Page 21 - Demo

+44 (0)20 7752 000021Day 1 London to Tahiti, French Polynesia. Fly by scheduled flight via Los Angeles.Day 2 Papeete, Tahiti. Arrive today and transfer directly to the MS Island Sky which will be moored in Papeete. After free time to acclimatise we sail in the early evening.Day 3 Bora Bora. One of the most stunning islands on the planet, Bora Bora%u2019s interior is crowned by majestic eroded volcanic formations and a distinctive black basaltic peak. A tour of the island will take you past colourful villages, archaeological sites, scenic viewpoints and World War II relics. This afternoon explore independently or take the opportunity to swim from the beach.Day 4 At Sea. Enjoy a relaxing day at sea cruising towards the Cook Islands.Day 5 Aitutaki, Cook Islands. This lovely lagoon is famous for its fascinating coral formations and bountiful brightly hued tropical fish. After a lively welcome, choose to join a morning island drive which will explore the sleepy village of Arutanga with the oldest church in the Cook Islands. We will see the lush forest of Nikaupara, ancient marae and the bunkers built during World War II which are visible from Mount Piraki. From the top of Maunga Pu we are treated to breathtaking views of the island and lagoon. Alternatively, you may wish to join our naturalists for a cruise and snorkel in the lagoon, explore independently or take the opportunity for a swim before we sail in the late afternoon.Day 6 Atiu. Our exploration of the Cook Islands continues at the small island of Atiu. With only 560 residents we will be guaranteed a special welcome. A choice of activities this morning includes a bird tour to search for the Rarotonga monarch, chattering kingfisher, Cook Islands fruit dove and Atiu swiftlets. Alternatively, discover the island on a tour which will include James Cook%u2019s landing site from 1777, the coffee plantations and a visit to some of the local houses. After lunch on board there will be the opportunity for a relaxing afternoon swimming from the beach or maybe enjoy a taste of the local Tumunu, a traditional drink brewed from fermented oranges.Day 7 Rarotonga. Arrive this morning in Rarotonga, the hub of the Cook Islands where we have a day to explore. Join a nature walk in the Takitumu Conservation area, a 155 hectare forested area in the interior of the island. Here we can look for some endemic birds such as the Rarotongan flycatcher, Pacific pigeon and fruit dove whilst walking in the beautiful scenery of the park. Alternatively, explore the history and culture of the island on a drive including the sacred marae, site of the seven canoes and local churches. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon to explore further at your own pace.Days 8 & 9 At Sea. Spend two days at sea as we continue our journey across the Pacific. Maybe join a lecture in the lounge or stay on deck to watch for wildlife.Day 10 Niue. Over breakfast we arrive in Niue, one of the smallest independent nations on earth at just 260 square kilometres with a population of just 1200 people. Populated since the 10th century, the first European to sight Niue was Captain Cook in 1774 but his attempts to land were refused by the inhabitants. Today we will visit the capital, Alofi Village, and stop at the Philatelic Bureau, where some of the world%u2019s most sought after stamps may be purchased. Later the more active may choose to continue to Matapa Chasm, a secluded cleft in the sea cliffs, where we can walk down to discover the perfect swimming hole. Alternatively enjoy a swim or snorkel from the beach. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon sailing. Day 11 International Date Line Day, Neiafu & Nuku Island, Tonga. After crossing the International Date Line (today is the 5th March) we arrive this morning in the Vava%u2019u islands, part of the kingdom of Tonga, and the pretty port of Neiafu. Spend the morning exploring the town independently, maybe visit the local market or enjoy a drink in a harbourside caf%u00e9. Alternatively, join a tour to the Ene%u2019io Botanical Gardens, founded in 1972 they are the only botanical gardens in Tonga. Here the local guides will identify some of the 550 different plant varieties The ItineraryNomads of the WindRarotongaAitutaki, Cook IslandsClown fish swimming in coral reef Venus Point Lighthouse, Papeete