Australasia and Polynesia

It is many a cruise fan’s dream to take a voyage through Polynesia, around the coast of Australia and maybe on to New Zealand. Several world cruises include a variety of ports in the region in the itinerary but there are very few options for the traveller to explore this area of the South Pacific.

Fred. Olsen Line includes seven ports of call at South Pacific islands in its 2009 Black Watch world cruise as well as another seven in Australia. Cunard Line includes the east coast of Australia as well as three ports in New Zealand aboard Queen Victoria’s world cruise itinerary.

Long flight times and expensive air fares between Europe or the United States to Papeete make this region rather distant to many prospective cruise passengers. Those who do make the effort are rarely disappointed, especially if a stay in Tahiti is possible as a pre or post cruise option.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has one ship with Papeete featuring as its home port throughout the year – the legendary Paul Gaugin. On a seven night programme it is possible to explore the Society Islands, Taha’a, Bora Bora and Moorea. This includes an overnight stay in Bora Bora and Moorea.

Snorkelling is a favourite activity in the region as well as trips on an outrigger canoe to explore the unspoilt coral sea gardens.

Paul Gaugin, although accommodating only 350 passengers, has the style and amenities of a larger ship. Its unusual retractable water sports platform enables guests to go waterskiing, kayaking and windsurfing straight from the vessel.

The remote Chilean outpost of Easter Island (Isla de Pascua), the Marquesas Islands, the Tamotus Islands and the Cook Islands are also visited on extended itineraries and on some Round the World voyages.

Whether it is the intricate coast of New Zealand, the sweeping beaches of Australia or the natural beauty of the South Pacific islands, a cruise in Polynesia and Australasia creates lifelong memories.

Highlights:

• Opera House, Sydney
• Great Barrier Reef, Cairns
• Maritime Museum, Perth
• Clifton Beach, Hobart
• City Art Gallery, Auckland
• Parliament Buildings, Wellington
• Pearl Museum, Papeete
• Lagoonarium, Papeete
• Outrigger canoe trip, Bora Bora
• Royal Palace, Tonga