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Fiji and Tahiti: Vibrant Reefs and Cultural History

Fiji and Tahiti: Vibrant Reefs and Cultural History

From $ 9,450 AUD

Description

Set sail on a sweeping journey across the South Pacific, discovering the storied archipelagos and seldom-seen islands that lie between Tahiti and Fiji. Explore volcanic peaks rising above turquoise lagoons, coral atolls shimmering with marine life, lush rainforests alive with birdsong and lava-carved caves that reveal dramatic geological forces. In villages and sacred cultural sites, encounter traditions that have endured for centuries, guiding Polynesian seafarers across the vast Pacific and shaping the spirit of these vibrant communities. 

Trip Name
Fiji and Tahiti: Vibrant Reefs and Cultural History
Days
16
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Passenger Capacity: 126 Built: 2020 One of two next-generation ships purpose-built for polar exploration, National Geographic Resolution is named in tribute to Captain James Cook’s legendary second voyage aboard HMS Resolution. With a Polar Code Category A ice-class hull and a pioneering X-Bow® design, she offers unmatched comfort, stability, and quiet passage through even the most challenging polar waters—opening access to remote corners of the Arctic, Antarctica, and beyond. Designed for immersive exploration, the ship’s interior is warm, modern, and elegantly Scandinavian, with expansive windows throughout that keep the wild, ice-bound world always within view. Her six decks house 76 spacious cabins, inviting public spaces, and a full complement of expedition tools. Guests can relax in the observation lounge, library, or spa; enjoy flexible dining across three venues; or gear up in the Expedition Base before heading out in Zodiacs or kayaks. From polar bear sightings in Svalbard to navigating ice-choked channels in the Southern Ocean, Resolution is a state-of-the-art platform for discovering the planet’s most astonishing frontiers.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia / Embark Ship
Arrive in Papeete and visit the hospitality suite at the meetup hotel this afternoon. Embark the ship in the early evening. Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2 - Day 2 Taha'a
The sparkling turquoise waters of Taha’a are a haven for exploration and relaxation. Spend the day snorkeling, swimming or kayaking—or simply relax on the beach and take in the breathtaking surroundings. Beneath the surface, vibrant marine life awaits, from playful clownfish and colorful parrotfish to the graceful glide of black-tipped reef sharks. For those who prefer to explore ashore, there is the option to visit a family-run vanilla farm. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 - Days 3-4 Ra'iatea / At Sea
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 once a center for Polynesian seafarers and the location from which they set out for Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Hawaii and New Zealand. In the afternoon, the ship heads towards the Cook Islands. Take advantage of onboard amenities as you spend the next day at sea. Head up to the Bridge to watch for wildlife and learn about navigation from the captain and crew, schedule a massage in the wellness center or enjoy insightful talks from your naturalists. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 - Days 5-6 Rarotonga, Cook Islands / Atuitaki
With its white-sand beaches, crystalline waters, and welcoming community, Rarotonga—the largest of the Cook Islands—offers a perfect introduction to the archipelago. Spend the next two days discovering the islands: set out on a leisurely bike ride, go for a guided mountain hike or enjoy a scenic panoramic tour. A visit to the Te Ara Museum and gift shop offers insight into the islands’ rich history and a chance to bring home locally crafted treasures. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 - Days 7-8 At Sea
Enjoy two relaxing days at sea as you sail across the South Pacific en route to Niue Island. Take in ocean views from the lounge, cozy up with a book on Polynesian culture in the library or edit your favorite images at the photo kiosk with help from your certified photo instructor. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 - Day 9 Niue
Set out for a day of adventure in Niue, a remote island nation tucked away in one of the most inaccessible corners of the world. The terrestrial and marine habitats of this elevated coral atoll teem with life, from spinner dolphins and humpback whales to colorful birds such as the crimson-crowned fruit dove. The island is also home to an array of geological wonders, including sheer limestone cliffs, hidden caves and striking exposed coral formations. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 - Day 10 At Sea
At sea between Niue and Tonga, you’ll experience one of travel’s rarest moments—crossing the International Date Line, where an entire day slips from the calendar. Enjoy the steady rhythm of the open ocean, watch for seabirds and dolphins from the observation deck or join your expedition team for engaging presentations. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 - Days 11-12 Vava'u, Tonga / At Sea
Start your day with a sunrise photography session, capturing the luminescent Tongan sun on the horizon with guidance from your certified photo instructor. In the Vava’u islands, visit Mt. Talau National Park, where hiking trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints and the chance to spot native birds such as the Pacific kingfisher and Polynesian starling. Snorkel among swirling schools of fish in the crystalline waters of 'Ana Pekapeka, or Swallows Cave, accessible only by boat. End your day with a sunset photography session, practicing your new skills under the glow of golden hour.  The following day, enjoy time at sea as the ship makes its way toward Fiji, your final destination. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 - Days 13-15 Fiji
Over the next three days, discover the remarkable diversity of Fiji and gain a deeper understanding of this remote island nation. On Taveuni, the “Garden Island,” explore lush vegetation and rare flora such as the Tagimoucia flower, a national emblem of good luck featured on the 50-dollar bill. In the village of Waitabu, you’ll be welcomed by a close-knit community and introduced to their traditions, while nearby Bouma National Heritage Park reveals rainforest trails and cascading waterfalls. Beqa Island offers the chance to snorkel in the Shark Reef Marine Reserve, the country’s first protected marine park, where up to eight species of sharks may be found. On Kadavu, the southernmost island, encounter pristine tropical landscapes and striking natural beauty that embody the essence of Fiji. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 - Day 16 Lautoka / Disembark Ship
Disembark in Lautoka and transfer to the airport for flights home. Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 11 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

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Inclusions

    • Swim, snorkel and stand-up paddleboard in the aqua lagoons of the South Pacific, exploring everything from deep caves to a marine reserve that shelters eight species of sharks
    • Visit the marae complex of Marae Taputapuātea, once a sacred center for voyaging seafarers, now a UNESCO World Heritage site
    • Receive a warm welcome from island communities, and experience vibrant cultural traditions from the Cook Islands and Fiji to the remote shores of Niue
    • Explore Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands, where white-sand beaches, lush mountain trails and crystalline waters offer endless opportunities for discovery
    • Spot endemic flora like the rare Tagimoucia flower on Fiji’s spectacular Taveuni, known as the “Garden Island”
    • Hike the trails of Mt. Talau National Park in Tonga, searching for tropical birdlife such as the brilliant Pacific kingfisher and melodious Polynesian starling

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