South Seas Cruise - from Papeete - 130130

Papeete is the capital of Tahiti. The island is a mixture of beautiful coves, white sandy beaches, tropical plants and French vanity.

Apia is both the largest town on the island of Upolu and the capital of Samoa. Despite its important function, this port has retained its small-town character. Most of Apia's attractions are located around the centre of the town at the harbour, including the clock-tower (the town's old landmark), the government building and the "Museum of Ancient and Recent Samoan History. Just five kilometres from the city centre is the 15 metre high natural water slide "Papaseea Sliding Rocks". The tiny village of Vailima is also well worth a visit. It is here that world-famous author Robert Louis Stevenson spent the last few years of his life. One of Stevenson's best- known novels is "Treasure Island".

'The 'sugar city' of Lautoka, an economic and cultural centre, is the second-largest city on the Fiji Islands. The main palm-lined street gives the city a friendly feel. Mosques, Hindu temples and Christian churches bear witness to the turbulent past and the diverse population. There are several restaurants and hotels, but the highlight is an excellent art gallery at a hotel direct by the water. Lautoka is also the starting point for many tours to the neighbouring islands.

Vila is the capital of the Republic of Vanuatu in the South West Pacific. It has been independent since 1980 and used to be known as the "New Hebrides". Vila, situated on an island of volcanic origin, offers tours of the volcano, sailing trips and tours of the harbour and is also a paradise for divers. Visitors can visit the sites of famous events during the Second World War and view the largest collection of Pacific archaeological finds in the world.

Noumea is the perfect place for deep-sea fishing, a helicopter trip over the breathtaking landscape or just relaxing on a catamaran. Anyone who would like to find out more about the indigenous people of the island can visit the outstanding cultural centre at Kanak Path.