Experience the Wonders of the Pacific with CruiseAway
The **Pacific** region, with its stunning beaches, tropical islands, and diverse cultures, offers an experience like no other. Cruising through the Pacific allows you to explore breathtaking destinations while enjoying the luxury and comfort of cruise ships. Whether you’re dreaming of sunbathing in Bora Bora, snorkeling in Fiji, or experiencing the vibrant cultures of Hawaii, the Pacific has something for everyone. Fun fact: the Pacific Ocean is the largest ocean on Earth, covering more than 63 million square miles! A cruise through this vast region takes you to some of the most beautiful and remote destinations, making it a perfect choice for your next holiday.
Must-See Harbours in the Pacific
When cruising through the Pacific, you’ll have the chance to visit a variety of stunning harbours. Here are five key ports you won’t want to miss:
- Papeete, Tahiti: As the capital of French Polynesia, Papeete is known for its vibrant markets and breathtaking coastal views. When you dock here, visit the famous **Papeete Market** to shop for local crafts, vanilla products, and fresh produce. An insider tip: enjoy a delicious dinner at a waterfront restaurant while watching the sunset over the lagoon for a truly unforgettable experience!
- Honolulu, Hawaii: Honolulu offers both beautiful beaches and rich culture. A visit to **Waikiki Beach** is a must for sunbathers, but don’t miss historical sites like the **Pearl Harbor National Memorial**. Pro tip: if you’re short on time, consider taking a guided tour to ensure you see all the highlights, including the iconic **Diamond Head** crater.
- Auckland, New Zealand: Known as the “City of Sails,” Auckland features stunning harbour views and a vibrant food scene. Stroll through the **Viaduct Harbour** and grab a bite at one of the many waterfront cafés. Insider tip: climb the **Sky Tower** for sweeping 360-degree views of the city and surrounding islands!
- Moorea, French Polynesia: Just a short ferry ride from Tahiti, Moorea is renowned for its stunning landscapes and clear waters. One of the top activities here is a guided tour through the lush interior of the island, where you can explore waterfalls and lush vegetation. Don’t forget to try some local **poké** served with a tropical flair at a beachside café!
- Cabo San Lucas, Mexico: Famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, Cabo San Lucas offers numerous activities for cruisers. Rent a kayak to explore the iconic **Arch of Cabo San Lucas** or unwind at one of the local beaches. Pro tip: check for local taco stands—authentic Mexican street food is a must-try!
The Best Times to Cruise the Pacific
The ideal time to cruise the Pacific is from **May to September**, when weather conditions are typically warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from **24°C to 30°C**. This period is perfect for beach activities and excursions. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and lower fares, consider cruising during the **shoulder season** periods of **April to June** and **September to November**, when temperatures can still hover around **20°C to 25°C** but with higher chances of rain on some islands. The **Pacific hurricane season**, typically from **August to October**, can bring unpredictable weather conditions, so keep this in mind when planning your voyage!
Cost of Cruising in the Pacific
When budgeting for your Pacific cruise, a one-week standard cruise typically ranges from **$1,500 to $3,000**, while a two-week cruise can run from **$3,000 to $5,500**. Luxury experiences generally commence at around **$5,000** for a week. If you’re looking to get the best value for your dollar, aim for shoulder season for lower cruise fares. For food and drinks during your trip, budget approximately **$20 to $50** per meal depending on where you dine—local seafood is often a popular and delicious choice!
Major Cruise Lines Offering Pacific Itineraries
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Holland America Line: This cruise line features a fleet of **11 ships**, with **eight** sailing to the Pacific. The **Nieuw Amsterdam** and **Zaandam** are notable for their Pacific itineraries, departing from **Sydney** or international ports like **San Diego**. Known for their immersive onboard experiences and exceptional service, Holland America provides an elegant atmosphere that caters to all ages.
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Princess Cruises: With **17 ships**, **10** navigate the Pacific. **Crown Princess** and **Ruby Princess** often sail from domestic ports like **Sydney** and **Perth** or international ports such as **Los Angeles**. Princess Cruises is renowned for their excellent service and onboard entertainment, making them perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.
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Norwegian Cruise Line: This cruise line boasts a fleet of **20 ships**, with **eight** travelling to the Pacific. The **Norwegian Sun** and **Norwegian Spirit** often depart from **Honolulu** or **Los Angeles**. Norwegian is celebrated for its versatile dining options and laid-back atmosphere—perfect for those who prefer casual cruising with added flexibility!
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Carnival Cruise Line: With a fleet size of **26 ships**, **seven** of them head to the Pacific, including the **Carnival Panorama** and **Carnival Radiance**. Most cruises depart from ports like **Long Beach** or **Seattle**. Carnival is known for its fun atmosphere and extensive entertainment options, catering to cruisers looking for an enjoyable holiday filled with activities.
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Celebrity Cruises: With **16 ships**, **five** sail to the Pacific. The **Celebrity Edge** and **Celebrity Solstice** are among those often departing from **Sydney** or international ports like the **Galapagos Islands**. Celebrity Cruises focuses on premium experiences, featuring exquisite dining options and stylish modern designs that elevate your cruising experience.
Luxury and Small Ship Options
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Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of **eight ships**, **six** visit the Pacific, with notable vessels such as **Regatta** and **Vista**. These cruises often depart from **Sydney** or international ports like **Papeete**. Oceania is celebrated for its outstanding culinary experiences, offering gourmet dining with locally sourced cuisine during your travels.
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Silversea: Featuring **13 ships**, **eight** sail the Pacific, including **Silver Origin** and **Silver Shadow**. These cruises typically depart from **Perth (Fremantle)** or **Papeete**. Silversea is renowned for its luxury level of service and intimate onboard experiences, providing a high end-all-inclusive cruise for discerning travellers.
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Regent Seven Seas Cruises: This luxury cruise line operates **six ships**, with **five** cruising the Pacific. The **Seven Seas Mariner** and **Seven Seas Grandeur** frequently depart from **Miami** or **Papeete**. Regent is known for an all-inclusive luxury approach, providing exceptional service, fine dining, and enriching excursions that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
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Seabourn: With a fleet of **six ships**, **three** offering itineraries in the Pacific, such as the **Seabourn Quest** and **Seabourn Sojourn**. Departing mostly from **Los Angeles** or **Papeete**, this cruise line excels in providing exceptional service onboard, allowing you to indulge in an exclusive and luxurious cruising experience.
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Viking Ocean Cruises: Comprising **11 ships**, **three** of which cruise the Pacific. **Viking Neptune** and **Viking Orion** frequently depart from **Sydney** or **Los Angeles**. Viking Ocean Cruises focuses on cultural enrichment and destination-focused experiences, ensuring that every port of call provides a deep dive into local traditions.
Explore Alternative Regions
If the wonders of the **Pacific** have captured your attention, but you’d like to consider other beautiful destinations, here are five alternatives worth considering:
- Caribbean: Known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sandy beaches, the Caribbean offers a tropical paradise complete with lively cultures and delicious cuisine.
- Hawaii: Famous for its volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and active lifestyle, Hawaii offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Southeast Asia: This region is rich in cultural diversity, stunning islands, and vibrant markets, providing exploration opportunities you won’t want to miss.
- Australia: With a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant cities, and rich Aboriginal culture, Australia presents a wealth of experiences for travellers.
- South Pacific: The South Pacific islands are renowned for their stunning beauty, friendly locals, and vibrant marine life, making this area an exciting alternative to consider.
With fabulous ports, breathtaking landscapes, and wonderful experiences waiting in the **Pacific**, now is the perfect time to book your dream cruise with **CruiseAway**. Embrace the adventure that awaits and set sail towards an unforgettable journey!