Our last port of call on Windstar's "Dreams of Tahiti" cruise on Star Breeze was where we started: Papeete, the capital city of Tahiti. It was an opportunity to take a quick look around the island's north coast, where we found a waterfall, a blow hole and a lighthouse, along with scenic volcanic, black sand beaches. We also saw a lot of surfing. In fact, the 2024 Paris Olympics surfing competition will be held on Tahiti. -- Gerry Barker

By Georgina Cruz
Special to North Palm Beach Life
Photos by Georgina Cruz

            “A couple who sails together, stays together” is my husband Humberto’s and my motto. Many years (except during the pandemic) we have celebrated our anniversary on a cruise including nine world and grand voyages on Holland America and two Caribbean cruises on Crystal. This year we also wanted something special as we are celebrating 52 years together and a new ship, Regent Seven Seas Grandeur, caught our attention. From a line that calls itself “the most luxurious cruise line in the world” and which has been voted one of the best mid-size cruise lines by readers of Travel & Leisure in 2023, she merited a look. Also really catching our eye was a special offer of a free two-category suite upgrade and $500 per suite shipboard credit. New ship, luxury and perks? We could not resist and booked a 10-day Caribbean cruise out of Miami in early March.

Windstar's Star Breeze made a stop at Maroa Bay on the French Polynesian island of Huahine, consisting of two islands, Big Huahine and Little Huahine. We took a tour that included a picnic in the water, featuring freshly-made Poisson Cru (raw fish) and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. Just another day in paradise. -- Gerry Barker

While anchored off Bora Bora, Windstar's Star Breeze staged a special "Destination Discovery Event" on a private island: Dinner, sunset viewing and Tahitian dancers. It was a magical night to remember.
-- Gerry Barker

Mention Bora Bora, and you think about luxury resorts with over-the-water bungalows. This 12-square-mile island is world-famous as a bucket list destination for tourists and newlyweds.  On Windstar's "Dreams of Tahiti" cruise on Star Breeze, we spent a half-day touring the island paradise. Take a look.
 -- Gerry Barker

Small, private "motus" (islands) are sprinkled throughout French Polynesia. On our Windstar "Dreams of Tahiti" cruise on Star Breeze, the cruise line arranged for us to have a beach BBQ on Motu Mahaea. We were ferried over in Zodiacs, eight at a time, to spend the day lounging on the beach, playing water sports, sipping cocktails and enjoying delicious food. Plus the scenery isn't bad, either. -- Gerry Barker

(Press Release) SINGER ISLAND, Fla., March 14, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- A reimagined beach escape, The Singer Oceanfront Resort – located on a pristine, four-mile stretch of Singer Island, Florida's hidden gem between Palm Beach and Jupiter and the eastern-most point in the state – will debut this spring following a transformative, multi-million-dollar renovation and rebrand. Just steps away from turquoise blue ocean on one side and the calm waters of the Intracoastal on the other, The Singer offers an unmatched retreat on the Atlantic Coast with easy access via Palm Beach International Airport just 12 miles away. With its grand opening, The Singer transitions to Curio Collection by Hilton, operated by Davidson Resorts.

One of the stops on our Windstar "Dreams of Tahiti" cruise was Raiatea, the second largest of the 118 Society Islands in French Polynesia. More quiet and laid-back than Tahiti, Moorea or Bora Bora,  During our time here, we saw a pearl farm, a botanical garden and Marae Taputapuatea, a historical religious complex at Opoa on the south eastern coast of Raiatea.  Let's start the tour: -- Gerry Barker

Moorea, or Mo'orea (Mo-o-RAY-a) as it is also known, is one of the Society Islands in French Polynesia, located some 17 miles from the main island of Tahiti. It's a favorite destination for honeymooners, who favor the resorts located along the coastline. Tourism is the main business, and you can expect a warm and friendly welcome from the islanders.

It was a stop on our Windstar "Dreams of Tahiti" cruise, and after the cruise, we spent three additional days here. One visit and you'll know why it's so in-demand for newlyweds and travelers from around the world. -- Gerry Barker

Cook's Bay Hotel and Suites is located on Moorea's north coast, on a tranquil lagoon. It recently reopened after a two-year renovation project. Its 38 suites offer amazing views  of the resort's picturesque setting.  The property also features a restaurant, Le Cook, connected by a footbridge over the lagoon. If you are looking for paradise, you've come to the right place.

On our last day, we opted to go on a private tour,. We hired Damon to show us the sights and tell us first-hand about the island's culture and attractions. Among other things, he introduced us to coconut bread,  and we are totally hooked. Looks like we'll have to come back to get more!