Treasures of the Pacific: The Yasawas to New Zealand

Settle into your suite, in the sweet city of Lautoka, nestled in the heart of Fijis sugar cane growing region. Step ashore where the first Fijians landed to understand why they chose to make this island paradise their home. In a land of dramatic displays such as warrior dances and firewalks, the attractions are much gentler: botanical gardens thriving with orchids; blissful beaches; lush forest; and warmly welcoming locals. Your journey into wonder begins with a warm greeting by the crew as you step on board Scenic Eclipse.  Please book your flight to arrive into Nadi prior to 02:00 PM.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax and indulge in the luxuries onboard Scenic Eclipse.

Tanna’s erupting Mount Yasur is regarded as the world’s most accessible active volcano. Known for its continuous activity since Captain James Cook observed ash eruptions in 1774, it’s considered a sacred area by members of the John Frum cargo cult, who believe their deity resides inside. Discovery: Soak in the Sulphur Bay hot springs at the base of Mt Yasur, or explore Tanna’s Blue Cave, carved in a limestone cliff. Alternatively, see one the island’s most magnificent waterfalls, taste the world-renowned Tanna coffee, or venture up to the smoking rim of Mt Yasur for an unforgettable experience.

A coral atoll atop a collapsed volcano, Lifou is the largest and highest of the Loyalty Islands. In the north, the coastline ends abruptly in cliffs, while the south is a long expanse of beaches. Further inland, the rich Kanak culture is proudly upheld by the local community.

The “Jewel of the Pacific” is named after the tall trees that line the white-sand shores. It’s the southernmost of the Caledonian islands and the largest in the marine area of the Great Southern Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Isle of Pines is also a former penal colony, where political prisoners from the Paris Commune and Kabylians from Algeria were deported at the end of the 19th century. Discovery: Discover the rich and colourful history of the L’Île-des-Pins’ heritage with your on board Historian, or be immersed in nature on forested nature hikes. Alternatively, snorkel, kayak or stand-up paddleboard the natural aquarium of Oro Bay with your Discovery team.

During your day at sea, make the most of the onboard services and activities, such as the Senses Spa, fitness centre and all-inclusive bars and restaurants.

This South Pacific island lies off Australias east coast, blessed with deserted beaches, Emily Bay lagoon, Mount Pitt and parrot-filled Norfolk Island National Park. But there’s also a turbulent history to uncover at the Norfolk Island Museum in Kingston. Freechoice: Discover the life of world-renowned author Colleen McCullough during a visit to her home, as part of an exclusive guided tour of the author’s magnificent property, or learn about the unique language of Norfolk Island, a fascinating mix of English and Tahitian, created by the Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian wives. Alternatively, see pots being thrown on the wheel by a master potter at Cottage Pottery, followed by a tasting platter of home-grown goats cheese or take an early morning walk through the rainforest at Palm Glen and learn about the local wildlife as you walk beneath a canopy of Norfolk Island palms. For the active, enjoy nine holes of golf at the local course.

Another day to enjoy the open sea, spot the marine life and unwind onboard.

Russell, the first harbour city founded in New Zealand by Europeans, is your entry into the Bay of Islands on the east coast of the North Island. Admire gorgeous gardens, whitewashed houses, beautiful beaches, and Christ Church, the oldest church in the country. Freechoice: Cruise the calm inland waters of the Bay of Islands with lunch included or enjoy a ferry ride to Russell, the birthplace of European settlement in New Zealand. Alternatively, discover the very best of the bay on a scenic cruise and journey through the Hole in the Rock (weather permitting) or join a Taste of the Bay tour.

Largely forest-covered, New Zealand’s Great Barrier Island is an official Dark Sky Sanctuary, recognised for its exceptional stargazing. Explore ashore or join a Zodiac cruise before we sail into the Hauraki Gulf, keeping an eye out for the critically endangered New Zealand Storm-petrel. Other birds to spot include Buller’s Shearwaters, Australian Gannets, Little Blue Penguins, White-faced Storm-petrel, Grey-faced Petrel, Little Shearwater and Black Petrel. Cruising along the east coast of the North Island, we will certainly see albatrosses including the Campbell, Shy and Wandering. Discovery: Zodiac cruise before sailing into the Hauraki Gulf, keeping an eye out for the critically endangered New Zealand Storm-petrel. Other birds to spot include Buller’s Shearwaters, Australian Gannets, Little Blue Penguins, White-faced Storm-petrel, Grey-faced Petrel, Little Shearwater and Black Petrel. Cruising along the east coast of the North Island, look for albatrosses including the Campbell, Shy and Wandering.

This lovely city has two harbours offering waterfront walks and views of Auckland’s harbour bridge, but the best cityscape vista is from 192 metres high at the Sky Tower. Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, a French-Renaissance building houses New Zealand’s most extensive art collection, including works by Maori and Pacific artists. Disembark after breakfast as you farewell the crew and take away memories of a truly unforgettable cruise. Please book your flight to depart out of Auckland after 12:00 PM. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.