Set sail from Tahiti’s lush volcanic landscape to explore the sparkling white shores of Fiji. Along the way, discover a fascinating geology and a stunning wealth of bird species and marine life. Dive or snorkel among underwater canyons and tunnels formed from lava. Meet island communities. Survey the far-flung reef systems of the extraordinary archipelagos of the South Pacific.
Arrive in Lautoka and transfer to a tour of western Viti Levu Island before embarking National Geographic Orion.
Explore Taveuni, Fiji’s third-largest island, known as “The Garden Island” for its rich vegetation, which includes several species found nowhere else in the world. Experience warm Fijian welcomes at the village of Waitabu and explore the waterfalls of nearby Bouma National Heritage Park. Visit Beqa Island and snorkel in one of the Pacific’s most successful community marine parks. Witness Kadavu’s stunning beauty.
Another of France’s South Pacific territories, the tiny island nation of Wallis and Futuna lies between Samoa and Fiji. We are greeted with local dancing and singing. Tour the remote island with a local guide. Visit the lush island of Alofitai for an island lunch of locally prepared specialties. After lunch, go birding or spend the afternoon exploring the undersea while snorkeling along the beautiful shoreline.
With its spectacular beaches and dense green foliage, hidden waterfalls and lava-sculpted landscapes, Samoa captures the essence of the South Pacific. During our time on these islands, hike through rainforests vibrant with flowers and birds, go snorkeling or diving, and soak up the languid rhythms of island life that drew Robert Louis Stevenson to these shores. Cross the International Date Line and enjoy life aboard National Geographic Orion as you sail east toward the Cook Islands.
The blindingly white sands beaches, crystalline clear waters, and smiling locals welcome you to the pristine and stunning island of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. Spend the day discovering the island on a leisurely bike ride around the island, on a guided mountain hike, or by enjoying a scenic coach tour to Te Ara Museum and a gift shop for locally made products.
Enjoy the morning on deck while at sea, mesmerized by deep-blue water while scanning the horizon for marine mammals and seabirds. Next, 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 a center for Polynesian seafarers and the location from which they set out for Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Hawaii, and New Zealand.
Transit to the nearby island of Taha’a overnight. Surrounded by a sparkling turquoise lagoon, the waters of Taha’a beckon. Choose to snorkel, swim, kayak or just enjoy your surroundings from the white sandy beach.
On Tanna Island, visit the friendly community in Port Resolution in the shadow of Mount Yasur. Experience some of the local traditions and dances, as well as locally made handicrafts.