often referred to as the "Sacred Island," Raiatea is a cultural and spiritual heart of French Polynesia. Rich in history and natural beauty, it is home to ancient Polynesian temples like Taputapuātea, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Surrounded by a vibrant lagoon shared with its sister island Taha’a, Raiatea offers lush mountains, cascading waterfalls, and world-class sailing. It’s an ideal destination for travellers seeking adventure, history, and an authentic Polynesian experience.

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!

Suva, Fiji’s vibrant capital, offers a laid-back charm with lush mangroves, colonial-meets-modern architecture, and a multicultural vibe. Explore the Fiji Museum in Thurston Gardens, bustling markets like Suva Municipal Market, and scenic spots like Colo-i-Suva Forest Park. With year-round tropical warmth and welcoming locals, Suva is a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty—an experience far from the typical city life.

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.

Easo is a tranquil village on Lifou Island, known for its pristine beaches and lush, untouched nature. Explore the island’s crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving, or visit the beautiful cliffs of Jokin, offering breathtaking views. With its vibrant Melanesian culture and stunning landscapes, Easo is an idyllic escape.

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.