Crystal Oceania: 25 nights from Papeete with Crystal Symphony
Feb 13, 2028

Papeete

Papeete, whose name means "water vessel" in the local language, is the capital of French Polynesia, located on the island of Tahiti. Papeete has history, cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it an unmissable place for anyone who wants to explore the magic of Tahiti and French Polynesia. Its history originated at the beginning of the 19th century. The first European explorers, such as Captain James Cook, visited Tahiti as early as the 18th century.

Not long after, Papeete became an important commercial and administrative center of the region. France established a protectorate on the island in 1842, and chose Papeete as the capital of French Polynesia. The atmosphere of Papeete mixes Polynesian relaxation with French style. The city is famous for its wild parties and traditional dances, such as 'ori (Tahitian dance), which you can admire in numerous cultural festivals that are frequently held in the city. Polynesian mythology plays a significant role in the cultural life of Papeete, with many local legends handed down over the centuries. One of the best known myths is the legend of the god Tane, the creator of light, sun and life (a version of Ra of ancient Egypt in the South Pacific). 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 an important point of interest. Here, you can find fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, flowers and discover local traditional crafts and souvenirs. Papeete boasts interesting museums, such as the Museum of Tahiti and its Islands, where you can learn more about the history and culture of the region. Don't miss the Polynesian Art Gallery to see the work of local artists. Surrounded by beautiful lagoons and coral reefs, Papeete is an ideal place for lovers of water sports, such as diving and snorkeling.

If you are a nature lover it is absolutely worth visiting the waterfalls and tropical forests located nearby. Seafood plays a central role in local cuisine in Papeete. One of the national dishes is poisson cru, raw fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with coconut milk, vegetables and spices. Papeete is an important port for cruise ships in the South Pacific.

The port always welcomes numerous cruise ships, offering passengers the opportunity 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 truly immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of French Polynesia.

Raiatea

Bora Bora

Pago Pago

Suva

Lautoka

With a population of around 52,500, Lautoka is the second largest city in Fiji and is located on the west side of Viti Levu Island, the largest island in the Fiji archipelago.

Lautoka is a dynamic city where industrial activity, cultural wealth and natural beauty blend perfectly. The city takes its name from a battle cry meaning "spear strike". According to legend, when a discussion broke out between two local chiefs, while killing the other by piercing him in the chest, one shouted the words Lau-Toka which mean "spear strike" or "strike to win". The city is also known as the "sugar city" because of its famous sugar industry. The Lautoka sugar factory was founded in 1903, its importance grew over the years becoming one of the largest in the country and offering work to a large number of citizens.

In addition to sugar, the economy includes tourism, crafts and services. The city plays an important role as a port for both commercial and cruise ships. The importance of the port is linked to both trade and tourism. The port welcomes a lot of cruise ships, offering passengers the opportunity to explore the various historical sites of the city, reach the beautiful beaches and do some wild shopping.

Cruises departing from or stopping at Lautoka often include itineraries in Oceania and Polynesia. These cruises are a great way to enjoy the beauty and culture of this area, with Lautoka being a highlight for many travelers. Lautoka is a lively city with a mix of different cultures and ethnicities, reflecting the diverse demographic composition of Fiji.

Lautoka has a lively cultural scene with various festivals, markets, and events that celebrate the rich heritage and traditions of its people. If you want to sample the local cuisine, the Lautoka market is for you. It is a lively center where locals sell fresh produce, crafts, and other goods. Rugby and soccer play an important role in Lautoka's sporting culture. If you are a sports lover, Churchill Park is for you. It is a notable sports facility in Lautoka that hosts various local and international sporting events.

Port Vila

Lifou

Noumea

Located in the southwest of the South Pacific Ocean, Noumea is the economic capital and main port of New Caledonia. With approximately one hundred thousand inhabitants, the city center offers a variety of cultural places that are worth visiting and immortalizing where it is possible to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the city, such as the Civic Museum, the well-known Piazza delle Palme, the various libraries scattered throughout the city, art galleries and theaters where you can attend unique shows of their kind.

Noumea has always been a crossroads of different peoples from all over the world. In the course of the 19th century, European settlers reached these shores in search of wealth and fortune and slowly settled in the area thanks to the possibility of living a more comfortable life. The influence and presence of these peoples is still visible today simply by walking through the different streets of the city and admiring the various colonial-era buildings and monuments such as the Maison Célières, the Château Hagen and the city museum.

Thanks to the often very favorable climate all year round, in Noumea it is possible to carry out a wide variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, snorkeling, windsurfing, kitesurfing, golf or swimming. If you decide to immerse yourself in these crystal clear waters you will have the unmissable opportunity to observe up close an abundance of corals, fish, crustaceans and mammals, as well as marine animals that can only be seen in this area.

If, on the other hand, you are looking for tranquility and relaxation, taking a walk along the Answata Bay promenade will make you feel so light and relaxed that you will feel like you are walking on clouds and flying. If you are a lover of nightlife, the city offers a lively nightlife thanks to the presence of many lively bars and clubs, as well as two casinos, discos and nightclubs where you can have fun and show off your best dance moves!

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

Waitangi (Bay Of Islands)

Auckland

Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand, which is located on the North Island. It got its start in 1840 and was named after George Eden, he was the first Earl of Auckland. Before Europeans showed up, the area was home to the Māori, New Zealand’s indigenous people. Key historical spots like Mount Eden and Maungakiekie are still super important to the Māori. The Māori have a bunch of myths and legends about Auckland. One such myth tells of a giant lizard, Taniwha, who supposedly lives in the Hauraki Gulf waters.

These tales are passed down through the generations and are a vital part of the local culture. Back in the 19th century, Auckland was a major port and trading center, which helped it grow fast. In 1865, the capital of New Zealand was moved to Wellington, but Auckland kept booming thanks to its strategic location and industrial potential. It’s called the "City of Sails'' because there are so many yachts in the Hauraki Gulf. Auckland has a bunch of museums and art galleries, like the Auckland Museum and the Auckland Art Gallery.

The city’s surrounded by gorgeous beaches, volcanic hills and dense forests. There are also several nature reserves and national parks nearby. Auckland’s cuisine is super diverse, reflecting its multicultural vibe. You’ll find restaurants serving Asian, European, Polynesian and Māori dishes. One of New Zealand’s national dishes is hangi, it’s a traditional Māori meal cooked in an earth oven. Meat and veggies are cooked in underground pits with hot stones, giving them a unique smoky flavor. Auckland is a major cruise hub for cruise tourism in the Pacific. The Port of Auckland sees a bunch of cruise ships heading out to the Pacific Islands, New Zealand’s coast and Australia. Popular cruise destinations include Vanuatu, Fiji and New Caledonia.

Cruises from Auckland offer not only luxury and relaxation on board but also a chance to see awesome landscapes and get a taste of New Zealand’s culture. Auckland is a city with a rich history, cultural diversity and stunning natural beauty, attracting tourists from all over the world with its cuisine, attractions and cruise opportunities.

Napier

Wellington

Melbourne

Set sail on an exhilarating cruise from Melbourne, Australia, the vibrant cultural capital of Victoria. Known for its sophisticated arts scene, world-class dining, and beautiful gardens, Melbourne offers a fantastic departure point for exploring the stunning coastlines of Australia, New Zealand, and beyond. Experience the city's dynamic energy before embarking on a journey filled with relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable discoveries at sea.

Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, is a city that seduces visitors with its unique mix of history, art, cafes and green spaces. Known for its labyrinthine streets, rich in street art, and for the vibrant atmosphere that is breathed in every corner, Melbourne is an unmissable stop for those who want to discover Australia beyond clichés. Cruises to Melbourne offer a different perspective on this dynamic metropolis, allowing you to appreciate its urban skyline by sailing along the Yarra River.

The beating heart of Melbourne is its historic center, where modernity and tradition meet. Federation Square, with its avant-garde buildings, is the meeting point par excellence, a stage for cultural events and art exhibitions. Not far away, the Royal Botanical Gardens invite you to a relaxing walk among native and exotic plant species. The city is also famous for its markets, such as the Queen Victoria Market, where you can find local products, handicrafts and street food that tell the flavors of the world.

Melbourne's cultural scene is rich and varied. Historic theaters, such as the Princess Theatre, offer internationally renowned shows, while the numerous museums, including the Melbourne Museum and the National Gallery of Victoria, house artistic and historical treasures. Sports enthusiasts will find a true paradise in Melbourne, with events ranging from tennis to Australian Football, celebrated in iconic facilities such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Taking part in a cruise that stops in Melbourne means immersing yourself in a multisensory experience, where urban effervescence combines with moments of serenity along the banks of the Yarra. Melbourne, with its welcoming character and cosmopolitan soul, promises an unforgettable stay, made of cultural, gastronomic and naturalistic discoveries, in one of the most lively and fascinating cities in Australia.