Australia's capital of the north is a uniquely tropical city and a historically isolated outpost of this vast diverse country. Reaching up towards the equator a full 2 000 miles from Sydney and Melbourne the city was named in honour of Charles Darwin by the British settlers who established a frontier outpost here. With a unique history beautiful islands nearby and a palette of sizzling Pacific flavours colourful Darwin is an enchanting and exotic Australian destination. Crocodiles patrol the jungled waterways and tropical rainforests around Australia's gateway to the Top End. Explore via airboat to look down on the veiny waterways of the mist-laced Kakadu National Park. The sounds of chattering birdlife and the gentle splash of fountains and waterfalls will fill your ears in George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. Soak it all in before kicking back and relaxing with a picnic and a crackling barbecue. The sunshine and famous tropical pink sunsets mean many visitors naturally gravitate to the city's soft sands to relax at spots like pretty Mindil Beach as evening approaches. The adjoining market is filled with souvenirs and crafts stands and is the perfect great place to enjoy some fiery Asian flavours. Stroll the stalls grab some food and crack open an ice-frosted beer as the sunset show begins. It may be remote but Darwin found itself on the front line during the Pacific War as the Japanese air force unloaded their bombs onto the city in 1942.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Air Terjun Kiti in Indonesia, where cascading waterfalls meet lush greenery. This hidden gem invites you to immerse yourself in its serene atmosphere, offering a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Just beyond the falls lies a vibrant ecosystem teeming with exotic flora and fauna, promising unforgettable adventures. Enjoy leisurely hikes or indulge in the local culinary delights that reflect the rich culture of Indonesia. Let Air Terjun Kiti be the highlight of your journey, a captivating blend of tranquility and exploration awaits.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Pulau Karawapop, a hidden gem in Indonesia's majestic archipelago. This tranquil port invites you to explore pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife. As you step ashore, indulge in local delicacies and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the indigenous tribes. Just a short journey away, the breathtaking landscapes of Raja Ampat await, offering unparalleled diving experiences and stunning vistas. Set sail to this serene paradise and let the magic of Indonesia captivate your heart.

Nestled within the enchanting archipelago of Indonesia, Pulau Balbulol beckons with its pristine beaches and azure waters. This captivating port is a gateway to discover the vibrant marine life of the Coral Triangle, famed for its snorkeling and diving opportunities. Immerse yourself in the rich local culture, savor tantalizing Indonesian cuisine, and explore lush landscapes that leave you spellbound. The allure of Pulau Balbulol promises a travel experience that transcends the ordinary, inviting you to indulge in the extraordinary beauty of Indonesia. Embark on this journey, and let the wonders unfold.

Discover the enchanting Milne Bay in Papua New Guinea, where azure waters meet vibrant coral reefs and pristine beaches. Renowned for its exceptional diving spots, this paradise invites you to explore a rich tapestry of marine life and cultural heritage. Stroll through the charming villages, where traditional customs come to life, and savor the local cuisine. Experience the warmth of the local people as you immerse yourself in this extraordinary destination. Milne Bay is not just a port; it's a gateway to adventure and unforgettable memories waiting to be created. Embark on a journey that promises to awaken your wanderlust.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Pulau Num, a hidden gem in Indonesia's vibrant archipelago. This paradise offers pristine beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant coral reefs awaiting exploration. Immerse yourself in the local culture, where Warm hospitality meets incredible culinary delights. Don't miss the chance to experience traditional dances and handcrafted art that reflect the rich heritage of the region. As you dock in this tropical haven, let the serene landscapes and lively atmosphere ignite your wanderlust for more Indonesian adventures. Embark on a journey that rejuvenates your spirit and enriches your soul.

Kwatisore Bay is a 2 km wide bay located west of KwatisorePeninsula at the southwestern end of the wide Cenderawasih (bird of paradise) Bay.An area of 1,453,500 hectares, a great part of the bay, has been declared anational park. Within the national park is Indonesia’s largest marine nationalpark. Some dive companies claim that Cenderawasih Bay is the whale sharkcapital of the world, and the area near Kwatisore Bay is one of the few placesin the world where encounters can almost be guaranteed. The whale sharks seemto be permanent residents of the protected marine park and as the localsbelieve whale sharks are under the protection of spirits and will bring goodluck, not only has fishing them been traditionally prohibited, the fishermenactively encourage their presence by feeding them small amounts of their catch.Therefor the best places and time to look for the whale sharks–and to swim or dive with them- are the local fishing pontoons during the earlymorning hours.

Welcome to Aisandami, a hidden gem nestled within Indonesia’s enchanting archipelago. This picturesque port is a gateway to lush landscapes, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of pristine beaches and azure waters, perfect for snorkeling or relaxing under the sun. Discover the warmth of local communities and indulge in exquisite traditional cuisine. Aisandami invites you to explore its unique wonders, offering an unforgettable experience that blends adventure with tranquility in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. Your journey into paradise starts here.

Discover the enchanting charms of Tanjung Mannguar, Indonesia, where pristine beaches meet vibrant local culture. As your cruise ship docks, you are welcomed by the stunning emerald waters and lush landscapes. Explore the nearby islands, teeming with rich marine life, perfect for snorkeling or sunbathing. Don't miss the opportunity to savor authentic Indonesian cuisine, infused with exotic spices. Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the local communities, and take home unforgettable memories of this tropical paradise. Tanjung Mannguar awaits, promising an unforgettable journey into the heart of Indonesia's natural beauty.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Rawa Island, a hidden gem off the coast of Malaysia. As your luxurious cruise docks, immerse yourself in the azure waters and pristine white sands that allure travelers from around the globe. This idyllic destination offers stunning coral reefs perfect for snorkeling, vibrant marine life, and lush tropical landscapes. Explore charming local cultures, savor exquisite Malaysian cuisine, or simply unwind in this serene paradise. Let Rawa Island be the highlight of your journey, where every moment is a step into tranquility and beauty.

Discover the enchanting Auri Islands in Indonesia, a hidden gem where azure waters meet pristine beaches. As your luxury cruise docks, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, indulge in fresh seafood delicacies, and explore lush landscapes adorned with exotic flora. The islands offer a paradise for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike, with opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and serene beach strolls. Auri Islands promise an unforgettable experience, blending natural beauty with the warmth of Indonesian hospitality. Embrace the magic of this tropical haven and let your wanderlust soar.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Only about 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the Indonesian border, Vanimo is the capital of the Sandaun (or Sundown) Province. It is one of only two towns in this remote region of Papua New Guinea. Although the Sepik River originates in the province, it bypasses Vanimo far to the south. The Sandaun Province is relatively undeveloped, but Vanimo has lovely beaches and some picturesque villages in the vicinity. The interior is covered in rainforest and logging is an important activity putting to use Vanimo’s port and protected bay.

Ali Island is one of the four islands located close to Aitape, off the northern coast of Papua New Guinea. The eastern shore of Ali Island has a beautiful white sandy beach and offers swimming and snorkeling. The five villages on the island connect via well-maintained trails that lead to the school and Catholic church closer to the northern end of the island. The indigenous populations of this island are welcoming to guests and yet maintain their unique way of living and dressing, with colorful ceremonial headdresses, arm bands and grass skirts. A village walk will take visitors past the clean local homes and gardens, to the Catholic church with its interesting paintings of the via crucis. Chat with the islanders or relax on the beach.

The very first houses of Madang were located on a small peninsula jutting into the Bismarck Sea –the land between today’s port and the Forum Park. The site had been chosen for its deep harbor and the fresh sea breeze. Found some 40 kilometers south of Cape Croisilles, the northern point of Astrolabe Bay, the port and station were originally called “Friedrich Wilhelms-Hafen” after the Prussian Crown Prince. The station had been built in 1891 to be the provincial headquarters of German New Guinea from 1892 onwards. After WWI and the eviction of the Germans, the town’s name was changed to Madang. Madang was occupied by the Japanese during WWII and to honor the coastwatchers working behind enemy lines, the Coastwatchers Memorial Lighthouse was inaugurated at the entrance to Madang Harbor at Kalibobo in 1959. Not only is this a shining light for shipping, it has also become an iconic feature of Madang. Today the town has a population of some 36,000 inhabitants and is connected by road to Hansa Bay in the north and Lae and the highlands to the south. Cattle, cocoa and copra are important produces from Madang Province. With more than 170 languages spoken in the province, the small museum holds interesting pieces relating to the history and cultures of Madang and surrounding areas. Several of the trees along Modilon Road show hundreds of resting fruit bats waiting for the evening’s flights, some of them find their way to the Main Market.

The volcanic island of Garove is part of the Witu Islands and once had a 5-kilometer-wide (3.1 miles) caldera. The island was historically used to produce copra and cocoa and in fact still is today. Most of the villages are located around the exterior of the volcano. Steep cliffs explain why there is only one area settled on the inside. A promontory at the entrance’s southwestern corner is taken up by the school and the catholic church of the village of Widu the only village inside the caldera.

If surreal and unique experiences are your thing, then the Papua New Guinean town of Rabaul should tick your travel boxes. Found on the north eastern tip of New Britain Island (the largest island off mainland PNG) Rabaul, the former provincial capital, has quite a remarkable location. The town is inside the flooded caldera of a giant volcano and several sub-vents are still quite active today! The lively city was almost entirely devastated by Mount Tavurvur in 1994, covering the city in ashfall, but thankfully costing no lives. Since then, thanks to Rabaul's deep-water port, commerce has been on the up, and a few shops and hotels have managed to find an audience. However, Rabaul's remote location together with the volcano still being one of the most active and dangerous in Papua New Guinea means tourism in not rife.Rabaul has an impressive WWII history which includes a 300-mile network of tunnels dug by Japanese POW designed to conceal munitions and stores. After the Pearl Harbour bombings, the Japanese used Rabaul as their South Pacific base for the last four years of WWII, and by 1943 there were about 110,000 Japanese troops based in Rabaul. Post war, the island was returned to Australia, before it was granted independence in 1975.It should be noted that patience is a virtue here. However, that is not all bad. The slow pace of transportation allows travellers to marvels at the quite astonishing landscape. Divers will also be richly rewarded – the marine life of the island is extraordinary.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Wild, uninhabited and historical, Kennedy Island is a tiny piece of land in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Part of the remote Solomon Islands, the island is situated 15 min away by boat from Gizo, which is capital of the Western Province. Kennedy Island was formerly known as Plum Pudding Island, after an incident dating back to World War II. Incident involving one of the most famous figures of history.John F. Kennedy, a lieutenant at the time, was a castaway on the island with his crew when their torpedo ship, PT 109, was shot sunk by the Japanese troops in August 1943. It is said that the future president swam dragging an injured crewmate by holding the strap of his life jacket in his teeth until reaching the island. He and his crew fed themselves with coconuts during two days before being found by Solomon Islanders. JFK even kept a coconut shell from the island on his desk in the Oval Office throughout his presidency.For our history buffs, some artefacts dating from the crew’s passage can still be found on site. An island marked by history in short, but not only. Discovering Kennedy Island is an experience not to be missed for diving and nature lovers. The waters that surround the island are a submerged world of great richness and variety of colourful fishes and corals.

Experience the enchanting beauty of the Solomon Islands as your cruise docks at Mbili Island. Known for its pristine white-sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs, this breathtaking destination offers a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Explore the lush landscapes teeming with rich wildlife or immerse yourself in the local culture through traditional crafts and lively markets. With crystal-clear waters and warm tropical breezes, Mbili Island invites you to discover its hidden gems, creating unforgettable memories in this tranquil oasis. Indulge in the serenity of the Solomon Islands, where adventure and relaxation await.

Port Mary is the name of the bay adjacent to Ghupuna the main village in Santa Ana. A bright white sand beach with huge shade-giving trees runs along the shoreline in front of the tidy village. The houses here are made with local materials and most are built on stilts. Islanders generally welcome visitors with traditional songs and dances performed by members of the three different villages on Santa Ana. Some local people will also set up stands offering souvenirs for purchase. The Solomons are best known for strings of traditional shell money and elegant carvings based on local stories and legends.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Unlike Espiritu Santo with its raised coral reefs and white sand Ambrym is a volcanically active island with dark sand beaches. Ambrym is known as the island of magic and is the source of five local languages that all evolved on Ambrym. This handful of languages contributes to the well over 100 languages of Vanuatu. Some of Ambrym’s magic takes place in the lush greenery of the local community of Ranon. Here the people perform a very special and traditional ‘Rom’ dance. Participants prepare their masks and costumes in secrecy and the dance is reserved for special occasions.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

It doesn’t get much sweeter than arriving on the sun-soaked shores of the Sugar City. Fiji’s second-biggest settlement opens up a world of blissful beaches and turquoise seascapes while its dense jungle lures the adventurous deep into its embrace. Experience rich Fijian life and see dramatic displays like warrior dances and remarkable local practices like firewalks which kick up burning embers into the night's sky. Legend says the city took its name after two chiefs faced each other in a duel. A spear pierced one of the chiefs leading to the shout of 'lau-toka!' or 'spear hit!' Sugar is Lautoka’s main trade but its botanical gardens are a sweet insight into the tropical plant life that thrives here - from pearl white lilies to tall fragrant orchids. Explore temples charming cafes and mills - or barter for some of the juiciest mangoes you’ll ever taste at the city’s lively market. You'll only be able to resist the beaches for so long and it doesn’t get much more stunning than the Blue Lagoon - a heavenly blend of woven together turquoise shades. Remote wild and unspoiled these are some of the best tropical beaches in the world. There's more rejuvenating relaxation at the mineral-rich mud pools and spas fuelled by the volcanic activity below. Savala Island is a teardrop of sand offshore and another beautiful place to wander with the soft powder between your toes - along sandy spits that peter out into the water. Or swim and snorkel among its envied reefs thronging with fish life.