Day 1: Auckland, New Zealand
A cultural melting pot of British, Asian, Pacific, and Māori influences, Auckland offers a taste of its rich arts, entertainment, and traditions.
Explore the Auckland Art Gallery, boasting over 15,000 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and prints dating back to 1376. Additional attractions include the Auckland War Memorial Museum, the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the National Museum of the Royal New Zealand Navy, and the Museum of Transport and Technology.
Enjoy performances by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, which hosts concerts, operas, and ballets. Don’t miss cultural events like the Auckland Festival, Auckland Triennial, New Zealand International Comedy Festival, and New Zealand International Film Festival.
Auckland is accessible via two ports: Waitematā Harbour to the east from the Pacific Ocean or Manukau Harbour to the west from the Tasman Sea. The city sits on a narrow isthmus, surrounded by lush parks and modern buildings, shaped by dormant volcanoes and the sea.
Natural highlights include Auckland Domain, a central park with views of Hauraki Gulf; Mount Eden, the city’s highest volcanic cone offering 360-degree vistas; Mount Victoria, a volcanic peak overlooking downtown from the North Shore; and Waiheke Island, known for its beaches, forests, vineyards, and olive groves. The city’s hills are covered in rainforest.
Man-made landmarks feature Sky Tower for stunning panoramic views, Auckland Harbour Bridge connecting to the North Shore, and Auckland Town Hall with its distinguished concert hall.
Aucklanders are passionate about boating, with one in three households owning a boat. The city has hosted the America's Cup twice and offers exhilarating speedboat rides that zoom past its impressive skyline.
For shopping, visit Queen Street, Britomart, Ponsonby Road, Karangahape Road, Newmarket, or Parnell to find unique items and souvenirs from your Auckland cruise.
Day 2: Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Immerse yourself in Māori culture in the Bay of Islands, a sub-tropical haven of crystal-clear waters, undeveloped islands, diverse wildlife, and historical significance. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the pristine oceans, warm weather, and abundant wildlife. Embark on an eco-cruise to see dolphins, penguins, marlins, whales, and various bird species. Explore a stunning cave with majestic rock formations and glow worms, or enjoy kayaking, sailing, swimming, or sunbathing on the area’s exquisite beaches. With their pristine white sand and clear water, the beaches here are considered among the world’s finest. For the adventurous, activities such as kayaking, mountain-biking, parasailing, swimming with dolphins, and scuba-diving are ideal.
Days 3-4: At Sea
Relax and rejuvenate while at sea before your next destination. Enjoy the pool, indulge in the spa, savour culinary delights, or explore the onboard amenities until you reach the next exciting port.
Day 5: Suva, Fiji
In Suva, Fiji’s capital, explore a blend of modern architecture, Art Deco elegance, and 19th-century British colonial buildings. Suva, situated on a peninsula surrounded by ocean, features mangroves rather than beaches in this part of Viti Levu, one of over 330 Fijian islands.
Nearby, Ratu Sukuna Park offers picturesque harbour views, while Suva Civic Center serves as a cultural and arts venue. Albert Park, on Victoria Parade, was the site of Fiji’s first airplane landing. Adjacent Thurston Gardens showcases botanical specimens in greenhouses and hiking trails, and houses the Fiji Museum, which features artifacts dating back 3,700 years and cultural items from indigenous and immigrant communities.
A short drive from Suva, Colo-i-Suva Forest Park provides a serene escape with clear river waters amid a lush rainforest, perfect for a refreshing dip, bird watching, and a shaded picnic.
Fiji is a hub of Oceania’s entertainment, with regional sports and activities at venues like Vodafone Arena, ANZ National Stadium, and Albert Park.
For shopping, explore Cumming Street near the port, where colourful colonial buildings create a nostalgic atmosphere. Along Victoria Parade, you’ll find a range of dining options, from Italian and pizza to Indian, Japanese, steaks, and seafood.
Day 6: Lautoka, Fiji
In Lautoka, Fiji, enjoy a warm welcome and witness a traditional meke (dance) in the tranquil village of Lauwaki on Viti Levu. Despite Fiji’s exotic image of white beaches and turquoise waters, it boasts one of the most developed economies in the South Pacific.
Explore the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, a horticultural gem featuring over 2,000 varieties of Asian orchids and Cattleya hybrids from the private collection of American actor Raymond Burr. Now open to the public, it offers a delightful day of floral admiration along canopy-covered boardwalks and landscaped lawns.
At the base of the Sabeto mountains, rejuvenate in a natural geothermal mud pool. Enjoy the playful experience of slathering and rinsing off the mud, leaving your skin exfoliated and glowing. This traditional treatment has been enjoyed by Fijians for generations.
For adventure, soar above the rainforest canopy on a five-level zip line or hike among ancient trees teeming with colourful butterflies and parrots.
To delve into Fiji’s cultural heritage, visit Nadi town. Experience folklore performances, explore a variety of orchids, and shop for traditional woodcarvings, pottery, and tapa cloth to bring home from your Lautoka cruise.
Day 7: At Sea
Take the opportunity to unwind at sea before the next leg of your journey. Relax by the pool, indulge in the spa, savour gourmet meals, or explore the onboard facilities until you reach the next destination.
Day 8: Apia, Samoa
Experience Apia, Samoa, where over 3,000 years of Samoan culture blend with 19th-century colonial charm. Enjoy a lively nightlife, bustling seafood markets, and the scenic beaches and waterfalls perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Don’t miss a traditional Fiafia night featuring Samoan song, dance, and cuisine, and visit the former home of Robert Louis Stevenson, now a popular museum.
Day 9: International Date Line
As you cross this imaginary line, which runs roughly parallel to the 180-degree longitude, you’ll adjust your time by subtracting 24 hours when traveling east and adding 24 hours when traveling west.
Day 10: Pago Pago, American Samoa
Discover Pago Pago, American Samoa, with its stunning mountain ridges, peaceful bays, serene villages, and some of the most remote and breathtaking reefs and beaches in the world. Whether you're hiking to see some of the highest sea cliffs on Ta'u, exploring historical star mounds, or simply enjoying the beach, this hidden paradise will captivate you.
Day 11: International Date Line
Crossing the International Date Line again, adjust your time by subtracting 24 hours traveling east and adding 24 hours traveling west.
Days 12-13: At Sea
Enjoy your final days at sea, taking the opportunity to relax and prepare for your return. Lounge by the pool, indulge in spa treatments, savour delicious cuisine, or explore the onboard amenities until you reach Auckland for the end of your journey.
Day 13: Return to Auckland, New Zealand
