Day 1 - Saturday - Apr 13, 2024
Depart the U.S. and fly across the International Date Line. Arrive in Lautoka and take a tour of western Viti Levu Island before embarking National Geographic Orion. Lunch and dinner are included on Day 2.
Day 2 - Sunday - Apr 14, 2024
Day 3 - Monday - Apr 15, 2024
Day 4 - Tuesday - Apr 16, 2024
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.
Day 5 - Wednesday - Apr 17, 2024
Day 6 - Thursday - Apr 18, 2024
One of France's South Pacific territories, the tiny island nation of Wallis and Futuna lies between Samoa and Fiji. In Futuna, stop at a historic "cannibal oven" and learn of the history of these fascinating people before a warrior dance performance in front of the Cathedral of Poi. In Wallis, we are greeted with local dancing and singing. Visit the beautiful crater lake Lalolalo and a cathedral built of blue volcanic stone and chiseled by hand.
Day 7 - Friday - Apr 19, 2024
Day 8 - Saturday - Apr 20, 2024
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, take a dip in a swimming hole, 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 we sail east toward the Cook Islands.
Day 9 - Sunday - Apr 21, 2024
Day 10 - Monday - Apr 22, 2024
| Crossing the International Date Line |
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Day 11 - Tuesday - Apr 23, 2024
| Cook Islands, New Zealand |
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Today we let nature be our guide as we discover the pristine Cook Islands. Perhaps snorkel or dive among colorful coral, or choose to kayak or stand-up paddleboard in the warm, crystal waters.
Day 12 - Wednesday - Apr 24, 2024
Day 13 - Thursday - Apr 25, 2024
| Raiatea, French Polynesia |
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Day 14 - Friday - Apr 26, 2024
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 Taputapuatea 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. Later, refresh yourself with a swim in the island's lagoon. We 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.
Day 15 - Saturday - Apr 27, 2024
| Papeete, French Polynesia |
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Arrive in Papeete and take a tour of Tahiti. Then, enjoy a lunch at the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa. Check into a day room to relax before your overnight flight home in the late evening. Breakfast and lunch are included on Day 16.
