South Pacific, French Polynesia

Fiji and Tahiti: Vibrant Reefs and Cultural History

I'd like to cruise

leaving in

for approximately days.

Budget wise I'm looking around the range.

Looking for a cruise to a particular country?

Looking for a particular ship?

The type of ship I'm interested in is called

Set sail on a sweeping journey across the South Pacific, discovering the storied archipelagos and seldom-seen islands that lie between Tahiti and Fiji. Explore volcanic peaks rising above turquoise lagoons, coral atolls shimmering with marine life, lush rainforests alive with birdsong and lava-carved caves that reveal dramatic geological forces. In villages and sacred cultural sites, encounter traditions that have endured for centuries, guiding Polynesian seafarers across the vast Pacific and shaping the spirit of these vibrant communities.

Highlights

• Swim, snorkel and stand-up paddleboard in the aqua lagoons of the South Pacific, exploring everything from deep caves to a marine reserve that shelters eight species of sharks

• Visit the marae complex of Marae Taputapuātea, once a sacred center for voyaging seafarers, now a UNESCO World Heritage site

• Receive a warm welcome from island communities, and experience vibrant cultural traditions from the Cook Islands and Fiji to the remote shores of Niue

• Explore Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands, where white-sand beaches, lush mountain trails and crystalline waters offer endless opportunities for discovery

• Spot endemic flora like the rare Tagimoucia flower on Fiji’s spectacular Taveuni, known as the “Garden Island”

• Hike the trails of Mt. Talau National Park in Tonga, searching for tropical birdlife such as the brilliant Pacific kingfisher and melodious Polynesian starling

Day 1 Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia / Embark Ship

Arrive in Papeete and visit the hospitality suite at the meetup hotel this afternoon. Embark the ship in the early evening.

Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2 Taha'a

The sparkling turquoise waters of Taha’a are a haven for exploration and relaxation. Spend the day snorkeling, swimming or kayaking—or simply relax on the beach and take in the breathtaking surroundings. Beneath the surface, vibrant marine life awaits, from playful clownfish and colorful parrotfish to the graceful glide of black-tipped reef sharks. For those who prefer to explore ashore, there is the option to visit a family-run vanilla farm.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 3-4 Ra'iatea / At Sea

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Marae Taputapuātea on Ra'iatea. One of the most important cultural sites in the Polynesian world, the centuries-old complex was once a center for Polynesian seafarers and the location from which they set out for Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Hawaii and New Zealand. In the afternoon, the ship heads towards the Cook Islands. Take advantage of onboard amenities as you spend the next day at sea. Head up to the Bridge to watch for wildlife and learn about navigation from the captain and crew, schedule a massage in the wellness center or enjoy insightful talks from your naturalists. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 5-6 Rarotonga, Cook Islands / Atuitaki

With its white-sand beaches, crystalline waters, and welcoming community, Rarotonga—the largest of the Cook Islands—offers a perfect introduction to the archipelago. Spend the next two days discovering the islands: set out on a leisurely bike ride, go for a guided mountain hike or enjoy a scenic panoramic tour. A visit to the Te Ara Museum and gift shop offers insight into the islands’ rich history and a chance to bring home locally crafted treasures.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 7-8 At Sea

Enjoy two relaxing days at sea as you sail across the South Pacific en route to Niue Island. Take in ocean views from the lounge, cozy up with a book on Polynesian culture in the library or edit your favorite images at the photo kiosk with help from your certified photo instructor. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 Niue

Set out for a day of adventure in Niue, a remote island nation tucked away in one of the most inaccessible corners of the world. The terrestrial and marine habitats of this elevated coral atoll teem with life, from spinner dolphins and humpback whales to colorful birds such as the crimson-crowned fruit dove. The island is also home to an array of geological wonders, including sheer limestone cliffs, hidden caves and striking exposed coral formations.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 At Sea

At sea between Niue and Tonga, you’ll experience one of travel’s rarest moments—crossing the International Date Line, where an entire day slips from the calendar. Enjoy the steady rhythm of the open ocean, watch for seabirds and dolphins from the observation deck or join your expedition team for engaging presentations. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 11-12 Vava'u, Tonga / At Sea

Start your day with a sunrise photography session, capturing the luminescent Tongan sun on the horizon with guidance from your certified photo instructor. In the Vava’u islands, visit Mt. Talau National Park, where hiking trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints and the chance to spot native birds such as the Pacific kingfisher and Polynesian starling. Snorkel among swirling schools of fish in the crystalline waters of 'Ana Pekapeka, or Swallows Cave, accessible only by boat. End your day with a sunset photography session, practicing your new skills under the glow of golden hour.

The following day, enjoy time at sea as the ship makes its way toward Fiji, your final destination.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 13-15 Fiji

Over the next three days, discover the remarkable diversity of Fiji and gain a deeper understanding of this remote island nation. On Taveuni, the “Garden Island,” explore lush vegetation and rare flora such as the Tagimoucia flower, a national emblem of good luck featured on the 50-dollar bill. In the village of Waitabu, you’ll be welcomed by a close-knit community and introduced to their traditions, while nearby Bouma National Heritage Park reveals rainforest trails and cascading waterfalls. Beqa Island offers the chance to snorkel in the Shark Reef Marine Reserve, the country’s first protected marine park, where up to eight species of sharks may be found. On Kadavu, the southernmost island, encounter pristine tropical landscapes and striking natural beauty that embody the essence of Fiji. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16 Lautoka / Disembark Ship

Disembark in Lautoka and transfer to the airport for flights home.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

20 April, 2027 to 05 May, 2027
National Geographic Resolution

Book now

Category SA

#504, 506-511, 513 — Cabin with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; single bed; writing desk with an office chair; and a closet.

Category SB

#604-607, 609, 611 — Cabin with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; single bed; writing desk with chair; hammock; and a closet.

Category 01

$42,843 AUD pp

#404, 406, 408, 411, 413, 415 — Cabin with two large windows, two singles that can convert to a queen, writing desk and chair, two bedside tables, window sofa, coffee table, and a closet.

Category 02

$44,986 AUD pp

#410, 412, 414, 416-419, 421-427 — Cabin with two large windows, two single beds that can convert to a queen, window sofa, two seat sofa, coffee table, writing desk with an office chair, two bedside tables, coffee table, and a closet.

Category 03

$56,229 AUD pp

#512, 514-524 — Cabin with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen; convertible sleeper sofa; writing desk with a chair; two bedside tables; coffee table; and a closet.

Category 04

$58,471 AUD pp

#608, 610, 612, 613-623 — Cabin with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock and a table; two single beds that can convert to a queen; pull-out sofa; coffee table; writing desk with chair; two bedside tables; and a closet.

Category 05

$60,814 AUD pp

#700-707, 712, 713, 715, 717 — Cabin with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen; pull-out sofa; coffee table; writing desk with chair; two bedside tables; and a closet.

Category 06

$69,943 AUD pp

#714 — Junior suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and table; two single beds that convert to a queen; pull-out sofa; writing desk with chair; two bedside tables; coffee table; espresso maker; and a closet. Guests receive priority access to one spa treatment and one igloo reservation and complimentary laundry per departure.

Category 07

$80,429 AUD pp

#708-711, 716, 718, 719, 721 — These large balcony suites feature two balcony chairs, hammock, and table; two single beds that can convert to a queen; pull-out sofa; coffee table; writing desk and chair; espresso maker; and a large walk-in closet with full length mirror. Expanded bathroom has a double vanity, bathtub, towel warmer and rain shower. Guests receive priority access to one spa treatment and one igloo reservation and complimentary laundry per departure.

National Geographic Resolution

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Passenger Capacity: 126

Built: 2020

One of two next-generation ships purpose-built for polar exploration, National Geographic Resolution is named in tribute to Captain James Cook’s legendary second voyage aboard HMS Resolution. With a Polar Code Category A ice-class hull and a pioneering X-Bow® design, she offers unmatched comfort, stability, and quiet passage through even the most challenging polar waters—opening access to remote corners of the Arctic, Antarctica, and beyond.

Designed for immersive exploration, the ship’s interior is warm, modern, and elegantly Scandinavian, with expansive windows throughout that keep the wild, ice-bound world always within view. Her six decks house 76 spacious cabins, inviting public spaces, and a full complement of expedition tools. Guests can relax in the observation lounge, library, or spa; enjoy flexible dining across three venues; or gear up in the Expedition Base before heading out in Zodiacs or kayaks. From polar bear sightings in Svalbard to navigating ice-choked channels in the Southern Ocean, Resolution is a state-of-the-art platform for discovering the planet’s most astonishing frontiers.

Cabin layout for National Geographic Resolution

Inclusions

• All accommodations, meals, and non-alcoholic beverages aboard ships
• Use of snorkeling equipment, wet suits, and kayaks (where available)
• Services of our expert expedition team and guest speakers
• Services of a ship physician on most voyages
• Certain hotels and meals ashore as indicated in the itinerary
• Round-trip transfers based on group flights
• Shore excursions, sightseeing, entrance fees, and special access permits
• Taxes, service charges, and tips (except for ship’s crew, at our guests’ discretion)
___________

Exclusions

• Air transportation (except when we indicated in the itinerary, as included) Extensions
• Passport, visa, and immigration fees
• Travel Protection Plan
• Special and unique excursions such as scuba diving, flightseeing, etc. (where offered)
• Alcoholic beverages (alcohol is included on select ships)
• Items of personal nature
• Phone and Internet Service
• Laundry
• Gratuity for ship’s crew, at our guests’ discretion (crew tips are included on select ships)