Lautoka to Papeete (Tahiti)

Arriving in Lautoka—Fiji’s second-largest city, known as the "Sugar City"—offers a vibrant mix of coastal beauty and cultural heritage. Set on the sun-drenched west coast of Viti Levu, this port city features blissful beaches, turquoise waters, and dense jungle that invites exploration. Lautoka marks the landing point of the first Fijians, and visitors today can still sense the allure that drew them here. Engage with rich Fijian traditions through warrior dances and firewalking ceremonies, where embers light up the night sky.

Local legend says the city’s name came from a duel between two chiefs—“Lau-toka!” meaning “spear hit.” Lautoka’s economy revolves around sugar production, but its lush botanical gardens, filled with orchids and water lilies, reveal another side of its charm. Explore vibrant markets selling fresh mangoes, visit temples, stroll past colonial mills, or relax at mineral-rich mud pools and natural spas. Nearby Savala Island, a pristine sand cay, offers swimming and snorkeling among thriving coral reefs and tropical marine life.

Somosomo is the largest village on Taveuni, Fiji’s third-largest island. It holds significant political relevance as the seat of the Tui Cakau, the paramount chief of the region. Until 2012, Somosomo also served as a meeting place for Fiji’s Great Council of Chiefs. Alongside its neighboring village Naqara—home to a predominantly Indo-Fijian community—Somosomo forms the commercial hub of Taveuni.

Just west of Somosomo lies the 180th meridian, with a marker indicating the International Dateline, now officially repositioned east of Tonga. The nearby Somosomo Strait is world-renowned for its vibrant soft coral reefs, supported by nutrient-rich tidal currents and consistent sea temperatures. This marine corridor is considered one of the premier diving sites in the South Pacific, hosting around 390 species of hard and soft corals and over 1,500 species of fish. Notable nearby natural attractions also include Bouma National Park, known for its waterfalls, and Lake Tangimaucia.

2 Included Shore Excursions
Bouma National Heritage Park

• Activity Level - Extensive
• Linger here or continue your hike uphill to a bure (thatch-roofed hut) and deck where you can enjoy astounding views of the ocean and rainforest around you. Choose to stay here, turn back with one of your guides, or challenge yourself with the hike up the trail to a third waterfall amidst the Bouma forest.Enjoy a scenic bus ride from Waiyevo along the coastal and tropical rainforest as you journey up to the first of the park's Tavoro Waterfalls. Take an easy ten-minute walk along a wide trail framed with flowers. Experience the first waterfall, complete with swimming hole. Soak in the beauty or climb up behind the falls and jump off the ten-foot ledge for a little extra excitement. Embark on an unforgettable adventure on the garden island of Taveuni, the third largest island in Fiji. Visit Bouma National Heritage Park and hike through a wonderland, full of flowers and plants of all kinds, incredible vistas, and stunning waterfalls.
• Please note: This tour is not accessible for guests with limited mobility. It may be possible to reach the first waterfall with an easy walk of about ten minutes. Hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellant, bottled water and a change of clothes are recommended. Air-conditioned coaches are not available on the island.

Somosomo Village & International Date Line

• ​Activity Level - Moderate
• Experience Fijian village lifeways starting with a warm welcome by villagers, followed by a tour of the village and see an authentic kava ceremony and local demonstrations of traditional weaving. Next, visit the International Dateline where the day is divided and tomorrow waves goodbye to yesterday. Although Fiji adheres to the single time convention, the Dateline cuts straight through Taveuni to offer you a great photo opportunity as you step from one day into the next. Visit the Holy Cross Church in Wairiki, built in 1907 to honor a French missionary who successfully advised Taveuni's warriors on how to defeat invading Tongans in a major battle. Discover the imposing stone structure that is a mix of Roman style with stained-glass windows and Fijian style with floor mats for seating. Explore at your own pace the spectacular architecture and the amazing interior designs.
• Please note: This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility if guests can access coaches with minimal assistance. Please dress respectfully when visiting the church and village. Women are asked to wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.

Idyllic and picturesque with possibly the lightest, clearest blue waters on the planet, the Ringgold Isles are an archipelago in Fiji that is mostly uninhabited, but for one small village. Tree-lined hills slope down onto white sandy beaches lined with palm trees and interesting rock outcroppings in some areas. Three reefs form part of this group: the Budd, Nukusemanu, and Heemskercq Reefs. The waters surrounding these islands are favored for snorkeling and scuba diving because of their visibility down to 120 feet.

1 Included Shore Excursion
Water Activities with Silversea Expedition Team

• ​Activity Level - Moderate
• The activities are conducted by Silversea Expedition Team and depend on the location, weather and the sea condition of the day and other variables. The team plan to offer swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, zodiac cruising or glass bottom boat cruising. More specific information and logistics will be communicated by the Expedition Team on board.

Also known as Thombia Island the crescent moon-shaped Cobia Island in Fiji is part of the Ringgold Isles archipelago. The island is teeming with biodiversity on land and underwater. Cobia Island is part of the Budd Reef and has a submerged volcanic crater with its highest elevation on the west side of the island. Considered a “conspicuous landmark” for seafarers at least as far back as 1899 this tropical island embodies a unique combination of wooded areas tropical vistas and diverse sea life. The island is an important component of Fiji’s Biodiversity and Action Plan due to its unique geological formations and beach forests.

1 Included Shore Excursion
Water Activities with Silversea Expedition Team

• ​Activity Level - Moderate
• The activities are conducted by Silversea Expedition Team and depend on the location, weather and the sea condition of the day and other variables. The team plan to offer swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, zodiac cruising or glass bottom boat cruising. More specific information and logistics will be communicated by the Expedition Team on board. 

As part of the Southern Lau Group, Fulanga is one of Fiji’s easternmost islands. Fulanga has a large central lagoon with a 50-meter wide pass to the ocean on its northeastern side. The crescent-shaped raised limestone island is famous for its numerous islands, mushroom-shaped islets and many sandy beaches in the calm lagoon. Some 400 residents live in three small villages. The two villages of Muana-i-rai and Muana-i-cake are quite close together on the southern exterior side with a very narrow passage allowing access to the ocean, while Naividamu, the third village, is on the interior, i.e. lagoon side. Muana-i-cake is the main village and hosts the kindergarten and primary school, a post office and first aid station. Old-style houses made of corrugated iron are predominant with limited solar power for the odd refrigerator and television set. Although many islanders have left Fulanga to look for work in Suva, traditional crafts are still practiced by men and women. The weavers and carvers producing pandanus mats and wooden bowls for kava ceremonies are not only valued on Fulanga. Their products can leave on the monthly supply vessel and is highly sought after in Suva.

1 Included Shore Excursion
Water Activities with Silversea Expedition Team

• Activity Level - Extensive
• The activities are conducted by Silversea Expedition Team and depend on the location, weather and the sea condition of the day and other variables. The team plan to offer swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, zodiac cruising or glass bottom boat cruising. More specific information and logistics will be communicated by the Expedition Team on board.

With a population of 6,000, Neiafu is the capital of the Vava'u Group and the second-biggest municipality in the Polynesian nation of Tonga (a 169-island archipelago in the South Pacific). The city is situated next to a deep-water harbor (Port of Refuge) on the south coast of Vavaʻu, the main island of the Vavaʻu archipelago in northern Tonga. The waters of this region are known for their clarity and beauty, and the area attracts many humpback whales between June and November. A popular destination in Neiafu is the Ene'io Botanical Garden, a bird sanctuary that promotes the survival of exotic and native bird species as well as supports and conserves a diverse array of plant life.

3 Included Shore Excursions
Vanilla Plantation & Local Sights

• Activity Level - Moderate
• The vanilla crop is an important source of income for the island of Vava’u. Travel to a vanilla plantation to observe either beans being harvested, beans being dried or flowers being pollinated, depending on the timing of the season. Following your visit, your drive back to the pier will include some photo stops such as Kilikilitefua Wall and St Joseph Cathedral, the largest church in Neiafu.
• Please note: This tour requires only moderate activity and is suitable for those with limited mobility. Casual dress and comfortable walking shoes recommended, along with sun protection and sunglasses. Tonga is a very-low-income country with very basic infrastructure, and vastly different to the western culture mentality. Local conditions may be challenging; therefore, the team urge flexibility and understanding as you visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. Coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions. Local buses are not equipped with the A/C and the local guides are not professionally trained tour guides, but they speak English and are happy to share their home with you and answer any questions.

Ene’io Botanical Garden & Polynesian Culture

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Relive the Polynesian yesterday and experience native lifestyles at the Ene'io Botanical Garden, the only botanical garden in Tonga. Guided, live demonstrations and strolling tours amongst the lush tropical paradise will leave you fascinated by the nature, culture and crafts of this region.
• Please note: This tour requires minimal activity and is suitable for those with limited mobility. Casual dress and comfortable walking shoes recommended, along with sun protection and sunglasses. Tonga is a very-low-income country with very basic infrastructure, and vastly different to the western culture mentality. Local conditions may be challenging; therefore, the team urge flexibility and understanding as you visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. Coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions. Local buses are not equipped with the A/C and the local guides are not professionally trained tour guides, but they speak English and are happy to share their home with you and answer any questions.

Vava'u Cultural Experience

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Join this sightseeing tour of Neiafu and explore the natural beauty of the Island Vava’u. Stop at the Utulaina lookout for a beautiful view the northern side of the island and visit to Esi-o-Salote, a place where name after the Late Queen III love to sitting and watching down her boys swimming on the beach. Take part in a cultural demonstration and learn firsthand the art of tapa making, see locally made handicrafts, and also watch floor show and dancing to entertain you as you enjoy a fruit refreshment. Finally, stop at the St Joseph Cathedral, the largest church in Neiafu on the way back to the pier.
• Please note: This tour requires a moderate activity. Casual dress and comfortable walking shoes recommended, along with sun protection and sunglasses. Tonga is a very-low-income country with very basic infrastructure, and vastly different to the western culture mentality. Local conditions may be challenging; therefore, the team urge flexibility and understanding as you visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. Coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions. Local buses are not equipped with the A/C and the local guides are not professionally trained tour guides, but they speak English and are happy to share their home with you and answer any questions.

A typical tropical island in the South Pacific should have white sand, coconut palms, a calm turquoise sea, and coral reefs reaching to the shore. Eueiki has all that. The 19-hectare (48-acre) island is one of the Vava’u island group of Tonga and is privately owned, with a small resort. Eueiki is made of limestone laid down by marine life thousands of years ago and later uplifted. Take a walk from the island’s beach to the shade of the island’s interior. Listen for birds. The names of the Polynesian Triller and the Tongan Whistler (a Vava’u endemic) give away their identity. The "coos" are made by fruit-eating Pacific Pigeons or Purple-capped Fruit-doves. Screeches identify Tongan (Insular) Flying Foxes. Fascinating to watch, these large bats are sacred and protected by the King of Tonga. Coral reefs provide great snorkeling, with clear waters giving excellent views of the diverse corals and fish. Healthy corals are mostly green, brown, and occasionally blue due to the algae that live in the flesh of the skeleton-making coral polyps. It is the texture and shapes of the coral that make them fascinating. Some are soft and some are hard. Growth forms include shrubby, finger, plate, massive (round domes), and branched. Small reef fish linger on the reef, none more so than the anemonefish. Small groups of these orange, white, and sometimes black, banded fish find protection amongst the tentacles of sea anemones. Anemonefish are nicknamed Nemos after the Finding Nemo movie. Find Nemo in the word anemone.

2 Included Shore Excursions
Hiking with the Silversea Expedition Team

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: Activity level and duration of this activity are approximate. More specific information and logistics will be communicated by the Expedition Leader on board. This activity is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or guests who use a wheelchair. Guests with balance limitations (even slight) are advised to bring along walking poles to assist on slippery and uneven surfaces while hiking. Hikes will be offered in various degrees of difficulty and in order to avoid injury guests are advised to carefully evaluate their abilities when deciding which hikes to participate in. Hikes will go through different types of terrains that may be wet, muddy, rocky, sandy, icy. Hikes will take place in different types of weather conditions and therefore guests must be ready with appropriate clothing and footwear. The team recommends you bring your filled Silversea drinking bottle to remain hydrated during the outing, as well as your Silversea backpack to carry your essential items. It is recommended to have electronic equipment sealed in waterproof bags, in case of rain or spray.

Snorkeling with Silversea Expedition Team

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: Activity level and duration of this activity are approximate. More specific information and logistics will be communicated by the Expedition Leader on board. This activity is recommended only for guests in good physical condition and with good swimming skills; some snorkeling experience might be needed in certain areas. Snorkeling will take place from either a beach or a Zodiac platform dependent on the conditions of the day. The team have equipment available for all guests, though you are welcome to bring your own equipment if you wish (full-face masks are prohibited). Some floating noodles will be also available for those guests who wish to make use of them. As the sun can be strong in these areas, the team recommends the use of eco-friendly sunscreen and a rash guard to protect as much skin as possible. It is compulsory to snorkel with a buddy and never alone. You are kindly reminded not to swim too far away from the site. Your Expedition Team will be available to give you all the specific information you need. It is especially important to remember not to touch or kick anything nor stand on corals. If you are using an underwater camera or any other equipment, make sure it safely attached to you (neck or wrist strap) and that you are comfortable in the water first, prior to usage. Please remember not to interfere with the animals that you encounter during your excursion.

Uoleva is one of those classic postcards or webpage images of a south sea island. Clean white sand beaches, abundant coconut palms, and clear blue shallow waters with the visible shapes of coral bommies and reefs. It is easy to imagine being castaway on such an island without a care. But as with most natural places, there is always an alternative to relaxing, such as beachcombing, swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the island. The coral reef has a rich display of marine life to explore with a snorkel. The warm, clear waters promote coral growth which supports animal life like feather stars, fan worms, sponges, and sea squirts. Fish of many shapes, colors, and habits provide you with unlimited opportunities to watch their behavior. Some dart in and out of corals while others sit on the bottom waiting for food to pass by. Many fish gather in schools to search the reef for algae to feed on, while other schools swirl in the water column nabbing passing plankton. The island has some visitor accommodation but is still mainly used by locals for coconut growing and pig grazing. If you see a mound on Uoleva it is probably a traditional pigeon snaring trap. The Tongans boat over from the adjacent island of Lifuka, or wade over at low tide. It was at Lifuka that Captain Cook named Tonga the "friendly islands" after a welcome feast. Little did he know that the feast was part of a plan to slaughter him and his crew that did not quite happen. The name "friendly" stuck though and is very appropriate today.

1 Included Shore Excursion
Water Activities with Silversea Expedition Team

• Activity Level - Moderate
• The activities are conducted by Silversea Expedition Team and depend on the location, weather and the sea condition of the day and other variables. The team plan to offer swimming, snorkeling, zodiac cruising or glass bottom boat cruising. More specific information and logistics will be communicated by the Expedition Team on board.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up with what you've been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale-watching, catching up on your reading, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shoreside.

Crossing the date line (theoretically the 180-degree line of longitude) from the Eastern to the Western Hemisphere seafaring guests will find themselves in the unusual situation of actually gaining a day and prolonging their holiday - at no extra cost! By crossing the (fictitious) line that dissects the planet exactly in half from Greenwich, you travel over time zones and find yourself with an extra day on board. The phenomenon was used by Jules Verne in his novel Around the World in 80 Days when his hero Phileas Fogg finds out he had returned home a full day earlier than calculated having always traveled towards the east. As some countries have decided to change to different time zones than allotted based on longitude, this phenomenon is not strictly linked to the 180-degree line of longitude any longer.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up with what you've been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale-watching, catching up on your reading, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shoreside.

Rarotonga is the essence of Polynesia with its warmth, vibrant tropical plants, and some of the happiest and friendliest people on Earth. As the main island of the Cook Islands, Rarotonga supports most of the country's people and services. The island was settled about 1,500 years ago by traditional sailing canoes as part of the great Polynesian expansion. Cook Islanders are proud of their culture and happy to demonstrate their traditional skills. Mesmerizing dances incorporate energetic posturing of warrior men and seductive gyrations of grass skirts on the hips of women, along with graceful hand movements. An ancient, eroded volcano bedecked in rainforest dominates the island. Skirting the mountain is a flat coastal strip where most people live. The island is fringed by white coral sand beaches and a shallow coastal lagoon stretching to a protective outer ring of coral reefs. Rarotonga has many modern water and land activities for visitors but without the tourism hype of more well-known Pacific islands. An easy escape is to trek across the island's interior past the Needle - an aptly named volcanic rock spire. The decaying volcano on Rarotonga produces fertile soil and captures rain, ensuring lush dark green vegetation. Bird life is headlined by the Cook Islands Fruit Dove, and the Kakerori (Rarotongan Flycatcher). Kakerori were critically endangered with only 29 birds in the Takitumu Conservation Area in 1989. A dedicated conservation program has enabled a recovery of over 500 birds.

2 Included Shore Excursions
Rarotonga Island Discovery

• Activity Level - Minimal
• Rarotonga is a volcanic island paradise of lush vegetation and rugged tropical splendor. This leisurely 21-mile drive will completely encircle the island. Explore Rarotonga’s culture, history, and traditions during this scenic and informative island tour. Along the way, you can visit such sites as Ngatangiia Harbor, the departure point of the Polynesian Migration to New Zealand in 1350 A.D., and a historical back road built in 1050 A.D. called the Road of Toi, or Ara Metua.
• Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking for approximately 120 yards (about 110 meters), at times over uneven, natural, and slippery surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is recommended for guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilize a wheelchair. The tour sequence may vary.

Muri Lagoon Snorkeling

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Experience the beauty of the Muri Lagoon from above-and-below sea level during this picturesque, half-day snorkeling excursion via glass-bottom boat. Proceed to Muri Lagoon by coach, board your glass-bottom boat for a cruise to Koromiri a motu (small island) near the reef in Muri Lagoon. Enjoy underwater views of the prolific marine life. Marvel at the rainbow-colored tropical fish as they glide around intricate coral heads. Local guides will relate stories of the island and share legendary tales and myths of the coconut tree. Take a short walk through the motu, or relax sunbathing, snorkeling or swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a light fruit refreshments before returning back across the lagoon to board your bus transfer to the pier.
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 191 yards (about 175 meters), at times over uneven, natural and sandy surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, embark/disembark the boat and manoeuvre in/out of the boat. This tour is recommended for guests who are in good physical condition, and can swim in water too deep to stand. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guest with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to seasickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilize a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear a swimsuit under a cover-up with beach or water shoes, and bring sun protection, a towel and bottled water from the ship. Guests are invited to bring their own snorkeling equipment. Snorkeling equipment is provided; wetsuits are available for rental. Waterproof cameras are highly recommended; GoPro cameras are available for rental. The boat is covered, and has a water-access ladder. There are no restrooms or changing facilities on board the boat. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, fish and marine life sightings are not guaranteed. Guests may not snorkel if they have consumed alcohol. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The tour sequence may vary.

When the Lonely Planet co-founder describes somewhere as 'the world’s most beautiful island' you can be sure that you are in for a treat. Incredible Aitutaki, inspiring Aitutaki, unbelievable, idyllic, and unimaginable, there are simply not enough superlatives to describe quite how amazing Aitutaki is. Brought to light in 1779 by Captain Bligh, the Mutiny on the Bounty meant that Aitutaki had somewhat of a bloodthirsty history. While European missionaries eventually settled on the island in the 19th century (evidenced by the white, coral-encrusted walls of the many churches) the island's Polynesian history dates to around 900 A.D. Traditional songs and dances from this period still exist (although Christian hymns, known as imene metua are also popular), and are performed by islanders with gusto and much pride. The island is part of the Cook Islands, one of the most secluded and romantic archipelagos in the world. With its powder-white sand, warm turquoise waters, and sense of casual luxury, it is easy to see why the island has earned itself the moniker “honeymooner’s island”. However, there is much more to Aitutaki than just fun in the sun. With a reef that completely encompasses a large turquoise lagoon, Aitutaki is considered one of the most spectacular diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. Added to the tropical excitement is that when entering the main village via Zodiac along a narrow channel - travelers will be greeted by a traditional and customary warrior challenge.

2 Included Shore Excursion
Snorkeling Adventure

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Discover the undersea beauty of the Aitutaki Lagoon during this snorkeling adventure. Part Volcanic and part atoll, the island's geographical structure makes this lagoon unique. Your snorkeling spot, the Motu Maina Sandbar, affectionately-known as 'Honeymoon Island' is a good area for new or beginner snorkelers, as your boats anchors over a shallow sand bar and enables guests to stand in approximately 3.3 feet (about one meter) of water before snorkeling in depths of approximately 9.8 feet (about three meters) nearby.
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of activity and a moderate amount of walking with some steps to negotiate. This tour is recommended for guests who can swim and are in good physical condition. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guest with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to seasickness and guests with limited mobility. Snorkeling gear is not included. The Expedition team will provide guests with the snorkeling gear which then guests need to bring with them from this ship. There are no changing facilities on board the boat. Guests are advised to wear a swimsuit under a cover-up with beach or water shoes, and bring sun protection, a towel, and bottled water from the ship. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions.

Aitutaki Island Discovery

• Activity Level - Minimal
• Aitutaki has a unique geographical makeup - the island is a volcanic atoll with the typical volcanic peaks in the center of the island with the encircling coral reef ringed by the offshore islands (motus) and the lagoon in the center. This experience is a great way to see the island and meet the locals. Visit the inland villages of Tautu Vaipae and Vaipeka, drive along the coast and see the remnants of the Copra Plantations and see how the people of this tiny idyllic island live. There will be plenty of opportunities to meet the locals and take photographs along the way.
• Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking and is suitable for guests with limited mobility. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up with what you've been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale-watching, catching up on your reading, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shoreside.

If you have ever dreamed up your ideal island holiday, the team suspect it goes something like this: Soapy blue seas? Check. Sparkling white beaches? Check. Thatched wooden huts, gently sloping palm trees, and kaleidoscopic marine life? Check, check, and check. And yet, even by ticking every box, first-time viewing of Bora Bora still beggars belief. This tropical hideaway less than 12 square meters in the heart of the South Pacific has been topping travel wish lists for years. Long considered the realm of honeymooners - spectacularly romantic sunsets are a specialty - Bora Bora is not just for wandering with your love. If the prismatic shades of blue of the world's most beautiful lagoon do not fill you up, then perhaps underwater scooters and aqua-safaris will charge your batteries. If exploring Bora Bora's lush hinterland is more your glass of tequila sunrise, then trips around the island (often stopping off at the celebrity haunt Bloody Mary Restaurant & Bar) are a must. Bora Bora's peaceful ambiance has not always been the case. The island was a U.S. supply base, known as “Operation Bobcat,” during WWII. During this time, Bora Bora was home to nine ships, 20,000 tons of equipment, and nearly 7,000 men. Eight massive 7-inch naval cannons were installed around the island, all but one of which are still in place. Although little is known of the history of the island, it is known that Bora Bora was called Vava'u in ancient times. This supports the belief that the island was colonized by Tongans before French annexation in 1888.

2 Included Shore Excursion
Bora Bora by Local Truck

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Experience spectacular beauty of Bora Bora's emerald-green hills and tranquil sapphire-blue lagoons. On this excursion take a leisurely ride on the open-air "Le Truck," a colorful, fun truck that takes you on a scenic tour of Bora Bora.  Enjoy the sights as you pass by groves of coconut palms and tiny villages hugging the shoreline on a narrated tour. Discover the villages of Farepiti, Faanui and Anau with their mysterious "Marae," the ancient stone temples.
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking and some driving on bumpy roads. Guests must be able to climb in and out of the touring vehicles. This tour is not suggested for guests with back or neck issues. Lightweight clothing, protection from the sun and closed-toe comfortable shoes are recommended. It is essential that guests bring bottled water from the ship.

Shark & Ray Snorkeling Experience

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Dance with the stingrays under the supervision of your guide and explore the intricate coral formations and colorful tropical fish of the coral gardens on this Bora Bora snorkeling safari. Glide across the lagoon aboard a covered lagoon cruiser. Drop anchor and look for stingrays and the harmless black tip sharks. Explore the unspoiled coral gardens by the barrier reef, where ideal conditions have encouraged maximum coral growth. Underwater sightings may include butterfly fish, groupers and hundreds of other rainbow-colored species.
• Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking; however, guests must be physically fit, able to swim and able to manoeuvre in and out of the boat using a two-step ladder.  It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Guests are advised to wear a swimsuit under a cover-up with non-slip, rubber-soled shoes or aqua shoes, and bring a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, bottled water and underwater camera from the ship. Snorkels and masks are available for guest use; however, the team recommends you bring your own equipment. Fins are not provided; please bring from home if desired. As with all creatures in their natural environment, the team cannot guarantee the presence of fish and animals. Order of the stops and snorkeling sites can be modified depending the sea conditions and/or currents.

If you’ve ever wondered what real island serenity feels like, Tikehau - a pink-sanded atoll in the Tuamotus - is a divine place to begin. Formed by an ancient sunken volcano, this heavenly ring of a coral atoll sits just to the west of Rangiroa. Step ashore - on an atoll whose name comes from the local word for “peaceful landing,” and be immediately swept up by a myriad of rich gradients of azure. Be surrounded by the cerulean ocean, the shallow waters of the enclosed lagoon, and the deep blue expanse above, dotted with puffy clouds. The circular ribbon of sand has a soft rose glow, while bow-trunked palm trees lean under the weight of coconuts. Fruit doves, lorikeets, and frigatebirds rest and chatter among the palms and islets. The lagoon’s shallow waters have an interesting pearl-farming history and shelter an extraordinary variety of fish life. Connected to the South Pacific’s waters via the Tuheieva Pass, the lagoon is believed to have one of the highest concentrations of fish species in all of French Polynesia. Snorkel among reefs alive with barracudas, dolphins, lionfish, and snappers. Elegant manta rays drift past, pausing to be diligently cleaned by pilot fish, while tropical fish swirl and blacktip reef sharks cruise just above the sea floor. Located more than 200 miles north of Tahiti, Tikehau offers a dreamy, unmistakable sense of perfect isolation - a wonderful highlight of any voyage.

1 Included Shore Excursions
Water Activities with Silversea Expedition Team

• Activity Level - Moderate
• The activities are conducted by Silversea Expedition Team and depend on the location, weather and the sea condition of the day and other variables. The team plan to offer swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, zodiac cruising or glass bottom boat cruising. More specific information and logistics will be communicated by the Expedition Team on board.

Rangiroa is French Polynesia’s largest atoll. More than 400 motu (islets) enclose the lagoon, which is so wide and long that one cannot see the southern row of motu from the two main islets in the north - hence the local name Rangiroa meaning wide or long sky, sometimes taken as ‘immense sky’. There are several passes from the ocean into the lagoon and the two main villages of Avatoru and Tiputa are located next to the passes of the same names. Drift diving and snorkeling the incoming tides looking for sharks and manta rays at these passes is one of Rangiroa’s main touristic draws. Government jobs, ecotourism and pearl farming are the main sources of income on the atoll. The lagoon’s calm turquoise waters, rich marine underwater world, and relaxed atmosphere attract visitors year-round to the many local guesthouses and a few hotels. Both Avatoru and Tiputa also feature schools for the other Tuamotu Islands which have no higher education possibilities. One of Rangiroa’s most unusual attractions is the white and rose wine produced on the islet immediately west of Avatoru - the wine has won several awards.

1 Included Shore Excursion
Snorkeling with Silversea Expedition Team

• Activity Level - Physically fit
• This activity is conducted by Silversea Expedition Team and is depending on the weather and the sea condition of the day. More specific information and logistics will be communicated by the Expedition Team on board. 
• Please note: Activity level and duration of this activity are approximate. More specific information and logistics will be communicated by the Expedition Leader on board. This activity is recommended only for guests in good physical condition and with good swimming skills; some snorkeling experience might be needed in certain areas. Snorkeling will take place from either a beach or a Zodiac platform dependent on the conditions of the day. The team have equipment available for all guests, though you are welcome to bring your own equipment if you wish (full-face masks are prohibited). Some floating noodles will be also available for those guests who wish to make use of them. As the sun can be strong in these areas, the team recommends the use of eco-friendly sunscreen and a rash guard to protect as much skin as possible. It is compulsory to snorkel with a buddy and never alone. You are kindly reminded not to swim too far away from the site. Your Expedition Team will be available to give you all the specific information you need. It is especially important to remember not to touch or kick anything nor stand on corals. If you are using an underwater camera or any other equipment, make sure it safely attached to you (neck or wrist strap) and that you are comfortable in the water first, prior to usage. Please remember not to interfere with the animals that you encounter during your excursion.

Papeete is the center of the tropical paradise of French Polynesia, where islands fringed with gorgeous beaches and turquoise ocean await to soothe the soul. This spirited city is the capital of French Polynesia and serves as a superb base for further exploration of Tahiti - an island of breathtaking landscapes and oceanic vistas. A wonderful lagoon of crisp, clear water begs to be snorkeled, stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island's volcanic heritage, and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures, as you explore extraordinary Tahiti. Visit to relax and settle into the intoxicating rhythm of life in this Polynesian paradise.