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Vanuatu, South Pacific

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Embark on an unforgettable journey with Carnival, Australia's favourite cruise line. Our cruise ships are designed to provide you with the ultimate cruise experience, offering a range of cruise itineraries that will take you to the most stunning locations in the South Pacific. Let the bubbles flow like the cascading waterfalls and immerse yourself in the Champagne Bay of a Vanuatu cruise with Carnival. Enjoy our shore excursions, such as snorkelling the coral reefs with tropical fish safari. Experience the tropical spirit and French-style cruise flavours of a Vanuatu cruise will entice you. Whether you're looking for a short getaway or a long vacation, our Pacific Adventure cruise deals are sure to impress. Savour a sparkling taste of South Pacific paradise on our Vanuatu cruises, departing from Sydney and Brisbane.

  • Marvel at the marine life through the crystal-clear bottom of a glass-bottom boat.
  • Stand tall with a stand-up paddleboard session in the blue waters.
  • Experience Melanesian magic on a Keamu Village Tour.
  • Shop hot spots for market and duty-free bargains, harbourside, at Port Vila.

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Cruises to Vanuatu

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Cruise to Vanuatu & the South Pacific

Vanuatu is home to vibrant ecosystems that host some of the oldest living cultures on the planet. Explore beach getaways and see some of the best scenery in the world. It’s a diver’s paradise, with unbelievable visibility, warm temperatures and a range of world-class dive sites. Make friends with turtles, fly down zip lines and discover why Vanuatu is the adventure capital of the South Pacific. In Vanuatu, you'll soon discover that there’s something for everyone.

Why you’ll love a P&O cruise to Vanuatu & the South Pacific

At P&O we’ve spent a lifetime exploring and discovering the South Pacific. We’ve been cruising there for over 86 years - so long we’re practically locals. Choose from a great range of departures from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Auckland ranging from 6 - 16 nights. The South Pacific Islands are a marvel of natural and cultural wonders, right in our backyard - and we can’t wait to take you there.

Visiting Ports

Champagne bay.

This is beach lifestyle at its very best. Just choose a spot on the sand, set up your towel and drink in the serenity. When it comes time for lunch, locals specialise in poulet fish and laplap (ground taro with fish marinated in coconut milk, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked over hot stones). Widely regarded as the Pacific’s most beautiful beach, it’s no wonder our passengers continually vote Champagne Bay as their favourite destination.

READ MORE ABOUT CHAMPAGNE BAY >

  • Mystery Island

Untouched, uninhabited, uninterrupted... you must be on Mystery Island. This tiny island is merely a speck on the world map but offers tonnes of fun. Locals visit from a nearby island to sell community crafts and souvenirs, coconut themed dishes and drinks. While strolling the sandy pathways to white beaches and crystal clear lagoons, you might come across a landing strip used by the Allies in World War II. Swimming, snorkelling or just relaxing by the water’s edge are all ideal ways to while away the hours.

READ MORE ABOUT MYSTERY ISLAND >

Santo is renowned for its World War II sites, diving spots, village culture and blue holes perfect for fresh water swimming. Home to picturesque beaches and pristine lagoons, it has plenty of places to adventure or relax. Take a shore tour and trek on horseback to a ranch to see how Santo cattle herds are reared, or enjoy some game fishing and canoe voyages. Underwater explorers can enjoy the experience of a lifetime with a visit to the wreck of the President Coolidge, one of the world’s most accessible dive sites.

READ MORE ABOUT SANTO >

An adventure lover’s dream, Port Vila awaits. With its strong Melanesian culture and a mix of traditional and modern attractions, you can enjoy everything from diving and abseiling to jetboats and markets. If you’re after something more adventurous, take off in buggies to experience the local flora and fauna. Or sample the local cuisine, famous for its Boeuf Entrecôte and seafood dishes - there’s even a restaurant that serves flying fox! There are hundreds of shore tours to choose from so you’re sure to find something you’ll love.

READ MORE ABOUT PORT VILA

Book your Pacific Islands cruise today

Ready for your trip to paradise? Check out our stunning range of cruises to Vanuatu and the Pacific Islands below:

  • Discover Vanuatu
  • Bounty Adventure
  • Fiji Adventure
  • Fiji Explorer
  • Tongan Discovery (departing from Auckland)
  • Tongan Explorer (departing from Auckland)

Cruises To Vanuatu

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Looking for something else? There are plenty of fish in the sea! Check out our accommodation options , or search all our cruises here:

Pacific Islands

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We've been cruising to the South Pacific for so long we're practically locals.

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Overwater Cabanas in Fiji and Vanuatu

Embrace Island Mystery

Vanuatu & fiji cruises.

Cannonball into a cultural melting pot of azure lagoons, coral wonderlands and tropical waterfalls.

White beaches, dramatic waterfalls, underwater shipwrecks and azure lagoons are the hallmarks of everyday life in Vanuatu and Fiji. In Fiji, you'll find perfect beaches with waters bursting with vibrant coral and rainbows of tropical fish. Cruise to Vanuatu and head to Suva for daring fire walks, a youthful island culture and snorkelling tours. Unwind on the uninhabited beaches of Mystery Island, where you can dive down to explore underwater shipwrecks or wander shores lined with coconut trees. The Vanuatu archipelago is packed with adventure. Trek through the rainforest to feel the thunder of Mele Cascades waterfall and send a postcard from the world's only underwater post office in Port Vila.

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Feel Alive in Fiji and Vanuatu

Cannonball into a cultural melting pot of azure lagoons, coral wonderlands and tropical waterfalls

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Visit a Waterfall, Vanuatu Attractions

CORALS AND CLIFFS

South Pacific enthusiasts insist that the best beaches are in Fiji. But don't take their word for it – go out and test every beach for yourself during your holiday. See technicolor coral off Castaway Island, and laze under palm trees and rocky cliffs on secluded Honeymoon Beach.  

Underwater Paradise Tour in Vanuatu and Fiji

Thar Be Treasure

Vanuatu is dotted with impressive shipwrecks – each home to a treasure trove of marine life. In the depths of Port Vila lies an intact square-rigged boat called The Star of Russia waiting to be explored.

Rope Swing in Fiji, South Pacific Attraction

Can You Say 'Cannonball'?

The rainforests of Vanuatu are rich with waterfalls and things to do, but one stands out in particular. Head to the Mele Cascades waterfall in Port Villa and jump into the pool Tarzan-style on a rope swing.

Snorkeling, Things To Do in Vanuatu and Fiji

ISLAND HOPPER

Tear yourself away from the city sights and take a boat to a surrounding island. Head to Aneityum from Mystery Island and learn to keep your balance during a stand-up paddleboard tour around the island.

Check out the shopping options in port cities. Some cities have local shops where you can find homemade souvenirs, while others have duty-free shops where you can score a bargain.

If you want to bring rum back on the boat, learn the cruise policy before you buy. There's a limit to the amount of alcohol you can carry onto the boat from a port.

Spend your first at sea day planning your excursions. Book ahead so you have a better chance of doing your top activities.

French-inspired COCONUTTY

Island cuisine is dominated by rich mahi-mahi fish, banana and taro root, all expertly dressed in coconut milk and a splash of citrus. Indulge in complex French dished prepared with local ingredients or enjoy simple street food – caught, picked and cooked that day.

Lap lap Vanuatus National Fish

Lap-Lap is Vanuatu's National dish and is famous for its gentle, creamy flavours. Grated yams mixed with banana and coconut milk are cooked in a traditional earth oven creating a pudding-like consistency. Meat like chicken, fish or beef is sometimes added to turn the dish into a main course.

Kokoda Fiji's Ceviche

Raw Flavour

Kokoda is Fiji's version of ceviche – raw mahi-mahi fish soaked in citrus juice and smothered in creamy coconut milk and topped with spring onion. It's served in half a coconut shell as a starter and often includes fruits like pineapple or strawberries for added flavour.

South Pacific Cassava Chips

Even if you aren't an adventurous eater, Cassava chips are the purest island indulgence. Cassava root is cut into chips, boiled, deep-fried and served with a healthy sprinkle of salt.

Related Ports

The South Pacific is a paradise framed by gently swaying palm trees. Let the warm trade winds take you to the wild yet friendly Cook Islands. Experience the diverse cultures firsthand and walk through traditional villages full bustling with life. Soak up the sun in French Polynesia, where the bountiful blue waters provide fresh fish for melt-in-your-mouth French delicacies.

Lautoka, Fiji Islands, Beachcomber Island

Lautoka, Fiji Islands

Mystery Island, Vanuatu Aerial View Paddle Boarding

Mystery Island, Vanuatu

Champagne Bay, Vanuatu Palm Trees

Champagne Bay, Vanuatu

Port Vila, Vanuatu Sky Deck View

Port Vila, Vanuatu

Suva, Fiji Islands Small Waterfall

Suva, Fiji Islands

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Cruise to Vanuatu

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Vanuatu Cruises: Your guide to cruising the South Pacific's best kept secret

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Frequently asked questions

The capital city and one of the busiest ports in the South Pacific, you can wander through the colourful outdoor waterfront market, pick up some duty free and visit the Blue Lagoon. 

Mystery Island 

This tiny speck at the southern edge of Vanuatu is beloved for its pure white sand, crystal clear water, pristine coral reefs and untouched forest.  

Champagne Bay 

Water fizzing over the rocks gives this beautiful bay its name. Enjoy snorkelling and diving, feast on fresh seafood or visit the Nanda Blue Hole. 

A remote island home to the active Mount Yasur volcano, known as the Lighthouse of the Pacific. It’s a rugged drive to the top followed by a short hike to peer over the rim. 

Luganville 

Vanuatu’s second largest city has a unique military history, authentic Ni-Van culture and outdoor adventure in Millennium Cave.

Vanuatu is a year-round destination, so you’ll find cruise ships sailing to these stunning islands every month. The peak season is from May to October, avoiding the wetter months.

Yes, many cruise ships have dedicated kids’ clubs and family activities, as well as shore excursions suitable for all ages. The Ni-Van people are also known for their love of children, so you’ll be sure to receive a warm welcome when you come ashore.

Yes, all cruises will include at least some meals, though specialty restaurants on board may come at an extra cost. When cruising in Vanuatu, some cruise lines may offer special menus with local Melanesian cuisine or host themed dinners.

Yes, a number of luxury cruise lines sail to Vanuatu. Try Ponant, Silversea, Oceania, Regent Seven Seas and Scenic.

Vanuatu is one of the closest South Pacific nations to Australia, so cruises can start from just seven days. If you want to explore more in-depth, extended 14-day adventures will take you to a number of islands and ports.

Definitely! Vanuatu offers stunning coral reefs – you can snorkel straight off the beach in many places or join a guided tour from Port Vila to take you further out on the reef. There are also a number of unique underwater attractions like the wreck of the SS President Coolidge off the coast of Champagne Bay. Avid divers will want to explore Million Dollar Point near Luganville, an incredible underwater site where tonnes of military equipment was dumped after World War II.

Set your wardrobe to ‘tropical cool’ for a Vanuatu cruise – you won’t ever need to dress up to go ashore. Remember to pack your swimsuit, good walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen. Even in winter the temperature never drops below 22 degrees, so the most you’ll need is a light jumper.

You can enjoy onboard entertainment every night on a Vanuatu cruise, including stage shows, live music, comedy, games and more. Many lines will also host cultural performances from the region, such as dancing and traditional music.

Many cruises to Vanuatu depart from Australia (Sydney and Brisbane) and New Zealand (Auckland). If your cruise is departing from Vanuatu itself, the capital Port Vila is the main airport and is well-connected with regular flights from major Australian capitals.

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Vanuatu Cruises

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Cruises to Vanuatu

Sail the scenic South Pacific to discover island adventures on a cruise to Vanuatu with Celebrity. This tropical archipelago is known for its smoldering volcanoes, palm-fringed beaches, and world-class dive sites. You'll find a culture known for its diverse influences, ceremonial dances, and music. In the deep waters around the islands, you’ll discover abundant marine life, and wrecks of WWII airplanes and other vessels to explore.

Snorkel or scuba dive the clear blue waters of Hideaway Island and explore the steaming Ambrym volcano on foot or by a thrilling helicopter tour. Visit the capital city of Port Vila, home to great duty-free shopping and colorful markets. Take a trip to Luganville, where you can learn about WWII history at the Million Dollar Point wreck site, or swim and relax at Champagne Beach. Spend the day on Mystery Island, a small uninhabited islet where you can relax on the warm white sand or snorkel over the nearby reef. See the best of the region on a South Pacific cruise with Celebrity.

Vanuatu Cruise Highlights

Coral reefs and shipwrecks.

In the calm ocean water surrounding the islands of Vanuatu, you will find exquisite coral reefs that are home to sea turtles, reef sharks, and an abundance of colorful tropical fish. Vanuatu's most famous dive site is the shipwreck of the SS President Coolidge, which sank in 1942 after hitting two American mines. The ship is now a protected marine site and is one of the largest wrecks in the world that is accessible to divers of all levels.

Blissful Beaches

Vanuatu boasts pristine, white-sand beaches on each of its islands with plenty of tropical shores to explore during your cruise. You can find secluded beaches for relaxing and snorkeling, among them Eton Beach on the island of Efate. You'll also find busier beaches, like  Port Vila's Iririki Island Beach Resort, the perfect spot for beach games, jet-skiing, and windsurfing. Many of Vanuatu's beaches are fringed with coconut palms, adding to the idyllic tropical atmosphere of the islands.

Dining & Cultural Ceremonies

You will find a diverse range of dining options in Vanuatu that showcase the wide array of cultural influences of the Melanesian, French, British, and Chinese, all of whom have all called Vanuatu home. There are also many dance shows and other traditional cultural ceremonies that highlight the rich heritage of the nation and its people. You might see a ceremonial ritual called a “sand drawing”, where artists tell stories via temporary images in the sand. You can also try a traditional dish like lap-lap, made with yam, coconut milk, and vegetables.

Featured Vanuatu Cruise Ports

Mystery Island

Vanuatu Cruise Itineraries

Set sail across the South Pacific on cruises that bring you to some of the most exquisite islands in the world. These itineraries start in Sydney, Australia and last for 10, 11, 13, and 17 nights, with a longer, transpacific option available. Sail to ports like Vila and Mystery Island in Vanuatu, as well as further destinations in Oceania and Hawaii, depending on your itinerary.

Itineraries

Why cruise to vanuatu with celebrity cruises.

On a cruise to Vanuatu, you'll enjoy accommodations and onboard amenities as you sail to some of the South Pacific's most beautiful and unspoiled islands. Rejuvenate your body and mind with a swim in the pool at the adults-only Solarium, or a massage at The Spa. Taste delicious dishes curated by world-renowned chefs at our specialty restaurants and enjoy drinks at the elegant Martini Bar and a Broadway-style production show.

In Vanuatu, you’ll be able to snorkel over the coral reefs that circle Efate Island, teeming with parrotfish, butterfly fish, and sweetlips. Visit the Port Vila Markets, where you can find fresh tropical fruits and vegetables, hand-carved woodwork, and locally made jewelry. Unwind with a glass of kava, a traditional local beverage, while you watch the sunset over the peaceful Mystery Island. Unwind on a cruise to Vanuatu with Celebrity Cruises. 

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P&O Australia’s Pacific Explorer Makes Final Visit to Sydney

  • July 13, 2024

Pacific Explorer

The Pacific Explorer made its final visit to Sydney, Australia on July 4, 2024. As P&O Cruises Australia winds down in 2025 , the ship is set to be withdrawn from service in February.

The farewell call in Sydney was part of a four-night repositioning cruise to Auckland. Sailing from the Australian city, the one-way sailing also marked the start of the ship’s last season in New Zealand.

The Pacific Explorer is now offering a series of three- to 13-night cruises to the South Pacific that sail through mid October.

The itineraries feature visits to destinations in Fiji, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Espiritu Santo and Tonga, as well as other ports in Australia and New Zealand.

Before leaving the P&O Cruises’ fleet , the 1,998-guest vessel is also set to offer cruises departing from Melbourne, Adelaide and Fremantle.

The ship’s farewell cruise will be an 11-night voyage to Singapore scheduled for February 7, 2025. Sailing from Fremantle, the itinerary also features visits to Indonesia and Malaysia.

Formerly operated by Princess Cruises as the Dawn Princess, the Pacific Explorer was transferred to P&O Cruises Australia in June 2017 .

After a major refurbishment in Singapore , the 1997-built vessel also spent its inaugural season sailing from Sydney.

During its seven-year stint Down Under, the Pacific Explorer also sailed from other homeports in the region, such as Adelaide, Brisbane and Fremantle.

The P&O Cruises Australia brand will be discontinued in March 2025, as the company’s operations are absorbed by Carnival Cruise Line.

While the Pacific Explorer is expected to be sold off to a new operator, the Pacific Encounter and the Pacific Adventure will be incorporated into Carnival’s fleet .

Renamed the Carnival Encounter and Carnival Adventure, the vessels will continue to operate out of Australia on a year-round basis.

The Carnival Splendor and the Carnival Luminosa will also maintain their scheduled operations from Australian ports.

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Port Cruise Representative, DCL, Bench (Port Canaveral, FL) Seasonal

Job summary:, responsibilities:.

  • Deliver a flawless experience for all of our Guests to ensure the experience supports the Five Keys- Safety, Courtesy, Inclusion, Show and Efficiency
  • Ability to work with minimal direction, proactively engaging and interacting with Guests to answer questions, give directions and other information
  • Perform efficient automated check-in functions on tablets and/or handheld devices
  • Maintain strong observation skills with high level of detail
  • Prolong standing and walking to various areas of the terminal to perform and maintain crowd control during peak operational hours in both indoor and outdoor settings during different weather conditions
  • Comfortable speaking in front of large groups or audiences
  • Provide Guest Service and help find solutions when challenges arise with Guests and Cast Members
  • Perform multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Cast Members may be required to handle cleaning chemicals and supplies

Basic Qualifications:

  • Knowledge of Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney World products
  • Navigate between multiple and concurrent computer applications
  • Computer and technical proficiency
  • Physical role requiring heavy lifting up to 40-50 lbs, pushing, pulling, bending, twisting, and kneeling. This would include using a broom/mop
  • Verbal and interpersonal communication skills
  • Seasonal requires six (6) full days of availability every month for any shift, including early mornings, nights, and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Previous Cruise Line experience
  • Hotel Guest Service Experience

Additional Information:

Disability accommodation for employment applications, about disney cruise line:.

A leader in the cruise industry, Disney Cruise Line provides a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and children can experience all the magic that Disney has to offer. Guests can sail out of ports around the world on exciting itineraries to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska and Europe, among others. Aboard the fleet of five ships – the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish – and Disney’s private island paradise in the Bahamas - Castaway Cay, crew members provide guests with unparalleled service, enchanting storytelling and immersive family entertainment that only Disney can deliver.

About The Walt Disney Company:

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.

This position is with Magical Cruise Company, Limited , which is part of a business we call Disney Cruise Line .

Magical Cruise Company, Limited is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.

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Holland America Line Opens Bookings for 2026 Grand World Voyage, Unveils 2026 Grand Australia and New Zealand Itinerary

Volendam and Zaandam to sail 132- and 93-day itineraries, respectively, exploring a combined 80 ports across the globe in roundtrip voyages from U.S. homeports 

Seattle, Washington, May 14, 2024 — Holland America Line has officially opened bookings for its 2026 Grand World Voyage aboard Volendam. The premium cruise line also unveiled and opened bookings for its 2026 Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage on Zaandam. The two extended cruises sail roundtrip from the United States in January 2026 and will rendezvous in Sydney, Australia, during their journeys.

The newly unveiled Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage offers guests an immersive journey Down Under while also exploring Hawaii, Fiji, French Polynesia, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu across the South Pacific. With 10 extended port visits, guests have more time to explore the culture and nightlife in destinations like Papeete, Tahiti, and Raiatea, French Polynesia.

“Our Grand Voyages are renowned for connecting guests with the world’s most fascinating places while sailing roundtrip from the United States,” said Beth Bodensteiner, chief commercial officer for Holland America Line. “Our team crafted this itinerary to show guests the parts of Australia and New Zealand they expect to visit, but also included frequently asked for, but rarely visited, ports throughout Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.”

With the Grand World Voyage sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and the Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage cruising roundtrip from San Diego, California, travelers can explore a variety of global destinations in ease without the need for international or long-haul air.

The Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage will visit 44 ports across 10 countries over the 93-day voyage. Guests sailing on this cruise will be privy to an intimate experience on one of Holland America Line’s perfectly sized ships, offering access to smaller ports.

The 2026 Grand World Voyage, which was announced in February but is now available for booking, will sail to 48 ports across 25 countries on an east-to-west route — traveling as far south as Antarctica and as far north as Oslo, Norway. Guests will experience all seven continents during the journey.

On March 7, 2026, Volendam and Zaandam will be at Sydney together. Zaandam arrives March 6 for an overnight, and Volendam arrives March 7 for an overnight.

2026 Grand Australia and New Zealand Highlights — Zaandam

·  93-day voyage. Departs Jan. 4, 2026, roundtrip from San Diego.

· The ship heads southwest and around the Hawaiian Islands with an overnight in Honolulu before continuing south, island hopping around Fiji and the South Pacific. Zaandam explores the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea before nearly circling the Australia and visiting New Zealand before heading northeast through Tonga and French Polynesia, returning to San Diego.

· 44 total ports in 10 countries across two continents.

· Two-day Great Barrier Reef scenic cruising experience in the Ribbon Reef Region and Far North Region.

· Six overnight calls: Honolulu, Hawaii; Fremantle (Perth), Sydney and Hobart, Australia; Auckland, New Zealand; and Papeete.

· Four late-night departures: Adelaide, Australia; and Moorea, Raiatea and Huahine, French Polynesia.

2026 Grand World Voyage Highlights — Volendam

· 132-day voyage. Departs Jan. 4, 2026, roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale.

· Volendam heads south along the east coast of South America, crossing the equator and sailing down to Antarctica for a four-day scenic cruising experience. The ship then makes its way up the west coast of South America and over to Easter Island before traversing the islands of the South Pacific en route to Australia. Volendam explores Singapore and the Maldives, then calls at Alexandria, Egypt, for an overnight stay before meandering through the Mediterranean and northern Europe, ending with an Atlantic Ocean crossing.

· 48 total ports in 25 countries across seven continents.

· Nine overnight calls: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Papeete; Sydney; Bali, Indonesia; Singapore; Malé, Maldives; Safaga (Luxor) and Alexandria (Cairo), Egypt; and Lisbon, Portugal.

·Five late-night departures: Moorea, French Polynesia; Colombo, Sri Lanka; Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; Oslo, Norway; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

· NEW: A rare Grand cruise through the Gironde Estuary to Bordeaux, France.

Early Booking Bonus Benefits

Guests who book the full 132-day Grand World Voyage or 93-day Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage by June 16, 2025, receive onboard spending credits and amenities valued at up to $9,350 or $7,900 respectively, per person. Perks for all guests who book early feature a $500 air credit per person if booked through Flight Ease, complimentary roundtrip airport transfers, a $500 Grand Mariner Discount for past guests and a 3% pay-in-full discount.

Additional extras can include onboard credits up to $2,000 per guest, complimentary luggage delivery service to and from the airport, prepaid crew appreciation, a free shore excursion and laundry and dry-cleaning service when booking certain stateroom categories. Terms and conditions apply. Visit hollandamerica.com for full details.

A Grand Onboard Experience

On each Grand Voyage, Holland America Line ships provide gracious service, superior amenities and unexpected experiences. Guests can relax during leisurely days at sea, taking advantage of the extra time to participate in shipboard activities. Shipboard entertainment shines in the evening with local cultural performers and special guest headliners. Festive gala balls and dressy nights create memorable moments, along with a Captain’s Grand Voyage Dinner. Dining is elevated to a new level on each Grand Voyage with menus that change daily and are seldom repeated, featuring local ingredients and regional cuisine.

Nicole Kidman on marriage, marijuana and the making of Stanley Kubrick’s ‘Eyes Wide Shut’

Animation by Tomasz Czajka / For The Times; photos by Warner Bros. Pictures

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“Eyes Wide Shut” was Stanley Kubrick’s final film. He died four months before its release. It took its stars — Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, Hollywood’s most famous couple — off the market for nearly two years, as what was supposed to be a six-month shoot stretched on indefinitely, to the point where Kidman seriously began to wonder: Is this ever going to end?

Not that she was in any hurry to leave.

“I would have stayed a third year,” Kidman tells me. “Does that mean I’m crazy?”

The protracted buildup led to wild speculation and curiosity about the movie, which had been teased as a “story of sexual jealousy and obsession.” When it was finally released on July 16, 1999, the response was muted, tinged with disappointment. But its reputation and its mysteries have deepened over the years. Christopher Nolan calls it “the ‘2001’ of relationship movies.” He is not entirely wrong.

The 1999 Project

All year we’ll be marking the 25th anniversary of pop culture milestones that remade the world as we knew it then and created the world we live in now. Welcome to The 1999 Project, from the Los Angeles Times.

Kidman and I have talked about the film many times over the years. With “Eyes Wide Shut” marking its 25th anniversary, it felt like a good occasion to deepen the discussion.

You told me once that Kubrick jettisoned a scene in “Eyes Wide Shut” that you had spent six weeks filming. What scene?

Maybe that was an exaggeration. [Laughs.] It was the scene with Tom and I where I start by smoking the spliff in bed and where I laugh and deliver the long monologue. That took many weeks. A lot of that was rehearsing in the bedroom and then him not liking what we’d done. So we ended up reworking it, constructing it as we went along. There was no need to rush. Stanley would never go over budget. What he bought was time.

How did that scene evolve?

Just a lot of talking. When Tom and I first started with Stanley, it was at his home, and we didn’t even go over to the sets at Pinewood [Studios]. Six, eight weeks passed, and we’re wondering, “Are we ever going to start?” And we just wouldn’t start. We were getting comfortable with each other, comfortable enough to throw out ideas. For that scene, we improvised the beginning of it through the rehearsals.

Did you feel like he was mining your own marriage to inform the relationship between Bill and Alice?

I suppose he was mining it. There were ideas he was interested in. He’d ask a lot of questions. But he had a strong sense of the story he was telling. I do remember him saying, “Triangles are hard. You have to tread carefully when it’s a triangle.” Because one person could feel ganged up on. But he was aware of that and knew how to manage us.

Did you ever feel ganged up on?

No. But there’s something about being a woman in that equation, too. And Stanley liked women. He had a different relationship with Tom. They worked more closely together on his character.

So you’re having these conversations, getting to know each other , and he’s shaping the script. What part of yourself did you bring to Alice?

My boldness. I’m quite up-front and Alice becomes quite up-front, particularly when she was stoned ... although that wasn’t me when I was stoned. I was just naturally like that. Up-front.

How much experience in being stoned did you bring to the role?

Oh, I smoked when I was younger. But it definitely wasn’t of interest then.

I remember reading somewhere that Kubrick told you something like, “Remember, Nicole. The key to the scene is that Alice is stoned.”

And I probably would have said, “Of course, Stanley. Yeah. Got it.”

The great thing about him is that he told us, “Don’t put me on a pedestal.” That’s the No. 1 rule. Because when we came to his house, we were like, “Oh, my God. The great Stanley Kubrick.” And that kind of thinking hinders the creative process. He didn’t want sycophants. He told us to throw ideas out. And everyone has to wait at least 10 seconds before they say no to an idea. I heard that, and I’m in my 20s, and I’m like, “OK. It’s on.” It was experimental, like making student films in Australia.

That boldness comes through when Alice is dancing with the Hungarian guy who’s trying to seduce her.

“I’m maaaaar r ied.” I love when I’m shaking my finger at him. All that wasn’t scripted. It came out of rehearsing.

She draws out a lot of words while she’s dancing with him.

I’ve definitely been drunk on champagne, so I knew how to do that. [Laughs.] And I’m sure I’ve said “I’m married” to different people at different times, so that’s good too.

Meanwhile, Bill is hitting on the two young models, which Alice sees. Before that bedroom scene, she grabs the joint from a Band-Aid box and she looks at herself in the vanity mirror. There’s definitely a sense that she’s about to start something. She’s ready for a confrontation.

Mmm-hmmm. To dig around. But these were conversations we never had with Stanley, what you and I are doing now.

He didn’t like burrowing into the scenes?

“Why” was the most irritating question to him. It is to a lot of directors. I remember saying it to Philip Roth [author of “The Human Stain,” adapted into a 2003 film starring Kidman] and him going, “Don’t ever ask me that.” Then he gave me a signed copy of the book that he had inscribed, “Why not?”

So Kubrick would just get what he wanted by wearing you down?

I don’t know how he would get it. But in that scene, I suppose that was why he cast me. That mischief, that provocative nature, he found that out and it got more imbued into Alice. The scene where I drop the dress ... that was me. That wasn’t written. That was my dress from my closet. “This is how I take off the dress, Stanley.” Because I had a lot of clothes, we weren’t paying to buy clothes. And Stanley had come over and I was showing him all these beautiful dresses. That’s how that happened.

Are you aware of how that monologue [Alice telling Bill, “If you men only knew” and then revealing her sexual fantasy about the naval officer] has taken on a life of its own? Frank Ocean used the whole thing in “Love Crimes.”

Get out! Are you kidding me? I love that. Thank you, Frank Ocean!

When I watched the movie again recently, I was taking notes and wrote, “Bill’s a s—.” I think Alice had been holding a lot and this scene was her —

Poking him. Or maybe it opens him up.

Well, that revelation devastates him.

But human beings are devastating. And you don’t ever have real access to somebody’s thoughts. You may know someone. And you may not. It’s not the things we may want to hear, but it’s deeply honest.

James Joyce has that short story that I had already read before “Eyes Wide Shut” where something is found out within 15 seconds that literally destroys the marriage there on the spot, even though it was a very good marriage. Because it was based on what they thought each person was. And then it’s like, “You were never the person I thought you were.”

Stanley always said animals are far more honest than humans. I remember we were watching a wildlife show on lions and the lion went in and ferociously attacked. He was upset by that, but also said, “Well, at least animals are more readable. You know what their motives are.”

Did you agree with him?

No! I’d tell him, “That’s not true!” [Laughs.] And he‘d say, “Nicole. Nicole.” But I like to have a more hopeful sense of humans, which I’d always try to argue in my youthful enthusiasm.

You have the last word in the last Stanley Kubrick movie . [After Alice tells Bill there’s something they “need to do as soon as possible,” he asks, “What’s that?” She answers with one word.]

And it’s a pretty good word. [Laughs.] And that came out of the rehearsal process too. When you watch it, it’s great because it’s a base, primal thing to do. But I’ve never thought of that. I have the last line in the final Stanley Kubrick movie. No one has ever said that to me. That’s a career in itself. I’ll take it.

What do people say to you when they talk about the movie?

They want to know what it was like to spend that much time making it, which I understand. It was two years of our lives! [Laughs.] I remember Sydney Pollack when he arrived, telling us, “I’m only going to be here for about three days. And it seems like we got the scene today.” And Tom and I just looked at each other, going, “Mmm-hmmm. Sure, Sydney.”

You didn’t tell him? You figured he’d discover the truth soon enough?

No. It was like [brightly], “Welcome!” By the end, we’re learning how to make pasta because he’s a great cook, Sydney. Stanley would come to our trailer, we’d eat. In the little kitchen in our trailer, Sydney would make this unbelievable artichoke pasta with [Parmigiano-]Reggiano and this incredible olive oil and roast chicken.

We had a home 10 minutes away, but we lived in that trailer. Tom and I shared it because Stanley would say, “You’re not each getting a trailer. We can’t afford it.” Tom had a smaller area because he was running stuff. And he’d play video games. That was when [“Minesweeper”] was big. So there was a lot of that.

Are you aware that watching “Eyes Wide Shut” has become a Christmas movie ritual for some?

Sheesh. That’s an odd Christmas movie! [Laughs.] Well, there’s so many layers to all of his films, which is why we keep coming back to them.

Do you think the finished film was his final cut?

Oh, yeah. He had been editing it for 18 months. It wasn’t like he didn’t have enough time. He was very happy with it. For him to show it to us, that is huge, if you know Stanley. And the Warners people were there. He wasn’t going back to the drawing board.

Have you ever seen it again since that initial screening in March in New York, shortly before he died?

I’ve seen bits of it. But I’ve never watched it all the way through. [Pause.] Maybe I’ll watch it at Christmas. [Laughs.]

It’s not a film you’re going to sit down and watch with your daughters, is it?

Definitely not. At the AFI [Life Achievement Award] tribute, they saw the scene where I get stoned. They showed that and I was like, “Ooooh. Golly. OK.” I sat next to my daughter, Sunday, watching that.

Did she say anything to you?

She said, “Mom, that was good.” And then they showed that scene in “Birth,” the one you and I talked about , and she said, “That was really good.” And I watched that scene and thought, “Wow. That was really good.” And I never do that.

You probably hadn’t seen that in ages either.

People watching their own films feels slightly odd to me. I’m OK celebrating directors because it’s their work. But my own little part of it, it’s like [groans]. But if you’re a director, it’s lovely to hear that you’re proud of it. So I’m very, very proud of it. I say that to you, Stanley up there, if you’re listening to me. He knows that anyway.

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    Many cruises to Vanuatu depart from Australia (Sydney and Brisbane) and New Zealand (Auckland). If your cruise is departing from Vanuatu itself, the capital Port Vila is the main airport and is well-connected with regular flights from major Australian capitals.

  16. 14 Nights Fiji & Vanuatu Cruise from Sydney, Australia

    Set sail on the Celebrity Edge for 14 Nights and experience the best of Australia and New Zealand on the Fiji & Vanuatu Cruise. Book your Celebrity Cruises today!

  17. 9 Night Vanuatu & New Caledonia Cruise on the Pacific Adventure. Cruise

    Vanuatu & New Caledonia cruise on the P&O Australia Pacific Adventure departing on the Monday, 18 December 2023 from Sydney for a 9 nights. PA23-V357.1 Experience all the Vanuatu & New Caledonia has to offer. All our fares include meals, taxes & port fees.

  18. 14 Nights Fiji & Vanuatu from Sydney, Australia

    Set sail on the Celebrity Edge for 14 Nights and experience the best of Australia and New Zealand on the Fiji & Vanuatu. Book your Celebrity Cruise today!

  19. Sydney, New Caledonia & Vanuatu: 7 Night Cruise with Nouméa & Mystery

    Embark on a sensational seven-night cruise departing from Sydney aboard Royal Caribbean International's Ovation of the Seas - one of the boldest and biggest ships in the fleet.

  20. Vanuatu Cruises

    Are you looking for a cruise to Vanuatu? Choose from 75 unique cruise itineraries to Vanuatu, departing from Auckland, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Dunedin and more. December is the most popular month to cruise to Vanuatu and we have over 113 departures available from eleven of the world's leading cruise lines.

  21. Vanuatu Cruise: Best Cruises to Vanuatu 2024 & 2025

    Vanuatu boasts pristine, white-sand beaches on each of its islands with plenty of tropical shores to explore during your cruise. You can find secluded beaches for relaxing and snorkeling, among them Eton Beach on the island of Efate. You'll also find busier beaches, like Port Vila's Iririki Island Beach Resort, the perfect spot for beach games ...

  22. 25 BEST Vanuatu Cruises 2024 (Prices

    Looking for cruises to Vanuatu? Get the latest deals for Vanuatu cruises on Cruise Critic. Find and plan your next cruise to Vanuatu with cabin price comparison, variety of departure ports and ...

  23. Princess Tahiti / South Pacific Cruise, 11 Nights From Sydney, Crown

    See low rates on this 11 Night Princess Tahiti / South Pacific departing Sydney 12/3/2024 on the Crown Princess. Book online with iCruise.com or call 1-800-427-8473.

  24. Mystery Island shore excursion, Vanuatu: This island is what dreams are

    We've travelled to Mystery Island on board Quantum of the Seas, one of the biggest ships to cruise from Australia, with capacity for more than 4900 passengers.

  25. P&O Australia's Pacific Explorer Makes Final Visit to Sydney

    The Pacific Explorer made its final visit to Sydney, Australia on July 4, 2024. As P&O Cruises Australia winds down in 2025, the ship is set to be withdrawn from service in February. The farewell call in Sydney was part of a four-night repositioning cruise to Auckland. Sailing from the Australian ...

  26. Port Cruise Representative, DCL, Bench (Port Canaveral, FL) Seasonal

    Learn more about and apply for the Port Cruise Representative, DCL, Bench (Port Canaveral, FL) Seasonal job at DISNEY here.

  27. Holland America Line Opens Bookings for 2026 Grand World Voyage

    The premium cruise line also unveiled and opened bookings for its 2026 Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage on Zaandam. The two extended cruises sail roundtrip from the United States in January 2026 and will rendezvous in Sydney, Australia, during their journeys.

  28. Nicole Kidman on making 'Eyes Wide Shut' with Kubrick, Cruise

    The mysteries of Kubrick's final film have only deepened in the 25 years since its premiere. Star Nicole Kidman breaks down her experience, both on camera and behind the scenes.