27-day World cruise: South Pacific isles & New Zealand

Your voyage begins in Tahiti (Papeete), 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 ship calls at Bahia d Opunoha, Moorea, French Polynesia.

Your ship calls at Bora Bora, French Polynesia.

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

Your ship calls at Aitutaki, Cook Islands.

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

The International Date Line is an imaginary line extending from the North Pole to the South Pole through the Pacific Ocean. It serves as the 180th meridian of longitude, and is used to designate the beginning of each calendar day.As you know, each adjacent time zone on the map has an hour time difference. However, at the International Date Line, +12 hours and -12 hours meet, bringing about a 24-hour time change. When your ship crosses to the west it's one day later; if your ship crosses to the east, you've gone back a day.Crossing the International Date Line has long been a rite of passage for sailors, who often must participate in a line-crossing ceremony to become part of the sacred "Order of the Golden Dragon", an honorary naval fraternity.

Your ship calls at Nuku Alofa, Tonga.

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.

Your ship calls at Whangarei, New Zealand.

Straddling a narrow isthmus created by 60 different volcanoes, New Zealand's former capital boasts scenic beauty, historical interest and a cosmopolitan collection of shops, restaurants, museums, galleries and gardens. Rangitoto, Auckland's largest and youngest volcano, sits in majestic splendor just offshore. Mt. Eden and One Tree Hill, once home to Maori earthworks, overlook the city. One of New Zealand's fine wine districts lies to the north of Auckland. Auckland served as New Zealand's capital from 1841 until 1865, when the seat of government moved to Wellington.

New Zealand's natural bounty is always on display at the Bay of Plenty. It was Captain James Cook who in 1769 aptly named this bay, thanks to the prosperous Maori villages of the region. Tauranga, the chief city, is a bustling port, an agricultural and timber center and a popular seaside resort. Tauranga is also the gateway to Rotorua - a geothermal wonderland that is the heart of Maori culture. A 90-minute drive from Tauranga, Rotorua is New Zealand's primary tourist attraction.Your ship docks near the foot of Mt. Maunganui, which rises 761 feet above the bay. Across the harbor, Tauranga offers scenic tidal beaches at Omokoroa and Pahoia. The region boasts fine beaches, big-game fishing, thermal springs and seaside resorts.

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

Napier and Hawke's Bay have become New Zealand's premier lifestyle getaways. Located on the North Island's eastern coast, New Zealand's oldest wine-growing region boasts a superb Mediterranean climate and golden sand beaches. In recent years, Hawke's Bay has become a leading producer of fine olive oils and artisanal cheeses. Wildlife lovers and birders will flock to Cape Kidnappers in Southern Hawke Bay: the Cape is home to the largest mainland gannet colony in the world. In 1931, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake leveled Napier. The town rebuilt itself, and today Napier is hailed as the "Art Deco City" for its superb collection of Deco, Spanish Mission and Classical Revival buildings.

New Zealand's capital offers stunning views of forested peninsulas, dramatic cliff-side homes and fine Victorian buildings. Settled in 1840 by the London-based New Zealand Company, "wonderful, windy Wellington" is frequently buffeted by bracing winds funneling through Cook Strait. The sophisticated metropolis boasts museums, winding streets and even a cable car. No wonder many travelers compare it to San Francisco. Despite its steep hills, the city can be easily explored on foot. Kelburn Cable Car, stairways and footpaths climb the slopes from the city center.

Your ship calls at Picton, New Zealand.

Your ship calls at Kaikoura, New Zealand.

Your ship calls at Akaroa (Christchurch), New Zealand.

Timaru is the largest city in South Canterbury and is a seaside city and major port town. The rolling green hills on which Timaru is built where formed from the lava flows of the extinct volcano of Mt Horrible. Timaru's attractions include the Timaru Botanic Gardens, Caroline Bay (which sports a safe beach for swimming), the South Canterbury Museum and Aigantighe Art Galley - one of New Zealand's largest art museums.

Your ship calls at Port Chalmers (Dunedin), New Zealand.

Your ship calls at Oban, Stewart Island, New Zealand.

Your ship calls at Cruising Fiordland Natl Park.

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.

As your ship passes Harbour Heads, you are presented with the shimmering skyline of Sydney - hailed by many seafarers as "the most beautiful harbor in the world." Two prominent landmarks, Harbour Bridge and the sail-like curves of the Sydney Opera House, grace the backdrop of this picturesque harbor. There is a wealth of adventure waiting in Sydney - from its cosmopolitan city center to miles of beautiful beaches and the Blue Mountains.Australia's oldest and largest city was born in 1788 with the arrival of the "First Fleet" transporting 760 British convicts. Today, Sydney is the largest port in the South Pacific and is often voted the most popular destination in the South Pacific.