South Pacific

Small Ship Cruises & Expeditions

Explore the Paradise and Unspoiled Beaches of the South Pacific

The South Pacific, with its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and inviting tropical climate is a lure for any traveller with a thirst for paradise. Here, you will find pristine beaches, turquoise waters, lush rainforests, vibrant coral reefs, and majestic volcanic landscapes.

Additionally, the region is known for its friendly locals, fascinating history and traditions, and delicious cuisine.

With miles of ocean as far as the eye can see, there is no better way of exploring the South Pacific region than aboard a small ship cruise. Tiny islands separated by kilometres of ocean mean their inhabitants have their own unique cultures and opportunities abound for interactions with local villagers, taking part in traditional song and dance performances and immersing yourself in island life.

The most popular destinations of the region for small ship cruising include:

Fiji: Experience a blend of Indian and Melanesian cultures, explore lush islands like Taveuni and Vanua Levu, or seek out traditional escapes on Kadavu. Tahiti & French Polynesia: From the iconic Bora Bora to remote islands, there's something for everyone, whether it's diving with sharks in the Tuamotu Atolls or hiking on Tahiti and Moorea. Rarotonga & the Cook Islands: Enjoy Polynesian hospitality and stunning lagoons, with highlights including Aitutaki Atoll and its magnificent lagoon. Vanuatu: Encounter volcanoes, shipwrecks, and rugged landscapes, from the bustling capital of Port Vila to the outer islands like Tanna and Espiritu Santo. Samoa & American Samoa: Immerse yourself in traditional Polynesian life, with pristine beaches, friendly villages, and a laid-back atmosphere. New Caledonia: Explore the diverse culture and natural beauty of Grande Terre, with opportunities for diving, windsports, and experiencing Melanesian and French influences. Tonga: Discover a kingdom steeped in tradition, with opportunities to swim with humpback whales in the Vava'u Group. Easter Island (Rapa Nui): Unravel the mysteries of the iconic moai statues and immerse yourself in the unique culture of this remote island. Solomon Islands: Delve into Melanesian culture and WWII history, with highlights including Guadalcanal and the pristine Marovo Lagoon. Papua New Guinea: Embark on an adventure to remote mountain ranges, pristine forests, and off-the-grid villages, with opportunities for world-class diving and birdwatching.

South Pacific Highlights

Benefits of Booking with Wild Earth Travel

Wild Earth Travel is owned and operated by expedition leaders with over 30 years' experience voyaging, leading and creating expeditions all over the globe.

• We Are Travellers. Our team of small ship cruise specialists is very well travelled. We have led small ship cruises all over the world and experienced the most unique and fascinating corners of the planet, and we love sharing our experiences with you!

• Unbiased Advice. Our team are all passionate expedition and small cruise ship travellers, and our knowledge and stories come from our own personal experiences, which we then use to match you with the best small ship options for you.

• Largest Choice Providers. Our collection of small ship cruises is constantly growing, we now feature over 1200 cruises aboard more than 80 small ships. Our insider knowledge of the industry means there is barely a ship or a destination worldwide that we haven't experienced.

• Convenience Matters. We offer you the ability to pay in the original currency of the ship operator, meaning that you won't pay more in currency buffers. You can be assured that you are in safe hands as our team of specialists guide you through the entire booking process.

• Personalised Service. As you prepare for your cruise, we will be in touch to ensure you have everything you need, from packing lists and suggested reading lists to pre- and post- transfers and accommodation. For some cruises, there may be the option to add on extra activities.

• We Know the South Pacific. From snorkeling coral reefs or hiking lush forest to meeting the locals and partaking in island life, but what kind of adventure are you looking for? With a firsthand experience cruising the South Pacific, we will find the right trip for you! 

Featured South Pacific Cruises

Below is a selection of the expedition cruises we offer to the South Pacific. Our collection ranges from 4 to 21 days, and from adventure and expedition to luxury-style ships.

South Pacific / French Polynesia

Cook Islands & Society Islands - French Polynesia Luxury Cruise aboard Paul Gauguin

12 days from
$AUD 929 per day
  • French Polynesia Luxury CruisesLuxury Cruises
  • Cook Islands & Society Islands - French Polynesia Luxury Cruise aboard Paul Gauguin in French Polynesia: ship
  • Next departure on May 18, 2024
South Pacific / Melanesia

Mamanuca & Yasawa Islands - South Pacific Cruise

8 days from
$AUD 961 per day
South Pacific / Melanesia

Remote North Discovery - Fiji & South Pacific Cruise

8 days from
$AUD 961 per day
Asia / Indonesia

Indonesian Explorer: Raja Ampat to Papua New Guinea 2024

19 days from
$NZD 1,092 per day
South Pacific / French Polynesia

Lautoka to Papeete - South Pacific Luxury Cruise

17 days from
$AUD 1,229 per day
  • French Polynesia Luxury Small Ship CruiseLuxury Small Ship Cruise
  • Lautoka to Papeete - South Pacific Luxury Cruise in French Polynesia: ship
  • Next departure on Oct. 1, 2024
South Pacific / Micronesia

Through the Islands & Atolls of Micronesia - Cruise from Rabaul to Sorong

22 days from
$AUD 1,177 per day

If you'd like to learn about some of our other South Pacific itineraries, please contact us. You may also be interested in specific cruising destinations within the South Pacific including Melanesia, French Polynesia or Papua New Guinea.

Ready to Learn More?

We look forward to helping you plan an incredible adventure to South Pacific

Choose Your Adventure!