From soaring high over Bora Bora by helicopter to swimming with – or simply viewing – the diverse sea life that inhabit the clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Cruises is offering nearly three dozen Crystal Adventures revealing the South Pacific’s breathtaking natural beauty.  Crystal Serenity’s 12-day, January 30 voyage sails from Papeete to Auckland, featuring different perspectives on the region’s famous tropical culture.

Visiting the Society and Cook Islands, Fiji, Tonga and Auckland, shoreside adventures highlight the untouched landscapes and lush vegetation, indigenous wildlife and even 3,000-year-old local villages, including:

  * Hike into Rarotonga’s Takitumi Rainforest, where conservation efforts continue to preserve the island’s native plants and animals like the rare ground orchid and the long-tailed cuckoo;
  * Climb to Bora Bora’s Pahonu Hill for panoramic views of the island’s reefs and lagoons, or snorkel on the barrier reef past Toopua Point;
  * Experience Auckland’s west coast, with forests teeming with native wildlife, one of the world’s most awe-inspiring black-sand beaches and cascading waterfalls pouring into a rainforest; and
  * Meet local families and join a traditional kava ceremony at the Viseisei Fijian Village, where the first settlers of Fiji landed 3,000 years ago.

“This itinerary offers so many opportunities for nature lovers,” says John Stoll, vice president, land and port operations.  “Choices are a key component of the Crystal Experience, and we strive to offer numerous choices ashore to suit most any interest, from spectator activities to the most adventurous.”

Guests can also expand their awareness with onboard presentations from acclaimed earth and environmental scientist David J. Drewry.