Voyage from Tahiti to Papua New Guinea (Island Sky)

Description

This voyage tells the story of the South Pacific and uncovers its history and legends as we visit the captivating islands from Tahiti to Australia by way of Fiji, Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands and Melanesia. By wind, wave and star the ancient people of Polynesia ventured to the farthest reaches of the South Pacific. Isolated by miles of ocean over thousands of years, these, the world’s first island cultures, developed a pantheon of gods, myths and legends. The real age of European exploration did not take place until the 18th century and many of the islands we will visit have changed little since that time. Their sheer isolation has been their saving grace and apart from an influx of missionaries in the late 19th century, western culture has made few inroads into most of the islands. We will have the opportunity to visit tribal villages little changed for centuries, see astonishing ceremonial dances, enjoy nature walks inland or swim in the warm waters from isolated palm-fringed beaches.

The region is ideal for exploring by small ship and particularly one as suitable as the MS Island Sky. Her fleet of Zodiac landing craft provides us with the freedom of spontaneity to explore and land in places where relatively few travellers have been before us. With this in mind we have planned our itinerary with visits to many remote and magical islands including the Islands of Kiribati where we hope to visit Millennium Island, the Northern Cook Islands and the little-known French Territory of Wallis and Futuna. We will be joined by a handpicked expedition team, consisting of naturalists, marine biologists and ecologists who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during forays ashore and whilst on board. This voyage has something for everyone, whether your interest lies in natural history, military history, bird watching, photography, the undersea world or simply just being one of the privileged few who are able to set foot on islands of astonishing richness and beauty. We hope you can join us in this faraway haven, for an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the most intriguing places on the map.

Trip Name

Voyage from Tahiti to Papua New Guinea (Island Sky)

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Luxury Small Ship Length: 90 metres Passenger Capacity: 116 Built / refurbished: 1992 / 2010 / 2017 Sister ship to Hebridean Sky. Island Sky and Hebridean Sky are truly sisters. Built in the same Italian Shipyard, both boast spacious, well-appointed suites, stylish common areas, and redundant core technology that allows them to operate smoothly, even under the most challenging of conditions. Both ships are all-suite, all-inclusive small expedition vessels with touches of elegance throughout. The Island Sky is scheduled for additional upgrades in 2017, including the addition of tinted sliding glass doors to all cabins on the Promenade Deck. Services: World-Class Cuisine Complimentary Wine or Beer with Dinner Live Entertainment Complimentary Coffee/Tea station Voyage Photographer On-board MD and Facilities Dedicated Passenger Service Manager Pre-voyage hotel night Complimentary Expedition Jacket Facilities: Elevator serving all passenger decks Upgraded WIFI Internet Library with computers Panoramic Top Deck Observation Platform Bar/Lounge with Live Entertainment Lounge with Audiovisual Facilities DVD Movie Library Tinted sliding glass doors in all cabins on the Promenade Deck World-Class Cuisine: Great expeditions require great food! Our team of world-class chefs offer breakfast, lunch and dinner menus that change daily. They have boat-loads of creativity, so you are sure to experience a variety of remarkable cuisine throughout your voyage. Accommodations: All Suites Feature: Exterior views Your choice of queen-sized or two twin-sized beds Sitting area with sofa and side chair Flat Screen TV with DVD/CD player Telephone Independent temperature controls Mini-Bar Marble-appointed bathroom with fine toiletries Hair dryer 220 square feet or more Sofa can be converted to bed for third person PLEASE NOTE - DECK PLANS CAN VARY.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1 London to Tahiti.

Fly by scheduled indirect flight.

Day 2 - Day 2 Papeete, French Polynesia.

Arrive this morning and transfer to the MS Island Sky. Spend the day at leisure to relax on board or explore independently before we sail this evening.

Day 3 - Day 3 Bora Bora.

One of the most stunning islands on the planet, Bora Bora’s interior is crowned by majestic eroded volcanic formations and a distinctive black basaltic peak. A tour of the island will take you past colourful villages, archaeological sites and World War II relics. Alternatively take the chance to swim from the beach or enjoy our first snorkelling opportunity in the clear waters. Return to the ship for lunch and spend the afternoon at sea as we sail north to Kiribati.

Day 4 - Days 4 to 6 Islands of Kiribati.

The thirty-three islands of Kiribati cover a huge area of the Pacific spreading 2,400 miles from east to west and 1,300 miles from north to south. After crossing the international date line (we are now the 25th April), with the benefit of our small ship we will spend two and a half days in the Line Islands in the south eastern corner of the republic. We hope to visit Millennium Island, named in celebration of being the first island to see in the year 2000. Made up of 39 uninhabited islets surrounding a peaceful lagoon, it contains a unique underwater environment with schools of black tail sharks, white sharks and fish playing in the shallow water. We will have the chance to swim or snorkel here and whilst on land we can look for tropical birds including the brown noddy. Flint Island is four kilometres long and less than a kilometre wide and was first spotted by Ferdinand Magellan in 1520. On an island walk we will see the abundant coconut palms, which were planted in the 1870s by farmers wishing to produce copra, and the coconut crabs which can be seen everywhere on the island. Pristine Vostock Island is covered by native forest and surrounded by a coral reef. The island has no lagoon, but we hope to swim and snorkel on the reef which flourishes with many marine species. On land, during nature walks we will search for the eight species of birds including frigatebirds, white terns and noddy as well as skinks and coconut crabs.

Day 5 - Day 7 At Sea.

Crossing back across the International Date line we have a day at sea as we sail to the Cook Islands (date remains the 27th April).

Day 6 - Days 8 to 10 Northern Cook Islands.

Over the next three days we will explore some of the most remote islands in the Cook Islands which are only serviced by irregular flight services and occasional cargo ship visits. Penrhyn, named after the ship “Lady Penrhyn” which sighted the island in 1788, is the largest atoll in the Cook Islands comprising a ring of coral made up of 53 islets, 48 miles around, protecting a huge lagoon. The lagoon is home to abundant marine life including black tip sharks and bonefish, and fishing remains the main source of income for the islanders. We will have the chance to meet the villagers and learn about life in this remote region. Meanwhile Manihiki Island is just four square kilometres in size but home to a number of pearl farms. Meeting the local farmers, we will learn about the cultivation of the pearls, swim in the clear waters or take a stroll around the island. Pukapuka, the most westerly of the Cook Islands is actually closer to Samoa than Rarotonga and has its own distinct customs and culture. We will learn about the harmonious lives of the islanders, swim in the lagoon or search for some of the wildlife on a nature walk.

Day 7 - Day 11 At Sea.

During our day at sea we will cross the International Date Line and lose a day as we head to Samoa. Join our lecture programme or else find a spot to relax on deck.

Day 8 - Day 12 Apia, Samoa.

Arrive this morning in Apia (on the 3rd May), the capital of Samoa which is regarded as the heart of Polynesia and where we will be guaranteed a warm welcome. Leaving the city behind we will make our way to the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum located in the house where the author spent his final years and afterwards we can explore the 12 hectares of Botanical Gardens and possibly take a swim in the freshwater swimming hole. Those feeling active may also wish to walk to his grave, situated on Mount Vaea offering wonderful views over the island. Returning to Apia we can spend some time shopping in the Maketi Fou, visit the museum of Samoa or learn about local traditions at the Cultural Village.

Day 9 - Days 13 & 14 Wallis & Futuna.

Well off the beaten track, Wallis and Futuna are part of the smallest of France’s three South Pacific territories and sit on the threshold of Polynesia and Melanesia. Wallis is isolated from its neighbours geographically, culturally and politically with strong historical connections to Tonga. Here we will explore the interior of the island visiting Mata Utu Cathedral, the crater lakes of Mount Lulu Fakahega and the recently excavated fort at Talietumu. Nearby Futuna has closer links to Samoa and here we will discover the famous Church of Pierre Chanel, a peculiar church with a stepped tower erected to honour Polynesia’s first and only Catholic Saint. Later we will enjoy nature walks on the beaches to take in the amazing scenery and wildlife.

Day 10 - Day 15 Taveuni, Fiji.

Today we visit the ‘Garden Island of Fiji’. The nature lovers can take a four-wheel drive to Dos Voeux Peak where at the summit we will be treated to fantastic views of Taveuni and across to Lake Tagimoucia. Here we will see the tropical plants, palms and rainforest and we hope to spot spectacular birdlife such as orange-breasted doves, silktails, ferntails and parrots. Alternatively, join a walking trip to the Bouma Heritage Park to see some of the waterfalls and enjoy a swim. The view from the highest waterfall is spectacular. Our cultural tour will give the opportunity to witness lifestyles in a traditional Fijian village and see cooking demonstrations. In the afternoon we will head to one of the neighbouring islands for some snorkelling opportunities.

Day 11 - Day 16 Lautoka, Fiji.

Enjoy a day at leisure to relax on board or explore independently.

Day 12 - Day 17 At Sea.

Spend a relaxing day at sea as we make our way across the South Pacific to Vanuatu. Maybe join a lecture, find a spot on deck or read a book in the library.

Day 13 - Day 18 Tanna, Vanuatu.

Over breakfast we arrive on the island of Tanna, which means earth in the local Kwamera language. Captain Cook was the first European to visit the island in 1774, landing at Port Resolution and having been attracted by the glowing light of Mount Yasur. This 361 metre active volcano is situated in the south east of the island and dominates the landscape. The adventurous may wish to join a journey to the crater. We will use local trucks to drive through the rainforest that covers the mountain before walking to the rim. Alternatively, we may have the chance to visit a local village where traditional lifestyles are maintained and the local culture has been largely unaffected by western influences. Here we will learn of customs and also of traditional medicines, crafts and cooking styles.

Day 14 - Day 19 Port Havannah.

Awake this morning as we anchor off Port Havannah, situated on the north coast of Efate Island and our base for today’s activities. There are a number of outer islands that we may be able to explore depending on weather and sea conditions. Lelepa Island is 160 acres of unspoilt tropical rainforest and palm fringed beaches. On a nature walk we will see the herbs used in local medicines before exploring Feles cave, thought to be the resting place of the legendary Polynesian Chief, Roi Mata. Meanwhile on Moso Island we meet the volunteers at the Tasiriki Turtle Sanctuary who will teach us about the rehabilitation of the Hawksbill turtles and the attempts to increase their numbers. If time and weather permit, we will also set up a snorkelling platform or have the chance for a swim.

Day 15 - Day 20 Pentecost Island.

Named after the day on which it was first sighted by Europeans, Pentecost is a mountainous, tropical island. There are no towns on Pentecost and many areas remain relatively untouched by western influences with strong local traditions. The island is also the home of nanggol (land diving) – the original bungee jump – which is known throughout the world. The nanggol ceremony takes place between April and June to celebrate the first yam crop emerging and we hope to coincide our call with one of these events. From tall towers constructed of saplings and branches held together with forest vines, the men leap forward and down to touch the earth below. A good jump helps ensure a bountiful yam harvest.

Day 16 - Day 21 Ureparapara.

Our final call in Vanuatu will be the island of Ureparapara in the Banks Island group. This tiny island community is still off the main tourist routes but the locals are happy to share their culture, stories and ways of life with the visitors that make the journey to their island. From our anchorage point we will Zodiac ashore and see a traditional snake dance, where the men paint themselves black and white as sea snakes, before being welcomed into the village.

Day 17 - Day 22 Vanikoro, Solomon Islands.

Spend the morning on the island of Vanikoro. Situated in the Temotu Province, Vanikoro was where French explorer Jean- Francois de la Perouse became stranded after both his vessels, La Boussole and the Astrolabe, hit the then unknown reefs of the island in 1788. Learn more about the island’s history and the mystery of the lost La Perouse expedition that captured the imagination of the European public. As we land with our Zodiacs, we will be welcomed ashore by the local villagers before choosing to explore the village further or join a nature walk where we can look out for the endemic birds, the Vanikoro monarch and Vanikoro white-eye. Alternatively we also hope to have the chance to swim or snorkel in the clear waters. Return to the MS Island Sky for lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at sea.

Day 18 - Day 23 Santa Ana.

After a morning cruising, over lunch we anchor off Port Mary on Santa Ana Island. We will be welcomed with a stunning dance by the villagers with spears and mud face masks. After the performance we have the opportunity to explore the town further with its plethora of local handicrafts, join a nature walk through the forests or swim from the local beach.

Day 19 - Day 24 Honiara.

Prior to World War II Honiara did not exist, it developed around the site of the US military headquarters. Today, this is a bustling town with lovely hibiscus and palm tree lined avenues. After breakfast we will join a city tour of Honiara including the central market, parliament building and National Museum where we get an insight into the history of the Solomon Islands. Enjoy lunch before continuing to the World War II sites including Henderson Field, the Japanese Peace Park and the US Memorial at Skyline Ridge. This evening we will cruise through Iron Bottom Sound, the site of intense naval battles during World War II and so named for the large numbers of Japanese and American ships and aircraft that sank beneath the sea.

Day 20 - Day 25 Marovo Lagoon.

Marovo Lagoon is the largest double barrier lagoon in the world. Thousands of islands scatter the lagoon, from tiny coral islets on the fringing reef to massive 1600 metre volcanic islands. Inside the lagoon, the islands are surrounded by spectacular coral formations and white sand beach, the lagoon waters shimmering in every shade of blue, turquoise and jade green. We have a full day here to explore and will visit one of the outlying villages which produce some of the finest wood carvings in the region. We will also find a suitable spot to snorkel and swim as well as Zodiac cruises to look for local wildlife.

Day 21 - Day 26 At Sea.

Spend a day at sea as we continue our journey towards Papua New Guinea.

Day 22 - Day 27 Rabaul, Papua New Guinea.

Arrive this morning at Rabaul’s dramatic harbour which is ringed by six cone-shaped volcanoes. Our morning tour will include a visit to the Volcanic Observatory, which monitors 14 active and 23 dormant volcanoes in Papua New Guinea, and from where we will enjoy magnificent views over the bay and the volcanoes. Our next stop will be Mount Tavurvur, which violently erupted in 1937 and 1994, and where we will witness the Hot Springs. This afternoon will be at leisure to explore independently before we meet tonight to attend an astonishing performance of the Baining tribe’s fire dance. Tribe members in huge, magnificently crafted masks leap and dance over crackling, red-hot coals in a centuries-old ritual to honour the local deity-spirits.

Day 23 - Day 28 Rabaul to Cairns, Australia.

Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our specially chartered flight to Cairns. On arrival transfer to our hotel, the Hilton Cairns, and the rest of the day and evening is free for independent exploration.

Day 24 - Day 29 Cairns to Singapore.

After breakfast in the hotel transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Singapore. On arrival transfer to our hotel, the Mandarin oriental, for a two night stay and the remainder of the day is free to explore at your own pace.

Day 25 - Day 30 Singapore.

This morning we will enjoy an orientation tour including the National Orchid Garden which houses the largest collection of orchids in the world. Also see the bustling district of little India, the markets of Kampong Glam and the Sri Mariamman temple in Chinatown. Return to the hotel and enjoy a free afternoon and evening to explore at your own pace. You may wish to take a boat ride on the Singapore River, see the lightshow at the Gardens by the Bay, visit the iconic Raffles Hotel or relax at the hotel.

Day 26 - Day 31 Singapore to London.

Enjoy a free morning in Singapore before we meet this afternoon for our transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.

Day 27 - Day 32 London.

Arrive this morning.

Day 28 - Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Discover Papeete, French Polynesia.
Explore Islands of Kiribati.
Visit Fiji & Solomon Islands.
Travel to Papua New Guinea.