This was my 2nd PG cruise - 1st was January 2010 and if I wasn't lazy I would have written a proper review and would have it rated all areas the highest possible. It was fantastic. This was also my 5th time traveling to French Polynesia so I would like to think I know what to expect and what I like and dislike. I was very excited to learn of this cruise after a refurbishment in Brisbane. The combination of FP and new places I have not been to me before was the draw for me. I had concerns with this ship in open water if the weather was bad - more on this later.

I did all my pre and post cruise on my own as I used points for air and hotel. Flew into Sydney then on to Brisbane. The afternoon of the 26th were supposed to embark but when we finally got to the port after an Amazing Race-like horrific cab ride (directions should have been better, we were not the only ones whose cabbie had no idea where we were going) we were told that the ship was not ready and we would be heading back to be put up at the Sofitel. I only wish the cruise line had called me earlier like they had done with local residents so I could have saved the cab fare of $65(and the time). They had my number! Due to tremendous flooding all Australia Day celebrations were cancelled so I thought it would be a most boring evening.

The hotel however was great and we had an open bar and a great meal. This snafu cost the PG about $80,000 I estimate. Read more