The South Pacific is the most frequently cruised destination among Australians – but
is it the best?
Despite years of sailing in countries around the world, this was my first venture into
the region and I was keen to find out what it was really like.
I disembarked on Sunday (20
March) after a 10-day cruise aboard
P&O’s Pacific Pearl – the line’s latest
addition.
Things started adventurously, to put
it politely.
A week before we had even
boarded, a port of call was cancelled
due to “tribal unrest” and replaced
with Mystery Island.
Then on the first night, when we
had just settled down for dinner, a
tsunami warning was issued.
Fortunately we were reassured that vessels in deep water were in no danger and it
would pass unnoticed.
The sea was choppy for the next two days, so it was a joy to arrive in Lifou.
Lifou is the largest coral atoll in the Loyalty archipelago, with layers of limestone and
beautiful beaches.
Due to a damaged pier at the snorkel site, it was tricky to get into the water, but the
colourful fish fest made the effort worthwhile.
In the afternoon I took the ship’s tour to the “secret grotto”, which included a short
walk through a forest.
The local guides provided an interesting insight into their Kanuk traditions.
Just don’t go expecting the Jenolan Caves – the grotto is small, but cutely candlelit.
The next day we arrived in New Caledonia, where I took a 15-minute zodiak ride to
the lovely, secluded Duck Island.
In retrospect, I should have opted for a city tour because the capital, Noumea, is such
a curious offering of French culture on our doorstep.
Mystery Island turned out to be my favourite spot.
Part of Vanuatu, the islet boasted crystal-clear water and an abundance of angels,
damsels, zebra and clown fish as well as green turtles.
One of the reefs is a long swim out, so head for the marine reserve (near the end of
the airstrip) where you can wade in from the sandy shore.
This pretty islet is easy to walk around, with lots of markets and an amusing photo
opportunity where you can have your picture taken in a cauldron – complete with
cannibal!
Possibly the most popular port was the pristine Isle of Pines, lined with tall conifer
trees and more dazzling beaches.
Known as the jewel of the Pacific, it also offers the safest snorkelling in a protected
“natural aquarium”.
Conclusion: The South Pacific is truly
beautiful and reliably delivers palm
trees, white sand and azure seas.
However, it can be too easy to do the
same thing on each island, so make
sure you try different activities and
excursions, including a city tour.
Most ports of call are largely
undeveloped but have basic facilities
(and, of course, souvenir stalls) for
cruise passengers.
It’s not Bali or Thailand but that’s its
easygoing charm.
