Tahiti Cruise Itinerary

A typical 18-day Tahiti cruise departing from San Diego includes multiple stops at exotic ports of call. Stops to ports like Hilo, Hawaii; Fanning Island, Kiribati; Pago Pago, American Samoa; Bora Bora, Raiatea, Moorea, and Tahiti are frequently included in the itinerary. All of these locations provide a combination of breathtaking natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventurous activities.

A Tahiti cruise departing from San Diego frequently makes its first port of call in Hilo, Hawaii. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Akaka Falls State Park are two of the many natural beauties that call this city home. You can see Kilauea, the most active volcano in the world, and explore lava tubes and craters in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Take a picturesque stroll through a thick jungle at Akaka Falls State Park to see the magnificent 442-foot cascade.

The lovely and lonely island of Fanning Island in Kiribati offers a tranquil and untouched haven. For those seeking a quiet, relaxed vacation without busy cities or traffic, this location is ideal. Visitors can go snorkeling or swimming in the pristine waters, explore the coral reefs, and have a picnic on the white sand beaches.

American Samoa’s Pago Pago is a small, charming town encircled by verdant mountains and a serene port. The gorgeous American Samoa National Park, which features tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and unusual animals, is just one of the many breathtaking natural treasures on the island that may be explored.

With its famous overwater bungalows, beautiful lagoon, and imposing Mount Otemanu, Bora Bora is arguably the most well-known island in French Polynesia. Diverse activities are available on the island, such as swimming with sharks and rays, diving, and snorkeling. The local cuisine, artisanal goods, and traditional dance performances are further ways for tourists to learn about the culture.

Another stunning island in French Polynesia is Raiatea, sometimes referred to as the “Sacred Island” by Polynesians because of its spiritual significance to them. The island’s beautiful forests can be explored, the Faaroa River can be paddled through, and the Taputapuatea Marae, a historic Polynesian temple, can be visited.

A short distance from Tahiti is another stunning island in French Polynesia called Moorea. Crystal-clear lagoons, emerald mountains, and stunning waterfalls are just a few of the island’s many natural treasures. Additionally, tourists can take part in cultural activities like a tour of the Moorea Pearl Farm or a performance of traditional Polynesian dance.

The largest island in French Polynesia, Tahiti, is frequently the last port of call on a Tahiti cruise leaving from San Diego. The island provides a variety of activities, from touring the vibrant metropolis of Papeete to hiking the lush interior mountains. Traditional dance performances, handcrafted goods, and regional cuisine are further ways that tourists can immerse themselves in the distinctive Polynesian culture.

Onboard Experience

The journey itself is just as important as the destination while taking a Tahiti cruise from San Diego. You can take advantage of the cruise ship’s opulent suites, top-notch dining, and a variety of entertainment options. In addition to a variety of activities including culinary classes, art workshops, and dance lessons, many cruise ships offer amenities like pools, spas, fitness centers, and theaters.

The m/s Paul Gauguin, a well-liked alternative for a Tahiti cruise, is made to offer a personal and all-encompassing experience. The ship can dock in more intimate and customized ports because it is tiny enough to do so. As there would never be a crowd and the crew can give each passenger individualized attention, the ship can accommodate just 332 passengers.

Each of the roomy bedrooms and suites on the m/s Paul Gauguin has a private balcony or window that provides breathtaking views of the sea and the nearby islands. Delicious meals prepared by renowned chefs are served in the ship’s onboard restaurants, which have an emphasis on using fresh and regional ingredients. Free refreshments for guests include soft drinks, wine, and alcoholic beverages.

Onboard the ship, there are a variety of entertainment activities available to guests in addition to dining. The m/s Paul Gauguin offers educational lectures and cultural demonstrations in addition to nightly performances by local musicians and dancers. Additionally, visitors can use the spa, fitness center, and various water sports equipment.

Several onboard amenities and activities are also offered by other cruise lines that offer Tahiti cruises from San Diego, like Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises. With a maximum passenger capacity of just 670, Princess Cruises’ Pacific Princess, for instance, provides a more individualized experience. Along with a number of onboard activities like wine tastings, cooking demos, and dance classes, the ship offers a range of eating options, including a steakhouse and a pizzeria.

On the other hand, Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Solstice, which can accommodate 2,850 passengers, provides a larger ship experience. Onboard entertainment choices on the ship include live music concerts, art auctions, and fitness classes. Dining options include a French cafe and a sushi restaurant.

Your personal tastes and financial constraints should be taken into account while selecting a cruise line for a Tahiti trip out of San Diego. While a larger ship like the Celebrity Solstice may offer more amenities and activities onboard, a smaller ship like the m/s Paul Gauguin may offer a more individualized and intimate experience. Making an informed choice can be made easier if you do your homework on each option and read reviews from previous travelers.

Destination Highlights

A variety of natural wonders and cultural experiences may be found in French Polynesia, a popular travel destination. Exploring the South Pacific’s azure lagoons, pristine beaches, and breathtaking coral reefs is one of the highlights of a Tahiti cruise from San Diego.

The most famous resort in French Polynesia, Bora Bora, is renowned for its pristine lagoon, overwater bungalows, and the beautiful Mount Otemanu. The island’s coral reefs, which are inhabited by a variety of vibrant fish and other aquatic life, are open to visitors to explore. The island also provides a variety of sports, including swimming with sharks and rays, diving, and snorkeling.

Another stunning island in French Polynesia is Raiatea, sometimes referred to as the “Sacred Island” by Polynesians because of its spiritual significance to them. Visitors can take a canoe journey across the Faaroa River and see the lush forests of the island. The island also provides cultural experiences, such as a trip to the historic Polynesian temple Taputapuatea Marae.

The beautiful island of Moorea is another one in French Polynesia that is close to Tahiti. Crystal-clear lagoons, emerald mountains, and stunning waterfalls are just a few of the island’s many natural treasures. Additionally, tourists can take part in cultural activities like a tour of the Moorea Pearl Farm or a performance of traditional Polynesian dance.

Tahiti itself provides a variety of activities, from touring the vibrant city of Papeete to climbing the lush interior mountains. Traditional dance performances, trips to neighborhood markets and artisan stores, and a range of cultural festivals and activities held all year round provide visitors a glimpse into the distinctive Polynesian culture.

The ability to see several islands and locations in French Polynesia in one trip is one benefit of taking a Tahiti cruise from San Diego. Instead of remaining still, travelers can visit a number of islands and take advantage of the many scenery, cultures, and activities that each one has to offer.

Excursion Options

Most cruise lines that provide San Diego to Tahiti voyages offer a selection of excursion choices at each port. These tours provide visitors the chance to enjoy French Polynesia’s natural splendors and cultural experiences, frequently under the leadership of skilled native guides.

Activities including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding are possible excursion possibilities. Additionally, tourists can explore historical and cultural attractions, go on picturesque excursions of the islands, and go shopping at local markets. Visits to traditional Polynesian communities or displays of regional dance and music may be included in some excursions.

It’s crucial to do some research and comparison shopping before making your travel plans because excursion possibilities can differ by cruise company and itinerary. While other cruise lines may charge extra for specific excursions, some, like the m/s Paul Gauguin, may provide a variety of complimentary excursion alternatives.

Planning and Preparing for a Tahiti Cruise from San Diego

There are a few crucial things to bear in mind before setting out on a Tahiti cruise from San Diego. A pleasant and enjoyable event can be ensured with planning and preparation.

Research and comparison of various cruise lines, itineraries, and excursion choices should come first. When choosing, take your spending limit and personal tastes into account. Reading evaluations written by other tourists might also offer insightful advice.

Review the onboard amenities and policies after deciding on a cruise line and itinerary. This can include details about available restaurants, clothing guidelines, and baggage limitations.

It’s also crucial to get ready for French Polynesia’s climate and surroundings. Tropical weather, with warm temperatures and sporadic rain, is characteristic of the area. Pack swimsuits, coverups, sunscreen, and other outdoor activity-specific apparel and equipment.

Finally, make sure to account for any travel paperwork and immunizations that may be required. Americans can go to French Polynesia without a visa as long as they have a current passport. Healthcare professionals might also advise vaccinations against certain illnesses, including typhoid and hepatitis A.