The perfect combination of idyllic beaches, tumbling waterfalls and emerald green rainforest, the Pacific Islands are perhaps the ultimate bucket list holiday destination. From Fiji’s ethereal beauty to Vanuatu’s dense jungles, this breath-taking region has intoxicated and inspired explorers since the first crossing of the Pacific Ocean in 1520.
In modern times, there is no better way of exploring the Pacific Islands than by cruise ship. Awake each day to the prospect of adventures ashore sit back and relax as your chosen vessel navigates thousands of miles of the bluest ocean. On a Pacific Islands cruise, you’ll be free to do as much – or as little – as you like, but rest assured, the memories you make will last a lifetime.
Pacific Islands Cruise Itineraries
The most popular Pacific Islands cruise itineraries take in the islands of Polynesia and French Polynesia. Departing from Papeete in Tahiti, these voyages are available for 7 to 14 nights, and feature stops in several of the region’s most intoxicating islands.
In Bora Bora, spend your time relaxing on pink sand beaches or dive beneath the waves on a snorkelling excursion. Nuku Hiva offers quaint harbours and horseback treks through emerald green valleys, while Tonga’s Talamahu market will delight your tastebuds with local delicacies.
Pacific Islands cruise itineraries are also available in Micronesia and Melanesia. These Oceanic sub-regions are situated west of French Polynesia and are home to several hidden gems. In Micronesia, visit Saipan in the Mariana Islands and tour remnants of WW2’s Pacific Theatre. Located 3,000 miles from Australia’s coast, Melanesia offers vibrant New Caledonia and the romance-inducing Soloman Islands.
Hawaii can also be considered a Pacific Islands destination. Voyages to the four main islands – Oahu, Maui, Kaua’i and Hawaii (‘The Big Island’) – depart from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and occasionally Vancouver, for approximately 7 to 18 nights.
The best time for Pacific Islands cruises
The best time for cruises in Polynesia and Melanesia is during the dry season between May and September. Choose to cruise during this period, and you’ll enjoy dry, sunny days with very little rain. Outside of this timeframe, the humidity increases, as does the rainfall. The optimum time to cruise Micronesia is the reverse, owing to its position north of the equator.
The best time for Hawaii cruises is in early spring or between September and December. However, if you want to cruise Hawaii during the summer, you should note that this is generally when the islands receive most of their tourism from the USA.
Cruise lines that offer Pacific Islands Cruises
There is a wide variety of cruise lines that offer Pacific Islands Cruises; from small-ship operators such as Silversea and Seabourn to amenity-packed big ship lines like Celebrity Cruises and Princess Cruises. The majority of these dedicate itineraries to French Polynesia and Hawaii, while voyages to Micronesia and Melanesia are available with expedition-orientated cruise lines like Ponant Cruises and Noble Caledonia.
For more information regarding Pacific Islands cruises or to receive a quote for a future voyage, please call us on 0800 008 6677 or make an online enquiry for one of the itineraries featured below.
