We have just returned from a 7 day cruise on the Pacific Dawn and had a fabulous time with our 3 teenage children. Noumea abit disappointing, Lifou absolutely beautiful (book the snorkelling trip on board , $20 each limited numbers (might be able to book on cruise control, if so I would recommend) Vila paid $70 AUS for Peter ( I will post his details when I find them,, very reliable)to take us wherever we wanted to go for the day! Duty free (they delivered to the boat) Went to the markets, a village, out to hideaway beach and had lunch there. All ports accepted Aussie dollars, not much need to exchange money, ATM on boat and in Vila. We loved the food and the choice we had, next cruise we will eat more in the Waterfront restaurant. We took our own snorkelling gear, but we could have hired it on Lifou and saved us lugging it around as there was 5 sets.( and would recommend this) On board there was plenty to do or relax(your choice) The adults only decks were a lovely place to have a quiet cocktail and a read. We enjoyed the daily trivia (was really funny and great for the teenagers to be involved. We tried the bingo once, it was fun but could become expensive if you played every day as to get a decent game it cost $30.
Wonderful, Cabin stewards the best, nothing any trouble