Papeete is the capital and gateway to French Polynesia, a tropical paradise of islands, beaches, and turquoise seas. It's a superb base for exploring Tahiti, with clear lagoons for snorkeling, black volcanic beaches, blowholes, and lush green mountains. Visit to relax and soak up the rhythm of Polynesian life.

Moorea is a rugged, triangular high island in French Polynesia, often likened to a heart or bat. Its eight peaks rise to 1,207 m. A reef surrounds a narrow lagoon (a RAMSAR wetland) with few motu and sharks and rays. About one-eighth Tahiti's size, it has a relaxed feel, a road around the island, and 18,000 residents, many commuting to Tahiti by ferry. Visitors arrive via Temae airport or ships into north-coast bays, including Cook's Bay.

Fakarava is an oblong Tuamotu atoll, the second largest, 450 km NE of Tahiti and 120 km SE of Rangiroa. Its eastern edge has a 40 km reef-and-motu chain. It is known for drift diving at Garuae Pass near Rotoava and Tamakohua Pass in the south. Tetamanu by the southern pass was the old capital and has the archipelago's first church (1874). Declared a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 2006, it has no overwater bungalows. Bellingshausen "discovered" it in 1820; missionaries arrived later.

Hiva Oa, the largest southern Marquesan island, rivals Nuku Hiva and is shaped like a seahorse. A mountain range from southwest to northeast, with Mt. Temetiu and Mt. Feani, surrounds Atuona. This quiet port on Taaoa (Traitors) Bay is famous as the final resting place of Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel; their tombs in Calvary cemetery draw pilgrims. The Gauguin Museum displays items from the artist's stay and copies of his works.

Remote and beautifully unspoiled, Tahuata offers a glimpse of the wild charm of the Marquesas, where steep volcanic slopes, lush valleys and sheltered bays meet the Pacific. Small villages, local crafts and a strong Polynesian heritage lend the island a warm, authentic feel, while its quiet beaches and rugged scenery make it a memorable stop for nature lovers and those seeking a more off-the-beaten-track escape.

Hatiheu on Nuku Hiva offers a wonderfully remote taste of French Polynesia, where dramatic green valleys, rugged volcanic peaks and a deep blue bay create a scene of rare beauty. This tranquil Marquesan stop invites you to soak up island traditions, discover ancient Polynesian heritage and enjoy the warm, unspoiled atmosphere of one of the South Pacific's most evocative destinations.

Remote and beautifully untouched, Hanavave on Fatu Hiva is one of the most striking arrivals in French Polynesia. Steep green cliffs plunge to a sheltered bay, while the tiny village offers a glimpse of quiet island life, rich Polynesian culture and warm local hospitality. Shore visitors come for dramatic scenery, black-sand beaches, hiking and the sense of reaching a faraway paradise.

Mangareva, the largest island in French Polynesia's Gambier Islands, has over 1,200 residents, most in Rikitea, its main village. A central ridge runs the island and peaks at Mt. Duff, over 440 m high. Its lagoon, with coral reefs, tropical fish, and black-lip oysters, has long helped sustain islanders; small ships can enter it. Visitors can tour Rikitea, see 19th-century stone and coral ruins, climb Mt. Duff, and visit the cathedral with its mother-of-pearl altar and 1830s-1840s furnishings.

Adamstown is the capital of Pitcairn Islands, the last British Overseas Territory in the Pacific. Pitcairn is the only inhabited island; about 50 people live there. In 1790, nine Bounty mutineers, six Tahitian men, 12 Tahitian women and one child settled there, burning the ship in Bounty Bay. The settlement later collapsed; by 1800 only John Adams remained. He taught the women and children to read and write from the Bible, now in the local museum.

Hop on board of our luxury cruise to discover the now famous as the world's largest 'open air museum'! Easter Island welcomes you to discover the "Moai" and their authentic human-like statues that can be found on the island.

Hop on board of our luxury cruise to discover the now famous as the world's largest 'open air museum'! Easter Island welcomes you to discover the "Moai" and their authentic human-like statues that can be found on the island.

Robinson Crusoe Island, 600 km off Chile, is the largest of the Juan Fernández Islands. A rugged volcanic island, 70% of its plant species are endemic. Since 1935 the archipelago has been a Chilean National Park and since 1977 a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Selkirk was marooned here in 1704, inspiring Robinson Crusoe. San Juan Bautista was founded in 1750. In 1915 the cruiser Dresden was scuttled nearby. About 1,000 people live there, mostly fishing spiny lobster.

Valparaiso has long inspired writers, poets, musicians and artists. Though a bit rough, its bohemian charm, street art, nightlife, live music, colorful clifftop homes and striking architecture make it one of Chile's most beloved cities. Founded in 1536 by Juan de Saavedra, it still has colonial buildings despite fires and earthquakes. Nearby are Pablo Neruda's ship-shaped house and the Casablanca Valley vineyards, while Chile's wine culture also gave rise to pisco.