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This journey through Melanesia offers an immersive introduction to a region that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Sailing through Papua New Guinea's Solomon Islands to Vanuatu, the voyage weaves through a fascinating mix of coral-fringed islands, rainforest-cloaked interiors, and communities where ancient customs are still part of everyday life. From the moment you step aboard in Port Moresby, the itinerary unfolds as a balance of cultural discovery and natural exploration. You’ll snorkel over pristine reefs, spot rare bird species, and visit remote villages where elaborately costumed dancers perform traditional ceremonies. Islands like the Trobriands, Tetepare, and Ambrym offer insight into traditions that have endured for generations, while sites like Rabaul and Bougainville reveal layers of recent history and resilience. Whether you're exploring volcanic landscapes, learning about the Kula Ring trade system, or cruising through island fjords, each day brings a thoughtful encounter with both culture and nature. The voyage ends in Vanuatu, where you’ll experience the iconic Rom dance and have the chance to snorkel among vivid coral gardens one final time. For travellers interested in biodiversity, Indigenous traditions, and remote island communities, this expedition offers a rare and rewarding perspective on the South Pacific.
This journey through Melanesia offers an immersive introduction to a region that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Sailing through Papua New Guinea's Solomon Islands to Vanuatu, the voyage weaves through a fascinating mix of coral-fringed islands, rainforest-cloaked interiors, and communities where ancient customs are still part of everyday life. From the moment you step aboard in Port Moresby, the itinerary unfolds as a balance of cultural discovery and natural exploration. You’ll snorkel over pristine reefs, spot rare bird species, and visit remote villages where elaborately costumed dancers perform traditional ceremonies. Islands like the Trobriands, Tetepare, and Ambrym offer insight into traditions that have endured for generations, while sites like Rabaul and Bougainville reveal layers of recent history and resilience. Whether you're exploring volcanic landscapes, learning about the Kula Ring trade system, or cruising through island fjords, each day brings a thoughtful encounter with both culture and nature. The voyage ends in Vanuatu, where you’ll experience the iconic Rom dance and have the chance to snorkel among vivid coral gardens one final time. For travellers interested in biodiversity, Indigenous traditions, and remote island communities, this expedition offers a rare and rewarding perspective on the South Pacific.
Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands

Secret Pacific: Expedition Cruise to Melanesia

Expedition Cruise

18

CA$

days from

20850

This journey through Melanesia offers an immersive introduction to a region that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Sailing through Papua New Guinea's Solomon Islands to Vanuatu, the voyage weaves through a fascinating mix of coral-fringed islands, rainforest-cloaked interiors, and communities where ancient customs are still part of everyday life. From the moment you step aboard in Port Moresby, the itinerary unfolds as a balance of cultural discovery and natural exploration. You’ll snorkel over pristine reefs, spot rare bird species, and visit remote villages where elaborately costumed dancers perform traditional ceremonies. Islands like the Trobriands, Tetepare, and Ambrym offer insight into traditions that have endured for generations, while sites like Rabaul and Bougainville reveal layers of recent history and resilience. Whether you're exploring volcanic landscapes, learning about the Kula Ring trade system, or cruising through island fjords, each day brings a thoughtful encounter with both culture and nature. The voyage ends in Vanuatu, where you’ll experience the iconic Rom dance and have the chance to snorkel among vivid coral gardens one final time. For travellers interested in biodiversity, Indigenous traditions, and remote island communities, this expedition offers a rare and rewarding perspective on the South Pacific.

Activity / Theme

Country

Expedition Cruise, Culture, Mixed-Activity, Nature & Wildlife

Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands

Comfort Level

Physical Rating

Comfortable

Leisurely / Moderate

Transportation

Accommodation

Expedition Cruise Vessel

Cabins aboard a comfortable expedition cruise vessel

Months of Operation

October, November

Adventure Coordinators Insider Tip:

Bring a pair of lightweight reef shoes and a dry bag—you’ll be in and out of Zodiacs frequently, often landing on remote beaches or rocky shores. These small items will make shore landings more comfortable and protect your gear during wet transfers.

Itinerary

DAY 1: Arrive in Cairns and meet fellow travellers over dinner
DAY 2: Fly to Port Moresby and board expedition vessel
DAY 3: Explore Doini Island’s beaches, reefs, and Skull Cave
DAY 4: Cruise Tufi Fjords and snorkel vibrant coral reefs
DAY 5: Discover Dobu and Fergusson’s hot springs and culture
DAY 6: Visit the Trobriands for dances and local carvings
DAY 7: See Rabaul’s volcanoes, hot springs, and wartime history
DAY 8: Explore Nissan Island’s coral reefs and WWII sites
DAY 9: Journey through Bougainville’s mountains, reefs, and markets
DAY 10: Visit Kolombangara’s eco lodge and snorkel-rich reefs
DAY 11: Drift snorkel and explore Tetepare’s conservation success
DAY 12: Enjoy traditional welcome and WWII history on Tulagi
DAY 13: Meet locals and birdwatch on Santa Ana Island
DAY 14: Experience red feather money and ancient dances on Nendö
DAY 15: Discover Vanikoro’s reef, shipwreck stories, and rare bats
DAY 16: Swim at Champagne Beach and cruise Santo’s blue holes
DAY 17: Witness Ambrym’s Rom dance and snorkel off Efate
DAY 18: Disembark in Port Vila and transfer to airport

Inclusions

1 night hotel in Cairns, Australia including breakfast
Flight from Cairns to Port Moresby on day 2 in economy class
Arrival transfer to ship
All meals onboard the ship
Comfortable cabin accommodation on the voyage
All shore excursions as outlined in itinerary
Services of specialist expedition leaders and staff
All activities while on cruise including lectures, slide and film shows, snorkeling equipment
Medical services (there is a resident medical officer and infirmary on board)
Mandatory Landing Fees
Departure transfer to the airport or hotel

Sample tour.  Itinerary, accommodation, transportation, inclusions and prices are correct at the time of publication but may change without prior notice.  Please inquire.

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