South Pacific Cruise ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Sydney , Australia | Mare , New Caledonia | Port Vila , Vanuatu | Luganville , Vanuatu | Mystery Island , Vanuatu | Noumea , New Caledonia | Isle Of Pines , New Caledonia | Sydney , Australia
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Sydney, Australia
SUNSHINE
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.
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.
in Sydney
Go in Circles
Circular Quay is the perfect place to start exploring Sydney. You can find the Opera House here, and Harbour Bridge is within walking distance. Stride into one of the many walking and pub tours that leave from here. Just 20 minutes away, you can stretch your legs on the iconic Harbour Bridge walk, the first of its kind in the world.
Get Manly
Bondi Beach gets all the attention, but Manly Beach in the Northern Beaches is a bit more local. The Corso is lined with shops and restaurants, including local favorite, Hugo's. If surfing is your thing, this is the place to be. The walk from Spit Bridge to Manly is a fantastic way to soak in the city's coastline.
Walk Watsons
Hop on the ferry or one of the regular buses that go to Watsons Bay to enjoy the scenic hike around South Head. During your journey, you'll enjoy views of Sydney Harbour, North Head, the historic Hornby Lighthouse and, of course, the sapphire-blue Pacific Ocean. The Gap offers breathtaking views of the sea from the rocky cliffside.
Local Cuisine
With all the water surrounding you, it's no surprise seafood takes center stage on many plates in the city. Head to Sydney Fish Market for giant Sydney Rock oysters or classic fish and ships. Stop into a local pie shop for a traditional Australian meat pie, or explore Sydney's international side with udon or ramen noodles at a Japanese noodle bar, or seek out shrimp dumplings in Chinatown.
Shopping
There are plenty of shopping malls in the heart of the city, including Westfield Mall, Pitt Street Mall and the wonderful Queen Victoria Building, which is now a shopping mall featuring top designers. Seek out cutting boards made from local camphor laurel — they're not only beautiful but also have natural antimicrobial properties. During your Sydney cruise vacation, look for jewelry made from opal, the national gemstone of Australia.
INSIDER TIP
Central Sydney is extremely walkable, so take the time to explore the little streets close to Circular Quay.
CRUISING
CAN'T-MISS FAVOURITES
Things to Do
ON PAR FOR ADVENTURE
Hit the links on the high seas! Refine your mini-golf game on a green that overlooks a sea of blue. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
A BOLDER BOULDER
Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 12 metres (40 feet) above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
CRUISING
FOR FOODIES
Things to Do
AL DENTE INDULGENCE
A casual Italian trattoria, Giovanni's Table offers rustic dishes with a contemporary flair, including fresh pastas, braised meat dishes and stews.
MEET YOU AT THE DINER, DADDY-O
With a family-friendly uncomplicated menu that offers all-American good food and is reminiscent of simpler days, you'll feel like you stepped back in time to an era of sock hops, soda fountains and drive-in cinemas.
Mare, New Caledonia
CLEAR BLUE WATERS
Explore nature at its purest in Mare – of all the Loyalty Islands, it's the least influenced by tourism. See Le Saut du Guerrier, a famous gap in the cliffs above the clear blue water – legend has it local warrior Here Hnor leapt over the chasm to escape his enemies. Plumb the depths of the natural caves at Trou de Bone, and see the gardens and pool below. Or go snorkelling among the coral outcrops and tropical fish at Yejele Beach.
Explore nature at its purest in Mare – of all the Loyalty Islands, it's the least influenced by tourism. See Le Saut du Guerrier, a famous gap in the cliffs above the clear blue water – legend has it local warrior Here Hnor leapt over the chasm to escape his enemies. Plumb the depths of the natural caves at Trou de Bone, and see the gardens and pool below. Or go snorkelling among the coral outcrops and tropical fish at Yejele Beach.
in Mare
A Legendary Leap
Head to Wakone called to see Le Saut du Guerrier – the Warrior's Leap. According to island legend, warrior Here Hnor was once cornered here by his enemies, and to escape, he made a daring seven-metre leap over to the other side of the cliff. Soak up the history as you stand in the same spot as the warriors of old.
Crazy for Coral
At the Shabadran Terraces, layers of coral form an expansive reef under turquoise water and crashing waves. Every so often, water rushes through blow holes, exploding into the air with a rainbow spray. Reach the terraces with a short drive through swaying coconut trees or a two-hour hike.
Turtle Time
Head to the La Baie des Tortues at high tide to find a wealth of turtles milling about, casually munching sea grass as they go. After checking with a local, you can swim with these gentle creatures in their natural habitat during your cruise.
Local Cuisine
For the best eating on Mare island, head to the casual beach-side huts. Settle down and indulge in a few brochettes – island-style skewers of chicken grilled over a fire. Eager to share the catch of the day, locals will offer you freshly caught lobster and crab platters with a rustic charm.
Shopping
There are a few small market stalls where you can find little handicrafts and keepsakes. Experience Kanak fashion and get your hair braided in a traditional native style by one of the local women. You can use Australian dollars on the island to pay for any goods you want to buy. Cruise to Mare and bring home a tribal turtle sculpture for good luck.
INSIDER TIP
Many of the main sights are unmarked – chat up a local to point them out to you, or hire a guide to take you around.
Port Vila, Vanuatu
ECLECTIC ISLAND PARADISE
Small, bustling and surrounded by sky blue waters, Port Vila is the perfect spot to soak up Vanuatu's natural beauty. Learn about the islands' rich history at the Vanuatu Cultural Center, which showcases indigenous artefacts and features exhibitions on the practice of sand drawing. Marvel at rainforest-surrounded waterfalls of Mele Cascades. Or ride a water taxi to nearby Pele Island and soak up the sun on a powdery white beach.
Small, bustling and surrounded by sky blue waters, Port Vila is the perfect spot to soak up Vanuatu's natural beauty. Learn about the islands' rich history at the Vanuatu Cultural Center, which showcases indigenous artefacts and features exhibitions on the practice of sand drawing. Marvel at rainforest-surrounded waterfalls of Mele Cascades. Or ride a water taxi to nearby Pele Island and soak up the sun on a powdery white beach.
in Port Vila
One for the History Books
The history of Port Vila alone is impressive – add that to the story of the entire South Pacific, and you've got the Vanuatu Cultural Centre. It houses one of the most extensive collections of South Pacific artifacts on the planet. Outrigger canoes, photos, videos and traditional sand drawing exhibitions await.
Natural Heat Remedy
It gets pretty hot and sticky on a tropical island. Do like the locals do and cool down at the Mele Cascades Waterfall. At 45 metres high, the spray alone is refreshing. A bus ride and a brief walk up the valley gets you to this spectacular feat of nature.
Find the Perfect Hideaway
A quick drive and a water taxi trip will bring you to the tiny Hideaway Island. Jump right in and snorkel in crystal clear waters teeming with rainbows of fish. Jump onboard a Port Vila, Vanuatu cruise to swim to the world's only underwater post office, and post a waterproof postcard to your friends back home.
Local Cuisine
For cheap eats, go to Mama's Market, where you can sample taro root pancakes, Vanuatu French fries – delicious flakes of coconut deep fried and salted to perfection – or traditional lap lap, grated yam and banana cooked with coconut cream in an earthen oven. Or dine al fresco along the waterfront: Modern eateries serve up French-inspired takes on local fish and grass-fed beef, which is some of the world's best.
Shopping
Along Wharf Road in the centre of town, you'll see the charming Vanuatu Handicraft Market. Here, local vendors sell authentic Vanuatu wooden carvings, as well as prints and other crafts. If you're looking for something a bit more tailored during your cruise, pop in at the nearby Pandanus shop, which supports local creators.
INSIDER TIP
Public buses are cheaper than taxis and don't follow a set route. Just tell them where you want to go.
Luganville, Vanuatu
'SECOND CITY'
Indulge your sense of adventure and visit the Nanda Blue Hole. It's so clear and so incredibly blue, many visitors wonder if a dye is used to tint its natural waters. Be sure to pop in at Ransak Cultural Village to learn local legends and crafts. After the day's activities, head back into the city and relax at the Euro-inspired cafes and homegrown kava bars.
Indulge your sense of adventure and visit the Nanda Blue Hole. It's so clear and so incredibly blue, many visitors wonder if a dye is used to tint its natural waters. Be sure to pop in at Ransak Cultural Village to learn local legends and crafts. After the day's activities, head back into the city and relax at the Euro-inspired cafes and homegrown kava bars.
in Luganville
DIVE THROUGH HISTORY
At the so-called Million Dollar Point, tons and tons of U.S. military equipment was dumped after the war. Dive down and be humbled at how nature is reclaiming the metals with thriving coral gardens. When the tide goes out, you can see hundreds of curious metal objects littering the beach.
ONWARD AND UPWARD!
The trip to the Millennium Cave is not quick — but it's certainly worth it. Visit Vanuatu and follow a guide through a rainforest, climb up bamboo ladders, scramble over rocks and find the hideaway cave. To get home, float down the river surrounded by stunning, untouched nature.
MORE THAN MUSIC
Head to Leweton Village for a demonstration that'll blow you away with authenticity. Watch women expertly mold the sounds of water into "Water Music," dance spiritedly with locals and learn how to start a fire from scratch. A pure reflection of Vanuatu culture and lifestyle.
LOCAL CUISINE
Tuck into Vanuatu favorites like the coconutty lap-lap or just-grilled seafood caught early that morning. The Market Meal Booths are always popular, consistently winning cruisers over with fresh, fast and cheap meals. Choose a booth, order a dish and sit down at one of the cozy rustic tables. You won't be disappointed!
SHOPPING
While Luganville market has plenty of fresh produce, Mama Handicraft & Souvenir Shop at the east end of town is where you can find the largest variety of locally made "Kastom" crafts. Cruise to Luganville, Vanuatu to browse island clothing, turtle jewelry, carvings, dyed clothes and woven bags to take back home.
INSIDER TIP
Public transport is limited in Luganville. If you plan on going outside of the town center — hire a taxi or join a tour.
CRUISING
SUN-DRENCHED DAYS
Things to Do
NOW BOARDING FOR ADVENTURE
Grab your board and get ready for 100,000 litres of rushing amazingness headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 12-metre-long FlowRider® surf simulator.
SUN AND SERENITY
Slip away to this adults-only indoor and outdoor retreat. The Solarium is your slice of paradise, with soothing whirlpools, warm sunshine and a refreshing water mist.
Mystery Island, Vanuatu
UNPLUG AND UNWIND
On Mystery Island, you can live the simple life. Stroll around the entire island and find your special secluded spot. Go on a hunt for the old military airstrip built during World War II. Melt into a traditional Vanuatu massage right on the beach. Or simply dive into the warm, turquoise waters and make friends with the exotic marine life and coral.
On Mystery Island, you can live the simple life. Stroll around the entire island and find your special secluded spot. Go on a hunt for the old military airstrip built during World War II. Melt into a traditional Vanuatu massage right on the beach. Or simply dive into the warm, turquoise waters and make friends with the exotic marine life and coral.
in Mystery Island
Go on a Coral Safari
Because Mystery Island is so secluded, the coral is exceptionally healthy and the fish plentiful. Whether you are swimming or snorkelling, you'll pass clown fish, parrot fish, barracudas and majestic sea turtles. You might even be lucky enough to glimpse a seahorse.
What's SUP?
Hop on a quick boat ride to the nearby inhabited island of Aneityum for a little adventure. From there, you'll be given a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) and a quick beginner's lesson on how to use it. Enjoy the remainder of your time by SUPing around the lush bay in cool island style.
Embrace the Escape
Unlike most of your other stops, this island is unfrequented and small – give yourself permission to slow down. Take a break from the real world and take in the shimmering turquoise ocean with your Mystery Island cruise. Dig your toes into the white powdery sand, and breathe in the warm, tropical air.
Local Cuisine
The inhabitants of the nearby Aneityum come to the island to prepare food and entertainment for visitors. They serve traditional Vanuatuan food, which is simple and delicious. Cruise to Mystery Island and tuck in to freshly caught grilled lobster for lunch, and treat yourself to island banana pie for dessert.
Shopping
Along the beach, you can find small market stalls set up by locals. They sell postcards, sarongs and traditional trinkets. For a more cultural experience, have your hair braided by one of the local women or enjoy a traditional Vanuatu massage on the beach.
INSIDER TIP
There are no hire shops on this island, so bring your own snorkelling gear. It's worth it.
Noumea, New Caledonia
WITH FRENCH FLAIR
Noumea is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Head to Anse Vata Bay and jump on a kiteboard, go sailing or snorkel. Hike through large swathes of lush, green land at Michel Corbasson Zoological and Forest Park, or head to the Dumbea gorges for swimming or canoeing. Later, flex your connoisseur taste buds at one of the many up-market restaurants blending French and island flavors into dishes like prawns and pineapple in rum and coconut milk.
Noumea is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Head to Anse Vata Bay and jump on a kiteboard, go sailing or snorkel. Hike through large swathes of lush, green land at Michel Corbasson Zoological and Forest Park, or head to the Dumbea gorges for swimming or canoeing. Later, flex your connoisseur taste buds at one of the many up-market restaurants blending French and island flavors into dishes like prawns and pineapple in rum and coconut milk.
in Noumea
Wet and Wild
Noumea has every water sport imaginable. Head on over to the Bay of Anse Vata to speed across the water with a kite-surfing lesson. From Anse Vata Beach, catch a water taxi to Duck Island ('Ile aux Canards') and snorkel in the majestic underwater world.
Walk with Nature
Stretch your land legs and take a tour around the Michel Corbasson Zoological and Forest Park. Full of lush greenery and unique species of fauna native to New Caledonia, the park lets you catch glimpses of giant geckos, flying foxes and exotic birds, including New Caledonia's national bird, the kagu.
Kanak Culture Lesson
Although New Caledonians speak French, their native culture is called Kanak. The Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre is a spectacular feat of architecture that celebrates Kanak culture and educates visitors on its core beliefs. Check out traditional Kanak totems and artefacts, as well as recreated traditional huts.
Local Cuisine
Discover the abundance of French-influenced food found on Noumea. Head to Baie de Citrons to find the best restaurants, bistros and bars. Cruise to Noumea and sample French classics like slow-cooked lamb shanks and escargots, or experience island-inspired twists on Old World cuisine, like choucroute (a filling platter-style meal typical in Alsace) with sweet potato, cabbage, papaya and pumpkin. And look out for the bakeries – they stock bread worthy of a Parisian cafe.
Shopping
There are two main shopping attractions in Noumea: grocery shops and open-air markets. Head to the Casino (a grocery shop) and indulge in the array of French goodies – pick up some hard-to-find French wine to take home. At the market, you'll find local spices, including regionally produced vanilla, alongside Kanak artefacts. For souvenirs, browse the market for Melanesian masks or tribal turtle sculptures.
INSIDER TIP
Taxis will only come to the port if ordered by phone, so plan in advance.
Isle Of Pines, New Caledonia
YOUR STRESS
Head to Kanumera Bay's turquoise shores and swim with tropical fishes, turtles and stingrays. After soaking up the sun on the beach, marvel at the awe-inspiring stalactites of the Grotte de la Reine Hortense cave — a hideout for the wife of a tribal chief in 1855. Before you leave, grab a hand-carved sandalwood carving at Kuto Bay market, and eat barbecue grilled lobster.
Head to Kanumera Bay's turquoise shores and swim with tropical fishes, turtles and stingrays. After soaking up the sun on the beach, marvel at the awe-inspiring stalactites of the Grotte de la Reine Hortense cave — a hideout for the wife of a tribal chief in 1855. Before you leave, grab a hand-carved sandalwood carving at Kuto Bay market, and eat barbecue grilled lobster.
in Isle Of Pines
Play King of the Island
The hike up to the highest point, Pic N'Ga, takes only an hour. As you walk, catch glimpses native bird life and soak in the perfume of tropical flora. At the summit, your hard work is rewarded with panoramic views of the entire island and the never-ending blue ocean.
Go Au Naturelle
A quick taxi ride will land you at Piscine Naturelle, a natural saltwater lagoon filled with clear blue waters and powder-soft sand. Less crowded than the other areas, these shallow waters are the perfect spot to slow down and take in the natural splendor.
Snorkel Around the Sacred Rock
Snorkel in warm waters in Kanumera Bay during your cruise. You'll come across an ancient sacred rock covered by vegetation. Made from pure limestone, it's passionately protected by the Melanesian people. Swim its circumference, and catch glances of colorful schools of fish passing by.
Local Cuisine
The isle is small but well-prepared for tourists. At Kuto Bay — yet another snorkeling spot — you'll find a small cafe serving island food and drink. Try bougna, an island specialty of fish, chicken or lobster with yams cooked in coconut milk and wrapped in a banana leaf. Bulimes, the local snails, are also a delicacy. Cruise to Isle of Pines and walk along the shores, and you'll pass local-run stalls selling BBQ meat skewers and tasty grilled lobsters.
Shopping
Dotted around the bay areas are little market stalls where you can shop for souvenirs. The Islanders make a fragrant oil from the roots and inner trunk of sandalwood trees, or pick up a pareo — a local sarong — for your beach trips back home.
INSIDER TIP
Wear a shirt that covers your shoulders and shorts to your knees if you leave the beaches.
CRUISING
SHOW-STOPPERS
Things to Do
ENTER STAGE RIGHT
Sing along to your favourite show tunes as the rhythm, rhyme, words and music of Broadway transport you to NYC.
SCENE STEALING SOUNDTRACKS
The silver screen takes centre stage as classic soundtracks come to life.
CRUISING
LIGHTS OUT NIGHTS OUT
Things to Do
SHAKING UP THE CLASSICS
Vintage glamour comes alive at R Bar – serving classic cocktails, such as gin martinis and the old fashioned, in a distinctly sophisticated setting.
SUN, SERENITY & SIPS
Does sitting in the whirlpool make you thirsty? Grab a drink at the nearby Solarium Bar.
Sydney, Australia
SUNSHINE
The Blue Mountains, just an hour west of central Sydney, feel like they're world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. With more than 1 million hectares of forests, cliffs, canyons, caves and waterfalls — and plenty of walking paths to take you there — this is one of the best day trips Sydney has to offer. Quaint towns such as Katoomba stand in stark contrast to iconic landmarks such as the Three Sisters, the towering rock formation overlooking the valley.
The Blue Mountains, just an hour west of central Sydney, feel like they're world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. With more than 1 million hectares of forests, cliffs, canyons, caves and waterfalls — and plenty of walking paths to take you there — this is one of the best day trips Sydney has to offer. Quaint towns such as Katoomba stand in stark contrast to iconic landmarks such as the Three Sisters, the towering rock formation overlooking the valley.
in Sydney
Go in Circles
Circular Quay is the perfect place to start exploring Sydney. You can find the Opera House here, and Harbour Bridge is within walking distance. Stride into one of the many walking and pub tours that leave from here. Just 20 minutes away, you can stretch your legs on the iconic Harbour Bridge walk, the first of its kind in the world.
Get Manly
Bondi Beach gets all the attention, but Manly Beach in the Northern Beaches is a bit more local. The Corso is lined with shops and restaurants, including local favorite, Hugo's. If surfing is your thing, this is the place to be. The walk from Spit Bridge to Manly is a fantastic way to soak in the city's coastline.
Walk Watsons
Hop on the ferry or one of the regular buses that go to Watsons Bay to enjoy the scenic hike around South Head. During your journey, you'll enjoy views of Sydney Harbour, North Head, the historic Hornby Lighthouse and, of course, the sapphire-blue Pacific Ocean. The Gap offers breathtaking views of the sea from the rocky cliffside.
Local Cuisine
With all the water surrounding you, it's no surprise seafood takes center stage on many plates in the city. Head to Sydney Fish Market for giant Sydney Rock oysters or classic fish and ships. Stop into a local pie shop for a traditional Australian meat pie, or explore Sydney's international side with udon or ramen noodles at a Japanese noodle bar, or seek out shrimp dumplings in Chinatown.
Shopping
There are plenty of shopping malls in the heart of the city, including Westfield Mall, Pitt Street Mall and the wonderful Queen Victoria Building, which is now a shopping mall featuring top designers. Seek out cutting boards made from local camphor laurel — they're not only beautiful but also have natural antimicrobial properties. During your Sydney cruise vacation, look for jewelry made from opal, the national gemstone of Australia.
INSIDER TIP
There are a surprising number of interesting museums in Sydney, including the Maritime Museum, which explores the seafaring history of the city.
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INSIDER TIP