You will arrive in Cairns, which will give you the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest. You will then make your way to your hotel, where the group will spend the first night of the expedition. In the evening, you will be able to meet your fellow voyagers and expedition guides over dinner at the hotel.

Enjoy an early breakfast before boarding your flight to Port Moresby, the lively gateway and capital of Papua New Guinea where village and urban life exist side-by-side. You will board your expedition ship this afternoon where you will have time to settle into your cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship before meeting your Expedition Team, to discuss voyage plans and familiarise yourself with the vessel.

Today, your destination off the eastern tip of Papua New Guinea is Doini Island - an island paradise with white sand beaches, crystal blue waters and a vibrant rainforest interior. With a population estimated to be less than 1,000, Doini’s untouched beauty is evident both above and below the water. The rainforests of this area are filled with reminders of the Second World War and the traditional burial site known as Skull Cave housing around 100 skulls belonging to ancestors who fought fierce battles with neighbouring tribes. Doini Island also presents the first snorkelling location of the adventure, with abundant marine life and coral reef kingdoms.

Today you will visit the stunning Tufi Fjords, a rarely seen natural wonder in Papua New Guinea. These fjords include 25 separate canyons with impressive basalt cliffs. Enjoy beautiful views as you cruise near the tall cliffs before taking to the Zodiacs to reach the shore. There, you can meet the local Tufi people and discover their rich traditions. The fjords' protected waters have vibrant and diverse coral reefs with incredible visibility, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling among Gobies, Mandarin Fish, Pygmy Seahorses, and colourful corals. Later, take a walk through the nearby rainforest to search for the world’s largest butterfly, the Queen Alexandra’s Birdwing.

You will wake up this morning in the volcanic island chain of D’Entrecasteaux Islands where you will plan to explore the hot springs, bubbling mud pools and geysers of the geothermal Ferguson islands and the culturally rich extinct volcano of Dobu, where locals perform dances and music with unique costumes. For bird enthusiasts, keep a lookout for the striking White Cockatoo and the distinctive Curl-crested Manucode. There’s also time to venture into the steep vibrant coral drop off and appreciate a multitude of fish including tiny Clownfish.

Nestled in the Solomon Sea, the Trobriand Islands, known as the “Islands of Love,” offer a unique glimpse into a traditional culture that remains largely untouched by outside influence. You will have the chance to explore white-sand beaches, lively villages, and clear waters filled with marine life. You can also experience energetic local dances, learn about the historic Kula Ring trade system, and admire detailed ebony carvings. Enjoy snorkelling over colourful reefs teeming with tropical fish.

Today, you will visit the bubbling hot springs and take in the magnificent views of six beautiful cone-shaped volcanoes that ring Rabaul’s dramatic, flooded-caldera harbour, as seen from Observatory Ridge. The island is decorated in fascinating reminders of the Japanese occupation, as well as the enormous volcanic eruption that all but destroyed Rabaul town. You will also visit an underground bunker that was the hiding place of Pearl Harbour commander, Yamamoto. Afterwards, you will have the chance to experience the bustling Kokopo markets.

A tropical atoll adrift in the azure waters of the Buka Channel, Nissan Island is bathed in rich tropical currents that abound in marine life. Few outsiders have had the opportunity to discover the abundance of pelagic fish-life and pristine coral reefs that the island has to offer. Ashore there are still reminders of the brief, but intensive, World War II activities during which the islands were recaptured by Kiwi, Australian and British forces from the Japanese occupiers. During your time ashore, you can meet with the friendly locals from all three of the island’s Balil Villages and search the dense forests for some of the elusive resident birds such as Moustached Treeswift, Whimbrel, White-bellied Sea-Eagle, and the Purple-bellied Lory. Later in the day, you will have the chance to discover the waters diverse marine life (such as turtles and dugongs) and coral reefs that form a ring around the island. 

Today you will discover the treasures of Bougainville Island. This island has been long isolated and protected due to the decade long civil ware which swirled around its shores through the 90s. The region within Papua New Guinea beautifully blends rugged, jungle-covered landscapes with stunning coral reefs offshore, offering some of the richest biodiversity both above and beneath the surface. Lying to the east of the country’s mainland and north of the Solomon Islands, it comprises two main islands and several outlying islands and atolls making it both remote and hard to reach, but perfect for exploration by expedition ship. Discover Bougainville’s strong ties and connections with the Solomon Islands, which is reflected in their music, culture and language.

Today you will find yourself in the Solomon Islands, at the volcanic New Georgia Islands, found in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands. These are characterised by widespread reefs and lagoons, rugged terrain and an abundance of rivers. You may get the chance to explore birdlife and visit the Imbu Rano Eco Lodge and Conservation Area of Kolombangara Island, which protects the islands central peak. The surrounding reefs are home to some of the highest fish counts in the world, a perfect opportunity for snorkelling. Later, you’ll have the chance to visit a local village. Be sure to bring some local currency if you’d like to buy the famous wood and stone carvings from the people of the Western Province.

Uninhabited for 150 years, this rugged island decorated in rainforest and fringed with coral reefs is home to one of the Solomon Islands’ leading community-driven conservation projects Tetepare Descendants’ Association. Three species of turtle, including the endangered leatherback, nest on its beaches while other species inhabiting the island and surrounding waters include dugong, the world’s largest skink, endemic Tetepare White-eye and many more. In the afternoon, you may have the chance to explore and enjoy a drift snorkel of the fringing reef with its remarkable marine biodiversity.

Today you will explore the heart of the Solomon archipelago, the Nggela Islands chain which comprises 50 jungle-capped islands with powdery white sand beaches and stunning gin clear waters, and home to exceptional coral gardens, reefs and marine life. At Roderick Bay on Nggela Sule, you will have time to explore the beaches and forests, and enjoy the excitement of snorkelling in its clear waters. On nearby Tulagi Island, local warriors will traditionally greet you before you learn about the island's rich history. It was once the administrative centre of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate until it was destroyed during World War II. During our visit, we plan to check out important wartime sites, including Blue Beach and the Japanese U-caves, where soldiers once hid during fierce battles with U.S. forces.
 

Today you will arrive at Port Mary on Santa Ana Island, also known as Owaraha or Owa Raha. This beautiful coral island, first encountered by Europeans in 1568, has a large variety of bird species as well as of lush tropical forests to explore. You can enjoy local hospitality and culture as you peruse local handicrafts, explore the lush forests with your guides and meet the local children at the village school or bask in tropical waters. Birders will be on the look out for the tiny Sooty Myzomela, Island Imperial Pigeon, Solomons Rufous Fantail and Chestnut-bellied Monarch among others.

Today you will arrive at Nendö of the Santa Cruz Islands, which lie to the south-east of the Solomon Islands. The Spanish navigator Álvaro de Mendaña de Neira unsuccessfully attempted to establish a colony in 1595. Biologically, these islands share more in common with Vanuatu and are home to some of Papua New Guinea's most incredible birdlife, such as red feather money, sourced from the Scarlet Honeyeater. You will also be able to embrace the timeless dances performed by locals, which reverberate through the ages.

Today, you will explore the Vanikoro archipelago, a group of five islands surrounded by a beautiful barrier reef. This is where French explorer Jean-François de Galaup, comte de La Pérouse, mysteriously disappeared after his ships, La Boussole and Astrolabe, were wrecked on the reef in 1788. Onshore, we’ll visit a monument dedicated to La Pérouse, built by fellow explorer Dumont d’Urville in 1827. You’ll have the opportunity to go on forest walk and look for the rare Vanikoro White-eye and Monarch, and appreciate the delicate beauty of the Vanikoro Orchid. You will also have a chance to see the recently rediscovered Vanikoro Flying Fox, which was once thought to be extinct until recent findings

Today you will explore Vanuatu’s largest Island, Santo; location of James Michener’s Tales of the South Pacific. The crystalline waters of Champagne Beach provide a perfect swimming spot. In the afternoon you can enjoy a Zodiac cruise to the iconic blue holes of Santo. If you have an interest in the history of the island, you may have the opportunity to visit Lugainville and Million Dollar Point.

Today you will visit Ambrym, one of Vanuatu’s most glorious volcanic islands. You may have the chance to head ashore at a secret location on the northern coast where the traditional Rom dance is still practised and custom carving is alive and well. A walk through the forest brings you to the ‘arena’ where masked dancers emerge from the forest. The forests of Ambrym offer some magnificent walks to go in search of the local birds and plants. In the afternoon, enjoy a final snorkel excursion in the warm clear waters of Ambrym. This afternoon enjoy a final snorkel excursion on Efate or ‘Sandwich Island’, as it was once known, a tropical island paradise famed for its hidden natural wonders, beaches and historic sites.

This morning you will arrive in Port Vila where you will disembark after breakfast and will either be transferred either to a centrally located city hotel (not included) or the airport. To ensure you have sufficient time for disembarkation procedures and to mitigate against any potential sailing delays, please do not book a schedule flight departing Port Vila before noon. 

Please be aware that, during your voyage, changing conditions—such as weather, or special wildlife and cultural opportunities may require or encourage adjustments to the published itinerary. You will be informed of any modifications. A range of shore activities and excursions will be offered throughout the trip, allowing you to choose those that best fit your interests. Because some options will run concurrently, you may need to select between overlapping activities. Please note that refunds are not available for missed excursions or landings.

You will arrive in Cairns, which will give you the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest. You will then make your way to your hotel, where the group will spend the first night of the expedition. In the evening, you will be able to meet your fellow voyagers and expedition guides over dinner at the hotel.

Enjoy an early breakfast before boarding your flight to Madang, situated on a picturesque peninsula surrounded by islands and waterways. This is a thriving community renowned for its traditional artists, and the richness of its surrounding forests. On arrival you will enjoy a Madang and Environs tour which includes a visit to the Coastwatchers’ Memorial Light at Kalibobo, Madang museum and Bilbil Village before returning to Madang to explore the markets. You will board your expedition ship this afternoon where you will have time to settle into your cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship before meeting your Expedition Team, to discuss voyage plans and familiarise yourself with the vessel. Be sure to join your expedition team in the Observation Lounge and up on the Observation Deck as you set sail for the Sepik River.

The Sepik River, the longest in Papua New Guinea, flows from the highlands to the Bismarck Sea. It is a rich arterial river that has fostered great traditional artists. The plan is to explore the river by Zodiac, following tributaries and channels in search of local wildlife. Enjoy a warm welcome at Kopar Village where we will experience village life and a traditional Dragon Dance unique to this region. Bring along plenty of the local currency (kina) to purchase unique carvings directly from the artists.

Seldom visited and little known, Manus Island is considered a jewel in the crown of Papua New Guinea. Biologically isolated the Manus Province is home to a high proportion of endemic species and will surely be a highlight for birdlife. Once the location of a detention centre as part of Australia’s ‘Pacific Solution’, life on Manus Island continues according to traditional customs and is now home to 10 villages and a population of less than 1,000. Here you will plan to visit Derimbat Village where you can enjoy an elaborate welcoming ceremony and explore the village and the resident's unique way of life with a local guide.

Today you will plan to explore the remote beauty of Tsoilik Island, nestled within the New Ireland archipelago in the New Hanover District of Papua New Guinea. This secret South Pacific paradise combines coconut tree studded spectacular white sand beaches surrounded by stunning turquoise water and wildlife filled jungles to explore. You have several options today, you can enjoy the warm hospitality and an authentic slice of village life with the locals who enjoy a subsistent, traditional lifestyle; explore dense rainforest searching for birdlife and try your hand at paddling a traditional outrigger canoe; basket weaving; or just exploring this unspoiled tropical paradise. Enjoy the vibrant underwater world of colourful corals and marine life by snorkelling along the outer reef edge alongside Pipefish, Nudibranchs and Anemone Fish. Make sure you are out on deck this afternoon as you sail through the narrow passage separating New Hanover from New Ireland.

Six beautiful cone-shaped volcanoes ring Rabaul’s dramatic, flooded-caldera harbour. Here you can visit the bubbling hot springs and take in the magnificent views of the harbour and volcanoes from Observatory Ridge. As you explore the island you will see fascinating reminders of the Japanese occupation, the site of the enormous volcanic eruption that all but destroyed Rabaul town, the underground bunker that was the hiding place of Pearl Harbour commander, Yamamoto, and exploring the bustling Kokopo markets.

A tropical atoll adrift in the azure waters of the Buka Channel, Nissan Island is bathed in rich tropical currents that abound in marine life. Seldom have outsiders had the opportunity to discover this world promising abundant pelagic fish-life and pristine coral reefs. Ashore there are still reminders of the brief, but intensive, World War II activities during which the islands were recaptured by Kiwi, Australian and British forces from the Japanese occupiers. During your time ashore you can meet with the friendly locals from all three of the island’s Balil Villages and search the dense woods for some of the elusive birds that occur here. Later enjoy snorkelling the coral reefs that surround Nissan.

Today you will explore Bougainville, long isolated and in a strange way protected due to the conflict which swirled around its shores. This autonomous region within Papua New Guinea magnificently marries rugged, jungled terrain with amazing coral reefs offshore and is home to some of the greatest biodiversity in the region both above and below the water. Lying to the east of the country’s mainland and north of the Solomon Islands, it comprises two main islands and several outlying islands and atolls making it both remote and hard to reach, but perfect for exploration by expedition ship. Discover Bougainville’s strong ties and connections with the Solomon Islands, which is reflected in their music, culture and language.

The volcanic New Georgia Islands in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands are characterised by extensive reefs and lagoons, rugged terrain and an abundance of rivers. You will land on Kolombangara Island, where you will plan to visit the Imbu Rano Lodge and Conservation Area which protects the islands central peak and search for the rare Roviana Rail along with other endemic bird species. Stock up on the local currency to purchase the wood or stone carvings that the people of the Western Province are famous for.

Uninhabited for 150 years, this rugged island cloaked in rainforest and fringed with coral reefs is home to one of the Solomon Islands’ leading community-driven conservation projects Tetepare Descendants’ Association. Receiving international recognition for its conservation and archaeological significance, three species of turtle, including the endangered leatherback, nest on its beaches while other species inhabiting the island and surrounding waters include dugong, the world’s largest skink, endemic Tetepare White-eye and many more. This afternoon you will plan to explore and and enjoy a drift snorkel of the fringing reef with its outstanding marine biodiversity.

Mountainous Malaita is home to one-third of the Solomon’s total population and features pristine rivers and unexploited tropical forests. This morning you will plan to explore the clear and calm waters that surround the island. In the afternoon you can hope to be invited by the world-renowned Kwaio People, led by Chief Esau, to discover their traditional way of life which the community have fiercely guarded alongside their ancestral lands. This invitation represents a rare privilege and is made possible by your ship's ongoing connection with the community and assistance with the development of innovative community conservation programs. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to spend time in the company of some of the most authentic, yet innovative, communities in the region.

Makira is the most easterly of the main islands in the Solomon’s archipelago. This morning you will anchor in the calm waters of Star Harbour. Your expedition team will lead a zodiac exploration of the abundant mangrove forests that line the shores, and take a short walk to Makira’s south coast where the villagers live much as they have for millennia. You can spend time with the locals, who may share their traditional song and dance; and maybe watch as some of the local boys surf on their hand-carved palm wood boards.

Nendö is the largest of the Santa Cruz Islands, which lie to the south-east of the Solomon Islands. The Spanish navigator Álvaro de Mendaña de Neira unsuccessfully attempted to establish a colony in 1595. Biologically these islands share more in common with Vanuatu. It is also the home of red feather money, sourced from the Scarlet Honeyeater. Watch the manufacture of red feather money, and join the locals in dances which reverberate through the ages.

Today you will plan to sail to the rarely-visited pacific paradise and culturally rich Torres Islands, Vanuatu’s northernmost islands. A collection of four main islets fringed with white sand beaches, clear azure waters, volcanic rock and cliffs topped with lush tangled jungles, your destination is Loh Island. After a warrior escort and welcome from the Chief you can experience the thrilling and rarely witnessed cultural wonder of the lēh-temēt – vibrant ritual headdresses known as temēt (primordial spirits) used during special singing and dancing ceremonial rituals. The colourful headdresses are regarded by the villagers as having the highest of supernatural powers and are destroyed immediately at the end of the dance ceremony. You will have some time to enjoy tours of the village, surrounding island or snorkel Loh’s incredible underwater world.

Today you will explore Vanuatu’s largest Island, Santo; location of James Michener’s Tales of the South Pacific. Enjoy a swim in the crystalline waters of Champagne Beach with its famed powdery white sand. This afternoon you will enjoy a zodiac cruise to the iconic blue holes of Santo; if you are interested in the history of the island, you will have the opportunity to visit Lugainville and Million Dollar Point.

Today you will visit Ambrym, renowned as the island of volcanoes and magic throughout Vanuatu. You will plan to head ashore at a secret location on the northern coast where the traditional Rom dance is still practised and custom carving is alive and well. A walk through the forest brings you to the ‘arena’ where masked dancers emerge from the forest. The forests of Ambrym offer some excellent walks to go in search of the local birds and plants, accompanied by your expedition team. This afternoon you can enjoy a final snorkel excursion.

This morning you will arrive in Port Vila where you will disembark after breakfast and will either be transferred either to a centrally located city hotel (not included) or the airport. To ensure you have sufficient time for disembarkation procedures and to mitigate against any potential sailing delays, please do not book a schedule flight departing Port Vila before noon. 

Please be aware that, during your voyage, changing conditions—such as weather, or special wildlife and cultural opportunities may require or encourage adjustments to the published itinerary. You will be informed of any modifications. A range of shore activities and excursions will be offered throughout the trip, allowing you to choose those that best fit your interests. Because some options will run concurrently, you may need to select between overlapping activities. Please note that refunds are not available for missed excursions or landings.