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South Pacific

View of the ship National Geographic Orion at Vaitahu in Tahuata, Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia, Oceania

In a region known the world over for balmy waters and idyllic beaches, the South Pacific still holds secrets for the traveler who ventures just beyond Hawaii’s familiar shores. Voyage by small ship to the furthest reaches of French Polynesia and the Pacific Islands for an array of tropical adventures—from rainforest hikes and snorkeling excursions in the planet’s most spectacular undersea realms to enriching encounters with Polynesian culture. Or journey down under to witness ancient cave art in Australia’s Kimberley region or take in the superlative scenery of New Zealand and the rarely visited Subantarctic Islands, harboring endemic flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth.

“Traveling to the most remote places on earth is something I will never take for granted. I have not even begun to process the magnitude of what I just experienced in visiting New Zealand and the Subantarctic Islands.”
Guest aboard Southern Odyssey: New Zealand and the Subantarctic Islands, January 2024

Why National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions

Guests enjoy the view of China Strait from the deck aboard the ship National Geographic Orion. The China Strait is a navigable strait in the Milne Bay Province of Papua New Guinea between mainland New Guinea and Samarai Island.

Experience the world’s premier expedition fleet: intimately scaled ships, cutting-edge exploration tools, and maximum comfort.

Ship Crew on the bridge of the ship National Geographic Orion, Indonesia

Explore with the leader in expedition travel because how you see it matters.

Tua Pittman, Cultural Specialist, in New Zealand.

See the world from a new perspective with a veteran expedition team by your side and leading the way.

South Pacific Expeditions

South Pacific Ships

National Geographic Orion

GUESTS 102

CABINS 53

DECKS 6

An authentic expedition ship, purpose-built for exploring the South Pacific, Asia, the Mediterranean, and beyond.

VIEW SHIP

South Pacific Expedition Team

Every member of the expedition team—from your naturalists and photographers to your expedition leaders—is committed to ensuring you have an unforgettable experience. Many are veteran and locally based guides chosen for their extensive knowledge of subjects like wildlife biology and cultural history, while special guests—including National Geographic Experts—offer additional insights into the South Pacific’s diverse treasures. Exploring in small groups, you’ll hear different perspectives each day of your voyage, and because there are no assigned groups you can gravitate toward the experts who share your interests and inspire your curiosity.

Your knowledgeable and passionate expedition team is complemented by your dedicated hotel team who strives to ensure that your time on board is as comfortable and rewarding as your time on shore.