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10www.noble-caledonia.co.ukAn island hopping expedition including Fiji, Wallis and Futuna, Tonga & Samoa aboard the MS Island Sky 20th September to 5th October 2026lost islands of polynesiaThis voyage tells the story of Polynesia and uncovers its history and legends as we sail through the South Seas and visit some truly captivating islands. By wind, wave and star the ancient people of Polynesia ventured to the farthest reaches of the South Pacific. Isolated by miles of ocean over thousands of years, these, the world%u2019s first island cultures, developed a pantheon of gods, myths and legends. The real age of European exploration did not take place until the 18th century and some of the islands we will visit have changed little since that time. Their sheer isolation has been their saving grace and apart from an influx of missionaries in the late 19th century, western culture has made few inroads into most of the islands. From aboard the MS Island Sky we will discover the diversity and warmth of the islands and experience their descriptiondefying beauty along with the fascinating culture and ambience which have long attracted adventurers, explorers and travellers to their magical shores. The natural beauty of the islands is mesmerising and one of the many advantages of our small ship is the opportunity to venture off the beaten track where others seldom have the opportunity to explore. With this in mind we have planned our itinerary with visits to many remote and idyllic isles including the little-known French Territory of Wallis and Futuna, the island of Niuatoputapu in Tonga and the Fijian island of Fulaga. Our days will be spent on nature walks, searching for the endemic birdlife, beachcombing, snorkelling or swimming from the pristine beaches, interacting with the locals and learning about their way of life and traditional handicrafts or, simply experiencing some of the most pristine tropical scenery to be found anywhere in the world. An expedition such as this requires a vessel akin to the MS Island Sky with the ability to adapt to her surroundings and land on remote atolls using the fleet of Zodiac landing craft whilst providing a comfortable base. We will explore inlets, lagoons and land in otherwise inaccessible places and although we set sail with a set itinerary, it is often the unscheduled events that become the highlight. We will be joined on board by an expert expedition team, consisting of naturalists and marine biologists who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during forays ashore and whilst on board.Days 1 & 2 London to Fiji. Fly by scheduled indirect flight.Day 3 Fiji. Arrive this morning and transfer directly to the MS Island Sky which will be moored in Lautoka. The remainder of the day will be at leisure to settle in on board and relax before we sail this evening. Day 4 Levuka Island. The island of Levuka and the town of Ovalau has a special place in Fijian history as it was here in 1874 that the Fiji islands were ceded to the British and also where in 1970 Fiji was declared independent again. The town is unlike any other Fijian town having retained the colonial buildings which made it the first Fijian site to be granted UNESCO World Heritage status. Join a walking tour around Nasova village on the shores of the bay and visit the museum and Cession Monument, the site where Chief Cakobau signed the deed ceding Fiji to Great Britain. This afternoon we will relocate to one of the nearby islands where we can relax on the beach, snorkel or swim.Day 5 Tavenui Island. Today we visit the island of Tavenui which due to its abundant flora is known as the %u2018Garden Island of Fiji%u2019. There will be a choice of guided excursions and you can choose to take a four-wheel drive to Dos Voeux Peak where at the summit we will be treated to fantastic views of Tavenui and across to Lake Tagimoucia. Here we will see the tropical plants, palms and rainforest and we hope to spot some of the spectacular birdlife such as orange-breasted doves, silktails, ferntails and parrots. Alternatively, join a walking trip to the Bouma Heritage Park to see some of the waterfalls and enjoy a swim. The view from the highest waterfall is spectacular. Finally, during the cultural tour there will be the opportunity to witness lifestyles in a traditional Fijian village including some cooking demonstrations. Days 6 & 7 Wallis and Futuna Islands. Well off the beaten track, Wallis and Futuna are part of the smallest of France%u2019s three South Pacific territories and sit on the threshold of Polynesia and Melanesia. Wallis is isolated from its neighbours geographically, culturally and politically with strong historical connections to Tonga. Here we will explore the interior of the island visiting Mata Utu Cathedral, the crater lakes of Mount Lulu Fakahega and the recently excavated fort at Talietumu. Nearby Futuna has closer links to Samoa and here we will discover the famous Church of Pierre Chanel, a peculiar church with a stepped tower erected to honour Polynesia%u2019s first and only Catholic Saint. Later we will enjoy nature walks on the beaches to take in the amazing scenery and wildlife. Day 8 At Sea. Spend a relaxing day on board as we sail to Samoa. Spend time on deck, relax with a book in the library and attend some of the onboard lectures which will take place today. Day 9 Apia, Samoa. Arrive this morning in Apia, the capital of Samoa which is regarded as the heart of Polynesia and where we will be guaranteed a warm welcome. Leaving the city behind we will make our way to the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum located in the house where the author spent his final years. After touring the house we can explore the 12 hectares of Botanical Gardens and possibly take a swim in the freshwater swimming hole. Those feeling active may also wish to walk to the grave of Robert Louis Stevenson which is situated on Mount Vaea offering wonderful views over the island. Returning to Apia we can spend some time shopping in the Maketi Fou, visit the museum of Samoa or learn about local traditions at the Cultural Village. The ItineraryVava%u2019uPOLYNESIATONGAFIJIFulagaNuku%u2019alofaLautokaLevukaNeiafuTavenui IslandBeqa IslandWallis and FutunaNiuatoputapuSAMOAApiaNuku Island