Norwegian Cruise Line has extended its 2026 and 2027 South Pacific season with more close-to-home cruise escapes, allowing travellers to choose from eight to 13-day itineraries on board Norwegian Spirit, with additional voyages between April and December 2027.
Recent data from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) revealed that 1.16 million Australians cruised within Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific in 2025, making close to home destinations the most popular for Australian cruisers. Notably, cruising the South Pacific stands out for its ability to visit multiple destinations in one trip – the primary reason travellers choose cruising over other holiday styles.
A recent survey of NCL guests also found key motivators for cruising include experiencing local culture (82 per cent) and opportunities for relaxation and leisure (69 per cent) – both of which the South Pacific delivers in abundance. Accessibility, value for money, and the region’s warm, welcoming culture were also key drivers for Australian travellers.
“We are seeing strong interest from Australian travellers in cruising closer to home, particularly in the South Pacific, where cruising offers an effortless and cost-effective way to explore multiple islands without the hassle of inter-island flights – not to mention the ease of unpacking just once,” NCL MD and VP, APAC Ben Angell said.
“Having sailed the South Pacific myself, I can confirm there’s nothing quite like travelling between these picture-perfect destinations by sea, and we are delighted to offer travellers even more opportunities to discover it during our extended 2026 and 2027 seasons.”
Paradise awaits
Looking for a tropical escape that feels worlds away, yet close to home? The reimagined Norwegian Spirit, a more intimate ship designed for adult travellers with no kids’ clubs or waterslides, offers a refined onboard experience, with an unrivalled choice of dining, bars, lounges and entertainment for a ship of its size so guests can enjoy NCL’s signature freedom and flexibility at sea.
Sailing from Lautoka, Fiji to Sydney on 30 November 2026, the 12-day South Pacific: Fiji, Brisbane & Vanuatu voyage, only offered once a year, journeys from the islands to Australia’s east coast, beginning with vibrant Denarau and the hidden paradise of Savusavu in Fiji – where touring the waterfalls is a must – before cruising to Port Vila, Vanuatu for a dip in the iconic blue lagoon or a trek through the Mele Cascades. The sailing continues to Australia’s east coast, where guests can explore Brisbane’s rejuvenated riverfront, home to buzzing restaurants, galleries and boutiques, followed by the laidback beachside vibes, craft breweries and historic ocean baths of Newcastle before sailing into scenic Sydney Harbour.
Another sought-after sailing only offered once yearly departs from Sydney on 23 April 2027, with convenient flight options available for the return journey from Lautoka, Fiji. This 11-day South Pacific: Fiji, Vanuatu & Lifou voyage ventures into the heart of the region, showcasing the beauty of New Caledonia, Vanuatu and Fiji. In Noumea, guests can indulge in French-inspired cuisine, explore Port Moselle Market or wander the lush gardens of La Place des Cocotiers, while nearby Amedee Island offers vibrant coral reefs for snorkelling.
In Lifou, experiences range from traditional village visits to limestone caves and swimming with turtles. The journey continues to Vanuatu, where lively Port Vila and serene Mystery Island blend pristine beaches with rich cultural experiences, before sailing on to four Fijian ports. Here, highlights include natural hot springs and eco-adventures in Savusavu, cultural sites in Suva, the Garden of the Sleeping Giant in Lautoka, and relaxed beach time on Dravuni Island.
Departing on either 9 June or 22 September 2027, the unique eight-day round-trip South Pacific: Rarotonga, Raiatea & Moorea voyage from Papeete delivers a curated journey through the Cook Islands and French Polynesia, blending cultural immersion with postcard-perfect landscapes. Guests can explore Rarotonga’s lush interiors and crystal lagoons, discover the sacred marae and tranquil beaches of Raiatea, and experience Moorea’s dramatic peaks and turquoise waters, whether snorkelling with marine life, visiting local plantations or simply unwinding.
In exciting news for Australian travellers, these sailings will soon become even more accessible with the introduction of direct flights between Sydney and Papeete (Tahiti) from December 2026, making seamless fly–cruise holidays to this region more accessible than ever.
Save on sailings
For a limited time, guests can take advantage of NCL’s Winter Warmers Sale and receive exceptional value with up to $2,500 off and fares starting from just $210 per person, per day on the 30 November 2026 departure. Guests can also upgrade to ‘Free at Sea’ from only $59 per person, per day to unlock the best value at sea with unlimited premium beverages, specialty dining, shore excursion credits and Wi-Fi – on top of NCL’s signature offering of world-class dining, live entertainment and diverse onboard experiences.
