The landscapes of these wonderful islets are luscious, further enhanced by the tropical year-round climate. Literally located in the middle of nowhere, incredible verdant peaks sit like emerald gems in a sparkling sapphire sea. Beneath the surface, the temperate conditions and clarity provide optimum conditions for both seasoned snorkelers and underwater rookies, where all manner of marine life strut their dazzling stuff.
A refreshing cocktail is never far from reach on Fiji or Tahiti cruises, but be sure to try Kava, the potent ceremonial elixir of the natives made from the crushed root of the Kava plant. The drinking of Kava is a ritual usually accompanied by song and dance, which is prevalent across the South Pacific - the traditional Tahitian ‘Ote’a’ typifies this and will truly get you in the spirit of island life.
Lying south of the Pacific sits French Polynesia, a treasure trove arguably surpassing Hawaii in its idyllic nature. The inviting, sometimes secluded beaches are spread like carpet across the islands; volcanic and black in Tahiti, talcum-white in Bora Bora, and even pink in Rangiroa, all fringed by the gentle blue of the ocean. Little wonder that famed French impressionist artist Paul Gauguin spent his final years on these far-flung islands, cloaked from civilisation.
Each of the senses will be enlivened when you visit on a South Pacific Islands cruise, whether it’s from the sweet scent of vanilla on Raiatea, the delicious fresh fruit of Fiji, or the mysterious Moai statues keeping a vigil over Easter Island. Elsewhere, swim in a volcanic crater in Samoa, or pick up a fishing rod in the angler’s hotspot of Kiribati.
Just like the Polynesians in ancient times, you can today traverse these beautiful waters for yourself, though in slightly more sophisticated style on a cruise to Bora Bora or any of the other South Pacific islands.
