23-day World cruise: South Pacific explorer

Your voyage begins in Lima (callao), Peru. In 1535, Francisco Pizarro labeled the open plains where Lima now stands as inhospitable. Despite the verdict of the great conquistador, Lima became the center of imperial Spanish power, a "City of Kings" where 40 viceroys would rule as the direct representatives of the King of Spain. With independence in 1821, Lima became Peru's capital. Near Lima, one of the world's most desolate deserts is home to the famed drawings of Nazca. These drawings inspired Erik von Daniken's best-selling book "Chariots of the Gods." With mysteries seeming to be part of Peru's history, perhaps these "drawings" are in fact "the largest astronomy book in the world."

Your ship calls at General San Martin (Pisco), Peru.

A full day at sea - time to enjoy Seabourn Quest's restaurants, pools and entertainment.

Your ship calls at Iquique, Chile.

Continue your voyage aboard Seabourn Quest with a leisurely day at sea.

Another day at sea to explore the ship at your own pace.

A full day at sea - time to enjoy Seabourn Quest's restaurants, pools and entertainment.

Continue your voyage aboard Seabourn Quest with a leisurely day at sea.

Another day at sea to explore the ship at your own pace.

A full day at sea - time to enjoy Seabourn Quest's restaurants, pools and entertainment.

The monoliths of Easter Island have fascinated and puzzled Westerners since the Dutch seaman Roggeven made landfall there on Easter Sunday, 1722. The mystery of Easter Island's first settlers remains just that - a mystery. Today, most anthropologists believe the island was settled as part of the great wave of Polynesian emigration. (The oldest of the Moai, as the great monoliths are called, date to 700 A.D.) The society that produced the Moai flourished during the 16th and 17th centuries, but population growth, deforestation and food shortages led to its collapse. Today some 3,400 souls inhabit this 64-square-mile island, which lies some 2,200 miles equidistant from Tahiti and South America.The society of Rapa Nui possessed stone-working skills on a par with those found in the Inca Empire. Islanders also possessed a script called Rongorongo, the only written language in all of Oceania.Please note: The current fee for entry into the National Park is $80 per person, this fee is included in all organized shore tours. Independent passengers are required to pay this fee on arrival at the park.Easter Island is an anchorage port. Transportation from the ship to shore will be via the ship's tender service.

A second day in Easter Island, Chile - time to explore at your own pace.

Continue your voyage aboard Seabourn Quest with a leisurely day at sea.

Another day at sea to explore the ship at your own pace.

A full day at sea - time to enjoy Seabourn Quest's restaurants, pools and entertainment.

Continue your voyage aboard Seabourn Quest with a leisurely day at sea.

Another day at sea to explore the ship at your own pace.

Your ship calls at Taiohae, Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia.

Your ship calls at Atuona, Hiva Oa, French Polynesia.

A full day at sea - time to enjoy Seabourn Quest's restaurants, pools and entertainment.

Your ship calls at Fakarava, Tuamotu, French Polynesia.

Your ship calls at Avatoru, Rangiroa, French Polynesia.

Papeete, the beating heart of French Polynesia, dances to the rhythm of island life while embracing modernity. Set against the backdrop of Tahiti's emerald mountains and azure waters, this bustling capital city captivates with its fusion of French flair and Polynesian culture.Stroll through its vibrant markets, where the scent of exotic fruits mingles with the melodies of local musicians. Explore the historic sites, like the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and the regal Presidential Palace, which reflect the city's colonial past.Papeete's waterfront promenade beckons with its bustling marina, offering glimpses of luxurious yachts and traditional outrigger canoes bobbing in the harbor. Indulge in delectable French-Polynesian cuisine at waterfront cafes and fine dining establishments, where fresh seafood delights the palate.Yet amid the urban buzz, Papeete maintains its connection to nature, with lush parks and gardens providing tranquil retreats. Whether you're soaking up the sun on black sand beaches or immersing yourself in the vibrant local arts scene, Papeete invites you to experience the enchantment of the South Pacific with a touch of French sophistication.

Your voyage concludes in Tahiti (Papeete), French Polynesia.