What’s it like to cruise the South Pacific Islands?

The South Pacific Islands are one of the most vibrant places on earth. Each island offers something different, making your cruise to the South Pacific one to remember. From Bora Bora to Fiji, we asked several well-seasoned South Pacific Island travellers what it’s like to cruise to this incredible part of the world: 

“Many travellers dream of cruising the islands of the South Pacific - it’s one of those magical destinations that doesn’t disappoint,” says Adam Coulter from Cruise Critic. “The turquoise and azure blue waters, majestic tropical scenery, gorgeous white sand beaches and remarkably welcoming people seem absolutely perfect in many respects.” 

Although a relatively quieter tourist destination, Asam recommends cruising this unique destination as it is easy to reach yet there’s lots to learn about these distinctive islands. Reachable from Australia and New Zealand, the South Pacific includes popular islands like Fiji, Bora Bora and Tahiti, as well as more remote stops that are diverse in culture, history, languages, geology and scenery. 

“Because of tranquil waters beyond the reefs, short distances between islands, onboard service and cuisine that is generally superior to land-based options, cruising is a popular holiday choice for visitors to the South Pacific. It’s a relaxing way to island hop, and you’ll never encounter a crowded port as you so often do elsewhere. Many South Pacific cruise travellers take advantage of their jaunt in paradise by extending their trip to stay on land before or after their cruise - a logical way to get the best of both experiences.”

If you’re cruising the South Pacific Islands, Bora Bora is a haven not to be missed. From exploring its remarkable coral reef to discovering rainforest-lined peaks, Bora Bora really is something out of this world. 

We chatted with Melinda from Bora Bora Island Guide, “In Bora Bora, you’ll be greeted by the strumming of ukeleles and given a fragrant tiara bud of floral leis. Visitors are treated like gold because they don’t have millions! In fact, more travellers visit Hawaii in a week than the whole of the South Pacific Islands in a year. You can sail around the islands of Tahiti and not see another cruise ship. Cruising to Bora Bora, you get the sense of having arrived at a far-flung unexplored island with inhabitants curious to meet the travellers. 

“Bora Bora offers a taste of traditional culture. Resorts are Polynesian-style huts with coral, shells, bamboo and traditional tapas artworks used aesthetically in the decor. This is why Bora Bora is such a romantic destination. Visitors can feast on island food and be entertained by Polynesian dancing. There are opportunities to learn traditional handicrafts. Or hike the wild inner island to visit ancient Polynesian sites. 

Spread over 850,000 square miles, the Cook Islands are a delight for any traveller. The calm lagoons that cover the islands are perfect for snorkelling, and you may even find a rare black pearl whilst swimming! If paddling in these beautiful waters doesn’t delight you, a glass-bottomed boat is a perfect way to experience the rich marine life of the South Pacific. The Cook Islands were originally populated by the Maori, and the heritage is still evident today. Visit this spellbinding destination and you’ll dock at the island of Rarotonga, an island covered in volcanic peaks, rainforests and incredible ridges. It really is a sight to behold. 

Fiji is one of the more well-known destinations in the South Pacific. If you’re looking for both lush greenery and stunning beaches, Fiji comes highly recommended. Here, you can explore its beautiful rainforest, or if you’d rather take a day off, laze on white sandy beaches and swim in the crystal-clear water. 

We spoke with Tommy from The Wandering Walker, “Fiji is well known to visitors from Australia and New Zealand but that doesn’t diminish its natural beauty. Many travellers will flock to South East Asia for paradisiacal beaches, yet Fiji arguably tops the lot. Fiji is unique because you won’t find mass tourism plonked in one area - the country has so many outlying islands so there’s plenty to go around.”

Tommy also told us about the culture in Fiji and why you’re sure to fall in love with it, “Fiji has a really friendly and warming culture.  You’ll hear ‘Bula,’ as you arrive in the country whilst the locals will be as laid back as ever, self-confessed on their own clock and what the country calls ‘Fiji time.’ If you want to visit a place that is totally chilled out, has a friendly atmosphere, amazing beaches and clear waters then Fiji is highly recommended.” 

This French territory is one of the largest islands in the South Pacific Ocean. New Caledonia is an amazing amalgamation of culture and paradise. Surrounded by tranquil azure waters perfect for swimming in and with towns filled with decidedly European culture, it’s a delightful place to cruise. If scuba diving is your thing, you’ll be pleased to know the waters around New Caledonia are home to the second-longest double-barrier coral reef in the world, teeming with wildlife just waiting to be discovered. 

With long white sandy beaches, beautiful over-the-water cabins and gorgeous blue skies, Tahiti seems like a destination that can only be imagined. Once you arrive, you’ll never want to leave. Perfect for romance, the island’s culture is warm and welcoming, celebrating love and nature. Lovers of adventure will adore this island, as it’s covered in incredible valleys, waterfalls and forestry. Finish the day here by indulging in the bustling market of La Marche in Papeete. Wander between the stalls and take in all the unique smells before deciding on a meal and experiencing beautiful flavours and fresh ingredients, the like of which can only be found on islands like this.