Our Destination Experts' Insight: The South Pacific in 2019-2020

Overwater bungalows surrounded by bright turquoise water, verdant fern-lined valleys, locals donning blooms of tiare flowers and grass skirts, the strum of a ukulele in the distance. Even if you’ve not yet had the delight of traveling to the storied islands of the South Pacific, the paradise of the region is likely alive in your mind from myriad photos, videos and films. With the blissful South Pacific voyages featured in our new 2019-2020 Tropics & Exotics Collection, you will discover that the real thing far exceeds your imagination. Delve into Polynesian culture, and uncover the lasting legacies of author Herman Melville and painter Paul Gauguin, who were so inspired by these stunning lands. Glide above vibrant coral reefs, smell the sweet perfume of hibiscus, and listen to the rustle of palm fronds over an impossibly white beach. Shaped by an array of native cultures and fascinating geological history, the South Pacific islands certainly beckon for a deeper exploration to truly appreciate all they have to offer. Below, we share more on one of our exciting new ports, plus featured voyages to inspire your travels.

New Port Spotlight: Maré Island, New Caledonia
Given its proximity to other popular islands of New Caledonia, it is remarkable that Maré Island remains so untouched by the outside world. Ancient tectonic forces lifted this coral atoll above the sea, creating a striking landscape where lush forests suddenly plummet into limestone caves encircling natural freshwater pools. Swaying palms and feathery pines adorn ragged cliffs that soar into the air and then plunge into grottoes and hidden lagoons. White swaths of sand lie along waters that appear the brightest shade of turquoise from a distance, but upon approach become so clear as to almost disappear. In this pristine paradise, the arrival of a ship is a major event, and the island’s small population will welcome you with traditional songs and impromptu markets offering local wares. Embrace their friendliness and learn where to find the most scenic spots on the island.

Destination Specialists’ Featured Voyages Sublime South Pacific | November 17, 2019Papeete to Sydney aboard Regatta | 18 Days
On this voyage that includes an overnight in Bora Bora and off-the-beaten-path ports such as Port Vila, Vanuatu and Noumea, New Caledonia, you can completely let go of your cares and surrender yourself to the relaxed lifestyle of the South Pacific before returning to the excitement of the Australian cities of Brisbane and Sydney.

Stunning South Pacific | February 17, 2020Auckland to Papeete aboard Regatta | 18 Days
On this alluring voyage that takes you from New Zealand’s lush Bay of Islands and one-of-a-kind Maré to South Pacific legends such as Fiji and Bora Bora, you’ll be very glad for the chance to repeat a date as you cross the International Date Line – it means more time to feast on the exquisite panoramas and heavenly colors of the South Pacific.

Legends to Lagoons | March 5, 2020Papeete to Papeete aboard Regatta | 10 Days
This journey through the legendary islands of French Polynesia will make you want to linger awhile and will leave you with memories of island adventures for a long time to come. From Papeete and Bora Bora to lesser-known treasures like Fakarava and Nuku Hiva, warm breezes, fragrant flowers, delicious local foods, laughing voices and stunning panoramas abound.

Isn’t it time you lived your South Pacific dreams?