Shore Bet

Oceania Cruises sets its sights on Tahiti, New Zealand, and Australia, and plans onshore experiences that surprise and delight.

BY JIMMY IM

Milford Sound on the south island of New Zealand.

Redefining luxury at sea, Oceania cruises is renowned at showcasing the world's leading culinary– and destination-focused journeys. Onboard guest experiences will be enhanced with OceaniaNEXT, a re-imagination over the next two years of its four Regatta-Class ships— Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, and Sirena. Additionally, on Marina and Riviera, the signature Dom Perignon Pairing Dinner elevates onboard dining, while the new Owner’s Suites are furnished exclusively with Ralph Lauren Home and reflect effortless style and glamour.

While distinguished for upscale amenities, Oceania Cruises also exceeds expectations beyond its fleet. It’s known for meaningful, one-of-a-kind shore excursions that rise to every occasion. In fact, on every voyage, guests truly immerse in local culture and traditions that create extraordinary moments. In top destinations like Tahiti, Australia, and New Zealand, Oceania makes culture a priority with signature shore excursions that are unforgettable—and worth the journey.

A Ralph Lauren-designed suite.

Discovering koalas while in port

An aerial view of Mo’orea

Oceania

MO’OREA AND RAIATEA

Almost a dozen incredible shore excursions are offered on the beautiful island of Mo’orea. Guests can sail crystal-clear lagoons on a catamaran, experience a picnic on a private motu, or hike three coconut trails for panoramic views from Belvedere Lookout (the money shot very few travelers get to see). While guests never forget the aromas of Raiatea, known for its vanilla plantations, they can also take home a genuine black pearl. After a scenic drive through the island, arrive at a black pearl farm near the fringed reef to snorkel for pearls and learn how they’re harvested.

BORA BORA

A trip to Tahiti isn’t complete without a visit to Bora Bora, forever known for wooing honeymooners. The enchanting group of islands is surrounded by turquoise waters, and guests get up close and personal with well-known residents: gentle and beautiful stingrays. On a shallow sandbank, visitors spend time with stingrays in their natural environment and then snorkel with tropical fish in a pristine coral garden.

AUSTRALIA

Shore excursions are just as thrilling and exotic in itineraries through New Zealand and Australia. While Melbourne is a bustling, cosmopolitan city, it’s also surrounded by nature and famously connected by Puffing Billy, a vintage, narrow-gauge steam train on one of the world’s finest preserved railways. The journey takes guests through the immense Dandenong Mountains. Animal lovers are quick to join “Kangaroos and Koalas,” an excursion that features Australia’s most famous (and adorable) wildlife. At Serendip Open Range Sanctuary located on the Western Plains, an expert guide will introduce guests to kangaroos in their natural bush setting followed by a visit to wild koalas in a nearby national park.

TASMANIA

The famous island of Tasmania has captivated travelers for decades, especially the port city of Burnie. The seaside town is a must-see destination known for rugged countryside and stunning coastlines. It’s also home to Gunns Plains Caves and Wildlife, where awe-inspiring limestone caves and a well preserved river system tantalizes with unique species, including bioluminescent glowworms clinging to the walls. At the end of the tour, guests can experience rare, indigenous species, like the iconic Tasmanian devil, in nearby Wing’s Wildlife Park.

NEW ZEALAND

Once-in-a-lifetime journeys abound in New Zealand, a country with precious places like Wellington and Napier— though lesser-known destinations like Rotorua pack a lot of cultural punch. Here, guests can visit film locations from Lord of the Rings (reflecting the breathtaking scenery) and also take a detoxifying mud bath at Hells Gate Thermal Park. The site has an enormous impact on the history and culture of the native Maori.

South Pacific Bound: Oceania Cruises celebrates the finest in island hopping. EnterOFFER M19028 on the website on the back cover to further explore.