Picture-perfect islands, turquoise lagoons and unique cultures await travelers embarking on the 12-day South Pacific cruise aboard the Norwegian Spirit. The voyage stops at some of the world’s most remote and beautiful islands, giving guests the opportunity to experience the adventure of exploring the natural world, meeting friendly locals or just relaxing on a beach in heavenly surroundings.
Diamond Head Crater, Hawaii
Honolulu, Oahu
Board the Norwegian Spirit in Honolulu, Hawaii’s buzzing capital city. A full night and day to explore is just enough time to experience the best the city has to offer. It’s the sort of place where guests can go surfing in the morning, eat at a fine-dining restaurant at lunch, shop till they drop in the afternoon and hike up to a volcanic crater at sunset.
The city’s stunning natural surrounds are one of its best features. Honolulu, meaning "sheltered bay" in Hawaiian, is flanked by the iconic Waikiki Beach on one side and protected by the magnificent Koolau mountain range on the other. To the southeast of the city looms Diamond Head, a volcanic crater and popular hiking spot with panoramic views over Honolulu.
Waikiki’s long, gentle waves make this the ideal spot to learn to surf or try outrigger canoeing. If that’s not your thing, sunbathing on the beach or sipping drinks at one of the hotels is the perfect way to relax into your vacation.
History buffs will love exploring Honolulu’s fascinating historical sites, such as Pearl Harbor National Memorial, which includes the poignant USS Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. In downtown Honolulu, the opulent Iolani Palace stands out for its unique European-inspired Hawaiian architecture. It’s also the only royal palace in the U.S. and was home to Hawaii’s last monarch, Queen Liliuokalani. It’s possible to tour the fully restored palace with a guide or self-guided audio.
Na Pali Coast, Hawaii
Nawiliwili, Kauai
Kauai, known as the "Garden Isle," has perhaps the most spectacular natural environment in the Hawaiian chain. From the rugged Na Pali coastline with its towering cliffs and waterfalls, to lush valleys, rainforests, untouched beaches and red dirt canyons, it’s an awe-inspiring place.
The Norwegian Spirit docks in Nawiliwili, a sleepy isle where only 3% of the land is developed. From the cruise terminal, it’s a 10-15 minute walk to Kalapaki Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand with calm waters. The dock is also conveniently close to shops and restaurants.
For a bit of sightseeing, take a tour or drive to the Waimea Canyon, the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" or cruise down the magical Wailua River. The Wailua winds past ancient Hawaiian heiau (temples), verdant jungle and waterfalls. One of the best stops on the river is the Fern Grotto, a massive cave dripping in tropical foliage.
The stunning Na Pali Coast, northwest of the island, is best appreciated from the air or on the water. A scenic flight over Kauai and Na Pali often ends up being the favorite part of the trip for guests. Seeing the jagged emerald cliffs from the water is no less breathtaking — tour providers offer everything from luxury catamarans to snorkeling trips along the coastline.
Kauai also hosts some of the Hawaii’s best luaus. Experience the beauty of Hawaiian culture with authentic food, as well as song and dance performances. The Smith Family Garden Luau and Luau Kalamaku are both well worth your time.
Thermal Suite on board the Norwegian Spirit
Kona, Hawaii
The Hawaiian archipelago’s biggest island, Hawaii, known simply as the "Big Island," is also the youngest in geological terms. It’s home to four active volcanoes, with Kilauea still erupting regularly. Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to learn more and walk across the otherworldly landscape created by cooled black lava.
The region’s volcanic soil provides the perfect environment for growing Kona coffee beans, known for their compelling flavor profile. Many coffee farms, which offer tours and coffee tastings, are located on the western slopes of Mauna Loa and Hualalai volcanoes. For a kid-friendly alternative, check out the cacao farms near Kona — a few offer tours and chocolate tastings as well.
Coffee aside, Kealakekua Bay, located just 30 minutes’ drive south of Kona, offers crystalline waters and spectacular snorkeling opportunities. The vibrant reef is home to a wide array of marine life including green sea turtles and schools of colorful reef fish. The Bay is also known as the site where infamous explorer Captain Cook died at the hands of the Native Hawaiians in 1779.
For more of a glimpse into Hawaiian history and culture, head to Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. This wonderful open-air park showcases ancient royal grounds, fishponds and heiau built of lava rock. In ancient times, the site was also a place of refuge, where wrongdoers could go to seek absolution.
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
Bora Bora
The name alone conjures up images of honeymoon heaven, with overwater bungalows overlooking a sapphire lagoon and swaying palms on pristine beaches. Head out onto the lagoon by boat or paddleboard for beautiful views of the island and a closer look at the colorful reef and its schools of tropical fish.
Divers here will be rewarded with an array of marine life including eagle rays, manta rays and sharks in balmy waters. Between August and November, look out for majestic humpback whales — this is when these gentle giants travel through the islands as part of their annual migration.
In Vaitape, the island’s main town, shop around for black pearls and handicrafts. Alternatively, rent a scooter and zip around the island taking in the sights. A stop at Matira Beach, to admire the immaculate white sand and turquoise water, is a must.
Raiatea, French Polynesia
Raiatea, French Polynesia
Raiatea is known as the "Sacred Island." This is the spiritual heartland of French Polynesia, the first island in the archipelago to be settled and the location of the Taputapuatea marae (temple). In precolonial times, this was a gathering place and religious center for islanders from across the Pacific, including Hawaii, New Zealand and the Cook Islands.
Visiting the 1,000-year-old marae today can be a powerful experience — the Taputapuatea area includes multiple stone structures and tiki, and is best visited with a local guide for deeper understanding. Despite its spiritual importance and status as the second biggest of the Society Islands — French Polynesia’s central chain — Raiatea feels laid-back. Traffic is light outside Uturoa, the main town, and the island itself is like a giant tropical garden, complete with waterfalls and towering peaks. Its only river, the Faaroa, is unique — the one navigable river in all of French Polynesia. Take a paddleboard or kayak tour and marvel at the vibrant surrounds.
Raiatea is also a hiker’s paradise. The Mount Temehani hike, though long and difficult, is the most famous. Temehani Plateau, reaching above 3,000 feet, is home to around 30 endemic plants that grow nowhere else in the world. These include a remarkable white flower, known as the tiare apetahi, which has become an emblem of the island.
Off-island, Raiatea has an impressive lagoon which shelters both Raiatea and the neighboring island of Tahaa. The lagoon offers some incredible scuba diving opportunities with clear waters and an abundance of marine life. The Nordby Shipwreck dive and the Teavapiti Pass drift dive are some of the best.
Snorkeling excursion in Bora Bora lagoon
Moorea, French Polynesia
Moorea feels like a scene from a pop-up fairytale, thanks to the island’s jagged green peaks, palm-lined beaches and cerulean lagoon. Located just 45 minutes by ferry from Tahiti, Moorea is known locally as Tahiti’s ‘sister island’ and is a popular vacation spot for locals and tourists alike.
Head out onto the island’s lagoon for an unforgettable day on the water. Snorkel with blacktip sharks and rays on the sandbank on Moorea’s northwest side. Continue west to Motu Tiahura and Motu Fareone — two tiny sand islets in the middle of the lagoon — for one of the island’s most beautiful spots. The easiest way to get around on the lagoon is by boat; it’s possible to hire one, though boat tours — which usually include a barbecue lunch — are a popular option. Jet ski tours are another fun way to experience the lagoon.
On land, Moorea is just as breathtaking. For a lazy day, try Temae Beach for white sand, coconut palms and snorkeling with a view of Tahiti. Inland, the fertile Opunohu Valley is just as impressive as the lagoon. Drive or bike through pineapple fields, mape (Polynesian chestnut) forests and important archaeological sites, then take in some of Moorea’s best panoramic views at the Belvedere lookout, from which Moorea’s two great bays are visible.
Magnum’s Champagne & Wine Bar on board the Norwegian Spirit
Papeete, Tahiti
The Norwegian Spirit makes its final stop in Papeete, French Polynesia’s bustling capital. On an average weekday, Papeete is a hive of activity, with women shopping in brightly colored dresses and groups of Tahitian ukulele players singing on street corners.
While the city can be hot and dusty, it’s the best place to experience local life. Wander around Papeete market for souvenirs and snacks, explore wonderful street art or walk along the waterfront watching the ferries and vaa (double-hulled canoes) go by.
Outside Papeete, adventurers will love exploring Papenoo Valley in Tahiti’s interior. Largely uninhabited, the lush, green valley is dotted with gushing waterfalls and ancient stone marae. At the far end of the island, tiny Teahupo’o is renowned for its reef break, and was the surf site during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. From May to August, hop on a taxi boat past the reef to see some of the world’s most powerful waves up close during prime surfing season.
Writer: Tiare Tuuhia
