AGP Executive Report

Cruise Planning for French Polynesia: Silversea’s Silver Cloud has launched bookings for a 77-day “Grand South Pacific Expedition” departing Perth and calling at 57 destinations across 11 countries, with French Polynesia in the mix as the sailing runs in four segments toward Valparaiso, Chile (arriving Nov 4, 2026). On-Island Sports & Culture: A group of 13 young Cook Islands tennis players (ages 9–16) just returned from a two-week visit to French Polynesia (July 26–Aug 9), mixing training in Raiatea with a lagoon cruise around Taha’a, vanilla and black pearl stops, and snorkeling with blacktip reef sharks. Travel Inspiration (Marine Focus): Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026 finalists spotlight ocean life and conservation, with kayak and freediving imagery that will resonate with anyone planning lagoon-and-reef trips. Regional Spotlight: Cook Islands rugby league recruitment chatter is heating up ahead of the Rugby League World Cup, with players of Cook Islands heritage being courted—good for fans looking for Pacific stories beyond the beach.

Marine Conservation & Travel Inspiration: Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026 finalists share striking ocean wildlife and freediving scenes, spotlighting the beauty and fragility of marine life and the push for stronger conservation. French Polynesia Connections: A Cook Islands youth tennis group (ages 9–16) returned after a two-week visit to French Polynesia featuring training in Raiatea, lagoon cruising around Taha’a, cultural exchange, and snorkeling with blacktip reef sharks—supported by Air Rarotonga and Air Tahiti. Cruise Planning for the South Pacific: Royal Caribbean opened/expanded sales for Ovation of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas, including a transpacific itinerary that takes in French Polynesia, plus new onboard upgrades. Regional Travel Deals: Norwegian Cruise Line launched Summer 2028 bookings with hundreds of sailings and many port-heavy itineraries, including options reaching the South Pacific. Local Community Travel Culture: A reader column reflects on what makes cruise travel memorable—less the view, more the crew and behind-the-scenes hospitality.

Cruise Travel (South Pacific): Royal Caribbean is expanding its 2027–28 Australia summer lineup, with Ovation of the Seas newly “amplified” and based in Brisbane, plus Voyager of the Seas also sailing from Brisbane and Anthem of the Seas returning to Sydney; key for French Polynesia fans, Ovation includes a 16-night transpacific itinerary from Honolulu to Brisbane that visits French Polynesia, and Voyager’s route features calls in Moorea, Papeete, and Raiatea. Cruise Bookings (Global): Norwegian Cruise Line opened Summer 2028 bookings with 450+ sailings across 20 ships, including South Pacific itineraries and many long port stays—useful for travelers planning ahead. Tahitian Tennis Exchange: A group of 13 Cook Islands youth players (ages 9–16) returned after a two-week tennis, cultural exchange, and adventure tour in French Polynesia, including training in Raiatea and a lagoon cruise around Taha’a with snorkelling. Onboard Life (Reader Column): A cruise passenger reflects on what makes voyages memorable—spotlighting the crew experience aboard m/s Paul Gauguin and the behind-the-scenes life that keeps the “people of paradise” feeling real.

Aviation & Ocean Tourism: Ocean conservationist Dr. Sylvia Earle says her new submersible “Honu” will make its first dive in French Polynesia later this year, carrying three passengers to 1,000 meters for up to eight hours, and she argues certified operators make deep-sea travel safer than flying. Cruise Deals for South Pacific Travelers: Royal Caribbean has put newly amplified Ovation of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas holidays on sale, including a 16-night transpacific itinerary from Honolulu to Brisbane that visits French Polynesia, plus expanded onboard features like a refreshed pool deck and new dining options. More Summer 2028 Planning Options: Norwegian Cruise Line opened bookings for Summer 2028 with 450+ sailings across 20 ships, including itineraries reaching the South Pacific and longer port-heavy days. Community & Culture via Sport: A Cook Islands youth tennis team (ages 9–16) returned from a two-week visit to French Polynesia featuring training in Raiatea, lagoon cruising around Taha’a, and cultural exchange supported by Air Rarotonga and Air Tahiti.

Cruise Sales & South Pacific Routes: Royal Caribbean has put holidays on sale for its expanded 2027-28 Australian summer, with Ovation of the Seas newly “amplified” returning to Brisbane and a 16-night transpacific sailing from Honolulu to Brisbane that visits French Polynesia. More South Pacific Capacity: The same season adds Voyager of the Seas from Brisbane (including a Seattle-to-Brisbane run via Honolulu plus French Polynesia calls like Moorea, Papeete and Raiatea) and Anthem of the Seas from Sydney. Expedition Travel to French Polynesia: Lindblad Expeditions (National Geographic-Lindblad) is returning to French Polynesia with new 7- and 14-day itineraries linking Easter Island, Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, Makatea and the Tuamotus, with select departures led by Pwo navigator Tua Pittman. Ocean Sounds for Travelers: A new audio project captures spatialized humpback whale recordings from expeditions in Hawaii and French Polynesia, using specialized hydrophone gear and monitoring headphones. Beach Buzz (Not Local, Still Travel-Useful): Big 7 Travel’s 2026 “best beaches” list keeps spotlighting turquoise-water favorites, including Cornwall’s Porthcurno Beach in the top 10.

Cruise Sales (South Pacific): Royal Caribbean has put holidays aboard the newly amplified Ovation of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas on sale, tied to an expanded 2027–28 Australian summer push—Ovation returns to Brisbane after its “Royal Amplification” refit (new pool deck, Splashaway Bay, Casitas, and fresh dining like Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen and Izumi), and it also offers a 16-night transpacific from Honolulu to Brisbane visiting French Polynesia; Navigator extends its Singapore season through Oct 2027 with short escapes plus a 12-night Tokyo–Singapore sailing. Cruise Planning (Global): Norwegian Cruise Line opened Summer 2028 bookings with 450+ sailings across 20 ships, including South Pacific itineraries. Expedition Travel (French Polynesia): National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions announced its 2028/29 return to French Polynesia with new 7- and 14-day routes linking Easter Island, Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, Makatea, and the Tuamotus, with select trips guided by a Pwo navigator for traditional wayfinding. Ocean Experiences (French Polynesia): A new audio project highlights 3D spatial recordings of humpback whales made in Hawaii and French Polynesia, using specialized hydrophones and monitoring gear.

Cruise Sales (Summer 2028): Norwegian Cruise Line has opened bookings for its Summer 2028 season, with 450+ three- to 14-day sailings across 20 ships, calling at nearly 150 destinations in 51 countries and spending about 80% of each trip in port. South Pacific Access (Royal Caribbean): Royal Caribbean is expanding its 2027-28 Australian summer lineup to three ships, including Ovation of the Seas based in Brisbane and a 16-night transpacific itinerary that visits French Polynesia. Expedition Travel (Lindblad): National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions announced its 2028/29 deployment, including a return to French Polynesia with new 7- and 14-day routes linking Easter Island, Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, Makatea and the Tuamotus, with select departures guided by Pwo navigator Tua Pittman. Marine Tourism (Deep-sea): Ocean conservationist Dr. Sylvia Earle says her DOER Marine submersible “Honu” will make its first dive in French Polynesia later this year, designed for 1,000m depths and up to eight hours underwater. Whale Experiences (Audio): A new 3D spatial audio project captures humpback whale songs from expeditions in Hawaii and French Polynesia, using specialized hydrophones and protective monitoring headphones. Tahiti Pro (Surf): Kelly Slater made a major comeback at the Tahiti Pro, posting a near-perfect 19.06 and beating Gabriel Medina at Teahupo’o.

Cruise Boost for Tahiti & the Leeward Islands: Royal Caribbean is expanding its 2027–28 Australia season with three ships—Ovation of the Seas in Brisbane, Voyager also in Brisbane, and Anthem in Sydney—plus a transpacific sailing that visits French Polynesia (including Papeete and Moorea) and a longer itinerary from Seattle to Brisbane via Honolulu. Expedition Travel Returns to French Polynesia: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions unveiled its 2028/29 deployment with new 7- and 14-day itineraries linking Easter Island, Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, Makatea and the Tuamotus, with select departures guided by Pwo navigator Tua Pittman. Ocean Experiences in French Polynesia: Ocean conservationist Dr. Sylvia Earle says her DOER Marine “Honu” submersible will make its first dive in French Polynesia later this year, designed for certified safety and deep, multi-hour trips. Wildlife Audio for Whale Lovers: A 3D spatial recording project captured humpback whale songs in Hawaii and French Polynesia using a custom hydrophone array and Sennheiser gear. Tahiti Pro Surf Spotlight: Kelly Slater delivered a near-perfect score at the Tahiti Pro at Teahupo’o, beating Gabriel Medina in a major comeback. Travel Inspiration (Beaches): Big 7 Travel’s 2026 “best beaches” list highlights the Pacific with Cook Islands’ Ee Motu Beach and also ranks Cornwall’s Porthcurno and Wales’ Whitesands—useful inspiration for beach-hunters planning future trips.

Fact Check: Claims that actress Hayden Panettiere died from a COVID-19 vaccine are being widely shared online, but investigators say there’s zero evidence linking her death to any vaccine and no official cause has been announced. Cruise Incentives: Carnival Luminosa’s repositioning sailings have clarified onboard currency rules (and limits on exchange services), a practical heads-up for travelers budgeting for multi-country trips. South Pacific Cruise Routes: Royal Caribbean is expanding its 2027-28 Australia summer lineup with three ships, including Ovation of the Seas sailing from Brisbane and a transpacific itinerary that calls at French Polynesia. Expedition Travel: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is returning to French Polynesia with new 7- and 14-day itineraries connecting Easter Island, Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, Makatea and the Tuamotus, with select departures led by Pwo navigator Tua Pittman. Marine Tourism & Wildlife Audio: A new 3D spatial recording project captured humpback whale songs in Hawaii and French Polynesia, using specialized hydrophones and protective monitoring gear. Local Surf Spotlight: Kelly Slater delivered a near-perfect score at the Tahiti Pro at Teahupo’o, marking a major comeback.

Cruise & South Pacific Routes: Royal Caribbean is beefing up its 2027-28 Australia season with three ships—Ovation of the Seas based in Brisbane, Voyager also in Brisbane, and Anthem in Sydney—plus sailings that reach French Polynesia (including Moorea, Papeete and Raiatea) and even a transpacific itinerary from Honolulu to Brisbane. Expedition Travel: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions unveiled its 2028-29 deployment, returning to French Polynesia with new 7- and 14-day itineraries linking Easter Island, Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, Makatea and the Tuamotus, with select departures guided by Pwo navigator Tua Pittman. On-the-Water Experiences: Ocean conservationist Dr. Sylvia Earle says her DOER Marine “Honu” submersible will make its first dive in French Polynesia later this year, designed for three passengers to reach 1,000 meters for up to eight hours—positioned as “safer than flying” with certified operators. Wildlife & Audio Tourism: A 3D spatial recording project captured humpback whale soundscapes in Hawaii and French Polynesia, using a custom hydrophone array and Sennheiser gear to blend underwater and above-water audio. Local Spotlight (Sports): Kelly Slater scored a near-perfect 19.06 at the Tahiti Pro in Teahupo’o, beating Gabriel Medina and marking a major comeback. Beach Buzz (Global, but travel-relevant): Big 7 Travel’s 2026 “50 Best Beaches” list put Cornwall’s Porthcurno in the top 10, keeping the spotlight on Pacific-style beach travel inspiration.

Cruise & South Pacific Capacity: Royal Caribbean is expanding its 2027-28 Australian summer lineup to three ships—Ovation of the Seas in Brisbane, Voyager also in Brisbane, and Anthem of the Seas in Sydney—adding more South Pacific sailings that include French Polynesia stops (including Moorea, Papeete and Raiatea). Expedition Travel to French Polynesia: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions unveiled its 2028-29 deployment with new seven- and 14-day itineraries returning to French Polynesia, linking Easter Island, Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, Makatea and the Tuamotus, with select departures guided by Pwo navigator Tua Pittman. Ocean Experiences (Safety Angle): Ocean conservationist Dr. Sylvia Earle says her DOER Marine “Honu” submersible will make its first French Polynesia dive later this year, pitching deep-ocean travel as “safer than flying” when certified. Tahiti Pro Spotlight: Kelly Slater made a big comeback at Teahupo’o, scoring a near-perfect 19.06/20 to beat Gabriel Medina at the Tahiti Pro. Whale Audio Tech: A 3D spatial recording project captured humpback whale songs in Hawaii and French Polynesia using a custom hydrophone array and Sennheiser gear. Beach Buzz (Global Rankings): Big 7 Travel’s 2026 best-beaches list put Porthcurno Beach (Cornwall) in the top 10, fueling fresh interest in beach getaways worldwide.

Cruise & South Pacific Planning: Royal Caribbean is beefing up its 2027-28 Australia season with three ships—Ovation of the Seas based in Brisbane, Voyager also in Brisbane, and Anthem returning to Sydney—plus a transpacific sailing that stops in French Polynesia (Moorea, Papeete, Raiatea). Expedition Travel: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions unveiled its 2028-29 deployment, including new 7- and 14-day itineraries returning to French Polynesia with rare access to Makatea and routes linking Easter Island, Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, and the Tuamotus. On-the-Water Tourism: A deep-sea conservation push is set for French Polynesia later this year: Dr. Sylvia Earle’s DOER Marine “Honu” sub will carry three passengers to 1,000m for up to eight hours, pitched as “safer than flying” with certified operators. Local Interest (Tahiti Pro): Kelly Slater, 54, nearly nails a perfect score at Teahupo’o to beat Gabriel Medina, marking a major comeback at the Monster Tahiti Wave. Beach Buzz: Big 7 Travel’s 2026 “50 Best Beaches” list puts Cornwall’s Porthcurno in the global top 10, keeping Pacific travelers watching for what’s next. Whale Audio Tech: A new 3D spatial recording project captured humpback whales in Hawaii and French Polynesia using a custom hydrophone array and Sennheiser gear.

Ocean Safety & Tourism Tech: Ocean conservationist Dr. Sylvia Earle says deep-sea travel can be “safer than flying” if operators are properly certified, and her DOER Marine “Honu” sub is set for its first French Polynesia dive later this year (3 passengers, up to 1,000m deep, 8 hours). Wildlife Experiences: A new 3D spatial audio project captured humpback whale songs in Hawaii and French Polynesia using a custom hydrophone array and Sennheiser gear—great for visitors who want more immersive ocean encounters. Expedition Cruise Boost for French Polynesia: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions unveiled its 2028–29 deployment, including new 7- and 14-day itineraries linking Easter Island, Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, Makatea, and the Tuamotus, with select departures guided by Pwo navigator Tua Pittman. Cruise Demand Signals: Royal Caribbean expands its 2027–28 Australian summer lineup, including a 16-night transpacific sailing that visits French Polynesia (Honolulu to Brisbane via Moorea, Papeete, and Raiatea). Tahiti Pro Surf Buzz: Kelly Slater returned to form at the Tahiti Pro at Teahupo’o with a near-perfect 19.06, beating Gabriel Medina—another big draw for surf travelers.

Cruise & South Pacific Routes: Royal Caribbean is beefing up its 2027–28 Australia season with three ships—Ovation of the Seas in Brisbane, plus Voyager in Brisbane and Anthem in Sydney—adding more sailings that reach French Polynesia (including Moorea, Papeete and Raiatea). Expedition Travel to French Polynesia: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions unveiled its 2028–29 deployment with new 7- and 14-day itineraries returning to French Polynesia, linking Easter Island, Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, Makatea and the Tuamotus, with select departures led by Pwo navigator Tua Pittman. More Cruise Sales & Onboard Planning: Norwegian Cruise Line opened Summer 2028 sales (over 450 voyages) and Carnival clarified onboard currency rules for Carnival Luminosa repositioning cruises (US vs Australia departures). Tahiti Pro Surf Buzz: Kelly Slater pulled off a near-perfect 19.06 at the Tahiti Pro in Teahupo’o, beating Gabriel Medina and marking a major comeback. Whale Audio Tech: A new 3D spatial recording project captured humpback whale soundscapes from expeditions in Hawaii and French Polynesia, using specialized hydrophones and protective monitoring headphones.

Cruise Deals: Fred. Olsen is offering up to £150 onboard spending credit per cabin on selected autumn/winter 2026–27 sailings, with Mediterranean, Canaries, and Arctic northern-lights options. French Polynesia Expedition Travel: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is returning to French Polynesia with new 7- and 14-day itineraries linking Easter Island, Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, Makatea, and the Tuamotus, with select departures guided by Pwo navigator Tua Pittman. More French Polynesia Cruise Capacity: Aranui Cruises opened bookings for its 2028 programme, adding access to remote islands with Aranui V plus the new Aranoa, plus early-booking savings (15% on Aranoa, 10% on Aranui V). On-Island Experiences: A new report highlights French Polynesia’s move to cap tourism at ~280,000 visitors per year, aiming for a more “get away from it all” feel. Wildlife & Soundscapes: A 3D spatial audio project captured humpback whale songs in Hawaii and French Polynesia, using specialized hydrophones and protective monitoring headphones. Tahiti Pro Surf: Kelly Slater made a major comeback at the Tahiti Pro, scoring near-perfect 19.06 and beating Gabriel Medina at Teahupo’o.

Cruise & Itineraries: Royal Caribbean is beefing up its 2027–28 Australia season with three ships—Ovation of the Seas in Brisbane, Voyager also in Brisbane, and Anthem returning to Sydney—with sailings that reach French Polynesia (including Moorea, Papeete and Raiatea) and even a transpacific itinerary from Honolulu to Brisbane. Expedition Travel: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions unveiled its 2028–29 deployment, including a return to French Polynesia with new 7- and 14-day routes linking Easter Island, Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, Makatea and the Tuamotus, plus select departures guided by Pwo navigator Tua Pittman. Local Tourism Policy: A new French Polynesia tourism cap aims to limit visitors to about 280,000 per year (roughly one visitor per local), pushing a “privacy and solitude” vibe that travelers are already noticing. Bookings & Access: Aranui Cruises opened bookings for 2028 with its biggest season yet—46 departures across Aranui V and the new Aranoa—adding more access to remote islands and early-booking savings. On-the-Water Experiences: Ocean conservationist Dr. Sylvia Earle says deep-sea travel can be “safer than flying” with certified operators, and her DOER Marine “Honu” sub is set for its first dive in French Polynesia later this year. Surf Spotlight: Kelly Slater scored a near-perfect 19.06 at the Tahiti Pro at Teahupo’o, beating Gabriel Medina and marking a major comeback.