48-NT World Cruise: Pearls Of The South Pacific

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.

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.

Nestled between dramatic mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Kaikōura is a picturesque coastal town known for its incredible marine life and stunning natural beauty. It offers unforgettable wildlife encounters, including whale watching, dolphin swimming, and seal colonies. Rich in Māori culture and local seafood - especially crayfish - Kaikōura is a must-visit gem on New Zealand’s South Island.

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.

Dunedin is the second-largest city in the South of New Zealand and the principal of the region of Otago. In 1865 it became one of the largest cities for the influx of new settlers from Ireland, Italy, France, Germany and China due to the discovery of Gold. Sites not to be missed are the outstanding Dunedin Railway Station and a ride on the world famous Taieri Gorge Train.

Located on Stewart Island, Oban is New Zealand’s southernmost settlement and a tranquil gateway to unspoiled wilderness and rich Maori heritage. Surrounded by lush forests and crystal-clear waters, this charming village is perfect for nature lovers, offering scenic walks, birdwatching - including the rare kiwi in the wild - and a peaceful escape from the mainland. A visit to Oban feels like stepping into a slower, more serene world.

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.

Sun-drenched and artsy, Nelson sits at the top of New Zealand's South Island, offering a perfect mix of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Known for its vibrant arts scene, boutique galleries, and access to stunning national parks like Abel Tasman, Nelson is a haven for outdoor adventurers and creative souls alike. A welcoming port with a laid-back vibe and plenty to explore.

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”.