Hawaii: Tales of the South Pacific Cruise
Holland America Line
Discover the coastlines, cultures and cuisine of more than 20 different islands during this legendary 51-night cruise from San Diego. Explore Hawaii's volcanic landscapes, lush rain forests and enduring traditions. Plus, enjoy overnight stays in Honolulu and Tahiti.
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Sailing Itinerary
Note: Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Please verify ports and times directly with the cruise line.
Overview
California's second-largest city and the United States' seventh-largest, San Diego boasts a citywide population of nearly 1.3 million residents and more than 2.8 million residents countywide. Within its borders of 4,200 sq. miles, San Diego County encompasses 18 incorporated cities and numerous other charming neighborhoods and communities, including downtown's historic Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, Coronado, La Jolla, Del Mar, Carlsbad, Escondido, La Mesa, Hillcrest, Barrio Logan, Chula Vista and more.Known for its near-idyllic climate, 70 miles of pristine beaches, and a dazzling array of world-class family attractions, including the World-Famous San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park, SeaWorld San Diego, and LEGOLAND California, San Diego offers a wide variety of things to see and do, appealing to guests from around the world.In San Diego's East County, the terrain varies from gentle foothills to mile-high mountains and the historic mining town, Julian, down to the 600,000-acre Anza Borrego Desert State Park, offering nature-conscious visitors endless opportunities to hike, camp, fish, observe wildlife and much more. In San Diego's North County, the land produces quantities of flowers as well as quality grapes that become excellent wines, which are served at some of the most elegant restaurants and resorts in the region. Along the west, 70 miles of the Pacific Ocean coastline not only supports year-round outdoor recreation, such as surfing, boating, sailing,g, and swimming but also important scientific research at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. To the south, it's a whole different country, Mexico, featuring its cultural offerings in various towns along the border and coastline, including Tijuana, Rosarito, and Ensenada.San Diego's arts and culture and culinary arts are making a name for themselves, both nationally and internationally. Balboa Park, the largest urban cultural park in the U.S., features 15 museums, numerous art galleries, beautiful gardens, the Tony Award-winning The Globe Theatre, and the World-Famous San Diego Zoo. The region is also a breeding ground for the hottest, new talents of culinary arts, who prepare award-winning meals in many of the region's 6,400 eating establishments.San Diego County also features 92 golf courses and a variety of exciting participatory and spectator sports, beachfront resorts and luxury spas, gaming, a dynamic downtown district, annual special events and unique holiday offerings, multicultural festivals and celebrations, colorful neighborhoods and communities, a rich military history, accessibility for travelers with disabilities and much more.The most difficult decision to make regarding a vacation to San Diego is determining what to do and see among the region's vast and diverse variety of offerings. San Diego County offers a vacation experience for everyone.
Overview
Kailua-Kona is a town on the west coast of Hawaii Island (the Big Island). Hulihee Palace is a former royal vacation home dating from 1838. Mokuaikaua Church, from the 1800s, is Hawaii’s oldest Christian church. On Kailua Bay, reconstructed thatched houses at Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark mark King Kamehameha I’s residence. Colorful coral lies off Kamakahonu Beach. Kailua Pier has boat moorings.
Overview
Nawiliwili is located on the southeastern coast of the island of Kauai between Lihue and Nawiliwili Bay along Highway 51 near Ninini Point and the Huleia Stream. Kaua'i is divided into five major districts, or moku 'aina. Nawiliwili Bay is located in the moku 'aina of Puna on the southeastern coast. One meaning of puna is spring, and Puna has an abundance of springs and streams caused by its location on the windward side of the island. Around 1000 A.D., settlers from the Marquesas arrived, led by Punanuikaia'aina. He succeeded in creating a chiefdom independent of Kona in Puna.
Overview
Anyone lucky enough to be going to Honolulu doesn't have to give a reason for going. They can just say, "We're going to Honolulu," and imagination will take care of the rest. Moreover, Honolulu can probably live up to and even surpass whatever we imagine. World-famous beaches and tropical weather set the scene for an amazing mix of Pacific cultures in this Hawaiian capital. There is a reason why Hawaii is consistently rated as one of the nation's top travel destinations; in fact, there are several of them. Waikiki Beach is the center of activity for Hawaii's biggest industry: tourism. This is one of the world's greatest resort playgrounds, featuring some of the most beautiful beaches and hotels in the world. Visitors from all over the world flock here to enjoy the sun, the sand, and the incredible nightlife. Besides the beaches, visitors to Honolulu can take tours of the countryside surrounding the downtown area. These tours are amazing, bringing visitors to some of the most beautiful rainforests and volcanoes in the world. Animal and plant life are abundant, and the scenery is unsurpassed. A five-minute car ride from Honolulu brings visitors to some of Nature's most beautiful and awe-inspiring sights. Several museums, including the Bishop Museum, combine exhibits on Hawaiian natural history with lessons about the history and culture of its many diverse peoples. The Waikiki Aquarium is the third oldest public aquarium in the United States, and it features many of Hawaii's most interesting sea animals. The Honolulu Zoo also features some of the unique mammals, birds, and reptiles that inhabit the forests just outside of the city. The history of Hawaii is very rich, as the islands have always attracted many different people. Visitors can tour the Iolani Palace, the residence of the last of the Hawaiian monarchs. They can also visit Honolulu's Chinatown, which is more authentic than many of its mainland counterparts. They can also visit the Arizona Memorial, commemorating the destruction of the battleship Arizona during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that brought America into World War II. Honolulu exhibits the best of Hawaii in every way. From its famous beaches to its incredible natural preserves, this town has attracted millions of people from around the world. Many of those visitors stayed, helping to make Hawaii one of the most cosmopolitan and diverse places to visit in the United States. Anyone lucky enough to be going to Hawaii knows that he won't be disappointed.
Overview
Anyone lucky enough to be going to Honolulu doesn't have to give a reason for going. They can just say, "We're going to Honolulu," and imagination will take care of the rest. Moreover, Honolulu can probably live up to and even surpass whatever we imagine. World-famous beaches and tropical weather set the scene for an amazing mix of Pacific cultures in this Hawaiian capital. There is a reason why Hawaii is consistently rated as one of the nation's top travel destinations; in fact, there are several of them. Waikiki Beach is the center of activity for Hawaii's biggest industry: tourism. This is one of the world's greatest resort playgrounds, featuring some of the most beautiful beaches and hotels in the world. Visitors from all over the world flock here to enjoy the sun, the sand, and the incredible nightlife. Besides the beaches, visitors to Honolulu can take tours of the countryside surrounding the downtown area. These tours are amazing, bringing visitors to some of the most beautiful rainforests and volcanoes in the world. Animal and plant life are abundant, and the scenery is unsurpassed. A five-minute car ride from Honolulu brings visitors to some of Nature's most beautiful and awe-inspiring sights. Several museums, including the Bishop Museum, combine exhibits on Hawaiian natural history with lessons about the history and culture of its many diverse peoples. The Waikiki Aquarium is the third oldest public aquarium in the United States, and it features many of Hawaii's most interesting sea animals. The Honolulu Zoo also features some of the unique mammals, birds, and reptiles that inhabit the forests just outside of the city. The history of Hawaii is very rich, as the islands have always attracted many different people. Visitors can tour the Iolani Palace, the residence of the last of the Hawaiian monarchs. They can also visit Honolulu's Chinatown, which is more authentic than many of its mainland counterparts. They can also visit the Arizona Memorial, commemorating the destruction of the battleship Arizona during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that brought America into World War II. Honolulu exhibits the best of Hawaii in every way. From its famous beaches to its incredible natural preserves, this town has attracted millions of people from around the world. Many of those visitors stayed, helping to make Hawaii one of the most cosmopolitan and diverse places to visit in the United States. Anyone lucky enough to be going to Hawaii knows that he won't be disappointed.
Overview
Kahului is located in Maui County on the west side of the island of Maui between Wailuku and Lower Paia along Highway 32 near the West Maui Forest Reserve and the Pacific Ocean. Kahului is the heart of Maui and the only deep water port for the island. This is where the major cruise and container ships come in, the main airport, Kahului Airport is located here also. Kahului has great variety in shopping and services, but lacks the variety of fine restaurants that Lahaina has, although some of the local dining favorites reside here. There are few hotels and resorts in Kahului, there is, however, a new golf course. There are four major shopping malls with the largest being the Kaahumanu Mall. Most of 'industrial' Maui is located in Kahului. It is here where one of the main power plants is located, most of Maui's service-oriented businesses, and the greatest variety in shopping. Everything from small local stores, catering to residents, to large discount stores such as K-Mart and Costco. Kahului has grown a lot in the past few years, unfortunately, the infrastructure has not. As a result, traffic is congested most of the working day. The traffic can be especially heavy while exiting the Kahului Airport area. Rush hour traffic is especially bad, both in the afternoons and evenings, traffic from Paia and Upcountry bottleneck at the intersection of Dairy Road and Hana Highway. Allow a little extra time for traveling through this area of Maui.
Overview
The Polynesians arrived in the Hilo area about 1100 A.C. They eventually inhabited the shores of Hilo Bay, farmed their crops, fished, and traded their goods along the Wailuku River. In the late 1700s, the days of King Kamehameha’s rule, Hilo was the center of political activity and social growth. It was the prime place for the King to build his army of ships designed for conquering the Hawaiian Islands. By 1791 native Hawaiians had traveled as far as the United States and China. The King befriended many of the foreigners who traveled to the islands. With such considerable traveling, the Hawaiian way of life soon became influenced by products ranging from iron to livestock to non-native seeds. Hilo became a stopping place for explorers, whaling ships, traders, and those curious about active volcanoes. By the 1900’s, Hilo had grown into a commercial center. The sugar industry was booming, several wharves had been constructed, the breakwater was begun and a new railroad connected Hilo with other parts of the island. Then in 1946 – and again in 1960 – two destructive tsunamis swept Hilo’s Bayfront causing the relocation of Hilo’s government and commercial life. When the town was rebuilt, a large park and roadway were situated between the buildings and the shoreline to absorb future tidal waves. Besides being a rare surviving example of a Hawaiian plantation town, cultural diversity is one of Hilo’s special charms. The local term, “mixed plate”, describes well the impact made by Polynesians, Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, Koreans, other Pacific Islanders, and Europeans on Hilo’s mixed-race culture of today. All these ethnic groups blend in the faces of the people who give Hilo its charm. Its diverse shopping opportunities, its small scale, and its friendliness make Hilo the perfect town in which to linger just a little longer.
Overview
Tabuaeran or "Tahanea" is known in English as Fanning Atoll, is one of the Line Islands of the central Pacific Ocean and part of Kiribati.
Overview
Pago Pago Harbor, a collapsed volcanic caldera is one of the largest natural harbors in the South Pacific. It cuts deeply into the south-central coast almost dividing the island in two. From east to west, a steep mountainous spine runs the 20-mile length of the island, punctuated in places by notable summits including Matafao Peak, Tutuila's tallest mountain at 2,142 feet; North Pioa Mountain, popularly known as Rainmaker Mountain, 1,718; and Mount 'Alava, the steep ridgeline looming to the north of Pago Pago Harbor, marking the south boundary of the park area. Mount Alava lies to the north of Pago Pago Harbor. A hiking trail along the maintenance road leads to the 1610 foot summit.
Overview
Apia, town, port, and capital (since 1959) of Samoa. It is located on the northern coast of Upolu Island, in the South Pacific Ocean. The Apia Observatory, the legislative council chambers, and a broadcasting station are on the Mulinuu Peninsula, a promontory dividing Apia Harbour from Vaiusu Bay. The 19th-century Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson spent the last year of his life in Apia, and his home, Vailima, is now the residence of the head of state. Apia, town, port, and capital (since 1959) of Samoa. It is located on the northern coast of Upolu Island, in the South Pacific Ocean. The Apia Observatory, the legislative council chambers, and a broadcasting station are on the Mulinuu Peninsula, a promontory dividing Apia Harbour from Vaiusu Bay. The 19th-century Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson spent the last year of his life in Apia, and his home, Vailima, is now the residence of the head of state. Stevenson is buried at Mount Vaea, which rises to 1,500 feet (460 metres) on the town’s southern outskirts. The government holds title to the townland.is buried at Mount Vaea, which rises to 1,500 feet (460 metres) on the town’s southern outskirts. The government holds title to the townland.
Overview
Almost any time of the year is an excellent time to visit Suva. There are so many things happening. Suva, the capital city of Fiji, the thumb of the Pacific, is the place of many happenings. For tourists, the day begins at about 6 pm. Before this, it's best to laze around a swimming pool with a cocktail or go walking or shopping around the city. Suva comes alive at night. This is when live local bands or current overseas hit songs fill the air. Suva has about 25 bars/nightclubs and all are walking distance from each other to make for an ideal pub-crawling night. Suva is a city of colors. While neon lights from the nightclubs brighten the nights, the people of Suva brighten up the day. Suva is a city with rich and diverse cultures. It has a multiracial population mix comprised mainly of Fijians, Indians, Europeans, Chinese, and South Pacific Islanders. People are friendly and always willing to help with directions. So if you are lost, don't hesitate to ask. The locals will help with a smile. There are lots of things to do, see and buy. There are many churches, temples, mosques, bush walks, and gardens. Suva has a botanical garden at the eastern end of town. This is also where the Fiji Museum is located. Next to these is the home of the President of the Republic of Fiji.
Overview
Lautoka is 24km up the coast from Nadi Airport. Many tourists only get there because it’s the departure point for Blue Lagoon Cruises and some of the Mamanuca and Yasawa islands. It’s a nice harborfront town with duty-free shopping and markets but not exactly a holiday destination. Lautoka is known as the ‘Sugar City’ because of its mill and wharf access. The annual Sugar Festival is in September. Incidentally, the name ‘Lautoka’ comes from a legend that two local chiefs were fighting on Farquhar’s Point - one chief found himself on the receiving end of a spear and screamed Lautokaa’, which means literally, ‘spear-hit’.
Overview
Dravuni is located in the northern part of the reef at S 18 48' and E 178 36'. Approximately 125 persons live in the single village on this 200 acre island. Because the reefs provide a major part of their sustenance, the chiefs have guarded them well and wish to see them studied and preserved. Only four of the islands within this reef are inhabited. Both the Great Astrolabe and the North Astrolabe Reefs offer a broad variety of habitats. Lagoon depths range from very shallow to 40 meters, and include rock, sand/sediment and sea grass areas, as well as coral seamounts. Dense coral growth edges the windward sides of the smaller islands within the reef. Rich underwater sea grass beds flourish off the leeward coast of Dravuni and some of the other islands. Transportation to the island is provided by an inter-island ferry, the Bulouniceva, which departs Suva on Wednesday and Sunday, makes a round trip to the Kadavu group with Dravuni as the last stop, and returns on Friday and Tuesday respectively. Work boats may be made available through the MSP, although advanced bookings are necessary. A boat may also be hired from the village, with a boatman. Charges for using the field station facility depend upon the support needed.
Overview
Savusavu is located 100 miles north-east of Suva, on Vanua Levu the second largest island in the Fiji Group. Savusavu Bay is amongst the world's finest natural harbors, and cruise ships visit regularly. The Hibiscus Highway stretches 70 miles up the coast from Savusavu, offering some of the finest and most unspoiled scenery in the South Pacific, while the trans-insular road across to the main town of Labasa, offers breathtaking views and indigenous rainforest. The atmosphere of the past lingers on everywhere, amongst a natural and friendly population. Unusual attractions include the thermal springs at Nakama and the blowholes at Namale. Tours and scenic drives, bay cruises and fishing, reef-beach activities, and local entertainment are all easily arranged. A tour of a working copra plantation is a unique experience. Savusavu stores stock duty-free goods. A selection of woven and carved local handicrafts may be purchased whilst normal holiday needs, toiletries, etc. are readily available. Modern taxis and regular local buses ensure reliable easy travel. Accommodation at Savusavu is first class, either at Daku Resort, Cousteau Fiji Islands, Kontiki Resort, or at the Namale Plantation, a beachside working copra plantation, 6 miles from the township.
Overview
Nuku'alofa is the capital of Tonga. It is located on the north coast of the island of Tongatapu, in the southernmost island group of Tonga.
Overview
Vava'u is the island chain of one large island and 40 smaller ones in Tonga. According to tradition Maui fished both Tongatapu and Vava'u but put a little more effort into the former. Vava'u rises 204 m above sea level. The capital is Neiafu, which is the second largest city in Tonga, situated at one of the best harbors in the world, the Port of Refuge.Vava'u is a prime fishing destination with its beautiful harbor and untouched seas.The Vava'u group measures about 21 km from east to west and 25 km from north to south. Vava'u had 15,485 inhabitants at the 2006 census total of 121 km². 3,900 lived in the capital Neiafu. The main island of Vava'u is 89.74 km², the second largest island in Tonga.Vava'u is a coral reef with superior oblique in the north up to 200 m high cliffs. On the south side of the island g, roup is dissolved into many small islands and waterways. The largest of these waterways, the fjord-like Ava Pulepulekai channel extends 11 km inland from the harbor of Neiafu, the capital. The Vava'u island is a raised platform of coral cliffs on the north coast and a low and irregular coastline south that opens in a complex network of channels, bays, and islands forming one of the best protected natural harbors in the Pacific.Vava'u is also home to the 'Ene'io Botanical Gardens, Tonga's only botanical garden.
Overview
Rarotonga is one of those islands that old South Seas hands recalled fondly when the talk around the bar turned to the quintessential island paradise. Long a favorite with sailors, Rarotonga, with its volcanic landscape of jagged peaks and deep valleys, is the only mountainous island in the Cook Islands. Its interior is mostly lush rain forest, and miles of white-sand beaches and an uncommonly clear lagoon fringe its shore. Dive shops on the island lead trips to about 40 sites that cover the full gamut of the water world: steep drop-offs, wreck dives, canyons, swim-through, coral-laden reefs and, for adrenalin junkies, shark dives. Visibility averages about 100 feet, and thanks to a five-year-old marine conservation program, the fish life in the once-over fished lagoon in making a strong comeback. Offshore, fishermen can count on catching yellow fin tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and spotting humpback whales during their July-to-October migration. Big-wave surfers keep their eyes on the horizon at Avatiu harbor in Avarua.
Overview
Bora Bora is the most magical of all the French Polynesian islands. The main island of Bora Bora, home to 4,225 inhabitants, is in the center of a multicolored lagoon, surrounded by offshore motu islets inside a protective coral necklace. The motu islets of Bora Bora are the ideal location for a Bora Bora honeymoon. Bora Bora has numerous luxury hotels and resorts, Hotel Bora Bora was the first Hotel in French Polynesia to build over-water bungalows. No matter what kind of vacation you are planning, Bora Bora is a must when visiting French Polynesia. There is only one navigable pass, facing the principal village of Vaitape. A 29 km (18 miles) partially sealed road circles the Bora Bora, passing through colorful villages, archaeological sites, old Army bunkers, and cannons left over from World War II. Bora Bora lies 240 Km (150 miles) northwest of Tahiti in the Leeward Society Islands. Matira Beach has white sand and warm, shallow water. Bora Bora's lagoon is world-famous for its beauty.
Overview
Raiatea is located in the southern part of the Leeward Islands. Its huge lagoon also incorporates the island of Tahaa. Raiatea has an area of 238 square kilometers (92 sq. miles). That makes it the fourth-largest island in French Polynesia in terms of area. The biggest island is Tahiti (1,042 sq. kilometers, or 402 sq. miles), followed by Nuku Hiva in the northern Marquesas Islands (330 sq. kilometers, or 127 sq. miles) and Hiva Oa in the southern Marquesas Islands (320 sq. kilometers, or 124 sq. miles). Raiatea is shaped like an isosceles triangle with a base of 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) and a height of 20 kilometers (12.4 miles). The island is an old former volcanic mass, the last lava having flowed some 2.5 million years ago. Raiatea’s tallest point is in the south, where Mt. Tefatoaiti reaches an altitude of 1,017 meters (3,337 ft.). In the north, there is the Temehani volcanic rock plateau, which rises to 792 meters (2,598 ft.) and is decorated by historic peaks. Several big valleys cut deeply into the edges of this high island, creating some of the most favorable places for populations to settle. They include six bays—Vairahi, Faaro, and Opoa along the east coast; Faatemu at the southern tip; and Vaihuti and Vaiaau along the west coast. Alluvial fans--deposits of streams coming from a gorge upon a plain—have partially filled in the bays, offering flat land that helps compensate for the narrowness of the coastal plains. Raiatea has the reputation of being the cradle of Polynesian civilizations. In ancient times, the island was known as “Havai’i fanau’ra venue”, which means “Havai’i, the cradle”. Furthermore, famous ethnologist Pearl Buck wrote that according to Polynesian mythology fragments of Havai’i broke off to create other islands, swimming like a fish to become the Windward Islands of Tahiti, Moorea, Maiao, Mehetia, and Tetiaroa.
Overview
Some 17km (11 miles) from Tahiti, and connected to it by a 45-minute ferry service or seven-minute flight, is an island with a simpler and more rustic lifestyle yet offers plenty of entertainment for the tourist, including traditional-style nightlife. Dominated by volcanic peaks, it also has dazzling white sand beaches and clear lagoons ideal for swimming, diving, and snorkeling. Excursions include a visit to the beautiful Opunohu Valley, an ancient dwelling place, uninhabited for 150 years, with 500 ancient structures including temples or marae, some of which have been restored. Le Belvédère is a lookout spot from where the best view of the island may be had.The nearby island of Tetiaroa recently opened to the public and accessible only by air, is an important seabird sanctuary.
Overview
Huahine lies 175 km (110 miles) northwest of Tahiti in the Leeward Society Islands, visible from Raiatea, Tahaa and Bora Bora. Comprised of Huahine Nui (big Huahine) and Huahine-Iti (little Huahine), the two islands are joined by a narrow isthmus and are enclosed within a protective coral necklace. Off-shore "motu" islets lie inside the barrier reef, providing luscious gardens for Huahine's watermelon and cantaloupe industry. A road, mostly un-paved, winds 32 km (20 miles) around the two islands, passing through small villages where the 4,480 inhabitants live in colourful , modest homes. The lagoon, bordered by white sand beaches, is rich with sea life, and the Village of Maeva is a wealth of archaeological sites. The principal village of Fare slumbers under the shade of almond and acacia trees, and awakens with delight for the frequent arrivals of the inter-island ferries from Papeete. Then truckloads of copra, pigs, taro, bananas,and melons are brought to the quay for market days. People from all over the island mingle with arriving passengers and curious tourists, all enjoying the bustling activity and wandering in and out of the various Chineese shops along Fare's waterfront. Then the ships blast their farewell and head out the pass, the last Le Truck leaves town, headed for the villages once again. And life on this peaceful island resumes its normal pace.
Overview
Papeete is the major city of Tahiti and the capital of French Polynesia. This little city of 80,000 people is pretty recent as there were no buildings on its site when in 1769, Captain Cook first reached Matavai Bay located 10 km away on the East Coast. Since the 18th century, sailors realized how safe was its bay for their ships. In 1797, the London Missionary Society (LMS) tried to send some missionaries to settle down in Papeete but they did not succeed until 1824 with the help of Queen Pomare IV. It was Governor Bruat who decided in 1843 that Papeete would become the administrative center of the newly born French Protectorate. At that time, the expansion of the city was going fast and the bay of Papeete had become a large harbour. In the 19th century, some Chinese started to settle down in Papeete which counted only 5,000 persons. During World War I, Papeete was bombed by the Germans, and the Municipal Market was destroyed.
Overview
Papeete is the major city of Tahiti and the capital of French Polynesia. This little city of 80,000 people is pretty recent as there were no buildings on its site when in 1769, Captain Cook first reached Matavai Bay located 10 km away on the East Coast. Since the 18th century, sailors realized how safe was its bay for their ships. In 1797, the London Missionary Society (LMS) tried to send some missionaries to settle down in Papeete but they did not succeed until 1824 with the help of Queen Pomare IV. It was Governor Bruat who decided in 1843 that Papeete would become the administrative center of the newly born French Protectorate. At that time, the expansion of the city was going fast and the bay of Papeete had become a large harbour. In the 19th century, some Chinese started to settle down in Papeete which counted only 5,000 persons. During World War I, Papeete was bombed by the Germans, and the Municipal Market was destroyed.
Overview
The atolls of Tahiti are some of the largest and most beautiful in the world. They are low-lying islands and are very different from the mountainous islands of Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora. All of the islands that make up theTuamotus are coral atolls. These coral rings surround a lagoon and offer some of the most beautiful colors and clear waters set against dramatic white sand beaches. Explore the islands by open-air cars or bicycles; discover the lagoon and surrounding motus by motorboat, canoe, or sailboat.Rangiroa, the largest atoll in the South Pacific, is only an hour’s flight from Tahiti. Its lagoon is 42 miles long and 16 miles wide, which is larger than the island of Tahiti. The total population of the island is about 1,400 people who live in two villages. These villages lie on opposite sides of a navigable pass that provides access to the lagoon from the open ocean beyond. It is one of these passes that provides one of Tahiti’s best and most adventurous diving experiences, a drift dive teaming with Hammerhead sharks. This island also offers you one of the more unique hotel experiences, the Kia Ora Sauvage.
Overview
The second biggest atoll in Polynesia, a 60 km by 25 km rectangle has two main villages: Rotoava in the northeast near the Ngarue pass, one kilometer wide and its airdrome; and then there is Tetamanu, formerly the main village of the island located near the southern Tumakohua pass. This protected atoll together with its six neighboring islands, originally including Taiaro, makes up a Unesco classified nature reserve, which is the proof of the richness of the ecosystem of these atolls: the especially rare flora and fauna, including the hunting king-fisher, the Tuamotu palm, and in the lagoons, crustaceans such as squills or sea cicadas. Among the things to be explored here are: a pearl farm visit and the fairly colorful visit to the sea slug smoke house, the "rori" highly prized by Asian gourmets, and the ancient village of Tetamanu with one of the first Catholic churches built in coral and dating from 1874. The real drawcard to the island is its scuba diving which still holds its share of excitement in the virtually untouched spots where there is to be found a concentration of lagoon and ocean fish such as loach, meru, barracuda, rays and the highly memorable hammerhead and tiger sharks.
Overview
Nuku Hiva is without any doubt one of most beautiful islands in French Polynesia. The exceptional location of its capital town Taiohae, along a splendid half-moon bay, sums up by itself the attraction that one may have for this island, at the same time both savage and friendly. No Gauguin or Brel to praise it or sing about it, but a rich history, especially around the magnificent valley of Taipivai. Do not forget to visit the sumptuous clifs around the island.
Overview
California's second-largest city and the United States' seventh-largest, San Diego boasts a citywide population of nearly 1.3 million residents and more than 2.8 million residents countywide. Within its borders of 4,200 sq. miles, San Diego County encompasses 18 incorporated cities and numerous other charming neighborhoods and communities, including downtown's historic Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, Coronado, La Jolla, Del Mar, Carlsbad, Escondido, La Mesa, Hillcrest, Barrio Logan, Chula Vista and more.Known for its near-idyllic climate, 70 miles of pristine beaches, and a dazzling array of world-class family attractions, including the World-Famous San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park, SeaWorld San Diego, and LEGOLAND California, San Diego offers a wide variety of things to see and do, appealing to guests from around the world.In San Diego's East County, the terrain varies from gentle foothills to mile-high mountains and the historic mining town, Julian, down to the 600,000-acre Anza Borrego Desert State Park, offering nature-conscious visitors endless opportunities to hike, camp, fish, observe wildlife and much more. In San Diego's North County, the land produces quantities of flowers as well as quality grapes that become excellent wines, which are served at some of the most elegant restaurants and resorts in the region. Along the west, 70 miles of the Pacific Ocean coastline not only supports year-round outdoor recreation, such as surfing, boating, sailing,g, and swimming but also important scientific research at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. To the south, it's a whole different country, Mexico, featuring its cultural offerings in various towns along the border and coastline, including Tijuana, Rosarito, and Ensenada.San Diego's arts and culture and culinary arts are making a name for themselves, both nationally and internationally. Balboa Park, the largest urban cultural park in the U.S., features 15 museums, numerous art galleries, beautiful gardens, the Tony Award-winning The Globe Theatre, and the World-Famous San Diego Zoo. The region is also a breeding ground for the hottest, new talents of culinary arts, who prepare award-winning meals in many of the region's 6,400 eating establishments.San Diego County also features 92 golf courses and a variety of exciting participatory and spectator sports, beachfront resorts and luxury spas, gaming, a dynamic downtown district, annual special events and unique holiday offerings, multicultural festivals and celebrations, colorful neighborhoods and communities, a rich military history, accessibility for travelers with disabilities and much more.The most difficult decision to make regarding a vacation to San Diego is determining what to do and see among the region's vast and diverse variety of offerings. San Diego County offers a vacation experience for everyone.
Onboard the Zaandam
Zaandam
Year Built: 2000
Year Refurbished: 2013
Double Occupancy Capacity: 1432
Designed to carry fewer guests while providing more space for maximum comfort, Zaandam is a prize in the mid-size ship category. On the musically themed Zaandam, you'll find musical instruments such as Bill Clinton's saxophone and signed guitars from Queen, Iggy Pop, Eric Clapton and the Rolling Stones throughout the ship. In her soaring three-story atrium: a Baroque-style Dutch pipe organ, inspired by the traditional barrel organs still found on the streets of The Netherlands.
Activities & Services (included in cruise)
Pool
- Card Room
- Casino
- Disco/Nightclub
- Movies
- Theater/Show Lounge
- Fitness Center
- Sauna/Steam Room
- Culinary Arts Center
- Educational Programs
- Pool - Outdoor
- Sports Facilities
- Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
- Art Gallery
- Bars/Lounges
- Library
- Children's Indoor Play Area
- Children's Outdoor Play Area
- Organized Age Specific Activities
- Teen Center or Disco
- Teen Programs
- Business Center
- Concierge Desk
- Duty-Free Shops/Boutiques
- Elevators
- Safe Deposit Boxes
Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)
Greenhouse Spa
- Beauty Salon
- Full-Service Spa
- Internet Center
- Babysitting
- Dry Cleaning/ Laundry Service
- Infirmary/Medical Center
- Self-Service Laundromat
Dining Room
Main Dining
The Dining Room: For breakfast, lunch or an unforgettable five-course dinner, the elegant main Dining Room is your destination for sophisticated dining, with menu selections from classic favorites to vegetarian options, to dishes inspired by the regions you’ll visit. Menus by Holland America Line's Culinary Council® of world-renowned chefs.
Pinnacle Grill
Specialty Dining
Pinnacle Grill: Enjoy dishes inspired by America’s Pacific Northwest, such as king salmon from Alaska and choice, responsibly raised beef from Washington State’s Double R Ranch. Complement your meal with a selection of boutique wines from the Pacific Northwest and other celebrated vineyards from around the world. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.
Canaletto: This authentic Italian restaurant offers a menu that celebrates spartire (Italian for "sharing"). Try braised chicken cacciatore "al forno," branzino ai ferri or a classic Italian pasta: spaghetti pomodoro or garlic shrimp-infused ravioli, perhaps. Buon appetito! This restaurant is available for an additional cost.
Room Service
Casual Dining
Lido Market: Lido Market provides a fresh, new approach to casual dining for breakfast, lunch or dinner, with a panoramic view of the sea. A modern marketplace with different themed stations, the Lido offers a curated selection of delicious options to grab on the go or to have quickly made to order.
Dive-In: Dive in to a grilled burger on brioche or a Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog. For alfresco dining by the pool, Dive-In has it all, including lighter fare like the grilled chicken breast sandwich and vegetarian-friendly portabella mushroom stack.
Explorations Café: A comfortable, coffeehouse environment offering espresso drinks and pastries. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.
Room Service: Complimentary 24-hour dining in the comfort of your stateroom.
Disclaimer regarding ship dining
Staterooms feature premium massage showerheads, fine linens and fresh fruit upon request.
Category: N
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: MM
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: M
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: L
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: K
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: J
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: I
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Elegant staterooms feature luxurious bedding, premium massage showerheads, a porthole or a window and fresh fruit upon request.
Category: HH
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: H
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: G
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: FF
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: F
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: EE
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: E
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: DA
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: D
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Category: C
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
Spacious staterooms have a private balcony, whirlpool bath (some with shower only) and more.
Category: BC
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
- Binoculars
- Whirlpool bath
Category: BB
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
- Binoculars
- Whirlpool bath
Category: B
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
- Binoculars
- Whirlpool bath
Category: AA
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
- Binoculars
- Whirlpool bath
Category: A
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Luxurious bathrobes
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
- Binoculars
- Whirlpool bath
Category: SA
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Premium bathrobes, slippers
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
- One-Touch concierge service
- Whirlpool bath
- In-suite coffee, espresso
- Complimentary laundry
- Pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in suite
- Welcome glass of sparkling wine
- Priority boarding for tender ports, priority dining/seating requests, special disembarkation service
- High tea in suite on request
- Binoculars
- Exclusive tote bag
Category: SB
Amenities- Daily housekeeping
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
- Premium bathrobes, slippers
- Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
- Generous storage
- Fresh fruit upon request
- Safe
- Ice service
- Shoeshine
- TV with On Demand movies, programming
- One-Touch concierge service
- Whirlpool bath
- In-suite coffee, espresso
- Complimentary laundry
- Pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in suite
- Welcome glass of sparkling wine
- Priority boarding for tender ports, priority dining/seating requests, special disembarkation service
- High tea in suite on request
- Binoculars
- Exclusive tote bag
Category: PS
Symbol | Description |
---|---|
Shower only | |
Bathtub & shower | |
2 lower beds convert to 1 queen-size bed (no sofa bed) | |
Triple (2 lower beds, 1 sofa bed) | |
Quad (2 lower beds, 1 sofa bed, 1 upper) | |
Partial sea view | |
These staterooms have portholes instead of windows | |
2 lower beds not convertible to a queen-size bed | |
Fully obstructed view | |
Suites B7088, B7087, B6228, and B6225 and stateroom EE3429 are fully accessible, roll-in shower only | |
Suite SA7034 is fully accessible with single side approach to the bed, bathtub, and roll-in shower; Staterooms DA6104, G1805, and G1804 are fully accessible with single side approach to the bed, roll-in shower only | |
Staterooms EE3396, EE3391, HH3431, HH3430, E2702, L2700, J2555, J2554, G2500, FF1964, FF1955, G1807, and G1806 are ambulatory accessible, roll-in shower only |
- Ship Name: Zaandam
- Year Built: 2000
- Year Refurbished: 2013
- Year Entered Present Fleet: 2000
- Ship Class: R
- Maximum Capacity: 1,837
- Number of Passenger Decks: 10
- Number of Crew: 615
- Officers' Nationality: International
- Ocean-View without Balcony: 385
- Total Inside Staterooms: 134
- Tonnage (GRT): 61,396
- Capacity Based on Double Occupancy: 1,432
- Country of Registry: Netherlands
- Total Staterooms: 716
- Suites with Balcony: 197
- Crew/Hotel Staff Nationality: International
Costco Member Reviews
Available Dates & Prices
Terms & Conditions
*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for select stateroom categories only. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for details.
†One Digital Costco Shop Card per room/stateroom, per stay. The exact amount of the Digital Costco Shop Card will be calculated during the booking process. The Digital Costco Shop Card promotion is nontransferable and may not be combined with any other promotion. A Digital Costco Shop Card will arrive by email approximately 10 days after the start of your cruise. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for additional information.
Ship's registry: The Netherlands
Digital Costco Shop Card
This booking includes a Digital Costco Shop Card which will arrive by email one to two weeks after you return from your vacation. The Digital Costco Shop Card is a convenient payment option in our warehouses and on Costco.com.