Costa Cruises Ocean Cruises: 26 nights from Sydney with Costa Serena
Nov 12, 2026

Noumea

Located in the south-west part of the South Pacific Ocean, Noumea is the economic center of New Caledonia and it has the main port of the country. With a population of around one hundred thousand inhabitans, the center of the city offers a wide range of not to be missed cultural sites where you can immerse yourself in the history and the culture of the city such as the Civic Museum, the famous Palms Square, many libraries, art galleries and theaters where it is possible to attend unique performances.

Noumea has always been a crossroads of different people coming from all over the world. In the 19th century, European settlers reached these coasts searching for fortune and thanks to the high quality of life there they decided to settle in the city. The influence and the presence of these people is still visible today while you are strolling along the streets and admiring buildings and monuments such as the Maison Célières, the Hagen Castle and the City Museum.

Thanks to the climate which is favourable all year-round, the city offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, snorkeling, windsurfing, kitesurfing, golfing or swimming. If you decide to dive in these crystal-clear waters, you will have the not to be missed opportunity to get a closer look at corals, fishes, crustaceans and mammals, marine animals that can only be spotted only in this area. If you are looking for silence and relaxation, strolling along the waterfront in Answata Bay will make you feel so light and relaxed that you will feel like you are walking on clouds and flying.

On the other hand, if you are a nightlife lover, the city offers a vibrant nightlife. In the city there are many lively bars and clubs, as well as two casinos, discos and nightclubs where you can show off your best dance moves!

The best way to reach Noumea is aboard a cruise ship. Choose a cruise that departs from Noumea or that has the city as a stop so you can enjoy the uniqueness of its landscape and take part in one of the many activities offered! What are you waiting for? Visit our website and choose the cruise that best suits your needs and requirements!

Lifou

Suva

Nuku Alofa

Rarotonga

Papeete

Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia, it is located on the island of Tahiti. This city got its start back in the early 19th century. Its name means "water vessel" in the Tahitian language. The first European explorers, like Captain James Cook, visited Tahiti in the 18th century. Not long after, Papeete became an important trade and administrative center in the region. France established a protectorate over the island in 1842, making Papeete the capital of French Polynesia.

Papeete's vibe mixes Polynesian chill with French style. The city's famous for its wild festivals and traditional dances, like 'ori (Tahitian dance), which you'll catch at loads of cultural festivals. Polynesian mythology plays a significant role in the cultural life of Papeete, with many local legends having been passed down through the ages. One of the well-known myths is the legend of the god Tane, the creator of light, the sun and life (think of him like a South Pacific version of Ra from Ancient Egypt). These myths are reflected in the art and music of the region and remain an important part of Tahiti's cultural heritage. The Central Market of Papeete, or Marché de Papeete, is where the action's at. You can find fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, flowers and check out traditional Tahitian crafts and souvenirs.

Papeete has interesting museums, like the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, where you can learn more about the history and culture of the region. Don't miss the Polynesian Art Gallery to see the local artists' work. Surrounded by gorgeous lagoons and coral reefs, Papeete's a sweet place for water sports, like diving and snorkeling. And don't forget about the waterfalls and tropical forests nearby, they're totally worth checking out if you're into nature. It’s very beautiful! Papeete's cuisine is about mixing Polynesian and Seafood plays a central role in the local cuisine. One of the national dishes is poisson cru. It's fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with coconut milk, vegetables and spices. Papeete is a major port for cruise ships in the South Pacific.

The port always welcomes numerous cruise liners, offering passengers the chance to explore the city and its surroundings. Cruises departing from or stopping in Papeete often include itineraries through places like Bora Bora, Moorea and Huahine, so you can really soak in the beauty and culture of French Polynesia.

You can dive into unique landscapes and soak up the culture and history of the region. Papeete has history, cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a must-see place for anyone who wants to explore the magic of Tahiti and French Polynesia.

Pitcairn Islands

Easter Island

Santiago

Santiago, the capital of Chile, is a vibrant and dynamic city nestled in a valley surrounded by the Andes mountains. Santiago is a city of contrast where modern urban life is perfectly combined with rich history and tradition. The city was founded by Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia in 1541. Over the centuries, Santiago has grown from a colonial outpost to Chile's largest and most important city.

It has become the political, cultural, and economic center of the country. Thanks to its natural landscapes, the city offers many parks and green spaces, including the Parque Metropolitano and the beautiful Cerro Santa Lucía where you can enjoy unique and unforgettable experiences, doing outdoor activities and enojy beautiful panoramic views of the city. Besides its beautiful landscapes, the city is known for its vibrant arts community and frequent cultural festivals.

There are many theaters, museums, and galleries in the city. Notable landmarks include the historic Plaza de Armas, the Palacio de La Moneda (the presidential palace), and the towering Gran Torre Santiago, the tallest building in Latin America.