EXPLORING Papua New GuineA, the solomon islands & VANUATU

 
 
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Discoverer the Secrets of Melanesia Expedition Overview...

Sail into a world few ever experience; idyllic islands and isolated villages where unique time-honoured traditions and elaborately costumed dancers welcome us into their world as we uncover the hidden gems of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.

These South Pacific island nations of Melanesia lie to the north and east of Australia; from Indonesia in the west to Fiji in the east. This is one of oldest and most culturally complex regions of the world. People live daily in small-scale societies, whose seeming simplicity is overlaid by complex family ties and trade and exchange networks. Even today one sees how small trading canoes link distant communities and cover vast distances. At home we see how the daily round of crop growing, hunting, and fishing, is enriched by many rituals.

From the culturally rich arterial of the Sepik River we sail across the Bismarck Sea exploring remote shores and villages still living traditional lifestyles, and delve into the history, culture and wildlife of New Ireland and New Britain (PNG).

Crossing the Buka Channel at Nissan Island we see reminders of intensive World War II action, then enter a long-isolated world as we are among the first travellers to return to Bougainville in more than two decades.

Sailing through the turquoise waters of the Solomon Islands, new vistas and unexpected encounters await. Discover one of the conservation jewels of the South Pacific on Tetepare Island, while villagers on culturally-rich Malaita Island still make and use traditional Malaitan shell-money as a dowry and wear it as a status symbol.

Experience a kaleidoscope of cultures as we explore Vanuatu, where more than 100 indigenous languages are spoken. With over 80 habitable islands, islanders have closely guarded their own cultures and languages. Our expedition embraces some of these cultures and languages, as we explore one of the happiest places on the planet.

Throughout Melanesia there are spectacular reefs, which are home to masses of fish and coral gardens of every colour. These waters offer some of the greatest marine diversity and snorkelling in the world and everybody will have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty beneath the waves. Whether you are snorkelling or swimming, this ocean aquarium is waiting to be explored and discovered.

For birders, this itinerary offers once-in-a-lifetime species on remote islands where few bird watchers have visited. The birding potential is exceptional; highlights may include the Superb Pitta, identifiable by its black plumage, turquoise blue wings and scarlet belly. Endemic to the Solomon Islands we will be on the lookout for the Roviana Rail and the Solomon Sea Eagle. Later we’ll be watching for Vanuatu’s Vanikoro White-eye.

Allowing birders to maximise the unique opportunities available to them, there will be an optional specialised birding programme with customised excursions.

This amazing voyage is operated by Heritage Expeditions out of New Zealand. The expertise of their leaders shows in the remote places visited (some islands hadn’t seen an outside ship since the previous year’s visit), and the reception received from the locals.  The expedition staff somehow stage-manage everything from amazing birds to baby hawksbill turtles and poisonous coral snakes, from forest hikes to tumbling waterfalls, and snorkeling along coral reefs as rich and diverse as any we've seen.

The expedition is offered annually, in October (which is springtime in Melanesia).

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EXPEDITION DATES:
OCTOBER 23-NOVEMBER 8, 2022

EXPEDITION LENGTH:
17-days, including 15 nights aboard the ship, plus a night in Port Moresby, plus travel days.

GROUP SIZE:
140 participants, plus expedition staff, hotel staff and crew. 

GATEWAY CITIES:
The expedition begins with an overnight in Port Moresby, on the south coast of Papua New Guinea, and concludes on arrival in Port Vila, Vanuatu.   

villagers paddling out to see the ship. ©MarkGrantham|GalapagosTravel

villagers paddling out to see the ship. ©MarkGrantham|GalapagosTravel

DAY BY DAY EXPEDITON ITINERARY:

Day 1: Port Moresby, PNG
Arrive in Papua New Guinea’s sprawling capital Port Moresby and transfer to your hotel where our group will spend the first night of the expedition. This evening meet with your fellow travellers and the expedition team over dinner at the resort.

Day 2: Madang, PNG
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before our flight to Madang, the picturesque peninsula surrounded by islands and waterways. It is a thriving community renowned for its traditional artists, and the richness of its surrounding forests. Enjoy a Madang and Environs tour upon arrival which includes a visit to the Coastwatchers’ Memorial Light at Kalibobo, Madang museum and Bilbil Village before returning to Madang to explore the markets. Boarding your ship you will have time to settle into your cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship; we will also take the opportunity to introduce you to your expedition team and our voyage plans. You are invited to join the expedition team in the Observation Lounge and up on the Observation Deck as we set sail for the Sepik River.

Day 3: Sepik River, PNG
Sure to be one of the highlights of our expedition, The Sepik river is the longest river in Papua New Guinea, flowing from the highlands to the Bismarck Sea.  This rich arterial is the lifeblood of the people, animals and birds that call it home, and has fostered great traditional artists. We plan 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.

Days 4: Manus Island, PNG
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 our stop here is likely to be a birding highlight. Once the location of a detention centre, part of Australia’s ‘Pacific Solution’, life on Manus Island continues according to traditional customs. Comprised of 10 villages and a population of less than 1,000, our visit to Derimbat Village includes taking part in an elaborate welcoming ceremony before exploring their village and unique way of life with a local guide.

black capped lory

black capped lory

Day 5: New Hanover Island, PNG
Traditionally known as Lavongai Island, volcanic New Hanover is a wild, rugged and untouched paradise complete with a dense rainforest, waterfalls and exceptional beaches fringed by reefs and smaller satellite islands. Sparsley populated, the villages here enjoy a subsistant, traditional lifestyle. Exceptional snorkeling is a given here with much to experience below the surface, while Three Island Harbour, on the north-west tip of the island, features four Japanese WWII wrecks which were sunk by Allied bombers in 1944.

Day 6: Rabaul & Kokopo, New Britain, PNG
Six beautiful cone-shaped volcanoes ring Rabaul’s dramatic, flooded-caldera harbour. Visit the bubbling hot springs and take in the magnificent views of the harbour and volcanoes from Observatory Ridge. As we explore the island, we will see fascinating reminders of the Japanese occupation, our tour taking in 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 joining the locals shopping at the bustling Kokopo markets.

Day 7: Nissan Island, PNG
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 our time ashore we will 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 the snorkellers will find plenty to discover in the coral reefs that surround Nissan.

Day 8: Bougainville Island
We plan to be among the first expeditioners to re-discover the treasures of Bougainville, long isolated and in a strange way protected due to the conflict which swirled around its shores. Today it is emerging once again as a newly vibrant and remarkably pristine island paradise, it is home to some of the greatest biodiversity in the region both above and below the water. We plan to explore the area around Arawa, including the Panguna Copper & Gold Mine site – the setting for the movie Mr Pip – with great opportunities to access the island’s interior and its reefs. Spend your last Kina under the thatched roof of the Arawa Markets amongst the hum and chatter of hundreds of locals.

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Day 9: New Georgia Islands, Solomon Islands
The volcanic New Georgia Islands are found in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands and are characterised by extensive reefs and lagoons, rugged terrain and an abundance of rivers. Nature enthusiasts will relish landing on Kolombangara Island, where we 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. Snorkel the wreck of a US NAVY FAF Grumman Wildcat (carrier version) WWII plane off a tiny island where the surrounding reefs are home to some of the highest fish counts in the world. Stock up on the local currency to purchase the wood or stone carvings that the people of the Western Province are so famous for.

Day 10: Tetepare Island, Solomon Islands
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.

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Day 11: Malaita, Solomon Islands
Mountainous Malaita is home to one-third of the Solomon’s total population and features pristine rivers and unexploited tropical forests to explore. This morning we plan to visit the beautiful uninhabited Leli Island, an ideal snorkel site with its calm clear waters and abundant array of fish and corals. In the afternoon we plan to be among the first to visit a remote and hard to reach village where we will experience a rapturous warrior welcome from the Kwaio mountain people. One of the most traditional communities in the Solomon Islands, enjoy an authentic slice of village life as we learn about their conservation efforts.

Day 12: Makira Island, Solomon Islands
Makira is the most easterly of the main islands in the Solomon’s archipelago. This morning we anchor in the calm waters of Star Harbour. Join the naturalists for 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. We spend time with the locals, who share with us their traditional song and dance. If we are lucky, the local boys might be surfing on their hand-carved palm wood boards.

Day 13: Nendö, Temotu Province, Solomon Islands
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.

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Day 14: Vanikaro, Solomon Islands
Today we explore the archipelago of Vanikoro, with its five islands encapsulated by a dramatic barrier reef which offers superb snorkelling. French explorer Jean-François de Galaup, comte de La Pérouse famously disappeared here after both his vessels, La Boussole and Astrolabe, struck the reef in 1788. On the shore we visit a monument to Le Pérouse, erected by fellow explorer Dumont Durville in 1827. Join the naturalists on a forest walk in search of the endemic Vanikoro White-eye and Monarch, or marvel at the delicate Vanikoro Orchid. We also have a good chance to see the recently rediscovered Vanikoro Flying Fox, considered extinct until a recent visit by Heritage Expeditions.

Day 15: Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu
Today we explore Vanuatu’s largest Island, Santo; location of James Michener’s Tales of the South Pacific. Indulge in a swim in the crystalline waters of Champagne Beach with its famed powdery white sand. This afternoon we will enjoy Zodiac cruises to the iconic blue holes of Santo. For those with an interest in the history of the island, there is a visit to Lugainville and Million Dollar Point.

Day 16: Ambrym Island, Vanuatu
Today we will visit Ambrym, renowned as the island of volcanoes and magic throughout Vanuatu. We plan to head ashore at Ranon 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 us 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 our naturalists. This afternoon enjoy a final snorkel excursion.

Day 17: Port Vila, Vanuatu
Arrive into Port Vila early morning and disembark. Upon disembarking a transfer to your central city hotel or the airport will conclude your voyage. To allow time for disembarkation procedures we do not recommend booking flights from Port Vila before midday.

island welcome, PNG

island welcome, PNG

2023 Expedition Dates: October 23 - November 8

2023 Expedition Rates (per person):
Main Deck Triple cabin: $10,695
Main Deck Single cabin at $17,045
Superior Deck 4 cabin: $12,695
Superior Deck 5 cabin: $13,465
Superior Deck 5 Triple cabin: $11,495
Superior Deck 5 Single cabin: $17,495
Worsley Suite: $17,475
Heritage Suite: $23,995

Expedition rates include Pre/post cruise transfers, one night hotel accommodation in a twin share room (incl. dinner/breakfast), group flight Port Moresby/Madang, all on board ship accommodations with meals and all shore excursions and activities. Program of lectures by noted naturalists.

Expedition rates do not include A $500 per person Discovery Fund payment due on board the ship. All items of a personal nature, laundry, drinks, gratuities, international/domestic flights, visas, extensions and travel insurance.

About the Discovery Fund: Each area visited has rich cultural experiences and wild treasures to offer. As guests, Heritage Expeditions have made a point to source and support local projects in the areas through which they travel. A contribution from each passenger represents a portion of the money they donate to ensure the longevity and success of educational, environmental and cultural initiatives in these regions.

Specialized Birding Program: While there will be ample opportunity for birdwatching from the ship, Zodiacs or on landings, those with a keen interest in birds are recommended to add on the birding supplement. Accompanied by our birding guide, the group will access the highlands and other remote areas, usually early in the morning, to see the best of the region’s birdlife. Supplemental Birding Program fee is $500 per person. Space is limited. The Melanesia Discoverer expedition in 2017 ticked an amazing 179 species seen on their checklists!

Vessel: Heritage Adventurer

Note: During our voyage, circumstances may make it necessary or desirable to deviate from the proposed itinerary. This can include poor weather and opportunities for making unplanned excursions. Your Expedition Leader will keep you fully informed.

This tour offers a variety of activities and excursions. Your personal interests will determine which of these you wish to join. Please note that some activities and excursions will run at similar times and it will not be possible to participate in both. Accordingly, refunds for excursions and missed landings are not available.

pan pipe musicians welcome us ashore, Solomon Islands

pan pipe musicians welcome us ashore, Solomon Islands

For more information on this Discover the Secrets of Melanesia voyage please call or e-mail.  We love to chat about our past adventures in this remarkable part of the world!

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How could any of us not enjoy the many island visits with greetings like those we received! The snorkeling experience was another highlight, and on board we were looked after by an excellent staff, fed wonderful food...
— Maggie (2014 Melanesia Discoverer expedition)

Experience the otherworldly PNG highlands, with an unparalleled array of natural beauty, exotic wildlife and cultural tradition. A collection of deluxe lodges are found in the remote corners of the highlands, near several of the most emblematic of the tribes, including the Mudmen, Huli Wigmen and Melpa People. Custom tours of 4, 5, 6, or more, days are possible. With over 700 known languages, Papua New Guinea has one of the most diverse populations on earth with many different cultures. Intrepid travelers can immerse themselves in a vibrant collection of cultural possibilities.

Highland Mudmen masks ©Mark Grantham|Galapagos Travel

Highland Mudmen masks ©Mark Grantham|Galapagos Travel