across the vast pacific

While cruise ships call it "Kona," this stop on the western part of the island of Hawaii is actually a region rather than an actual city. Ships anchor in Kailua Bay and tender their guests to the Kailua Pier, which is right in the middle of Kailua Village, the historic heart of Kailua-Kona. Kona's sunnier and dryer than Hilo to the east -- it almost never rains -- and features the island's best beaches, snorkelling and surfing. (The east coast is more tropical, with waterfalls and mountainous regions closer to the town of Hilo. Believe it or not, the island has 11 climatic zones!) Coffee grown in the hills above Kailua-Kona (the one place where it rains more in the summer than in the winter) is very delicious and highly prized. Beaches in the area range from black sand to sugar white, with sea turtles, manta rays, dolphins and -- in season, November to May -- humpback whales visible from the surf or the shore. Whereas Hilo is the business anchor of the Big Island (with a more authentic, local feel), the area just north of Kailua-Kona -- the Kohala Coast -- houses the island's most desirable resorts, with renowned restaurants, spas and golf courses.

Crossing the International Date Line is a unique experience, marking the point where the calendar day changes. As you journey across this imaginary line in the Pacific Ocean, you'll effectively travel forward or backward in time by a whole day, a fascinating concept that highlights the way we measure time and the world's diverse time zones.

Crossing the International Date Line is a unique experience, marking the point where the calendar day changes. As you journey across this imaginary line in the Pacific Ocean, you'll effectively travel forward or backward in time by a whole day, a fascinating concept that highlights the way we measure time and the world's diverse time zones.

Christmas Island is a territory of Australia located in the Indian Ocean. The majority of the island has been designated a national park and, as such, much of the land has been preserved and protected. It's a truly stunning destination that is best known for its beautiful rainforest and waterfalls as well as some amazing dive sites within the Java Trench. Christmas Island is also famous for its annual red crab migration and tremendous array of rare native birds, making it a big draw for nature-loving travelers. For those who want to know more about the people and industry that shaped Christmas Island, there are also several sights dedicated to the island's history and culture, including the Gun Emplacement and Ma Chor Nui Nui Temple.

Welcome to the Equator, where the Earth's hemispheres meet and the sun shines directly overhead twice a year, creating a unique and memorable experience for visitors. Crossing this imaginary line is often found on a cruiser's bucket list. 

Papeete, the vibrant capital of French Polynesia, is a must-visit for anyone. With its bustling market, charming waterfront, and delicious French-Polynesian cuisine, Papeete offers a taste of authentic Tahitian life. Don't miss the chance to explore the island's lush interior, relax on its black sand beaches, and soak up the laid-back island vibes.

Papeete, the vibrant capital of French Polynesia, is a must-visit for anyone. With its bustling market, charming waterfront, and delicious French-Polynesian cuisine, Papeete offers a taste of authentic Tahitian life. Don't miss the chance to explore the island's lush interior, relax on its black sand beaches, and soak up the laid-back island vibes.

Raiatea is one of the largest islands in French Polynesia -- second only to Tahiti; however, don't let its size fool you into thinking it's busy or overrun with tourists. While Bora Bora offers celebrity chic and Moorea is simply exquisite, Raiatea is a secret find. Outside of the main port town, Uturoa, the 105 square-mile island is quiet and lightly populated, yet there's much to do and see along the coast and within its untamed, rugged interior. Natural beauty aside, Raiatea is known as 'The Sacred Isle' because it was the centre of religion and culture dating back to about 1000AD, and there's also an enticing mystique about it. Members of various Polynesian kingdoms once journeyed here by canoe for tribal meetings, ceremonies and even human sacrifices at Marae Taputapuatea in Opoa to the southeast. Today, visitors can visit the outdoor ancient worship temple and glimpse petroglyphs carved in basaltic stones found along the coast. One thing that sets Raiatea apart from other islands in French Polynesia is there are no real sandy beaches. However, those who want to get their feet wet can take a trip to one of the motus or islets that dot the lagoon (you have to rent or hire a boat to get to them). Among those are Motu Nao Nao, a stretch of gorgeous white sand, and Opeha Point, known for good snorkeling.

Apart from cruise ship visits, Raiatea is the yachting hub of French Polynesia and there'll always been plenty of sailboats and yachts at the island's marinas on the north coast. Situated in the same lagoon as Raiatea and only about 10 km to the north is Tahaa, a tiny island, even quieter than Raiatea; you can only get there by boat via ship-sponsored excursions or private tours. Upon arrival you might see women fishing for their day's lunch and you'll certainly have a chance to buy vanilla and pearls and these are the two main industries. If it isn't a school day, kids will pause from chasing each other to wave hello. It feels a world away, even in the already far reaches of the South Pacific.

The island of Rarotonga lies at the heart of New Zealand's Cook Islands, its beautiful lagoon sheltered by an encircling reef system. While narrow sandy beaches ring the island, the center is dominated by dramatic, lush green mountains reminiscent of "Lord of the Rings," which was filmed at least in part in New Zealand (proper; not here).

While most of the ports are in French Polynesia -- and within a few hours of each other by cruise ship (like Moorea and Tahiti) -- it takes a full day to sail to Rarotonga and another day to get back. So why is this out-of-the-way port a mainstay on South Pacific itineraries? For starters, the sea days are a nice benefit for those who consider their ship as much a destination as the ports; plus, we found the day's journey down and another back increased anticipation and whet the appetite for a change of pace from French Polynesia.

The island is also a bit more polished and prosperous than the islands of French Polynesia, and well developed for tourism; this is once place where it's easy to do your own circle island tour on the local bus system. Finally, it's a financial relief for shoppers. While food and goods are expensive throughout French Polynesia, Rarotonga offers lower prices on just about everything from fried fish lunches at roadside stands to souvenirs and jewelry -- mainly because it is closer to main importer New Zealand than, say, Bora Bora is to France or even the mainland U.S.

Verdant Rarotonga is a perfect choice for safaris and hikes, particularly because there are no snakes, wild animals or poisonous insects on the island (just watch out for mosquitoes with the munchies). Watch out for carvings and maraes, or sacred sites. But water babies will find plenty to do in the shimmering lagoon, including windsurfing, diving and glass-bottom boat tours.

Crossing the International Date Line is a unique experience, marking the point where the calendar day changes. As you journey across this imaginary line in the Pacific Ocean, you'll effectively travel forward or backward in time by a whole day, a fascinating concept that highlights the way we measure time and the world's diverse time zones.

Vava'U is actually a group of islands in the northern part of Tonga. Popular with fishermen, it is blessed with one of the most protected harbours and was dubbed the Port of Refuge by an early mariner. Polynesian mythology states that the land was created by the god Maiu, who hooked the seabed whilst fishing and pulled it above the service. Activities centre around beach life but you can visit the only Botanical Gardens in Tonga, local farms producing pineapple and villa or purchase eco-friendly, sustainably produced oils, soaps, cheeses and other products made from coconut.

Just to the west of the International Date Line, Nuku'alofa offers a charm all of it's own. You'll find a vibrant main street, pleasant waterfront and stunning views across the bay to neighbouring coral islands. Tonga is a unique place; a collection of over 170 islands that are the first place on earth to greet each new day. Only 45 islands are inhabited. Nuku'alofa is home to the Royal Palace - the historical residence of the King.

Waitangi is a historic site in New Zealand, located in the Bay of Islands. It holds great cultural significance as the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the Māori chiefs and the British Crown, shaping the nation's future and its relationship between Māori and non-Māori peoples.

Auckland greets cruise guests with that irresistible blend of urban buzz and natural beauty that New Zealand does so well. Step ashore and you’re moments from the sparkling Viaduct Harbour, where waterside bars and restaurants set the tone for a relaxed day in the City of Sails. Venture up the Sky Tower for sweeping views across the twin harbours, or take a short ferry ride to Waiheke Island for boutique vineyards and golden beaches. Culture lovers can dive into Māori heritage at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, while adventurers might head to the rugged black‑sand shores of the west coast. Whether you’re after world‑class dining, island‑hopping, or a taste of Kiwi outdoor life, Auckland serves it all with easy-going charm.

You can't beat Wellington on a good day, so the saying goes. But New Zealand's cosmopolitan capital city, located at the southern tip of the North Island, rolls out the 'fun carpet' even when that legendary wind is blowing. Located in the centre of New Zealand, all roads lead to Wellington -- as do all ferries cruising over from the South Island just three hours sailing away across Cook Strait. According to Maori legend, the two main islands of New Zealand are actually the great canoe of Maui (the South Island) and the giant fish he caught (the North Island). Wellington Harbour is the mouth of that huge fish. So where did the city's name come from? From Arthur Wellesley, the first Duke of Wellington and British Prime Minster from 1828 to 1830. Though a geographic hub, Wellington is surprisingly compact -- it's nestled between the harbour and steep, forest-clad hills -- and wonderfully walkable. The revamped waterfront area leads from the cruise dock at the eastern edge of town to the must-see Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in the west. A stroll along the quay is filled with surprises. There's a grassy playground for kids, large-scale sculptures and fun wooden walkways. Cross the street, and you'll have your choice of cafes and shops. Foodies will love Wellington for its wide range of dining options. There are close to 800 restaurants and counting -- per capita that's more than New York City. Another thing Wellingtonians are obsessed about is coffee. Kiwis, as New Zealanders are known, along with their Australian neighbours, have their own lingo for styles of coffee -- flat white (coffee with milk), short black (espresso) -- though cappuccinos remain constant and servings won't be supersized.