Tahiti Island French Polynesia Cruise from Papeete to Honolulu — 13 Days

Papeete

Papeete is French Polynesia’s lively capital, set on Tahiti’s northwest coast beneath green volcanic peaks. Its waterfront, central market and shaded streets offer a vivid introduction to island life. Browse the Marché de Papeete for vanilla, pareos and tropical fruit, then pause over poisson cru, Tahiti’s lime-and-coconut-marinated fish. Beyond town, black-sand beaches and waterfalls await, while ferry links make Moorea an easy day trip. Papeete rewards a few hours on foot—and a longer look at Tahiti.

Bora Bora Island

Bora Bora’s volcanic silhouette rises from one of French Polynesia’s most celebrated lagoons. Mount Otemanu anchors the view, while a coral reef shelters clear water, small motu and abundant marine life. Explore by boat, snorkel among rays and reef fish, or linger on Matira Beach, the island’s best-known public beach. Beyond the resorts, Vaitape offers a glimpse of everyday island life.

Moorea Island

Moorea’s jagged volcanic peaks rise above a lagoon so clear that the reef appears close enough to touch. A short ferry ride from Tahiti, this Society Islands destination offers a quieter, greener counterpoint to Papeete. Follow the coast past pineapple fields and small villages. Then climb to Belvedere Lookout for broad views of Cook’s and Opunohu bays. Swim, snorkel or take a lagoon cruise; Moorea rewards unhurried exploration as much as adventure.

At Sea (At Sea)

Fanning Island, Kiribati

Fanning Island, known locally as Tabuaeran, is a remote coral atoll in Kiribati’s northern Line Islands. Its broad lagoon, palm-fringed shore and quiet villages offer a glimpse of life far from the usual South Pacific circuit. Come ashore for warm-water snorkeling, a beach walk or a visit with local residents and artisans. The appeal lies in the unhurried welcome and the vast ocean surrounding you.

At Sea (At Sea)

Kailua-Kona, USA

Kailua-Kona brings the Big Island’s history and marine life within easy reach of its sunny western shore. Ships anchor offshore, and tenders land near Ali‘i Drive, the waterfront route past Hulihe‘e Palace and Mokuaikaua Church. A short drive inland leads to coffee farms on Hualālai’s slopes. Snorkeling trips explore clear bays; after dark, guided manta-ray tours reveal Kona’s marine life.

Hilo, USA

Hilo is the Big Island’s quieter, rain-washed gateway to waterfalls, gardens and volcanic country. Start at the lively Hilo Farmers Market, then follow Banyan Drive beneath trees planted by visiting dignitaries. Nearby, Liliʻuokalani Gardens brings Japanese bridges and koi ponds to Hilo Bay. About 45 minutes southwest, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park offers crater overlooks and lava landscapes.

Kahului, USA

Kahului is Maui’s working heart, where cruise ships meet a harbor shaped by commerce rather than resort scenery. Step ashore and the island opens quickly: ʻĪao Valley’s green ridges lie west, while Haleakalā rises inland. Choose a car for the Road to Hāna, or explore nearby Wailuku and the Maui Nui Botanical Gardens. Come prepared to travel: Maui’s landmarks are spread across the island, and distances take longer than maps suggest.

Honolulu, USA

Honolulu brings the Pacific to your doorstep, with Oahu’s volcanic ridges rising behind a busy harbor. From the cruise pier, historic downtown and Iolani Palace are close; Waikiki’s beaches and Diamond Head lie farther east. Set aside time for Pearl Harbor, where the USS Arizona Memorial gives the islands’ modern history unmistakable weight. Then explore Chinatown’s markets and restaurants, or take a scenic drive along Oahu’s southeastern coast.