South Pacific Islands

Considered one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Southern Hemisphere, Sydney offers just about anything—from beaches and wineries to stunning landmarks and world-class shopping. Tour architectural marvels like the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge, view life below the surface from Sydney Aquarium’s underwater walkways, or take it all in from above on a tour of the Sydney Tower.

Known for its friendly residents and beautiful landscape, Lifou is located off the French island of New Caledonia. The first visitors to this island paradise were European whalers and today’s guests can enjoy the same relaxed, timeless beauty. Picturesque cliff-top views, secluded beaches, fascinating caves, and rich traditional culture create a backdrop for a perfect stop.

Located on the southern most point of the Vanuatu archipelago, this little jewel of the South Pacific is completely uninhabited. Formerly used as an allied forces landing strip during WWII, today only palm trees and sweet seclusion grow from the white sand of Mystery Island. The locals live across the waters on Tanna and visit the island during the day to spread their warmth, culture and wares. It’s the perfect spot for couples, beach lovers, or anyone looking to lounge in an ocean of beauty and literally get away from it all.

Nouméa is the capital city of the French overseas province of New Caledonia and a hidden gem in the middle of the South Pacific. When leaving from Australia or New Zealand for your Nouméa cruise, you’ll discover the history of the peninsula, including the rich past of its indigenous Kanak population and later French colonialism on the island.

Take day trips to the nearby islands via boat or water taxi, like the resort isle Îlot Maître, where white bungalows sit on the edge of impossibly blue waters. Or climb to the massive stairwell of the Amédée Lighthouse for views of Nouméa in the near distance. Kids will love the Aquarium of the Lagoons, plus the city has a variety of museums and parks to keep you occupied during your trip.

Nouméa is also a foodie’s paradise, home to gourmet, French-inspired bistros and restaurants as well as traditional Kanak dishes like bougna, where chicken or fish and vegetables are wrapped in fresh banana leaves and slow cooked for several hours. Despite its relative anonymity as a tourism destination, Nouméa strikes a delicate balance as both casual and upscale.

Considered one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Southern Hemisphere, Sydney offers just about anything—from beaches and wineries to stunning landmarks and world-class shopping. Tour architectural marvels like the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge, view life below the surface from Sydney Aquarium’s underwater walkways, or take it all in from above on a tour of the Sydney Tower.