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Melanesian Odyssey 2027 – From Papua New Guinea to Fiji

Melanesian Odyssey 2027 – From Papua New Guinea to Fiji

From GBP £11,995

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Description

Here is a fascinating island hopping expedition through Melanesia from Papua New Guinea to the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and finally to Fiji. Travelling independently in Melanesia can be difficult, with little infrastructure in place to accommodate for tourists and information about getting around often scarce. This of course makes the region alluring to the genuine traveller who will encounter beautiful islands with unique features and customs that remain relatively unscathed by the modern world. 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.
After an overnight stay in Singapore, our expedition will begin in Papua New Guinea where we will moor in the dramatic Simpson Harbour which is part of a huge, flooded caldera and ringed by a number of volcanoes. From here we set sail for the Solomon Islands which were thrust on to the centre stage of world history when the Allied forces took the offensive in the South Pacific and air, land and sea battles ensued for their control. We will visit the majestic Morovo Lagoon, the world’s largest double barrier lagoon and a truly awe-inspiring place, and Tetepare Island which is the largest uninhabited tropical island in the Southern Hemisphere. We continue to Honiara where we explore the war sites and then on to the enchanting small islands of Santa Ana and Utupua. With our time on these remote island paradises 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. Leaving the Solomon Islands, we have three days in Vanuatu archipelago home to volcanos, rainforests bursting with a magnificent array of flora and fauna, beautiful beaches and a mesmerising underwater world of tropical fish and coral.
Afloat and ashore, our expedition will be filled with unforgettable images, remote idyllic islets, tribal villages unchanged for centuries, astonishing ceremonial dances, kaleidoscopic reefs and soaring white-tailed tropic birds. 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
Melanesian Odyssey 2027 - From Papua New Guinea to Fiji
Days
17
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Small Ship Length: 90 metres Passenger Capacity: 116  Built / refurbished: 1992 / 2010 / 2017 The MS Island Sky is an elegant small ship, offering the atmosphere of a private yacht combined with the comfort of a country house hotel. Accommodating just over 100 passengers in 59 spacious suites, all with outside views and many with private balconies, she provides a refined and intimate cruising experience. Suites are beautifully finished with wood panelling and brass details, and feature marble bathrooms, ample storage, and thoughtful amenities such as dressing gowns, refillable water bottles, and Noble Isle toiletries. Public spaces are equally well designed, with inviting lounges, a well-stocked library, observation decks, and a promenade for enjoying sweeping views. Complimentary Wi-Fi, a clinic with doctor, and a lift serving all decks ensure that modern comforts are seamlessly paired with classic style. Life on board is relaxed, sociable, and far removed from the bustle of large resort-style ships. With open seating in the dining room, guests can enjoy fine à la carte cuisine, enhanced by locally sourced produce and accompanied by included wines. Al fresco meals on the Lido Deck, afternoon tea, and pre-dinner canapés further enrich the dining experience. Days are shaped by enriching talks from Guest Speakers and the Expedition Team, with evenings offering convivial conversation, music in the lounge, or simply time to unwind. With excellent service, a warm atmosphere, and itineraries designed for discovery rather than distraction, the MS Island Sky offers a truly memorable way to explore the world in comfort and style.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Days 1 & 2 London to Fiji.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 - Day 3 Lautoka, Fiji.
Arrive today and transfer directly to the MS Island Sky for embarkation. The remainder of the day is at leisure to acclimatise after our long flight before we sail in the late afternoon.
Day 3 - Day 4 At Sea.
Spend a relaxing day at sea as we cross to Vanuatu. Our lecture programme will commence in the lounge or else find a spot on deck.
Day 4 - Day 5 Tanna Island, Vanuatu.
Our first call in Vanuatu is the island of Tanna, meaning earth in the local Kwamera language. Captain Cook was the first European to visit the island in 1774, landing at Port Resolution, having been attracted by the glowing light of Mount Yasur. This 361 metre active volcano is situated in the southeast of the island and dominates the landscape. The more adventurous amongst us may wish to join a journey to the crater taking local trucks through the rainforest that covers the mountain before walking to the rim. Alternatively, we hope to have the chance to visit local villages where traditional lifestyles are maintained and the local culture has been largely unaffected by western influences
Day 5 - Day 6 Efate Island.
Awake this morning 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. We also hope to land on Moso Island where the local Tasiriki community has been active in the conservation of the local turtle population and where we hope to set up a snorkelling platform or offer a chance to swim from the beach.
Day 6 - Day 7 Malekula & Wala Island.
The second largest of the island group, Malekula is also the most culturally diverse with a small population that speaks over 30 distinct languages. Here we will learn about the ancient tribes the Big Nambas who lived in the north and Small Nambas from the central and southern provinces. Tribal warfare was once very common but today the island is peaceful. We plan to visit one of the tribal groups, learn about their culture, with many ancient sites hidden in the forests, and see some of their important traditions of dance and song. In the afternoon we will relocate and find a suitable spot to swim, snorkel or enjoy a nature walk.
Day 7 - Day 8 Espiritu Santo Island.
Espiritu Santo is the largest of Vanuatu’s islands with some of the most beautiful white sand beaches, amazing blue holes, caves and renowned snorkelling. It was also a huge military base during World War II. Today there will be the opportunity to join an island tour including the Nekar Custom Village where we will learn about local traditions and customs, including their unique water music and kava making, before enjoying time to swim in one of the nearby “blue holes”. Alternatively, we will plan to swim or snorkel amongst the corals and fish of the region at Million Dollar Point, named after the value of the military equipment dumped into the sea. Sail over lunch and enjoy an afternoon at sea.
Day 8 - Day 9 Nembao Village, Utupua Island, Solomon Islands.
After a morning at sea we arrive this afternoon in the Solomon Islands at the remote Utupua Island. After being welcomed ashore we will have the option to meet the island’s school children, take a Zodiac cruise to the mangroves or join our naturalists for some beachcombing and nature walks in the nearby forests.
Day 9 - Day 10 Santa Ana.
Spend the morning cruising towards Port Mary on Santa Ana Island where 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 village further with its plethora of local handicrafts, join a nature walk through the forests or swim from the local beach.
Day 10 - Day 11 Honiara.
Prior to World War II Honiara did not exist; it developed around the site of the US military headquarters. The town and Mataniko River, which runs through it, were the front for many months during the battle of Guadalcanal. 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. Alternatively, visit a local organic cocoa farm where we can learn about the farming techniques and growing practices before enjoying a tasting of the final chocolate products. 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 11 - Day 12 Tetepare Island.
Tetepare, cloaked in rainforests and fringed with coral reefs, is the largest uninhabited tropical island in the Southern Hemisphere and home to one of the Solomon Islands leading conservation projects. Managed by the Tetepare Descendants Association, they have ensured the island was saved from the threat of loggers and many areas remain untouched. A wide variety of plants and animals live in the 120 square kilometres of lowland rainforest that blankets the island. A total of 76 bird species, 25 reptile and 13 mammal species have been recorded here including skinks, dugongs and the endemic Tetepare white eye whilst the beaches support three species of turtle including the endangered leatherback. Today we will enjoy a range of guided walks in the rainforest with the local conservationists who will educate us on the work they are doing on the island.
Day 12 - Day 13 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 beaches, the lagoon waters shimmering in every shade of blue, turquoise and jade green. We have a full day here to explore the villages which produce some of the finest wood carvings in the region. We will also find a suitable spot to snorkel and swim from the beaches as well as enjoying nature walks in the local forests.
Day 13 - Day 14 At Sea.
Spend the day at sea as we make our way towards Papua New Guinea.
Day 14 - Day 15 Rabaul, Papua New Guinea.
Arrive today in Rabaul’s dramatic Simpson 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. Before returning to MS Island Sky we will pass old Rabaul Airport, destroyed by the 1994 volcanic eruption, the museum and the vibrant market. This afternoon will be at leisure to explore independently or relax on deck as we moor overnight.
Day 15 - Day 16 Rabaul to Singapore.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to Singapore. Arrive this evening and transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 16 - Day 17 Singapore to London.
Return to the airport this morning for our scheduled flight to London. Arrive this afternoon.
Day 17 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
08-03-202724-03-2027GBP £11,995Magellan Deck Standard Suite
08-03-202724-03-2027GBP £12,295Columbus Deck Superior Suite
08-03-202724-03-2027GBP £12,495Magellan Deck Standard Single
08-03-202724-03-2027GBP £12,495Marco Polo Deck Premium Suite
08-03-202724-03-2027GBP £12,995Columbus Deck Superior Single
08-03-202724-03-2027GBP £13,295Marco Polo Deck Corner Suite
08-03-202724-03-2027GBP £13,995Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite
08-03-202724-03-2027GBP £14,495Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite
08-03-202724-03-2027GBP £14,995Explorer Deck Island Suite

Inclusions

    • Tanna Island’s Mount Yasur Volcano, Vanuatu: Venture to the rim of the active Mount Yasur volcano on Tanna Island, a 361-meter spectacle with glowing allure, or visit traditional villages to experience local culture largely untouched by Western influences.
    • Marovo Lagoon’s Coral Paradise, Solomon Islands: Explore the world’s largest double barrier lagoon, Marovo, with its vibrant coral reefs, turquoise waters, and scattered islands, offering exceptional snorkeling, village visits for intricate wood carvings, and guided forest walks.
    • Tetepare Island’s Conservation Haven, Solomon Islands: Discover Tetepare, the largest uninhabited tropical island in the Southern Hemisphere, with guided rainforest walks revealing 76 bird species, leatherback turtles, and dugongs, supported by the Tetepare Descendants Association’s conservation efforts.

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