9 top South Pacific and Tahiti cruises for an unforgettable journey

Exploring the islands of the South Pacific is a unique adventure for many travelers. While some nations, like Fiji, are well-known to Americans, others, like Niue, remain less familiar. A cruise through the South Pacific offers rich cultural experiences, stunning scenery, and a variety of water activities.

You can discover South Pacific itineraries on luxury, expedition, and even large cruise lines. Some ships travel from Hawaii to Australia, visiting several islands along the way, while others provide weeklong cruises from Australia to nearby South Pacific islands like Vanuatu. For those eager to immerse themselves in the South Pacific's rich history and culture, smaller luxury lines departing from the islands themselves—such as Papeete, Tahiti, in French Polynesia—are excellent options.

While South Pacific cruises are typically favored by retirees and honeymooners, they can also offer enjoyable experiences for families or multigenerational trips.

Here are the nine best South Pacific cruises for your upcoming getaway.

Silversea Cruises' Tahiti cruises ranging from 11 to 13 nights

Silversea Cruises presents a selection of South Pacific cruises lasting from nine to 19 nights, with the most sought-after options being the 11- to 13-night round-trip voyages from Papeete, Tahiti. In 2025, Silver Shadow will visit ports such as Nuku Hiva and Atuona in the Marquesas Islands, as well as Bora Bora and Moorea. Guests can enjoy hikes and admire waterfalls at Nuku Hiva, while Moorea offers ocean activities like snorkeling and relaxing on beautiful beaches.

The cruise line provides two inclusive fare options. The port-to-port fare covers all meals and beverages onboard, butler service, tips, and shore excursions, but does not include flights or airport transfers. The door-to-door fare package encompasses roundtrip flights, airport transfers, a pre-cruise hotel stay, all meals and beverages onboard, shore excursions, butler service, and tips. Additionally, it includes post-cruise hotel accommodations and airport transfers.

Who should consider this: Silversea is renowned for its luxurious vessels that appeal to retirees. Silver Shadow boasts exquisite dining options at several specialty restaurants, including the French La Dame and the Italian La Terrazza. During the day, relax in a sunlit lounge with a complimentary cocktail while enjoying ocean views; at night, try your luck at the ship's intimate casino.

Exceptional service is a hallmark of Silversea. The ship maintains an almost one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio, with a butler assigned to each suite.

Prices: Starting at $8,900 per person, based on double occupancy

Windstar Cruises' 14-night Tahitian Treasures and Magnificent Marquesas journey

Windstar Cruises stands out as a leader in Tahiti cruises, having explored these islands for over 35 years. The line currently operates year-round sailings on Star Breeze and will soon introduce a second ship in the region.

While the signature itinerary features a seven-night Dreams of Tahiti cruise, the all-suite 312-passenger ship is launching a new 14-night route this year, visiting various islands in the Marquesas, Bora Bora (with a two-day stop), Moorea, Motu Mahaea (a private island near Tahaa), Rangiroa, and Fakarava, interspersed with multiple days at sea. This 14-night voyage has limited availability, with just two departures in 2024 and three in 2025.

With an overnight in Bora Bora, guests can engage in thrilling activities like tank diving or scuba excursions, as well as relaxing lagoon tours. For a touch of romance, consider booking a stay at one of the island's stunning over-water bungalow resorts.

Who should consider this: This itinerary is perfect for adventurous couples celebrating significant milestones like birthdays or anniversaries. Star Breeze recently underwent extensive renovations, adding two new restaurants with Spanish cuisine and barbecue, an enhanced spa with steam and sauna facilities, an infinity pool, and a larger fitness area. Each suite features newly designed bathrooms, and even the smallest suites, at 277 square feet, are spacious by cruise standards.

Prices: Starting at $6,899 per person based on double occupancy

Azamara's 15-night South Pacific Jewels cruise

Azamara's 15-night South Pacific Jewels cruise is scheduled for only one departure in 2025, with embarkation on January 24. During this journey, Azamara Onward will transport guests to various islands across French Polynesia, American Samoa, Samoa, Tonga, and Fiji, culminating in New Zealand.

In Apia, Samoa, you can explore the lush jungle to discover hidden swimming spots, while Tonga invites you to experience remarkable snorkeling around its vibrant coral reefs. In New Zealand's Bay of Islands, participate in an excursion that leads you into a captivating cave system to see glowworms.

Who should consider this: Adventurous travelers seeking off-ship experiences, extended port stays, and a relaxed atmosphere will appreciate this cruise. Despite its smaller size, the 684-passenger ship boasts seven restaurants and cafes, a pool, and a spa. Azamara's base fares include all gratuities, nonalcoholic beverages, select alcoholic drinks, and self-service laundry. A signature feature of the line is complimentary cultural evening events held once during the cruise, either onboard or in port.

Fares: Starting at $4,500 per person based on double occupancy

National Geographic Expeditions' 9-night Pearls of the Pacific voyage

For those eager to explore the rich history and culture of the South Pacific, the 9-night Pearls of the Pacific Voyage to the Society and Tuamotu Islands by National Geographic Expeditions is the perfect choice. The 102-passenger National Geographic Orion boasts impressive maneuverability, allowing it to navigate shallow waters, bays, and small rivers. Two sailings are set for 2025, departing on January 29 and February 28.

The cruise begins and concludes in Papeete, Tahiti. Guests will first venture to the Tuamotu Archipelago for snorkeling with reef sharks. In Fakarava, you can discover the world of pearl farming, and in Taha'a, you have the chance to visit a vanilla bean farm.

Active adventurers will relish the opportunity to dive into Bora Bora's pristine waters or trek through a pineapple plantation in Moorea. In Raiatea, you'll explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Marae Taputapuatea, the historic launch point for Polynesian navigators. Accompanying the group on this journey is a photography instructor, an undersea specialist, and a National Geographic expert knowledgeable about the area and its culture.

Who should go: National Geographic Expeditions emphasizes discovery and understanding of the destinations over onboard luxury. The ships provide essential amenities like a restaurant and a communal lounge, but they don't offer the high-end features such as specialty dining or butler service found on luxury lines.

Designed with practicality in mind, National Geographic Orion prioritizes function over aesthetics. Onboard, there's a mud room equipped with lockers for expedition gear and a fleet of rigid inflatable Zodiac boats to ferry guests from ship to shore. The price includes everything from meals and excursions to beverages and gratuities.

Fares: Starting at $10,910 per person based on double occupancy

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 16-night Vibrant Fiji & Polynesian Magic cruise

For those eager to indulge in ultimate luxury and willing to plan their cruise well in advance, Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 16-night Vibrant Fiji & Polynesian Magic voyage aboard the Seven Seas Navigator is a perfect choice. Departing on February 6, 2026, from Auckland, New Zealand, this journey leads to Papeete, Tahiti.

The cruise kicks off with stops at New Zealand destinations Whangarei and Bay of Islands, before venturing into the enchanting South Pacific. Notable experiences include hiking to a stunning 65-foot waterfall in Port Vila, Vanuatu; snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Lautoka, Fiji; and participating in a traditional Fijian kava ceremony in Suva. An overnight stay in Bora Bora allows for extensive exploration both on land and in the sea.

The itinerary includes nine port visits, six days at sea, and a crossing of the international date line.

Who should go: This journey is ideal for travelers seeking a lavish experience onboard while discovering remote islands and pristine beaches. Regent Seven Seas Cruises stands out as one of the most luxurious and comprehensive cruise lines available. Fares encompass shore excursions, unlimited drinks including premium wines and spirits, crew gratuities, dining at specialty restaurants, and Wi-Fi. You can also opt for upgraded fares that include flights, airport transfers, and pre-cruise accommodations.

Fares: Starting at $10,199 per person based on double occupancy

Disney Cruise Line's 15-night South Pacific voyage

Though Disney Cruise Line is primarily recognized for its family-friendly cruises in the Caribbean and Bahamas, it also ventures into global waters. In 2024 and 2025, the 2,713-passenger Disney Wonder will embark on a 15-night South Pacific voyage, sailing from Honolulu to Sydney in October and returning from Sydney to Honolulu in February.

Both voyages include stops in Fiji, New Caledonia, and American Samoa, but one route features a stop in Maui while the other visits Kauai. The itinerary includes 10 days at sea, but with Disney's array of shows, movies, activities, and character meet-and-greets, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained during the lengthy ocean journey.

Who should go: Families with young children (or homeschooled kids) and adults seeking a premium Disney experience will appreciate these unique Disney Wonder itineraries. This repositioning cruise offers good value for a Disney adventure, with inside cabins starting at $170 per person, per night, based on double occupancy. In comparison, a seven-night Alaskan cruise on Disney Wonder starts at $236 per person, per night, based on double occupancy.

Disney Wonder features dedicated areas for children, such as Disney's Oceaneer Club and Lab, where counselors engage kids in games and activities from dawn until dusk. Adults looking for relaxation can retreat to the Quiet Cove Pool, an exclusive adults-only area perfect for sunny sea days. Everyone can partake in vibrant entertainment, themed dining, and meet beloved Disney characters without the lengthy waits typical of Disney theme parks.

Fares: Starting at $5,111 per cabin, based on double occupancy

Royal Caribbean's 7- to 9-night South Pacific cruises departing from Brisbane

For a perfect blend of distinctive destinations and thrilling onboard activities, Royal Caribbean's South Pacific cruises from Brisbane, Australia, are a fantastic choice. The sailings will feature the 4,905-passenger Quantum of the Seas in 2025 and the 4,000-passenger Voyager of the Seas in 2026.

Ports of call for the weeklong voyages include Mystery Island, Vanuatu, where snorkeling among coral reefs awaits, and Port Vila, Vanuatu, offering the exhilarating experience of zip lining through the jungle. The nine-night cruise features three stops in Vanuatu and one in New Caledonia, the latter perfect for swimming with sea turtles.

Who should go: If you desire an activity-rich cruise on a large ship that isn’t excessively massive, these Royal Caribbean vessels will be perfect for you. Voyager boasts more attractions for kids, like water slides and mini-golf, while Quantum caters to adults with its unique lounges and an indoor adults-only solarium.

Fares: Starting at $589 per person, based on double occupancy

Oceania Cruises' 10-night South Pacific voyages

Embark on Oceania Cruises' 10-night South Pacific journey, departing round-trip from Papeete, Tahiti. Sailings are available on the 670-passenger Nautica or Regatta.

The itinerary features stops at Moorea, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, and Raiatea in French Polynesia. Some itineraries offer an overnight stay in Bora Bora, allowing you to check into an overwater bungalow if you wish. Bora Bora is also a fantastic snorkeling spot, with manta rays gliding gracefully through the waters.

Who should go: Older travelers seeking a luxurious cruise to some of the South Pacific's most stunning islands will adore this voyage. Onboard, guests can find a tranquil corner in the library, attend enrichment sessions led by experts, try their luck at the casino, or simply relax at the bar, chatting with bartenders as they whip up cocktails. The outdoor pool and sports deck are perfect for soaking in ocean views.

Oceania Cruises is celebrated for its culinary offerings, boasting numerous dining choices for a smaller ship. While the main dining room serves as your go-to for dinner, the specialty restaurants truly shine. Toscana showcases regional Italian dishes, while Polo Grill serves up dry-aged steaks and tableside Caesar salads.

Fares: Starting at $2,999 per person, based on double occupancy

Norwegian Cruise Line's 14-night South Pacific adventure

Set sail to the South Pacific from Hawaii on Norwegian Cruise Line's 14-night South Pacific journey that begins in Honolulu and concludes in Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia. The July 2025 voyage aboard the 1,936-passenger Norwegian Sun kicks off with stops at Hawaiian islands Oahu, Maui, Kaua'i, and Hawaii, offering opportunities for snorkeling, sunbathing, surfing, and exploring historic and natural landmarks, including an active volcano.

During four days at sea, the ship will traverse the Pacific Ocean before reaching French Polynesia, where guests can discover the beauty of Bora Bora, Raiatea, Moorea, and Papeete. Raiatea is a highlight, featuring the largest outdoor temple in French Polynesia and the chance to tour the most sacred island in the South Pacific.

Who should go: Travelers who appreciate a laid-back experience and enjoy crafting their own entertainment will find this voyage on Norwegian Sun appealing. As an older, smaller ship, it may lack some of the high-tech features of Norwegian Cruise Line's latest vessels. However, it offers a variety of dining options across 14 venues, including a complimentary poolside buffet, two main dining rooms, and specialty eateries like a steakhouse and a Mexican restaurant. The intimate top deck provides a cozy spot to soak in stunning ocean views from a lounge chair.

Fares: Starting at $2,299 per person, based on double occupancy