South Pacific Archipelagos

There are two dedicated cruise passenger terminals - the White Bay Cruise Terminal at Rozelle and the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay in the city centre. This is your opportunity to marvel at Australia’s famous icons, the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge as you glide past The Heads - the dramatic sandstone cliffs at the entrance of the harbour.

The capital of New Caledonia, Noumea is a little piece of France in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It has all the flavour and ambience of a bustling, sophisticated provincial french town with the friendly charms, adventure and heavenly climate of the pacific islands. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do on Noumea:

• tour Noumea on the Tchou Tchou Train
• sail to and snorkel the New Caledonia Lagoon
• visit Amedee Island
• explore Parc Forestier

A tiny, uninhabited island, Mystery Island is a remote paradise of white sand beaches, swaying palms and aquamarine waters. Since the surrounding sea is a protected marine sanctuary, visitors will be enchanted by views of colourful marine life and pristine coral reefs. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to shore.

Top Things to Do on Mystery Island:

• snorkel the pristine reef
• walk the entire shoreline (takes 40 minutes) 
• visit nearby Aneityum Island and learn about their way of life
• relax on the white sand beach

Known as Sugar City, Lautoka is framed by the blue Pacific Ocean on the western side and green gold sugar cane and pine trees on the other sides. In the city you'll find wide-open streets lined with swaying palm trees and colonial-style houses. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do in Lautoka:

• snorkel at Savala or Bounty Island
• bathe in a natural geothermal mud pond
• visit a traditional village
• explore the Koroyanitu National Heritage Park
• visit the nearby town of Nadi

Fiji's capital city is a modern multicultural centre dotted with colonial-era buildings, and numerous parks and gardens tucked among the hilly peninsula. Cultural activities, delicious cuisine and abundant shopping offer something for everyone. Ships will dock at King's Wharf.

Top Things to Do in Suva:

• explore the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park
• visit the eco-friendly Pure Fiji beauty care factory
• take a longboat along the Navua River
• learn about the Fijian way of life at a local village
• relax at a beachfront resort

Nuku'alofa, the capital of Tonga, is nestled on the north coast of the island of Tongatapu. As the gateway to the kingdom, it presents a unique blend of traditional Polynesian culture and modern influences. The Royal Palace, a wooden mansion facing the sea, is a striking symbol of Tonga's monarchy, offering a picturesque view from the waterfront.

The city's vibrant Talamahu Market is a focal point for experiencing local life. Here, visitors can explore stalls brimming with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and tropical flowers. Nuku'alofa also serves as a starting point for excursions to nearby coral islands, making it an excellent base for those looking to dive, snorkel, or simply relax on pristine beaches.

Vava'u, a group of islands in the Kingdom of Tonga, is a pristine archipelago renowned for its clear blue waters and vibrant marine life, making it a top destination for snorkeling and whale watching. From July to October, the waters around Vava'u are one of the few places in the world where visitors can swim with humpback whales, an unforgettable experience that draws nature enthusiasts globally.

The main island in the group, also named Vava'u, is dotted with quaint villages and the charming town of Neiafu, which serves as a hub for sailing and yachting due to its protected harbor. The laid-back atmosphere, combined with the natural beauty of lush tropical forests and secluded beaches, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for travelers.

The international date line, established in 1884, passes through the mid-Pacific Ocean and roughly follows a 180 degrees longitude north to south line on the Earth. It does zigzag around political borders such as eastern Russia and Alaska’s Aleutian Islands.

Crossing the date line eastbound decreases the date by one day, while crossing the date line westbound increases the date. So when you cross east to west you always lose a day and crossing from west to east you get the same day twice (or gain a day).

Located on Upolu Island, Apia is home to spectacular rainforests, waterfalls, sand dunes, beaches and brilliant sunrises and sunsets. This charming colonial-style town is the hub of business, government and shopping within Samoa. Ships will dock in Apia Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Apia:

• admire the Falefa Waterfall and Estuary
  
• visit Maketi Fou, a 24 hour market
• drive the scenic Le Mafa Pass
• learn about Apia's rich traditions at the Samoa Cultural Village
• relax at a beach side resort

Located on Tutuila, the largest of the Samoan islands in the South Pacific Ocean, Pago Pago is the capital of American Samoa. Whether you gravitate to the sea or the mountains, you'll encounter memorable vistas at every curve of the landscape surrounding this pristine island. Ships will dock in Pago Pago Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Pago Pago:

• visit to a traditional Samoan village
• play a round of golf at Lavalava Golf course
• swim and snorkel at Fagatele Bay
• visit the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa

Rarotonga is the largest of the Cook Islands but with a circumference of 32km it remains one of the South Pacific’s most charming, friendly, and easy-to-explore destinations. Volcanic peaks, ridges and rainforest dominate its interior, while white beaches and coral reef encircle the island. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do on Rarotonga:

• cruise and snorkel Muri Lagoon
• explore the island in a Jeep
• take a scenic flight over rarotonga
• visit the Takitumu Conservation Reserve

The dramatic Mount Otemanu stands watch over the sparkling turquoise waters and sugary sands of Bora Bora, known as the most romantic island in the world. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be proved to the pier.

Top Things to Do in Bora Bora:

• sail Bora Bora by catamaran
• take a scenic flight over the island in a helicopter
• snorkel the reef ringed lagoon
• watch sharks and rays in a glass-bottomed boat
• relax on a privately owned island known as a motu

Huahine, part of French Polynesia's Society Islands, is often regarded as one of the most picturesque and culturally rich islands in the region. Known as the "Garden Island" due to its lush forests and untamed landscape, Huahine maintains a low-key, less commercial vibe compared to its more famous neighbors like Tahiti or Bora Bora. This tranquil island is encircled by a crystal-clear lagoon teeming with marine life, making it ideal for snorkelling and diving.

Visitors can explore ancient marae (sacred temples) and archaeological sites that reflect the island's deep Polynesian roots, providing a glimpse into its rich history and traditions. The laid-back atmosphere extends to the local villages, where crafts like vanilla farming and fishing are still part of daily life.

The island's unique geography makes Moorea one of French Polynesia's most breathtaking islands. Eight mountain peaks carpeted in lush vegetation rise from a translucent lagoon and two tranquil bays. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do in Moorea:

• encounter dolphins at the Intercontinental Moorea Resort marine sanctuary
• hike through Opunohu Valley
• enjoy an off-road adventure through Moorea's deep valleys and mountains
• cruise Moorea's waters on a Catamaran

Tahiti's diverse beauty spans from the serene shores of Matavai Bay to the verdant Papenoo Valley. In Papeete, experience the lively atmosphere of the waterfront promenade and indulge in traditional dishes at the roulottes, food trucks serving Polynesian cuisine. Head inland to Faarumai Waterfalls, a trio of cascades nestled in lush greenery. The island is also a hub for pearl farms, where you can discover the intricate process of cultivating Tahitian black pearls, renowned for their unique luster.

The Papeete Cruise Port is located right in the city center so attractions such as the vibrant Papeete Market are just a short walk away. To visit more distant attractions like the stunning Fautaua Waterfall, consider a taxi or a guided excursion. Don’t miss out on trying local Tahitian cuisine or visiting the Black Pearl Museum.

Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia, enchants with its lush landscapes and vibrant culture. Explore the bustling capital, Papeete, where the colorful market offers local crafts and exotic produce. Relax at the stunning black-sand beaches of Pointe Venus or dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. Don’t miss the Arahoho Blowhole, where ocean waves force air and water through a natural rock formation, creating spectacular sprays. For a touch of history, visit the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands to learn about the island's rich heritage.

The Papeete Cruise Port is located right in the city center so attractions such as the vibrant Papeete Market are just a short walk away. To visit more distant attractions like the stunning Fautaua Waterfall, consider a taxi or a guided excursion. Don’t miss out on trying local Tahitian cuisine or visiting the Black Pearl Museum.