Her beauty once inspired artist Paul Gauguin. Now she’ll do the same for you. You can visit the Musée Gauguin to see how he translated this island sanctuary’s beauty onto canvas, or perhaps embark on a four-wheel-drive or equestrian adventure inland to see the rain forests and canyons that make this such an idyllic destination.

Raiatea is the second largest of the Society Islands, after Tahiti, in French Polynesia. The island is widely regarded as the “centre” of the eastern islands in ancient Polynesia and it is likely that the organised migrations to the Hawaiian Islands, New Zealand and other parts of East Polynesia started at Raiatea.

When you start telling people you’re taking a cruise to American Samoa while on a New Zealand cruise, they might not understand what this really means. After all, American Samoa is one of the most underrated yet beautiful parts of Polynesia. It’s a hidden gem that doesn’t immediately spring to mind when there’s Tahiti or Moorea to consider first. However, cruises to Pago Pago, the capital located on the island of American Samoa, offer up a unique experience of near seclusion and relaxation. Of course, American Samoa’s network of islands makes for adventurous exploration, whether you want to spend your entire time here swimming, paddling, and snorkeling, or seeing the incredible wildlife and coral reef ecosystem up close and personal. Learn about the legends of Pago Pago while you’re here and try traditional Samoan dishes like fa’apapa or sweet banana fritters called panikeke. No matter what, your time in Pago Pago will be a delightful break from high rises, resorts, and hurrying.

Known as the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is located at the entrance to one of the largest natural harbors in New Zealand. You can take a ride on a bush jet boat, go white-water rafting on the Rangitaiki River, or dine on the freshest fish and chips you’ll ever taste, served al fresco. If you’re looking for a more exotic counter, travel to the Mount Mauganui Hot Salt Water Pools.

Your official welcome to New Zealand comes by way of a bustling harbor. Step ashore and into a surprisingly cosmopolitan environment. And once you venture inland, even more surprises await, including a total of 48 dormant volcanoes, a lush, leafy urban cityscape filled with beautiful parks, and a number of renowned art galleries.

Those who love beaches consider these some of the world’s finest, with their perfect white sand and crystal-clear water. And as tempted as you’ll be to pull up a lounge chair and soak in the surroundings, many consider this the ideal place to partake in more active pursuits, such as kayaking, mountain-biking, parasailing, swimming with dolphins and scuba-diving.

Considered one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Southern Hemisphere, Sydney offers just about anything—from beaches and wineries to stunning landmarks and world-class shopping. Tour architectural marvels like the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge, view life below the surface from Sydney Aquarium’s underwater walkways, or take it all in from above on a tour of the Sydney Tower.