Transpacific Cruise 18 Nights • Sydney, Australia to Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii • Anthem of the Seas

Circular Quay is where you'll find the Opera House, museums such as the Art Gallery of NSW and some of the best restaurants in the city. A short walk will take you to the historic George Street district, while top-tier shopping can be found in the historical Queen Victoria Building. A 45-minute ferry ride will take you to the heart of Manly Beach when you cruise from Sydney.

Your ship departs promptly at 4:30 pm, so plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early to account for checking in and boarding protocols. During this time, many of the ship's amenities are open and operating, so feel free to start your vacation early.

Sail through the Hole in the Rock, where you can spot friendly bottlenose dolphins and maybe even dip into the water to swim with them. Or head across the water from Paihia to Russell, New Zealand's first capital city: Take the 30-minute loop walk up to Flagstaff Hill, and pop into Russell Museum to learn more about the old capital's sailing history.

Papeete has some of the world's best waves for surfers of all experience levels — Papara and Papeenoo are perfect for beginners to intermediates, while experienced surfers looking for a challenge can head to Teahupoo. Looking to wade rather than catch a wave? Stroll the volcanic black sands at Plague du Taharuu. Stroll the botanic Paofai Gardens, and check out the Robert Wan Pearl Museum nearby.

Moorea is a treasure trove of island activities that'll satisfy your every whim. Snorkel through the warm turquoise Lagoonarium of Moorea, home to pristine coral reefs and darting exotic fish. Trek up Magical Mountain on foot or by ATV for views of the volcano and the bay. Or head to Temae Beach and relax by the translucent, coral-filled waters surrounded by coconut trees and mountain peaks.

Some of the best Raiatea, French Polynesia travel activities include exploring Raiatea in its most natural form. Venture over its bright blue lagoon on a boat trip to find tiny islets ringed with sugar white sands and topped with palm trees, a prime place to laze the day away. Snorkel around coral gardens, and peek into reef crags to find eels, octopuses, anemones and their resident clown fish, reef sharks and stingrays. Or, wander along Raiatea's largely untouched trails to botanical gardens, waterfalls that range from a roar to a trickle, and lookout points to see the Raiatea landscape in all its splendor. Admiring one of the most revered ceremonial sites, Marae Taputapuatea, is also a must-do on a Raiatea, French Polynesia, vacation. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and meeting point for locals and modern seafarers. Though it's one of the largest cities in French Polynesia, Raiatea's capital city of Uturoa embodies a relaxed way of life. Let your stomach lead the way around town and browse the market for ripe produce, grab a piping hot pastry from a brasserie or dig into a plate of seafood prepared from the catch of the day.

Hawaii's capital is also the center of its culture and history. Dive into Hawaii's monarchical past at Bishop Museum and Iolani Palace, or take the boat ride out to explore Pearl Harbor. Head to Waikiki International Market Place for designer shopping and hip restaurants serving creative takes on the Asian roots of Hawaiian cuisine. Stretch out on a white sand beach to finish your day.

When you arrive, take in the beauty of Honolulu's white sand beaches — you won't find coastline like this anywhere else. Tour the island's distinctive architecture and history, starting with the distinctive Aloha Tower and Iolani Palace. If time allows, head to Waikiki, where you'll find designer shopping and sophisticated restaurants serving modernist Hawaii Regional Cuisine.

The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.