Highlights of the South Pacific & French Polynesia

North of Nadi through sugarcane plantations and past the Sabeto Mountains is Lautoka, nicknamed the Sugar City for the local agriculture and its big processing mill. With a population of around 50,000, it's the only city besides Suva and, like the capital, has a pleasant waterfront. It's the sailing point for Blue Lagoon and Beachcomber Cruises but is otherwise unremarkable for tourists, itself having few hotels and fewer good restaurants. Locals recommend the city as a less-expensive place to shop for clothing, but note that it can take as long as 45 minutes to drive here. Legend has it that Lautoka acquired its name when two chiefs engaged in combat and one hit the other with a spear. He proclaimed "lau toka" (spear hit) and thus the future town was named.

Bula! Welcome to Fiji and the nation’s second largest city, Lautoka, nestled in the heart of sugar-cane country. This sweet start to your voyage opens up a world of blissful beaches, turquoise seascapes, dense jungle and the always-smiling Fijian locals.  

Your journey into wonder begins with a warm greeting by the Captain and crew as you step on board Scenic Eclipse II. Sip on a glass of Champagne as you explore your luxurious suite, then join your fellow guests at the Sky Bar to toast the start of an unforgettable voyage. 

Please book your flight to arrive into Nadi prior to 02:00 PM.

Suva, a multiracial city, is the pulsing heart of the South Pacific. Its location is on a hilly peninsula in the southeast corner of Viti Levu Island, the largest in the Fijian archipelago. Suva was named the country's capital in 1882; the former capital was Luvuka. Suva's natural harbour was no doubt a deciding factor that prompted the change. Its port is the country's main shipping facility, accommodating vessels from all over the world. The town is backed by the lush green hills of the Suva-Rewa range. The waterfront district, much of which is built on land reclaimed from tangled mangrove swamps, provides the hub for much of Suva's activities. The downtown centre is a hodgepodge of high-rise office buildings, colonial houses with second-story verandas, parks and government structures. The northern and western mountains catch the trade winds, with the result being damp conditions year-round and frequent tropical downpours. Despite the ever-present possibility of showers, Suva is an excellent place to explore on foot. Many points of interest are located on Victoria Parade and along tree-shaded Queen Elizabeth Drive. Suva's botanical park is lush with flowering plants, trees and green lawns. In its centre stands the Fiji Museum, where objects reflect 3,000 years of Fijian history. The museum boasts a fine collection of Melanesian artefacts and various exhibits that reflect on Fiji's maritime era. Government House stands on a hillside surrounded by landscaped grounds. A stern, uniformed sentry guards the pillared gate entrance. The monthly Changing of the Guard is executed with almost as much pomp and ceremony as at London's Buckingham Palace. Friendly Fiji will charm you; here Melanesia mixes with Polynesia, ancient India with Oceania and tradition with the modern world. The Fijian greeting "Bula!" is extended warmly to strangers on city streets and country roads. Fiji is one of the South Pacific's most hospitable countries and a holiday destination that has much to offer in recreational activities, shopping and joyous celebrations.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Savusavu, set on the southern coast of the island of Vanua Levu. The nation’s second largest island is largely off the radar of mass tourism and is renowned for its lush jungle, pristine waters and strong traditional culture. The snorkelling and diving here are some of the best in Fiji, with the exceptional Namena Marine Reserve just offshore from Savusavu.  

Relax on one of the secluded beaches fringed by swaying palm trees, go in search of dolphins in Natewa Bay, explore the mangroves of the Salt Lake by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, and pick up unique souvenirs crafted by local artisans.

With a population of 6,000, Neiafu is the capital city and the second largest municipality in the Polynesian nation of Tonga (a 169-island archipelago in the South Pacific). The city is situated in a deep- water harbor (Port of Refuge) on the south coast of Vava͛u, the main island of the Vava͛u archipelago in northern Tonga. The waters of this region are known for their clarity and beauty, and the area attracts many humpback whales between June and November. A popular destination in Neiafu is the Ene͛io Botanical Garden, a bird sanctuary that promotes the survival of exotic and native bird species as well as supports and conserves a diverse array of plant life. The island's city life can be experienced at the numerous cafes and restaurants that welcome visitors.

Tonga is made up of more than 170 islands divided into three groups – the Vava’u archipelago is the most northerly, consisting of around 40 coral islands. It’s a captivating combination of lush vegetation, sandy beaches, abundant marine life and underwater caves, making it one of Tonga’s most popular tourist destinations.  

The flat-topped Mount Talau towers over the main island, offering spectacular panoramic views. Experience local traditions, like weaving mats from the leaves of the pandanus tree, producing noni juice and the extraction of vanilla essence.

Cross International Dateline

Today you will become a time traveller - Scenic Eclipse II will cross the International Date Line, an imaginary line of demarcation that runs from the North to the South Pole, located roughly along the 180th meridian in the Pacific Ocean. As we are crossing from west to east, you will repeat the day once more.

Enjoy a celebration of the crossing with the Captain and crew as a nod to ancient maritime traditions and a light-hearted appreciation of the marvels of time and travel.

Step ashore today in one of the smallest countries in the world. The tiny island nation of Niue is home to less than 2,000 people and is a slice of the South Pacific as it used to be. The island was first settled by Polynesian sailors from Samoa in the 10th century. Captain Cook sighted the island in 1774 but was refused permission to land, though many missionaries made it ashore in the following centuries – look out for the many churches. 

Niue is ideal for hiking, with dramatic coastal paths leading along steep cliffs and into hidden caves. Swim or snorkel at secluded beaches where you won’t see another traveller all day.

Niue, or “The Rock” as it is known to its inhabitants, is one of the largest raised coral atolls in the Pacific, an island type named “Makatea” after an island in French Polynesia. Niue’s coast lends itself to exploration with stops at points of historical and scenic interest including opportunities for snorkeling, exploring limestone caves, and swimming in Niue’s crystal clear water.

The low-lying atoll of Palmerston is inhabited by three families, all descendants of William Marsters (1831-1899). Members of the community are known to greet visitors and guide small boats into the lagoon through a maze of coral reef. Once ashore, the whole community generally turns out to meet visitors as it is a rare occurrence. The island’s highlights include a church, the oldest house, the cemetery, the school, the underground gardens and “Duke’s Pool,” inviting for a swim or snorkel. In the lagoon’s waters it is possible to find colorful reef-fish, sea cucumbers, rays, and sea turtles. Overhead there is birdlife including tropicbirds, boobies, noddies, frigatebirds and terns.

Just six tiny islands are dotted across the 11 kilometre-wide lagoon of Palmerston, one of the most isolated communities in the South Pacific. Surrounded by a continuous ring of coral reefs, marine life is abundant. Don’t miss a dip in Duke’s Pool, named in honour of the late Prince Philip, who swam there in the 1970s during a rare royal visit.

With a population of only around 50, most of the friendly residents are the descendants of one British man, William Marsters, and his three wives. Marsters was a ship’s carpenter who arrived here in 1863 and quickly established his own personal paradise.

Even high praise like the 'world's most beautiful island' from Lonely Planet's co-founder, Tony Wheeler, won't prepare you for the intoxicating intensity of the coal blue ocean, the glow of the pure white sand, and the soothing ripple of the palm-tree forests at incredible Aitutaki. Breathless romance hangs thick in the air here, especially when a riot of purples, reds and oranges are spreading across the sky, accompanying the sun's descent each evening. It wasn't until 1789 that Europeans discovered this island haven, with the HMS Bounty's crew arriving, just a few weeks before a mutiny tore them apart. The Europeans were beaten to the islands, however, by the streamlined wooden canoes of the Polynesian settlers, who arrived around 900AD. While Western missionaries would eventually visit to spread Christianity to the island - evidenced by the white, coral-encrusted walls of the many churches - their efforts to repress the people’s deep love of communal singing and dancing ultimately failed, and music forms a key component of the islanders' culture to this day.The beaches here are flawless, and swaying in a hammock, suspended between leaning palm trees, as the ocean gently ruffles the sand nearby, feels gloriously indulgent. Aitutaki Lagoon is a huge aquamarine pool of water, alive with a kaleidoscopic swirl of tropical fish, which lurk just below the surface. You may even be lucky enough to spot turtles padding across the sand, scraping themselves towards the open ocean.The snorkelling opportunities here, and on One Foot Island - where you'll want to acquire the badge of honour of having your passport stamped with the island's iconic huge footprint - are sublime. Don't miss the tiny island of Moturakau either, which is crammed full of exotic birds and crabs, who have dominion over the island's tangled, jungle terrain. 

Aitutaki is another contender for the most beautiful lagoon on the planet. Covering over 50 square kilometres, it’s sprinkled with over a dozen islands and islets, most of which are uninhabited. None stands more than 124 metres high, so there’s nothing to interrupt the postcard-perfect views. 

Go snorkelling, relax on the beach or just settle into the simple life on this peaceful island port. Aitutaki specialises in the sale of black pearls, colourful sarongs, patchwork quilting and other handicrafts, which can be found at the bustling market near the wharf.

Simply saying the name Bora Bora is usually enough to induce gasps of jealousy, as images of milky blue water, sparkling white beaches and casually leaning palm trees immediately spring to mind. The imagination doesn't lie, either, and if you visit, you’ll soon realise this island is every bit as gorgeous as you ever imagined. Thatched wooden huts stand out over shallow, sparkling seawater, with vivid fish swirling just below. Soak up the sun, scuba dive, or simply revel in the opulent luxury of one of the island's many magnificent resorts. If blissful inactivity doesn't appeal, then get active, and hike the greenery of the sharp Mount Pahia.

The name Bora Bora is synonymous with paradise and this majestic island is world famous for its mesmerising tropical beauty. It’s known as the Pearl of the Pacific and sits on the edge of one of the world’s most beautiful lagoons.

The stunning clear water sparkles with 50 shades of blue and colourful fish, manta rays and timid reef sharks swim through the shallows. It’s fringed with luxurious overwater resorts and the occasional yacht bobbing at anchor. With swathes of lush green vegetation, the island is dominated by the magnificent outline of Mount Otemanu.

Covered in a vast tropical jungle, Huahine is known as The Garden of Eden. With its untouched beauty and warm hospitality, Huahine offers a glimpse of paradise. The lush landscapes are dotted with coconut plantations, vanilla orchids, banana groves, breadfruit trees and watermelon fields, and sacred temples are hidden amongst the greenery.

Encounter the vibrant marine life beneath the surface or simply unwind on palm-fringed beaches. Relax, explore, and create unforgettable memories in this idyllic island haven steeped in history and natural wonders.

Papeete will be your gateway to the tropical paradise of French Polynesia, where islands fringed with gorgeous beaches and turquoise ocean await to soothe the soul. This spirited city is the capital of French Polynesia, and serves as a superb base for onward exploration of Tahiti – an island of breathtaking landscapes and oceanic vistas. Wonderful lagoons of crisp, clear water beg to be snorkelled, stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island's volcanic heritage, and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures, as you explore extraordinary Tahiti. Visit to relax inside picturesque stilted huts, which stand out over shimmering water, as you settle into the intoxicating rhythm of life, in this Polynesian paradise.

Welcome to the island of Tahiti. As the capital of French Polynesia, Papeete blends a city buzz with a relaxed lifestyle and a melting pot of cultures. Wander through vibrant markets filled with tropical fruits and local crafts, or stroll along the waterfront promenade lined with palm trees.

Discover the rich history of the island at the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, or indulge in delicious Polynesian cuisine at waterfront restaurants. Scenic Eclipse II will be docked here overnight, so you can soak in a magical Tahitian sunset at a waterfront bar or from the Sky Bar at the top of the ship.

Papeete will be your gateway to the tropical paradise of French Polynesia, where islands fringed with gorgeous beaches and turquoise ocean await to soothe the soul. This spirited city is the capital of French Polynesia, and serves as a superb base for onward exploration of Tahiti – an island of breathtaking landscapes and oceanic vistas. Wonderful lagoons of crisp, clear water beg to be snorkelled, stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island's volcanic heritage, and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures, as you explore extraordinary Tahiti. Visit to relax inside picturesque stilted huts, which stand out over shimmering water, as you settle into the intoxicating rhythm of life, in this Polynesian paradise.

Your journey comes to an end this morning in Papeete. Enjoy one final sumptuous breakfast on board before you farewell the crew and your fellow guests, taking with you unforgettable memories of a once-in-a-lifetime voyage.

Please book your flight to depart out of Papeete 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.