Tahiti, Bora Bora, Fiji and French Polynesia - just the sounds of these exotic locations conjure up images of white sand beaches and tropical sunsets. A cruise to the islands of the South Pacific takes you to a gorgeous collection of volcanic islands and coral atolls strewn lazily across the southern ocean. Here nature has created masterpieces of sheer cliffs, deep valleys, mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls and crystalline lagoons filled with brilliant tropical fish.

Captain Cook and other Europeans explored the region in the late 1700's and found tiny islands and islets inhabited by just a few hundred people all sharing a common culture. Soon, artists like Paul Gauguin and Robert Louis Stevenson shared this paradise with the rest of the world through their paintings and books, and the love affair with all things Polynesian continues.

Today the islands have a few more people and certain modern conveniences such as banks, schools and hospitals, but the islander's native customs and the scenery remain spectacularly unchanged. Travellers to South Pacific islands will find a population of warm and happy people eager to welcome you and share their way of life.

A cruise to the South Pacific is the perfect combination for both leisure and adventure. Languish on the beaches and swim and snorkel in the clean clear water. Or take a more active approach and dive the reefs and lagoons looking for sharks. And between August and October humpback whales are often seen near shore. Sailing, parasailing, and deep sea fishing are also at their best.

On land the most popular adventures are hiking and four-wheel safaris. The lush tropical foliage is filled with amazing flowers and herbs, and you will be delighted by the heavenly fragrance of jasmine, hibiscus and vanilla. Among the exotic natural features, coconut and pineapple plantations cover the lower slopes of the mountains, and provide interesting stopping points.

Shopping is quite good on some of the islands. You can find hand-painted designs on clothing that is ideal for the tropical climate, as well as precious black pearls, curios and perfumes. In addition, many of the local crafts are skilfully created and true works of art. The islanders are anxious to share their culture with you directly. Historically there is no written language, so stories and traditions were passed through the generations through dance. You can take part in traditional welcoming ceremonies upon your arrival, and enjoy other performances throughout your cruise. There are also craft and cooking demonstrations, where there is sure to be something good to eat!

The islands of the South Pacific are grouped into named chains, mostly based on their proximity to one another. These include The Marquesas, Polynesia, which is also knows as the Society Islands, The Cook Islands, Samoa, Fiji and more.

The most regular departures are among the Society Islands and you can expect to visit the following ports of call:

The Marquesas were made popular by the popular television show Survivor. They are near the Society Islands and are usually included on longer itineraries including:

The longest itineraries may also include a selection of the following:

The Hawaiian Islands are also often included in South Pacific itineraries, although there are cruises that visit Hawaii exclusively. Not far from the Hawaiian chain is Christmas Island (Republic of Kiribati), which is visited on some Hawaii itineraries as well as being included in those sailing through the South Pacific.

Cruises among the islands of the South Pacific, specifically Polynesia, are offered year-round. However, some cruise lines only visit the region between September and April.

Radisson Seven Seas, Windstar and Princess Cruises offer year-round itineraries in Polynesia and The Marguesas. The ships usually sail round-trip from Papeete, Tahiti for 7, 10, 12 or 14 nights. At least one additional night before and after the cruise is also recommended just for travel time; however longer stays are encouraged. There are a host of resorts on the larger islands offering romantic settings and even over-the-water bungalows.

Luxury cruise lines on world cruise itineraries or lengthy repositioning cruises of 15 nights or longer also sail through the South Pacific once or twice each year. These itineraries will usually include one or more of the Hawaiian Islands, as well.