Join a unique cruise and venture off the beaten path to discover the hidden gems of Papua New Guinea, and the South Pacific Islands of the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu aboard a cruise vessel.
This 17-day expedition cruise visits the remote and relatively undiscovered islands of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, where once-in-a-lifetime birdwatching and fascinating culture awaits. In Papua New Guinea, delve into culturally rich islands, explore coral-fringed coastlines and encounter a wealth of endemic species and biological wonders. Sailing on to the Solomon Islands, discover one of the conservation jewels of the South Pacific Ocean on Tetepare Island and experience a kaleidoscope of diverse cultures as you explore Vanuatu, where more than 100 indigenous languages are spoken.
Throughout Melanesia there are spectacular reefs, offering some of the greatest marine diversity and snorkelling in the world, and you can appreciate the natural beauty beneath the waves, whether you're snorkelling or swimming. For birders, this itinerary offers rare species on hard to reach, remote islands where endemic species have evolved in isolation. The birding potential is exceptional; each day you visit a different island group which offers the opportunity to witness unique species, including white-eyes, monarchs, pigeons and flycatchers. This promises to be one of the most memorable of our South Pacific tours!
Arrive in Cairns and stay overnight.
Accommodation: Hotel, 1-night
Today you fly to Madang and in the afternoon, board your cruise vessel, settle into your cabin, and join your captain and the expedition team on the bridge as you set sail.
Accommodation: Heritage Adventurer, 14-nights
Bougainville is the largest island in the Solomon Islands archipelago, and is known as the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, which is part of Papua New Guinea. Bougainville is a long-isolated and protected island due to past conflict, and forms a single landmass with the nearby island of Buka, separated by a deep 300-metre strait. There are several active, dormant and inactive volcanoes which rise to 2,400 metres, including Mount Bagana in the north-central part of the island which often throws out smoke visible for many kilometres.
Today you discover its treasures, marrying rugged, jungle terrain with incredible coral reefs and some of the region’s greatest biodiversity.
In the western province of the Solomon Islands, visit the New Georgia volcanic islands where there are an array of fascinating reefs and lagoons to discover, along with rugged terrain and an abundance of rivers. Land on Kolombangara Island to visit a reserve protecting the island's central peak, and search for the rare Roviana Rail, and other endemics.
Uninhabited for 150 years, this rugged island cloaked in rainforest and fringed with coral reefs has received 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 and the world’s largest skink. This afternoon, explore and snorkel in Marovo Lagoon – the largest saltwater lagoon in the world.
Today, indulge in a swim in the crystalline waters of Champagne Beach with its famed powdery white sand. This afternoon, enjoy a Zodiac cruise to the iconic blue holes of Santo. If you're interested in history, visits to Luganville and Million Dollar Point can be arranged.
Please note: Exact itinerary and duration will depend on your chosen vessel, departure date and local conditions.
Just an hour’s flight from Port Moresby, Tufi and Milne Bay are blessed with stunning terrestrial and marine biodiversity, a pristine underwater environment and a wide range of diverse habitats. Each has its own unique flora and fauna, with birds, butterflies and orchids of particular importance. Find Out More about {acc:title}
LUXURY VESSEL
The Heritage Adventurer was purpose-built in Finland in 1991 for polar & Pacific voyages. Her impressive pedigree includes having navigated the most northern and southern regions, as well as crossing both the North-west and the North-east Passages, and we are delighted to include her to our fleet of vessels. Find Out More about Heritage Adventurer
British Travel Awards
Awarded Silver in Favourite Tour Operator for Nature & Wildlife 2024 & 2025
Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards
Awarded Bronze in Best Travel Company for Wildlife & Nature Holidays 2024
