First time- Princess cruise in south pacific- please give advice!

[shaniscruizin01]

My partner and I are going to be going on the Sun Princess cruiseline next month, over christmas. We are going to Isle Of Pines, Lifou, Vila, Wala, Noumea, Champagne Bay.
Im a little bit unsure on what shore activites to do on these places.? could anyone please give me advice!
Bit unsure especially on what to do at noumea.
also, to do tours independent, are they just as good? cruise tours seem quite expensive?
Also, is there anything i should know about the cruise prior? any help would be much appreciated! thanks, shan

[cb at sea]

1st, go get a guidebook on your ports....then you'll know what each place has to offer. It will also give you means of transportation, fees, distances....and THEN you can make a decision about whether you need an excursion to do the things that interest you. The book will even give local tour guides, should you decide not to use the ship's service--which CAN be expensive!
Then, go to the "Port of Call" boards on this site, and see what others have done and recommend!
Good luck!

[Eaglegirl52]

Originally Posted by shaniscruizin01

My partner and I are going to be going on the Sun Princess cruiseline next month, over christmas. We are going to Isle Of Pines, Lifou, Vila, Wala, Noumea, Champagne Bay.
Im a little bit unsure on what shore activites to do on these places.? could anyone please give me advice!
Bit unsure especially on what to do at noumea.
also, to do tours independent, are they just as good? cruise tours seem quite expensive?
Also, is there anything i should know about the cruise prior? any help would be much appreciated! thanks, shan

Hi Shan
Come on over to the roll call for this cruise, http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=965224
a lot of experienced cruisers who can give you some great advice and people you can get to know beforehand. We have a meet up at 10am on the first sea day. My first cruise too and its been so exciting reading up about it all.
See you in a few weeks
Ann