There’s something magical about waking up to nothing but ocean in every direction. Our seven-night South Pacific cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas to Mystery Island and Nouméa was the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and family-friendly fun.
From the moment we stepped onboard, the ship itself felt like a floating city. Voyager of the Seas offers an incredible range of facilities, and it’s easy to see why it remains such a popular ship for Australian sailings. One of the true highlights is the onboard ice skating rink — a rare feature at sea. The ice shows were absolutely next-level. The performers were world-class, the costumes stunning and the choreography polished and exciting. It genuinely felt like watching a professional touring production, not something you’d expect in the middle of the ocean.
Beyond the rink, the ship boasts a rock-climbing wall with ocean views, mini golf, multiple pools and spas, an adults-only Solarium, a full fitness centre, spa treatments, shopping along the Royal Promenade, and a lively casino. There are specialty dining restaurants, bars and lounges dotted throughout the ship, and nightly theatre productions in the main theatre.
Dining & Service
Food was another standout. The buffet offered a wide variety of fresh options daily, catering to all tastes, from hearty breakfasts to international dinners. The main dining room delivered consistent quality meals in a beautiful setting. What truly elevated the experience, however, was the staff. Our cabin crew and dining staff were nothing short of amazing — attentive, friendly and genuinely invested in making sure every guest felt welcome. Their warmth and professionalism made the cruise feel personal and special.
Mystery Island – A Tropical Dream
Our first port of call was Mystery Island, and it was everything you imagine when you picture the South Pacific. We tendered ashore using one of the ship’s lifeboats, which added to the sense of adventure. Upon arrival, we were greeted by friendly locals and small beachside markets where Australian dollars were accepted, making purchases easy.
The island itself is postcard-perfect — crystal-clear water, soft white sand and vibrant coral reefs just metres from the shore. You can snorkel directly off the beach, swim in calm turquoise water, or simply relax under the palm trees. For those wanting more adventure, day tours are available, including turtle swims and guided snorkelling experiences. It was a truly breathtaking stop.
Nouméa – A Touch of France in the Pacific
Next was Nouméa, where we docked directly at port. The atmosphere immediately feels different — a blend of French charm and island lifestyle. We chose to hire a car and explore at our own pace. Driving around gave us the flexibility to visit beaches, scenic lookouts and local cafés.
We stopped for lunch overlooking the beach, soaking up the relaxed coastal vibe. Some beaches were netted off due to safety concerns, but many visitors were still swimming and snorkelling. The water was inviting, and the scenery stunning. Nouméa offers a mix of culture, coastline and cuisine that makes it well worth exploring.
The Wiggles Cruise Experience
This sailing was also a Wiggles Cruise, meaning there were plenty of toddlers and young families onboard. Special Wiggles-themed events were scheduled throughout the week, including a much-loved balloon drop that brought pure joy to the little ones.
While the cruise leaned heavily into family entertainment, there was still plenty for adults to enjoy. However, live entertainment in some of the smaller venues wasn’t quite as strong as other cruises we’ve experienced, and seating in popular areas could sometimes be hard to find. That said, the ship’s scale ensures there’s always something happening — whether it’s trivia, themed nights, poolside entertainment or simply relaxing with a cocktail while watching the sunset.
Overall Experience
Voyager of the Seas delivers a fantastic balance of high-energy entertainment and laid-back holiday vibes. The combination of stunning destinations, outstanding service, impressive onboard facilities and family-focused activities made for an unforgettable week at sea.
Whether you’re travelling with young children, extended family or as a couple looking for a tropical escape, this cruise offers something for everyone.
Seven nights. Two beautiful island destinations. World-class ice shows. Friendly service. Ocean views every day.It was, quite simply, an amazing cruise.
