DAYS 1&2 DEPART FOR FIJI/VITI LEVU, FIJI Lose a day en-route as you cross the International Date Line. BD

DAY 3 VITI LEVU Freshen up in your individual day rooms at the Westin Resort Denarau. An afternoon tour introduces you to Fiji before you board the Spirit of Oceanus. BD

DAY 4 BEGA, FIJI Beqa is the island of the firewalkers - the Sawau tribesmen who carry on the tradition passed down to them through generations. For two weeks before the event, the chosen participants  observe special prohibitions to purify themselves to walk on the stones, which have recorded temperatures of over 1200degrees Fahrenheit. View an authentic fire-walking ceremony, snorkel, or dive in the beautiful waters. BLD

DAY 5 TAVEUNI/KIOA, FIJI A breathtakingly beautiful island, Taveuni has a rich natural history including plentiful birdlife and a coral reef nourished by strong currents. Hundreds of waterfalls crash down the coastline, and you'll see three of the finest in Bouma National Heritage Park. This pristine rainforest is the best in all Fiji. Stop on privately-owned Kioa Island to visit with the 300 inhabitants of this unique, isolated community. BLD

DAY 6 AT SEA As we cruise between islands, your Exploration Leader and other experts will brief you on the natural history and cultures you are about to visit. BLD

DAY 7 NIUATOPUTAPU, TONGA/CROSS INTERNATIONAL DATE LINE The Tongan people have a reputation for being the friendliest South Sea Islanders, and you'll have a chance to decide for yourself as we visit their village and meet the people. Hike around the barren lava flows, or swim or snorkel in the pristine waters. BLD

DAY 8 SAVAI'I, SAMOA Savai'i is one of the largest islands in Polynesia but also one of its least populated. Here nature rules, and you'll delight in the rainforests, lava coast, caves, and blowholes. BLD

DAY 9 APIA In Apia, you'll have time to visit Vailima, the home built by Robert Louis Stevenson, where he lived his last years. See the Botanical Garden Reserve and take tea at Aggie Grey's Hotel, that catered to American soldiers during World War II. Good snorkeling opportunities are available here. BLD

DAY 10 AT SEA BLD

DAY 11 PALMERSTON, COOK ISLANDS This tiny island, only one square mile in size, was settled by Englishman William Marsters in 1863, and its population of 50 are all descendants of his and his three Polynesian wives. Olde English with a distinct Gloucestershire accent - is still spoken on the island. Visit with island residents enjoying a barbeque, weather permitting. BLD

DAY 12 ATIU, COOK ISLANDS Atiu is known as "Land of the Birds," and you'll find out why. You'll have an up-close view of nesting birds and with luck, you may spot one of the very rare Kakerori (Rarotongan flycatcher) now being reestablished, Explore the island by local truck, and meet the villagers, watching them perform traditional dances, and visiting their ancient marae sites. BLD

DAY 13 AT SEA BLD

DAY 14 HUAHINE, FRENCH POLYNESIA Huahine is known as "The Garden Island" due to its lush green tropical foliage and wild jungle-like scenery. We'll disembark for a tour of well-preserved ancient maraes, or platforms where rituals were once performed. There will be time for snorkeling. BLD

DAY 15 TAHITI, FRENCH POLYNESIA Disembark and enjoy a tour of Tahiti. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in individual day rooms at the Inter Continental Resort Tahiti. Transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home. B

Request Cruise 52 or Cruise 53 (*Amateur Photography Tour) Availability.

The cost of your cruise includes service charges for land-based personnel and $440 per person which covers taxes/port charges/fees and onboard services. A fuel surcharge may be added. Onboard gratuities are neither required nor expected. Prices are per person, double-occupancy, U.S. dollars. Single/Triple rates available upon request where applicable. Airfare extra.