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South Pacific

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A cruise through the South Pacific will take you to some of the most remote, idyllic islands on the planet. The ancient civilizations of Easter Island left giant 100-ton stone Moai for travelers to ponder. Expeditions on small cruise ships enable you to access paradisiacal tropical destinations like the Cook Islands, Society Islands, the Marquesas and the spectacular Bora Bora. In addition, you can visit the Great Barrier Reef or snorkel with the giant pelagic species across the top of Australia. See Hawaii from a different perspective on a luxurious small ship cruise. Go way beyond the beach exploring the rainforests of Papua New Guinea and the fascinating cultures of Melanesia. Contact us to start planning your luxury cruise of the South Pacific.
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5 Favorite South Pacific Cruise Destinations for 2025-2026

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127 Best South Pacific Cruises for 2025-2026

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Top 21 Luxury Cruises of the South Pacific for 2025-2026

Trip Name From Days Next Departure Summary
Society Islands, Cook Islands, Tonga & Fiji $8,650 16 Jan 13, 2027 Discover the South Pacific's most storied, beautiful, and culturally vibrant islands, towns, and cities during this 16-day cruise on the luxury ship, Paul Gauguin. Soak in the sun on the white-sand beaches of the Society Islands and immerse yourself in the cultures of Fiji and Tonga.
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Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands $8,060 15 May 08, 2027 Sail through French Polynesia on a 15-day Paul Gauguin cruise, visiting Tahiti, Bora Bora, the Tuamotus, and the Marquesas. Explore Papeete’s markets, Rangiroa’s marine life, Hiva Oa’s archaeological sites, and Tahuata’s tikis while enjoying cultural experiences, gourmet dining, and stunning island landscapes.
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Society Islands & Tuamotus $6,050 12 May 24, 2025 The Society Islands and the Tuamotu Archipelago beckon on this 12-day South Pacific cruise aboard Paul Gauguin. Explore lush rainforests and crystal-clear lagoons, or simply indulge in indulgent beach-side lounging. Continue to the Tuamotus, a group of low-lying atolls that are famous all over the world for their rich underwater ecosystem.
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Tahiti & the Society Islands $2,960 8 Jun 14, 2025 On this 8-day cruise through Polynesian paradise aboard the Paul Gauguin, discover the best of the South Pacific, including a day on Paul Gauguin's private islet, Motu Mahana (near Taha'a), snorkeling and kayaking in breathtaking Bora Bora, and a relaxing escape to the postcard-perfect shores of Moorea, before returning to Tahiti.
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Best of the Kimberley and Tiwi Islands $7,695 11 Jul 28, 2025 Explore natural wonders of the Kimberley coast. Witness magnificent coastal vistas created by towering rock ridges, silent secluded gorges, plunging waterfalls, abundant wildlife, and massive tidal movements on this 11-day cruise aboard Coral Discoverer.
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Best of New Zealand: North to South $6,725 18 Mar 18, 2025 Experience the best of New Zealand on this 18-day epic self-drive tour. Explore geothermal wonders, cultural heritage, and adventure across both islands, from Auckland to the South. Enjoy Māori cultural performances, visit Waitomo Caves, and Discover Tongariro National Park. Then head to the South to experience the stunning vistas and rugged landscapes.
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Tahitian Getaway $5,807 9 Mar 18, 2025 Experience the charm of Tahiti's pristine landscapes, Raiatea's cultural diversity, and the luxury of Bora Bora during this 9-day Tahiti getaway. A different kind of discovery awaits you every day, from the white-sand beaches to the cultural attractions. Spoil in water activities, whether snorkeling in turquoise lagoons or unwinding at luxury resorts
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Gems of Polynesia $5,905 9 Mar 18, 2025 Experience the ultimate 9-day escape through the Pearls of Polynesia. Discover Moorea's natural treasures, take in Bora Bora's overwater luxury, and immerse yourself in Tahiti's rich cultural heritage. This enchanting journey offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, promising unforgettable moments in the heart of French Polynesia.
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Complete South Island Explorer $5,236 14 Mar 18, 2025 Explore the South Island of New Zealand on an unforgettable 14-day adventure. Discover stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife. From glaciers to beaches, this journey offers thrilling outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and breathtaking natural beauty at every turn
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Majestic Tahiti $4,077 4 Mar 18, 2025 Set out on a four-day retreat in the tropical paradise of Tahiti. Indulge in sun-kissed days, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Immerse yourself in tropical bliss, where azure waters meet lush landscapes. Take the perfect balance of adventure and island life with a blend of relaxation.
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South Pacific Travel Deals

Top 153 South Pacific Travel Deals for 2025-2026

Trip Name From Days Next Departure Summary
The Kimberley $8,355 11 Apr 05, 2025 Marvel at the natural beauty and some of the earliest known Indigenous art, the enigmatic Bradshaw drawings. Soak up the history and unique geology, view the wildlife, and experience the wonder of the Kimberley on this 11-day cruise on Coral adventurer.
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Abrolhos Islands & the Coral Coast $8,420 13 Aug 01, 2025 Explore Western Australia's mainly unspoiled coast on this 13-day expedition cruise, which features a stunning contrast between red sand beaches and blue waters. Explore the islands of Ningaloo, Montebello, and Abrolhos from the comfort of Coral Geographer's spacious interiors.
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Kimberley Explorer: Expedition Cruising Australia's Iconic Kimberley Coast $6,995 11 Jun 27, 2025 Join Heritage Adventurer on this brand-new 11-day cruise expedition along Australia's world-renowned coast and Kimberley, one of the world's most pristine and unspoiled wildernesses. This tour highlights King George Falls, which cascades 80 meters down cliffs that are 2,000 million years old, Aboriginal rock art, World War II relics, and the history of early explorers.
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Kimberley Icons, Ashmore & The Rowley Shoals $6,945 13 Mar 24, 2025 Embark on a 13-day cruise through Australia’s rugged Kimberley coastline from Darwin to Broome aboard Coral Adventurer. This expedition offers a unique route, covering iconic sites like Montgomery Reef, Horizontal Falls, and Rowley Shoals.
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Cape York & Arnhem Land - Art Themed $8,475 12 Aug 08, 2025 Embark on a 12-day artistic expedition from Darwin, exploring the Tiwi Islands, Arnhem Land, and Torres Strait aboard Coral Discoverer. Experience indigenous art, culture, and history, with workshops, cultural performances, and scenic exploration.
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Cape York & Arnhem Land $8,475 12 Apr 01, 2025 Join Coral Discoverer on its 12-day expedition that sails across the top of Northern Australia to explore the remote islands and ancient cultures from Cairns to Darwin and vice versa.
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Active New Zealand Adventure $11,761 18 Mar 18, 2025 Set out on an 18-day active New Zealand adventure from Auckland to Queenstown. This tour takes you through Lake Tekapo, Taupo, Tongariro National Park, the wild West Coast, and Christchurch. Experience the Dart River, sail Doubtful Sound overnight, and power through a Wanaka AWD safari. Hike the Routeburn Track and elevate your journey with a Kepler Track heli-hike to end your trip.
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Discover The Marquesas $4,138 12 Mar 22, 2025 Aboard the Aranui 5 for a 12-day South Pacific cruise where you are surrounded by intriguing Polynesian culture. Visit the Tuamotu Islands, swim at the local black sand beaches, and savor the delicious aroma of frangipani on the island of Vaitahu. Other stops include the enchanting Marquesas and idyllic Bora Bora.
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Circumnavigation of Tasmania $8,525 15 Jan 13, 2026 Experience a 15-day cruise on Coral Discoverer, visiting national parks, remote islands, and stunning coastlines. Enjoy beach walks, wildlife encounters, and gourmet dining with fresh Tasmanian produce.
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SeaTrek The East Indies on a Spice Island Exploration $9,850 12 Sep 06, 2025 Departing from Maumere, this exciting 12-day South Pacific cruise on Katharina visits the remote Banda Islands, where you can wander through the nutmeg plantations before retracing ‘the marine spice route’ north through the Moluccan Islands to the clove plantations of the fabled Sultanate of Ternate.
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South Pacific Travel Guide

The South Pacific region comprises Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Easter Island, and the surrounding islands. Each of these regions is home to its own unique and endemic species:
  • Papua New Guinea - Between the flourishing endemic bird populations and an eclectic mix of other wildlife, Papua New Guinea offers exciting ways to experience nature and learn about the Melanesian cultures.
  • Solomon Islands Discover some of the most strategically important islands of World War II, where remnants of the military bases are being reclaimed into the tropical nature.
  • Easter Island - Snorkeling, biking, hiking, and swimming are just a few ways you can get to know this ancient island, where the renowned giant Moai statues have mystified travelers for years as to their origin or meaning.
  • Australia - Explore the natural beauty of the "Outback," bounding with mammals, birds, and marine life, and home to breathtaking waterfalls and the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef.
  • New Zealand - This is not only a great way to get to know the wildlife-rich Southern Islands, where penguins and seals abound, but also serves as a portal to exhilarating Antarctic cruises.
South Pacific FAQs
Do I need a visa to travel to the South Pacific?
It depends on where you are going - New Zealand & French Polynesia (Tahiti) do not require a visa. Papua New Guinea and Australia do. All countries require a passport valid for at least three months and some countries require six months validity from your departure date.

Is tipping customary in the South Pacific?
Generally, tipping is not an expectation in the South Pacific. Unless you receive absolutely phenomenal service at a relatively modern or western-style restaurant or if the guide really impresses you, you shouldn't feel obligated to tip. In certain places, a tip might be included in a bill, but in other places it might actually be considered a bit counter-cultural to offer a tip for service that many islanders consider their obligation to you as a guest.

What is internet access like in the South Pacific?
You will not likely have access to the internet for the majority of your stay in the South Pacific. It's possible that a hotel might offer WiFi, but most ships do not.

Can I use my cell phone while in the South Pacific?
Probably not. You could buy a SIM chip for your phone at the airport, but realistically you will be out of range of a cell signal for most of your trip.

Do I need power adapters?
Depending on where you are going, you will need either a European style two round prong plug adapter or an Australian style three flat slanted prong adapter. Power throughout the South Pacific is 220-240v, so if your 110v devices aren't compatible with this, you will also need a step-down converter.

What are the toilets like in the South Pacific?
Since most of our South Pacific journeys are cruises, you can count on modern flushing toilets in your suites. When you are touring the more isolated areas, you might encounter a squat toilet which requires you to hover and bring your own toilet paper, which you will then throw in a waste basket rather than the toilet.

Can I drink the water in the South Pacific?
No, it is not safe to drink tap water in the South Pacific, so we make sure that you will always have access to clean filtered or bottled water.

Are credit cards accepted in the South Pacific? Will I be able to find ATMs?
When arriving in the South Pacific, you should probably go on the assumption that you will not have frequent access to ATMs. Our trips are all inclusive, so other than souvenirs or if you plan to do things that are not on the itinerary you will not have to worry about using money.

Should I purchase travel insurance?
You should always purchase travel insurance before a trip. Our associates at TravelGuard have some excellent offers on our Once You're Booked page.
 

Best South Pacific Cruise Lines for 2025-2026

  • Ponant - is a French cruise line established in April 1988 with eleven ships operating under the French flag. The Oceania and Pacific islands cruises have been created specifically with snorkelers and diving enthusiasts in mind. Le Laperouse has ports of call at the idyllic beaches of French Polynesia and New Caledonia, allowing you to admire some of the most beautiful seabed environments in the world.
  • Silversea Cruises - excels at taking you off the beaten path, and a voyage to the South Pacific is no exception! Departing Tahiti's paradisiacal shores, sail to difficult-to-reach islands, enjoy Zodiac cruises spotting endemic wildlife and see rarely visited archaeological sites aboard Silver Explorer.
  • Heritage Expeditions - has pioneered conservation-driven small ship expedition cruises to some of the planet's wildest, least-explored, and biologically rich regions. On the Heritage Adventurer, visit the popular Pacific holiday destination Vanuatu, a unique archipelago of 83 coral and volcanic islands sprinkled across 450,000 square kilometers of the South Pacific Ocean. 
  • Coral Expeditions - Onboard Coral Geographer, marvel at the remote coral atolls and beaches of the idyllic Melanesia region, with time to explore the wrecks and remnants of the war in the Pacific theatre, and expert guides on hand to discuss the various battle sites, historical significance, and strategies
  • Variety Cruises - combine unique destinations, the yacht suitable to your liking, professional crew, and exquisite cuisine always with a local flavor. Uncover the islands of French Polynesia aboard Panorama II, a 49-guest small ship. Visit Bora Bora, Taha'a, Moorea, Huahine, and Raiatea islands, all sculpted by sky-piercing, moss-green peaks lined with vivid turquoise lagoons.
  • Lindblad Expeditions - goes to the most amazing places on the planet, all 40+ geographies in all. Snorkel over colorful coral reefs crowded with tropical fish, stroll through rainforest trails in search of rare wildlife and meet the friendly locals aboard the National Geographic Resolution.
  • Aurora Expeditions - pioneered ship-based adventures 30 years ago with expedition cruises to Antarctica and remains committed to a small, low-impact group. The Sylvia Earle features the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW®, this allows the ship to cross oceans more comfortably and efficiently,
  • Oceanwide Expeditions - pioneered ship-based expeditions, inventors of Basecamp Antarctica, and one of the first companies to take travelers to the remote Arctic island of Spitsbergen. Fortified for both poles of the planet, the ice-strengthened and thoroughly outfitted Ortelius provides you with an up-close experience. 

 
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