22 Night South Pacific Crossing departing from Sydney to Vancouver onboard Oosterdam.

Officially christened in 2003 by Her Dutch Royal Highness, Princess Margriet of the Netherlands, the ms Oosterdam is the second in our series of Vista-class ships. As such she embraces the latest industry and environmental technologies such as her use of a diesel-electric power plant for optimal energy efficiency and an Azipod propulsion system that maximizes maneuverability.

Symbolic of Holland America Line's more than 135-year history of circumnavigating the globe, the centerpiece of the ms Oosterdam is a magnificent Waterford crystal globe, prominently displayed in a three-story atrium. First-time cruisers aboard this ship will quickly recognize the traditional touches that make Holland America cruisers regulars: a warm palette of colors accentuating an extensive use of crystal, marble, inlaid woods and brass, lovely flower arrangements, priceless artwork and antiques and a full wraparound teak promenade deck with padded deck chairs.

Highlights of this cruise:

Sydney, Australia
First came the Aborigines, 50,000 years ago; then 759 British convicts, followed by a wave of military settlers known as the Rum Corps. The result: Sydney's bold, egalitarian charm. History, opera, opals and koalas are all here.

Noumea, New Caledonia
New Caledonia's lush beauty has earned it many names, including "The Island Closest to Paradise" and "The St. Tropez of the Pacific." The poincianas, or flame trees, will color the island with their bright red umbrellas when you visit.

Suva, Fiji
Traditional rituals live on in this modern capital city. Marvel as Fijian firewalkers display their mysterious power over flame; join a village chief in the preparation of kava; relax in a thatched bure.

Dravuni Island, Fiji
Known for its pristine beaches and fine weather, Dravuni Island is a veritable tropical paradise. Grab a snorkel and head for the pristine beaches, or walk into the charming village and meet the locals.

Apia, Samoa Islands
Find island bliss, as did Robert Louis Stevenson, in the old ways of Samoa. Experience a traditional kava ceremony, taste breadfruit, relax in a thatched roof fale on the beach.

Pago Pago, American Samoa
Sultry, sensuous, purely Polynesian. Only Pago Pago (pronounced "Pango Pango") could inspire men to dance with flaming knives, Somerset Maugham to write "Rain," and anthropologist Margaret Mead to take a closer look.

Nawiliwili Kauai, Hawaii, US
Get ready for lush fern grottos, grand canyons and the dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast (experienced by helicopter and from the decks of your Holland America ship during an afternoon of scenic cruising).

Honolulu, Hawaii, US
Classic Hawaiian allure: pineapple plantations, surfing beaches, hula shows, luaus and high-energy discos. Quieter moments await at the USS Arizona Memorial.

Vancouver, B.C., CA
Galleries, boutiques, colorful public markets, restaurants of every ethnicity: this vital port city has them all. Visit vibrant Chinatown and Stanley Park, with its 1,000 acres of forests, gardens, lakes and lawns in the heart of the city.