Blessed with stunning iridescent seas, volcanic mountain peaks, emerald forests and a proud and friendly people, Samoa has something for everyone.
To give you a taste of what makes this unique archipelago in the South Pacific so special, Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa – the gem of this rugged island paradise – has crafted five uniquely Samoan experiences for you to enjoy. Each adventure will open your eyes to Samoa’s inimitable culture and landscape, and the positive effects these experiences have on rural Samoan communities.
1. Fa’a Samoa
Journey with us into one of Samoa’s oldest villages, Poutasi, and discover the Fa’a Samoa (the Samoan Way of Life).
Be welcomed by village chiefs, try your hand at the ancient games of coconut-tossing and spear-throwing, and learn the art of fine mat-weaving, traditional dance and ukulele. Farewell the day with a taste of real island cooking and an exhilarating fire knife show.
2. Eco Trekking
Venture off the beaten track and discover the hidden treasures of Samoa’s rainforest reserve. Look for medicinal plants along lava cliffs, go in search of thunderous blowholes and hidden caves, and plant your very own native tree at Samoa’s only carbon offsetting site.
Samoa is a pure joy to explore on foot.
En route to the healing pools at Togitogiga Falls, look out for Samoa’s colourful native bird life.
3. Cooking with Culture
In it for the food? Explore village plantations and markets to gather the fresh ingredients you’ll need to prepare an authentic Samoan dish – guided by experienced local chefs.
Seafood forms an integral part of Samoan cuisine.
Top the day off with a toast as you enjoy the fruits of your labour in a private overwater setting.
4. Island Art Affair
Uncover the roots of Polynesian creativity on this artistic adventure. Visit the birthplace of Samoan artistry, call into the home of a traditional tattooist and journey into the hidden Tiapapata Art Gallery where you can mix and mingle with local and international artists.
Next, escape to Poutasi Arts Centre, the home of world-renowned artist Fatu Feu’u, and let your creative juices flow in a private wood-sculpting workshop.
5. Hook and Cook
Head out on a nautical adventure aboard a 26-foot catamaran and cast a line along the south coast of Upolu.
A Samoan holiday wouldn’t be the same without a unique fishing adventure.
Allow the local hosts to cook your catch over an open fire whilst you venture off on a snorkelling expedition to the secluded waters of Aganoa Bay.
Slow travel is encouraging us all to take our time and truly experience our journeys, and cruising has always been the perfect way to do just that.
The slow travel trend isn’t going anywhere. Instead of racing through a packed itinerary, travellers are opting for extended travel, allowing for a more immersive experience – as well as the time to actually feel reset and rested at the end of the journey. Part of that travel style is choosing the best method of travel. With none of the hassle, plenty to enjoy between ports, and port stops that allow time spent in a new place with a new culture, cruising may just be the slow travel answer.
Dive into underwater worlds. (Credit: Getty/ Global Pics)
On this journey connecting Australia to Hawaiʻi, guests have a chance to experience destinations and culture that typically aren’t combined into one leisurely-paced trip. From tropical South Pacific islands to the beauty and culture of Hawaiʻi, each port offers its own rewards. Not to mention sea days in between to rest and reflect.
Stop in Papeete, Tahiti, to watch waves roll over black and white sand beaches. Or wander through tropical beauty at Paofai Gardens. While in French Polynesia, gaze on the jagged green peaks of Moorea. Here, snorkel among vibrant coral and tropical fish in the Lagoonarium. Later, experience the lesser-travelled Raiatea – where coral gardens practically explode with marine life and inland hiking trails lead to waterfalls. End the journey with the golden beaches and rich culture of Honolulu.
More time to connect
Use sea days to make new memories together.
The essential factor that makes cruising the ultimate form of slow travel? Time on board is never wasted. On Anthem of the Seas® during your Long Adventure cruise, that could look like booking a seat for world-class theatre productions and live shows. Or spending time together in one of the many pools, bars and lounges for all moods.
Head to the adults-only Solarium, an indoor-outdoor retreat sitting right at the front of the ship for epic views from the swimming pools, whirlpools and lounge area. With something on every night, take in the onboard entertainment and nightlife. Like We Will Rock You – the West End musical featuring the legendary hits of Queen.
Built-in pauses
Enjoy a spa treatment at Vitality Spa.
We so often forget to factor in time to pause and reflect when we travel, but sea days are a built-in deep breath. Take advantage of resort-style living at sea to disconnect and avoid the trap of a frantic holiday schedule.
On Anthem of the Seas, expansive spaces have been designed specifically to help guests relax, reset and enjoy the journey. Spend time together enjoying onboard entertainment, dining, or lounging by the pool. Head to the observatory to check out an unpolluted night sky. Or, for something truly special, book a restorative massage or rejuvenating facial at Vitality℠ Spa.
Remove travel hassle
Unpack once, and return to your own comfortable room every night.
Instead of sweating as you run from one airport gate to another, getting grumpy because everyone is sleep-deprived or having to unpack and pack over and over again, travel time is spent creating new memories together. Simply depart from Sydney and let the rest be taken care of for you.
Unpack once, and return to the same comfortable room every night. This all-inclusive cruise brings together accommodation, dining, entertainment and transport in one seamless experience. It’s a more considered way to travel, offering exceptional value and removing logistics.
Dine at your leisure
Dine on flavours from around the world.
With world-class dining and a choice of over 18 dining options on board Anthem of the Seas, indulge your senses at any time (and never feel rushed). Take advantage of Royal Caribbean’s Dynamic Dining concept, allowing guests to choose from multiple complimentary restaurants, each with its own distinct style.
Or, book in for an elevated experience at specialty dining venues, with flavours from around the world. Tuck into Jamie’s Italian, led by the celebrated British chef Jamie Oliver. Enjoy Japanese delicacies at Izumi. For something really special, join the Chef’s Table, where up to 14 guests can indulge in a five-course wine-pairing dinner hosted nightly by an Executive Chef and Sommelier.
And with 11 bars and lounges to choose from, there’s always a new spot to enjoy a tipple. Like the unique mixology experience at Bionic Bar, or caipirinhas at the ship’s Latin-themed club, Boleros.
A taste of diverse cultures
See Marae Taputapuātea on Raiatea.
Let Anthem of the Seas transport you overnight between diverse international ports. With cruising, there’s no need to pick just one destination. The longer, more immersive Transpacific cruise itinerary allows travellers to experience a range of destinations and cultures all across Oceania.
Head inland at Papeete to discover the story behind one of Tahiti’s most iconic treasures at the Robert Wan Pearl Museum. Visit the sacred Marae Taputapuātea on Raiatea, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before leaning into the relaxed local rhythm in Uturoa commune. And delve into the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Hawaiʻi.
The luxury of time
Relax in adult-only areas of the ship.
The greatest luxury that cruising provides is that of time. More time to disconnect, more time to explore, and more time to enjoy the journey at your own pace. This Long Adventure voyage isn’t just about racing from destination to destination; it’s about how you get there. Taking your own time, both on sea days and during days on land.
