South Pacific Tahiti Cruise Vacations

Glistening white sand beaches, picture perfect sunsets, friendly indigenous peoples, and an atmosphere of perfect relaxation are most people’s vision of the South Pacific. And they are right.

A cruise to the South Pacific will bring you to perfectly gorgeous volcanic islands, full of lush mountain preserves, cool tropical valleys, and beautiful waterfalls tumbling into clear inland lakes jumping with colorful tropical fish. And , of course, those spectacular beaches.

When first discovered in the 1700’s by outsiders, these islands were lightly populated with peoples sharing a very peaceful and inviting common culture. The islands have modernized since then, but the same friendly, relaxing, warm and welcoming ethos of the Polynesian people is still felt by visitors today.

Things To Do

A cruise of the South Pacific is by nature relaxing. Lounge on a beach, go for an easy swim or snorkel in the clear waters, relax with a tall drink. From August to October, migrating humpback whales can often be seen from shore.

Adventure is also to be found in the South Pacific. You can scuba dive on reefs and lagoons. Sailing and deep sea fishing are also outstanding. Inland, you can explore the beautiful islands on foot or by 4-wheel drive vehicles. Take in the lush tropical foliage and breathe in the exotic fragrances of jasmine and hibiscus.

You’ll find plenty of good shopping on most islands. Exotic crafts, hand painted clothing, perfumes, and jewelry featuring black pearls are all popular. The native peoples are uniformly friendly and welcoming and are happy to share their culture with visitors, a culture which loves to dance and perform.

Ports of Call

The islands of the South Pacific are generally grouped by chains - the Society Islands, Marquesas, Polynesia, The Cook Islands, Samoa, Fiji and some others. The most popular cruises visit the Society Islands and include stops at:

Tahiti Moorea

Bora Bora Raiatea

Huahine

The Marqueses Islands (of Survivor reality show fame) are part of longer trips. Stops may include:

Hiva Oa Nuku Hiva

Ua Pou

Fatu Hiva

The very longest cruises may take in: ,

Apia, Western Samoa Pago Pago, American Samoa

Fiji

Rarotonga, Cook Islands

The Hawaiian Islands are not too far (relatively speaking) from the South Pacific islands and some cruises visit both.

Season / Trip Lengths / Departure Ports

Cruises are available year round, though the main season is September to April. Cruises run generally from 7 nights to 14 nights or longer. Tahiti is a common departure port. World cruises and repositioning cruises take in the South Pacific at least once a year on longer trips.