Seven Seas Mariner - January 10, 2026

Explore all that Miami has to offer, from the magnificent Port of Miami, to the world famous Everglades and Biscayne National Parks, historic Coconut Grove, and trendy South Beach. Other attractions include the Miami Seaquarium , Miami MetroZoo, and sports teams the Dolphins, Heat and Marlins. No wonder so many celebrities, such as Gloria Estefan, Madonna and Ricky Martin, call Miami home.

Explore all that Miami has to offer, from the magnificent Port of Miami, to the world famous Everglades and Biscayne National Parks, historic Coconut Grove, and trendy South Beach. Other attractions include the Miami Seaquarium , Miami MetroZoo, and sports teams the Dolphins, Heat and Marlins. No wonder so many celebrities, such as Gloria Estefan, Madonna and Ricky Martin, call Miami home.

Once the port where the wealth of the New World flowed back to the Old, Cartagena also served as a notorious base for privateers and pirates. Today, you can stroll the tree-lined Spanish colonial artistry of old in the streets and see the works of the Gold Museum. The port is also a great place to find bargains on emeralds.

Spend an unforgettable day cruising the Panama Canal, a fifty-one-mile waterway through the rainforest that is one of the world's engineering masterpieces. The ship glides down the canal with inches to spare, through locks that raise and lower it like a toy. Along the way it crosses enormous Gatun Lake, and the amazing Gaillard Cut, blasted out of a solid mountainside.

Puntarenas is a paradise of sand beaches, pristine rainforests, and tranquil turquoise seas. Guests will find themselves in a watersport-lover's paradise, with fun-filled options ranging from water skiing to scuba diving readily available throughout the province. Puntarenas boasts mild weather and tropical sunshine, offering languid days to spend relaxing in the surf and sand.

Nicaragua's principal port on the Pacific Ocean, Corinto is located in sheltered Corinto Bay, which lies at the southeastern end of low-lying Aserradores (Punta Icaco) Island, connected by bridges with the mainland. It is the main port of entry for passengers and cargo bound for Nicaragua, and it handles most of the country's exports.

The festive strains of a marimba band are never far away in Puerto Quetzal, your gateway to Guatemala's authentic Amerindian culture. Enjoy an excursion to Antigua, the former colonial capital, celebrated for its European flavor and magnificent architecture.

Whitewashed villas ring magnificent Acapulco Bay, forming an unforgettable spectacle. View Mexico's premier Pacific playground from the scenic highway above the harbor, then stop to enjoy Acapulco's most famous attraction: the daredevil cliff-divers of La Quebrada, who pray at a nearby chapel, then plunge from the 130-foot-high cliffs.

Sail past Los Arcos, the soaring rock archway at the extreme southern tip of Baja California that guards Cabo's perfect harbor. This idyllic bay once sheltered treasure ships from the Orient, and pirate brigs bent on those treasures. Now Cabo caters to an international vacation set, and has a strong artistic tradition famous for its black-coral jewelry.

The merchants and friendly residents of Hilo invite you to take time to explore and discover this wonderful city. Visit the many unique and one-of-a-kind stores featuring Hawaiiana (vintage island treasures). Shop for distinctive designer dresses and shirts, and see the famous Hilo Farmer's Market, or stop off for a bite to eat at one of the many local restaurants.

Kahului, with its bustling harbor and busy shopping complexes, offers visitors the chance to find spectacular bargains. The piers along the waterfront, lined with container-cargo ships and weekly cruise ships, are the embarkation point for Maui's sugar and pineapple crops. You can also watch the containers being loaded onto and unloaded from the many ships.

Honolulu offers many wonderful attractions. Aloha Tower is famous for greeting all who arrive in the port of Honolulu, and has the best views of the city. The Bishop Museum has the world's largest collection of Hawaiian and Pacific artifacts, and the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on American soil, has served as the residence of the last two Hawaiian monarchs.

Honolulu offers many wonderful attractions. Aloha Tower is famous for greeting all who arrive in the port of Honolulu, and has the best views of the city. The Bishop Museum has the world's largest collection of Hawaiian and Pacific artifacts, and the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on American soil, has served as the residence of the last two Hawaiian monarchs.

Established as Kauai's principal port in 1930, Nawiliwili was named for the Wiliwili trees that were once abundant in the area. Cruise ships make port in the picturesque harbor, which is overlooked by the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club. Visitors enjoy the crystal clear waters and pristine beaches Hawaii is famous for, while in Nawiliwili.

Established as Kauai's principal port in 1930, Nawiliwili was named for the Wiliwili trees that were once abundant in the area. Cruise ships make port in the picturesque harbor, which is overlooked by the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club. Visitors enjoy the crystal clear waters and pristine beaches Hawaii is famous for, while in Nawiliwili.

Fanning Island, one of the many coral atolls of the Republic of Kiribati, lies in the center of the Pacific Ocean. The island epitomizes the South Pacific with palm trees, blue lagoons, white sand beaches, and friendly locals. Tourism is very much in its infancy here; the majority of visitors are sea birds, including terns, shearwaters, and skuas.

Rangiroa is the largest atoll of the Tuamotu Archipelago which comprises 78 coral atolls, scattered over several hundred miles of the eastern Pacific Ocean governed by French Polynesia. Life on these remote atolls is simple, quiet and peaceful. The interior lagoons are a haven for black pearl farms, fish breeding farms, snorkeling and scuba diving.

Raiatea is the second largest island of French Polynesia after Tahiti. A tour of the island will reveal lush green valleys, numerous waterfalls, pineapple and vanilla plantations. Discover fascinating underwater scenery within Raiatea's deep lagoon which is rich with fish, and surrounded by mountains.

James Michener called it the most beautiful island in the South Pacific. You may confirm his opinion, either by the local "Le Truck" transport, 4-wheel-drive van, or in a helicopter overhead. And the offshore beauty is accessible by a glass-bottomed boat or by snorkeling.

James Michener called it the most beautiful island in the South Pacific. You may confirm his opinion, either by the local "Le Truck" transport, 4-wheel-drive van, or in a helicopter overhead. And the offshore beauty is accessible by a glass-bottomed boat or by snorkeling.

The largest of the Society Islands in French Polynesia, Tahiti held a magical attraction for artist Paul Gauguin and writer Robert Louis Stevenson. To understand why, simply listen to the winds whistling through casuarina trees on a secluded black-sand beach, or stroll through beautiful botanical gardens and marvel at island flora.

Here, you'll find the real South Seas' experience -- a casual, barefoot existence amidst white sand beaches and multi-hued lagoons surrounded by jagged mountains and volcanic spires that reach into the clouds, while below, valleys are blanketed with the colors that one only finds when tropical climates and rich, volcanic soils meet.

The largest of the Society Islands in French Polynesia, Tahiti held a magical attraction for artist Paul Gauguin and writer Robert Louis Stevenson. To understand why, simply listen to the winds whistling through casuarina trees on a secluded black-sand beach, or stroll through beautiful botanical gardens and marvel at island flora.

Less visited than the other Society Islands, Huahine maintains more of the traditional pace of life. There are ancient fares (temples) to explore, vanilla plantations to view or drives into the hinterlands in 4-wheel-drive-vans. The coral reefs offshore are excellent for snorkeling.

Pago Pago--pronounced Pango Pango --is the capital of American Samoa, a small island in the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a traditional Polynesian feast. Be thrilled by the native singing, dancing, and music. Tuna canneries dominate the city. Also close by are the National Park of American Samoa, traditional Ta'u Island, and Aunu'u Island, a place of natural splendor.

After years of wandering the south seas, Robert Louis Stevenson chose this paradise as his home. If you like, visit his house and Aggie Grey's hotel. After touring the island, you'll come to understand why the Reverend John Williams, the first European to visit Apia, dubbed Samoa the "Friendly Islands."

Suva sits on the southeast shores of mountainous Viti Levu ("Great Fiji"), largest of the over 800 islands which comprise the Republic of Fiji. Local folk traditions remain strong, like fire walks and welcoming ceremonies, wood-carving and the fabrication of tree-bark cloth. The island's proud history is showcased in the Fiji Museum, with its impressive collection of war canoes.

Lautoka is a very clean city and environmental concerned. It has a wonderful botanical garden and children's park. The main street of the city, Vitogo Parade, has been decorated with the planting of royal palm trees on one side. The city's municipal market, which has a floor area of about 58,000m, is another attraction for both residents and tourists.

Vanuatu's capital, Port Vila, is an exciting, bustling town that curves around Vila Bay and creeps up its steep hillsides. You will find interesting shops, bars, and restaurants featuring the islands' specialty, flying fox, or coconut crab. The rugged island offers horseback riding, hiking to waterfalls, river canoeing and kayaking, plus snorkeling and scuba diving trips in Port Vila.

The Loyalty Islands are a coral group in the South Pacific, part of the French overseas territory of New Caledonia. The group comprises three islands (Lifou, Mare, and Ouvea) and many islets and has a total land area of c.800 sq mi. The chief exports are coconuts and copra.

New Zealand's largest city is draped over seven volcanoes and wrapped around Waitemata Harbour (meaning "sea of sparkling waters" in Maori). Despite its British feel, it is the world's largest Polynesian city. Shop for Polynesian crafts on Queen Street, the main drag. Or from atop Mt. Eden, overlook the "City of Sails," which will host the America's Cup races in 2000.

New Zealand's largest city is draped over seven volcanoes and wrapped around Waitemata Harbour (meaning "sea of sparkling waters" in Maori). Despite its British feel, it is the world's largest Polynesian city. Shop for Polynesian crafts on Queen Street, the main drag. Or from atop Mt. Eden, overlook the "City of Sails," which will host the America's Cup races in 2000.

The Bay of Islands is one of the most picturesque and popular holiday sites in New Zealand. It combines great fishing, diving, sailing and other watersports with some of New Zealand's most significant historic sites. One of the most popular attractions is the Hole in the Rock, off Cape Brett. You can take a boating trip through the hole in a huge rock outcrop. Also popular are dolphin swimming and diving trips to the sunken Rainbow Warrior wreck.

Say 'G'day' to one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Stroll along the world-famous Bondi and Watsons Beaches. Tour the Sydney Opera House on Bennelong Point, shop for Aboriginal art, or go on a photographic safari. This diverse land is home to crocodiles, koalas, emus, and, of course, kangaroos.

Say 'G'day' to one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Stroll along the world-famous Bondi and Watsons Beaches. Tour the Sydney Opera House on Bennelong Point, shop for Aboriginal art, or go on a photographic safari. This diverse land is home to crocodiles, koalas, emus, and, of course, kangaroos.

Cairns was founded in 1876 as a port for the inland gold mines of Queensland. It is now the heart of the Tropical North of Queensland, and is one of Australia's most welcoming cities. Stroll, relax, fly a kite, or have a barbecue on the Esplanade, a popular gathering area. Enjoy several great beaches just north of the city. Cairns is also a great place to watch migratory birds.

Levelled by a cyclone in 1974, Darwin has rebuilt itself from scratch. Wide tree-lined streets, well-designed public buildings, and acres of park land make this an ideal tropical capital. The attitude of the locals is casual and relaxed, and the young demographic keeps things moving. Darwin's location makes it the ideal jump-off point for sojourns into Australia's natural splendour.

Levelled by a cyclone in 1974, Darwin has rebuilt itself from scratch. Wide tree-lined streets, well-designed public buildings, and acres of park land make this an ideal tropical capital. The attitude of the locals is casual and relaxed, and the young demographic keeps things moving. Darwin's location makes it the ideal jump-off point for sojourns into Australia's natural splendour.

Surabaya exhibits a strong influence from its colonial past. You'll get the feel of being in a 1930's Asian village in some parts of Surabaya, of being in a Dutch colony in others, and in an Islamic city in others. The mosques in Surabaya are quite impressive. Be sure to plan a visit to the Surabaya Zoo to see a family of Komodo dragons.

Semerang serves as the gateway to the Javanese city of Borobudur, site of an eighth century temple, the largest Buddhist monument on earth! View the dramatic carved towers and pathways that depict the life of Buddha.

Ho Chi Minh City is the economic center of Vietnam. Until the reunification of North and South Vietnam in April 1975 the city's name was Saigon. The Communist government of Hanoi renamed it in honour of Ho Chi Minh, the leader of the Communist forces during the Vietnam War. But the inhabitants of the city have never quite gotten accustomed to the new name and thus still prefer the old name,Saigon.

Ho Chi Minh City is the economic center of Vietnam. Until the reunification of North and South Vietnam in April 1975 the city's name was Saigon. The Communist government of Hanoi renamed it in honour of Ho Chi Minh, the leader of the Communist forces during the Vietnam War. But the inhabitants of the city have never quite gotten accustomed to the new name and thus still prefer the old name,Saigon.

The city of Nha Trang is becoming more popular with the tourists in recent years. Yet, with a population of 300,000, Nha Trang still retains its small town atmosphere. This resort town is well known for its miles of beach and the friendliness of its people. The city is flanked by nearly ten kilometers of prime beach where the water is warm year round. The average temperature in Nha Trang is 26 C.

Nestled on the coast between Vietnam and Cambodia, Sihanoukville combines nature's luxury with sheer pleasure. Stretch out for undisturbed sunbathing on the pristine municipal beach. Visit the magnificent coral islands, or taste a variety of native dishes at Sam's Beach Restaurant. If adventurous recreation is what you're looking for, try the popular go-cart track at Obye Karting.

Laem Chabang is a modern harbor complex that serves Bangdok, Thailand's capital. The gentle Thai people have raised folk dance to high art, created a unique cuisine and built a capital city of fluted spires and golden domes. High on the list of "must see" sights are the Floating Market, Royal Palace, Reclining Buddha, Golden Buddha, and Temple of the Dawn.

Laem Chabang is a modern harbor complex that serves Bangdok, Thailand's capital. The gentle Thai people have raised folk dance to high art, created a unique cuisine and built a capital city of fluted spires and golden domes. High on the list of "must see" sights are the Floating Market, Royal Palace, Reclining Buddha, Golden Buddha, and Temple of the Dawn.

Koh Samui is Thailand's third largest island. Surrounded by 80 smaller islands, this natural beauty has been relatively undiscovered until recent years. Rumor claims that in 1971 the first tourists to set foot on Koh Samui were hippies who arrived by way of a coconut boat from Bangkok. While Koh Samui still exports up to 2 million coconuts to Bangkok every month, recent urban developments include a no-frills airport and an ostentatious Reggae bar.

One of Asia's great success stories, this island republic has merged diverse cultures into a dynamic and thriving nation. Clean, modern and full of green gardens, its neighborhoods reflect the Chinese, Malay, Indian, Arab and European backgrounds of its past. After sampling the legendary shopping, retire to Raffles Hotel's famous bar and toast Maugham, Kipling and Noel Coward with a Singapore Sling.

One of Asia's great success stories, this island republic has merged diverse cultures into a dynamic and thriving nation. Clean, modern and full of green gardens, its neighborhoods reflect the Chinese, Malay, Indian, Arab and European backgrounds of its past. After sampling the legendary shopping, retire to Raffles Hotel's famous bar and toast Maugham, Kipling and Noel Coward with a Singapore Sling.

Port Kelang (Klang) serves as a port for Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia's capital rises like a vision from the deep jungles. Its fascinating array of architectural styles includes Malay stilt villages, Islamic minarets, Hindu temples, Chinese shop houses and the indescribable opulence of the Royal Palace. In the background rise the world's tallest buildings, the Petronas Twin Towers completed in 1996.

The West Malaysian island of Langkawi is a popular site for climbers wishing to tackle its steep limestone hills and the impressive Raya Mountain. Go fishing, search for coconuts on one of the island's beaches, or go swimming in the many waterfalls and hot springs. Amateur spelunkers can explore the many caves.

Set like a jewel in the Andaman Sea, Thailand's largest island has great expanses of sandy beaches that lure sun-seekers to their shores, and a unique culture combining influences from China and Portugal. Visit the fabled monastery of Wat Chalong, the Orchard Garden and the Thai Village, where examples of the country's culture are presented in a tranquil lakeside setting.

Formerly known as Ceylon, Sri Lanka means "Resplendent Land," an apt description for this beautiful island. Sri Lanka lies fifty-five miles north of the equator, just off the southern tip of India. With its unique beauty, warm climate and near-perfect beaches, Sri Lanka is one of Asia's most adored destinations. Since the sixteenth century, the Portuguese, Dutch and British have all left their architectural and cultural marks in Sri Lanka's capital of Colombo. Yet despite its colonial architecture, Sri Lanka has always remained Oriental in spirit, with colorful bazaars, dancing elephants, graceful women in saris, and many Buddhist shrines and temples.

The importance of Cochin's history is extremely apparent in its architecture. At the Church of St. Francis, visit the tomb of the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. Be sure to visit the old Jewish Synagogoue, ancient church of Malayattu, Fort Cochin, and other examples of the ancient Dravidian civilization. And don't forget to sample the some of the region's curry-heavy cuisine.

Mangalore, a large port town on the Arabian Sea, is known for both its coconut tree-covered hills and many picturesque beaches (beware - swimming here is risky due to the tides). Visit the Hindu temples, especially the Sri Krishna Temple, a popular pilgrimage destination. Be sure to try the Kori-Roti, a local chicken curry and bread dish.

Mormugao is located in Marmagao in Goa state. Mormugao Harbour is one of the most striking natural ports on the west coast of India. Tourists are attracted by the liberal atmosphere, the colonial Portuguese feel, the splendid beaches, and the fabulous sunsets. The seafood of the area is also said to be excellent.

The Maldives are the vision of a castaway paradise with a garland of 2,000 coral atolls crowned with coco palms floating in the Indian Ocean. Their houses are built from blocks cut from the surrounding coral. Taste the golden coconut candy that is their passion, snorkel in the clear waters, see an astounding variety of fish, or soar by helicopter to a nearby isle.

The Seychelles have a singular magic, whether you are lazing in the sun or paddling around with a snorkel or scuba gear. Uninhabited until modern times, these East African islands are known for exquisite beaches and pristine coral reefs.

One of the most beautiful of the Seychelles islands, Praslin has a coastline of granite bluffs, carved by wave erosion into fluted columns and fantastic forms like abstract sculpture. In the national park, visit a grove of huge, ancient Coco-de-Mer palms, found nowhere else on earth. A single frond can roof an entire house.

The Seychelles have a singular magic, whether you are lazing in the sun or paddling around with a snorkel or scuba gear. Uninhabited until modern times, these East African islands are known for exquisite beaches and pristine coral reefs.

Nosy Be, the largest island off Madagascar is known as "the perfumed isle" for its profusion of ylang-ylang, patchouli, cinnamon, vanilla, pepper and saffron. It is also a holiday resort with a colonial French atmosphere. Here you will have the chance of visiting Nosy Komba, set aside to protect the small, endearing primates known as lemurs, which are indigenous here.

Mayotteis one of the four main islands of the Comoros archipelago. It lies at the northern end of the Mozambique Channel. Mayotte is a dependency of France, although sovereignty over it is claimed by the country of Comoros. The main island is volcanic in origin, with a mountainous terrain and rocky coastline. Mayotte is almost entirely surrounded by a coral reef.

Richards Bay has developed into one of the most picturesque towns and the economic heartbeat of KwaZulu-Natal. It is considered to be one of the world's best equipped and most effective multi purpose handling ports. Richards Bay is often described as South Africa's 'boom town''. Industry and business in Richards Bay are taking huge steps to ensure that KwaZulu-Natal is at the forefront of South African economic development.

Richards Bay has developed into one of the most picturesque towns and the economic heartbeat of KwaZulu-Natal. It is considered to be one of the world's best equipped and most effective multi purpose handling ports. Richards Bay is often described as South Africa's 'boom town''. Industry and business in Richards Bay are taking huge steps to ensure that KwaZulu-Natal is at the forefront of South African economic development.

African and Oriental cultures merge harmoniously in the cosmopolitan city of Durban. Zulu rickshaw drivers beckon passengers along Durban's Marine Parade. Silks and gold-threaded saris tempt visitors at the Oriental Arcades. In addition to golden beaches, Durban offers a fascinating history. It is also gateway to Zululand, where the drumbeat of tribal dancing is testimony to the enduring traditions of the Zulus. A visit to Shakaland is an experience of tribal customs.

One of the world's most scenic harbors, the "Mother City" has welcomed sailors since Portuguese navigators first rounded the Cape of Good Hope in the 15th century. Take a cable car ride to the summit of massive, flat-topped Table Mountain, the city's dominating landmark, for a panoramic view of the Cape from 3,300 feet. At nearby Stellenbosch, the university town famous for its Cape Dutch architecture, sip crisp local vintages at one of the well-known wine estates.

One of the world's most scenic harbors, the "Mother City" has welcomed sailors since Portuguese navigators first rounded the Cape of Good Hope in the 15th century. Take a cable car ride to the summit of massive, flat-topped Table Mountain, the city's dominating landmark, for a panoramic view of the Cape from 3,300 feet. At nearby Stellenbosch, the university town famous for its Cape Dutch architecture, sip crisp local vintages at one of the well-known wine estates.

Walvis Bay is an outpost on the empty stretch of Southwest Africa they call the Skeleton Coast. It was named for the whales once hunted here. Behind the town is the Namib Desert with trackless dunes inhabited by hardy, exotic desert plants and, now and then, a hungry lion or a ghostly herd of elephants. There is only one road, and it leads to Windhoek, Namibia's capital.

Walvis Bay is an outpost on the empty stretch of Southwest Africa they call the Skeleton Coast. It was named for the whales once hunted here. Behind the town is the Namib Desert with trackless dunes inhabited by hardy, exotic desert plants and, now and then, a hungry lion or a ghostly herd of elephants. There is only one road, and it leads to Windhoek, Namibia's capital.

Cotonou is the main port and commercial center of Benin, as well as the gateway to the capital of Porto Novo. Find whatever you need in the Dantokpa market or browse around while you experience the quite animated market of Ganhi. Relax on Cotonou's beaches or check out the city's various churches, mosques, and museums.

Abidjan is the largest city in Cote d'Ivoire and also once served as its official capital. Some refer to Abidjan as the Paris of West Africa, perhaps because of its plentiful shopping opportunities. Other French influences in the city are also evident, ranging from the multitude of gourmet restaurants to the language of the locals. Be sure to try one of the famed pineapples.

The capital of Senegal on the tip of Western Africa is a modern town with a charming colonial center known for its handicrafts, textiles, silver-work and beaches. Watch the local fishermen or take a trip to see the beautiful African hinterland.

La Palma is a stratovolcano, and is the largest of the western Canary Islands. At the island's east-coast is located the picturesque port-town of Santa Cruz. Behind it, like a colossal amphitheater, there is a mighty volcanic crater. This town, with its characteristical steeply inclined alleys, offers a really lively ambience.

Funchal is a busy port exporting wines, fish, and fruit, it is best known for its beautiful setting and balmy climate, which make it a much-frequented resort. It has a late-15th-century cathedral and a convent church containing the tomb of Jose Goncalves Zarco, who founded the city in 1421.

Lisbon is many cities, from the cobbled alleys of the Alfama district to the broad Parisian style avenues at its heart. View it all from the heights of St. George's Castle. Belem's Monument to the Discoveries recalls the seafaring past, while nearby Sintra's storybook palaces, and the seaside resort of Caiscais, have different tales to tell.

Some say the Azores are a remnant of lost Atlantis. Drive from sea level to a deep, mile wide crater rimmed with lush tropical verdure. Look out to sea; you may glimpse Capelinhos, the volcano that rose from the Atlantic only four decades ago.

Bobbies directing traffic, afternoon tea, and the drums of Gombey dancers - this is Bermuda! Hamilton, Bermuda's capital, is the perfect blend of historic architecture, beautiful pink beaches, and terrific cuisine. Walk along the island-long promenade or take a romantic ride in a horse-drawn carriage for a truly memorable experience.

Join Norwegian Cruiselines on the private island of Great Stirrup Cay. Four square miles of white beaches and coconut palm trees. Great Stirrup Cay features great swimming and snorkeling. Enjoy a barbecue Bahamas-style or do some shopping at the straw market to make your island experience complete.

Explore all that Miami has to offer, from the magnificent Port of Miami, to the world famous Everglades and Biscayne National Parks, historic Coconut Grove, and trendy South Beach. Other attractions include the Miami Seaquarium , Miami MetroZoo, and sports teams the Dolphins, Heat and Marlins. No wonder so many celebrities, such as Gloria Estefan, Madonna and Ricky Martin, call Miami home.