Swap the typical cruise excursions for these thrilling shore experiences

I'd rather have one unforgettable experience than do 10 mediocre tours. One of my fondest memories is taking True North's helicopter to a secluded spot in the Kimberley, where we had a picnic and drank beers under a waterfall.

Another amazing memory is swimming with whale sharks. From the port of Exmouth, boats take small groups to snorkel alongside these gentle giants in Ningaloo, which is easier to explore than the Great Barrier Reef because it's closer to shore. I lost count of the number of whale sharks we saw, as well as manta rays, turtles and a humpback with her newborn calf. Exmouth is visited by P&O, Princess Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea, Coral Expeditions and Holland America Line.

A jet ski is a better tour vehicle than a bus. In Cairns, Airlie Beach, Darwin and most South Pacific islands, you can zip along the coast for an hour, led by local professionals who point out the landmarks and marine life. In Port Vila, Vanuatu, you ride a Zego, which is sturdier and stabler. First stop is the indigenous-owned Ifira Island, where visitors usually need an invitation from the chief, followed by playtime in the crystal-clear waters of Paradise Cove.

The land version is an ATV quad bike in Moreton Bay, home of the world's tallest coastal sand dune. Kids (10 years and older), accompanied by an adult, are allowed to drive along the beautiful beach and bush trails.

As a seafood fanatic, I loved going to an oyster farm in Gisborne, New Zealand. Dressed in waders, we sat on benches in the water while staff showed us how to shuck the oysters before we slurped them.

In Dunedin, the best excursion is the wildlife safari at Natures Wonder. Join the jeep tour across the stunning Otago Peninsula headland to see rare yellow-eyed penguins, little blue penguins, albatross and New Zealand fur seals in their natural environment. It's so good I've gone there twice.

Read more on Explore:

Swan Hellenic Vega

How big: 76 cabins, 158 guests

Who would love it: Adventurous, mature couples spending the kids' inheritance.

Who would not: Young families or those with major mobility issues.

Point of difference: Off-the-beaten-track destinations in five-star style.

Don't miss: In the Expedition Lab, keen photographers can ask onboard experts questions or swap photography and editing tips with fellow passengers.

Price point: From $14,080 per person twin-share in an oceanview cabin for a 19-night South America cruise from Barbados to Brazil.

Explore more: swanhellenic.com