Passage to Easter Island
An island hopping expedition through the South Pacific from Tahiti to Easter Island aboard the MS Island Sky
- 9 October 2020
"Our journey covers over 3000 nautical miles and many of the places we visit can only be accessed by small groups with the use of the ship’s nimble Zodiacs meaning that once we have landed on a remote beach, we will be the only guests ashore."
Join us in paradise on a leisurely passage through the South Seas to an area long associated with Captain Cook, Captain Bligh and the Bounty, and Gauguin. We can promise you an unforgettable voyage to a corner of the world which has lured adventurers and romantics alike ever since Magellan first sailed to these waters in 1521. During our expedition we will explore four island groups; the Tuamotus, Marquesas, Gambier and Pitcairn Islands.
We will embark the MS Island Sky in Tahiti and set sail for our exploration of the South Pacific’s islands and atolls. From coral reefs teeming with life to powerful legends that shaped history, each island is unique, each culture distinct. On the more remote islands, villages are still composed of thatched houses, set amongst the shade of the breadfruit and coconut trees. Many islands are important nesting grounds for seabirds and sea turtles and the lagoons everywhere are breeding grounds for countless species of fish. Our expedition ends on Easter Island, which, lying some 2300 miles off the coast of Chile is blessed with an extraordinary collection of remarkable archaeological sites which we will explore.
With our fleet of Zodiac landing craft we will explore inlets, bird sanctuaries and land in otherwise inaccessible places accompanied by an expert expedition team including naturalists, marine biologists and ornithologists who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during forays ashore and whilst on board.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
-
Our View
“We have been operating voyages in the South Pacific for over twenty five years and this voyage from Tahiti to Easter Island has always been one of the most popular itineraries. The reason is clear to see as how else, other than by a small expedition ship, could you combine the culture of Easter Island, the history of Pitcairn Island and the remote natural wonders of the islands that dot the ocean providing refuge for indigenous birds and sea creatures or the beauty of the Marquesas that so inspired Paul Gaugin. Our journey covers over 3000 nautical miles and many of the places we visit can only be accessed by small groups with the use of the ship’s nimble Zodiacs meaning that once we have landed on a remote beach, we will be the only guests ashore.”
-
What to Expect...
Flexibility is the key to an expedition cruise; sometimes the whole day’s schedule will be changed to maximise your experience, something that would not be possible on a large cruise ship. Each day holds something new and below are some extracts from the ship’s log from last season which will provide you with an idea of what to expect.
Pitcairn Islands: At dawn, we sailed towards tiny Pitcairn Island which was silhouetted against pink skies and as we approached closer still, a beautiful rainbow. What an amazing welcome to such a mystical place. By 08.00 there was bright sunshine and clear blue skies overhead as the Zodiac shuttles between the ship and aptly named Bounty Bay began. The shuttle itself was an adventure as the Zodiac drivers carefully timed their entry to the harbour on the back of increasingly large waves. On arrival we were welcomed at the small harbour by a group of Pitcairn islanders who provided us with maps and some basic information about the island before we made our way up the Hill of Difficulty to the main square at Adamstown. At the main square and on the roads either side, the islanders had set up market style stalls where we were able to buy much sought after souvenirs such as t-shirts, wooden handicrafts, books, postcards, jewellery and honey which are a key source of income for the 50 or so inhabitants living on the island. The expedition team arranged a series of guided walks around the island. After lunch on board, a new set of activities ensued, kicking off with the much anticipated opening of the post office to buy stamps and souvenir first day covers as well as opening the doors to the island museum where we could see artefacts from the days of the mutineers including the original bible from the Bounty as well as more recent history. Mid-afternoon we returned to the ship where it was clear as everyone chatted together about how they had spent their day and the great conversations we had enjoyed with our island hosts. There was no doubt that thus far Pitcairn Island was a voyage highlight.
Island Sky
The MS Island Sky is one of our three flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Caledonian Sky and MS Hebridean Sky. All three vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them three of the finest small ships in the world.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Tahiti, French Polynesia.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 Tahiti.
Arrive today and transfer to the Intercontinental Hotel (or similar) for an overnight stay. The remainder of the evening is free to enjoy the hotel facilities or explore independently.
Day 3 Tahiti.
After breakfast in the hotel, we will enjoy a morning excursion including a visit to the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands. After lunch at a local restaurant we will transfer to the MS Island Sky.
Day 4 Rangiroa.
As one of the world’s largest coral atolls, Rangiroa has a magnificent lagoon surrounded by small islets or motus, stretching as far as the eye can see. Today, a variety of activities await. There will be a chance to tour a black pearl farm, enjoy free time in the enchanting local village of Avatoru or enjoy a snorkel or swim. After lunch on board we spend a relaxing afternoon at sea.
Day 5 At Sea.
Relax on board as we make our way to the Marquesas Islands.
Day 6 Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands.
After a morning at sea we arrive in the Marquesas Islands, far removed from the rest of the South Pacific in everything from language and culture to geology. Our afternoon will be spent on Nuka Hiva, the largest of the islands and the island group’s economic capital. Today we will immerse ourselves in local culture and geography. Traditional Marquesan dancers welcome us to their village. We will visit the archaeological centres at Kamuihei and Hikoku’a and see the temples, petroglyphs and tiki. Meanwhile a series of island walks will investigate the nature of the island whilst there will also be a chance to swim from the beaches.
Day 7 Hiva Oa.
At first light we arrive at volcanic Hiva Oa. We will anchor off Atohuna where if we are lucky we may find manta rays before heading ashore. Our morning will be dedicated to Gauguin, the iconic artist of the South Pacific. We will visit his museum and make a pilgrimage to his final resting place, soaking up the landscape that inspired him to leave it all behind and go native. This afternoon we reposition the ship to Puamau and visit the Oipona me’ae temple, one of the best preserved archaeological sites in French Polynesia and home to the eight foot tall Tiki Takali. On our return to the ship you may wish to enjoy a swim from the beach.
Day 8 Fatu Hiva.
With a landscape of spectacular pinnacles towering over the cobalt Bay of Virgins, Fatu Hiva is one of the most floral and pristine islands. Villagers will perform their traditional dances and demonstrate their handicrafts of wood carvings and tapa making. Afterwards our expedition team will run a series of nature walks either climbing to the view point, searching for birds with our ornithologist or a nature walk to the waterfall. Meanwhile a snorkel platform will be set up for those who wish to swim.
Day 9 Pukapuka, Tuamotus Islands.
After a morning cruising, this afternoon we visit Pukapuka. To honour their guests, the islanders proudly decorate their tidy village with green palm fronds and flowers, and welcome us with a fragrant flower lei and entrancing dances. Sample traditional coconut treats and watch a demonstration of how copra (the dried meat of the coconut) is prepared for its various uses. Travel to the centre of the island past coconut plantations to swim in the turquoise waters of the inner lagoon.
Day 10 Pukarua.
Located on the outer fringes of French Polynesia, Pukarua faces thousands of miles of open ocean. Onshore, its small population lives in a spirit of cooperation and friendship, living largely on coconuts and the bounty of the sea. As we visit this small community, we will be enthusiastically greeted with genuine friendliness and lively music. Arriving after lunch we will have the chance to walk through the village or enjoy a swim in the lagoon.
Day 11 Expedition Day.
As we make our way across the Pacific we will pass by the Acteon Group of islands. These remote uninhabited atols were named after the HMS Acteon who sighted the islands in 1837. Landing on the islands is very weather dependent but we hope to spend time on or around one of the islands home to several bird species including the Tuamotu sandpiper and increasingly rare Polynesian ground dove. We may also have the chance for a deep water snorkel.
Day 12 Mangareva, Gambier Islands.
Mountainous Mangareva is capital of the Gambier group of islands and home to the remarkable St Michael’s Cathedral with a stunning mother-of-pearl altar. On a full day call, we will have the chance to join an island nature walk, take a hike up the 440 metre Mount Duff, named after the first European vessel to visit the island in 1797, or to simply wander around the small village. If weather permits we may also set up a snorkelling platform on the surrounding coral reef.
Days 13 & 14 Pitcairn Islands.
We have factored a day and a half around Pitcairn Island. If weather permits we will sail to Oeno Atol, an important bird area due to the colony of 12,500 pairs of Murphy’s petrel that nest here alongside sooty tern and brown noddy. We then have a full day on the island of Pitcairn, famous as the final destination of the Bounty in the late 18th century. Meet the Anglo-Tahitian descendants of the mutineers of the Bounty, who arrived here 200 years ago and see the ship’s anchor outside the courthouse. We will have time to explore this inspiring island setting and visit with islanders who display memorable stamps and handicrafts. We will have a Pitcairn welcome in the Town Hall before exploring the capital of Adamstown. We will set up a number of walks with our expedition staff to explore the islands highlights. Please note that access to the Pitcairn Islands is very weather dependent.
Day 15 Henderson Island.
We arrive at Henderson Island over breakfast and will look for a suitable landing place. This upraised former coral atoll has fascinating eroded rock formations, with giant blowholes flinging up tremendous sea spray. Very rare birds inhabit the island, including the Henderson island rail and Stephen’s lori. Numerous underwater ravines and crevices support a great diversity of fish whilst on walks on the island or along the beach we will come across coconut crabs. Return to the ship and spend the afternoon at sea.
Day 16 Ducie Island.
This morning we will experience expedition cruising at its finest as we hope to land on one of nature’s wildlife sanctuaries. A remote coral atoll with good snorkelling and birding, Ducie Island is so remote that no threats to its native wildlife exist, and it is one of the rare places in the world where wildlife is relatively unaffected by man’s presence. Our expedition team will lead a series of walks on the island. Return to the ship for lunch as we sail this afternoon and start our journey to Easter Island.
Days 17 & 18 At Sea.
We have two days to spend relaxing on deck or to perhaps join the lectures from our experts on board.
Days 19 & 20 Easter Island, Chile.
We anchor off Easter Island and have a day and a half scheduled for Easter Island to explore the highlights. Arriving in the afternoon we explore Rano Kau, the second oldest volcano on the island. Its huge caledera (one and a half kilometres at its base) contains one of the island’s three fresh water lakes. From the look-out at the rim of Rano Kau we continue on to the ceremonial village of Orongo, best known for the birdman cult ceremonies. The site was restored in 1974 and within the village you will see 47 restored houses. Continue to Ahu Tahai, another restored ceremonial site and one of the oldest, dating back to the 6th century. On a full day tour we will view many of the different areas where moais (statues) can be found. We will see the volcano of Rano Raraku, the site where 95% of all moais were carved and today you will find nearly 400 statues in various stages of completion. A hike to the top of the volcano’s crater will not only reveal many statues but also a beautiful fresh water lake. We continue our exploration of the island with Ahu Tongariki, the largest ceremonial site in Polynesia restored in 1996 and Ahu Akivi where we find seven maoi built around 1460 BC and which face out to sea. Lunch will be a specially arranged barbecue on Anakena beach, home of Easter Island’s ancient paramount chiefs and one of the prettiest coves in the South Pacific
Day 21 Easter Island to Santiago.
Disembark by Zodiac and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Santiago. On arrival transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. The remainder of the day and evening are free for independent exploration.
Day 22 Santiago to London.
After breakfast in the hotel transfer to the airport for the scheduled flight to London.
Day 23 London.
Arrive this afternoon.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 9 to 31 October 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Magellan Deck Standard Suites | £12495 | £11995 |
| Columbus Deck Superior Suites | £12895 | £12395 |
| Marco Polo Deck Premium Suites | £13295 | £12795 |
| Marco Polo Deck Corner Suites | £13795 | £13295 |
| Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites | £14795 | £14295 |
| Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £14995 | £14495 |
| Explorer Deck Island Suite | £15995 | £15495 |
| Magellan Deck Standard for sole occupancy | £16795 | £16295 |
| Columbus Deck Superior for sole occupancy | £17795 | £17295 |
Tour Reference Code: SCISK091020
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Overnight hotel accommodation in Tahiti & Santiago with breakfast • 18 nights aboard the MS Island Sky on a full board basis • Wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch & dinner • Shore excursions • Noble Caledonia expedition team • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, visa.
Important Visa Information: Your inbound flight will likely be via Los Angeles, an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) is required for entry into the USA.
-
2020/2021 Deckplan
Island Sky
The MS Island Sky is one of our three flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Caledonian Sky and MS Hebridean Sky. All three vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them three of the finest small ships in the world.
-
Your Dining
Your Dining
It is quite a task to create a dining experience as that found on board our Sky vessels when you are cruising in far-flung corners of the globe, indeed it takes a team of highly talented chefs to deliver fresh, varied dishes no matter where you are at sea. Fortunately, our catering teams are well adapted to the world of small ship cruising where no two days are the same and the menus are often scheduled and tailored around the days’ excursions. With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the cuisine on board is of a consistent superior quality that befits such vessels. Where possible and when it meets their high standards, our accomplished chefs will obtain local produce in markets. Such purchases enhance the well-stocked larders and enable the chefs on board to exhibit their culinary skills and bring a local touch to the varied menus, emphasising the international expertise of the chefs on board. Afternoon tea and pre-dinner canapés take place every day in either the comfort of the Lounge or out on the Lido Deck when the weather is favourable. Tea and coffee are also available 24 hours a day. Special diets can be catered for with sufficient notice.
In keeping with the informal atmosphere on board, when dining you are able to choose your seating arrangements at your leisure. Whether that be joining a table of four to six other passengers outside on the Lido Deck in the evening’s sunshine or whether you prefer to enjoy meals in the à la carte restaurant. For those travelling alone, our onboard friendly restaurant staff will take care to ensure you are seated with other like-minded travellers. In the main elegant dining room, breakfast is served buffet-style, with certain items cooked to order on request. Lunch and dinner are à la carte with an excellent choice of dishes, with the menu reflecting the daily catch or local delicacies. To enhance your dining experience even further a selection of wines are included with both meals and there is also a comprehensive wine list with a wide selection of new and old world wines from which to choose.
The onboard catering and restaurant staff are experienced at sea and enthuse a passion for superb service. Whether it be ensuring you have an outdoor blanket as you enjoy the crisp sea breeze on the Lido Deck or sharing their knowledge of the characteristics of the days’ wine selections, you will experience a service on board like no other. You may also enjoy sumptuous barbeques on deck whilst at times, the chef will make your dish to order at special pasta or stir fry stations.
Click on image above to view a sample menu.
-
Cabin Plans
Cabin Plan
-
Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the MS Island Sky for your upcoming voyage. The 118-passenger, all-suite vessel is one of the finest small ships in the world and benefits from unusually spacious accommodation, public areas and outside decks.
You will find the atmosphere on board akin to a private yacht or country hotel with a little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, talks from our onboard team and informative port briefings from your Cruise Director or Expedition Leader. After a day of exploration ashore, you will return to the comfort and peace of a well-run and exceedingly comfortable ship.
Along with the Captain and officers and the Noble Caledonia team, our crew of 70 are dedicated to offering you the best possible experience during your time on board.
We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
ADAPTORS
Adaptors for hairdryers, mobile phones etc. can be obtained from Reception. These should be returned to Reception at the end of the cruise and are the property of the MS Island Sky.
AIR-CONDITIONING
The entire ship is air-conditioned. All cabins feature individual temperature controls. In order to keep the air-conditioning system working efficiently, please keep doors closed when in use.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The ship uses a public address system to advise guests of all important information and activities during the cruise. Announcements can be heard throughout the public areas of the ship and in all cabins.
CABINS
On board there are 59 exceptionally spacious and well designed cabins. All feature a sitting area, en-suite bathroom with marble topped vanity unit and walk-in shower, spacious wardrobe and dressing table.
Cabins on Explorer (Deck 6) and Erikson (Deck 5) have private balconies.
Cabins on Marco Polo Deck (Deck 4) have tinted sliding doors for enhanced views and quick access to the deck if any wildlife is spotted.
All cabins have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar & fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin.
• Safe
• Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• Telephone
Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request. Please advise the Reservation Department or the Reception if you want a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that on MS Island Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have baths.
COMMUNICATIONS
Satellite Internet & Wi-Fi
Connectivity is now an important feature in our lives and we do our best to bring this service to you on board. There are facilities in the Library to access the Internet and Noble Caledonia also offers complimentary satellite Wi-Fi access on board. Wi-Fi is available in the public areas and passenger cabins. You will need to bring your own device to connect in these areas. Wi-Fi cards, with your unique log in and instructions, are available at Reception. The service provided on board uses direct satellite technology and has a certain amount of bandwidth available. The same level of connectivity and speed that we enjoy at home through cable or fibre-optic based infrastructures cannot be expected on board.
As you traverse the seas and ports, the ship’s antennae have to re-establish connection with the transmission satellites. Signal may also be blocked by mountains, buildings or even local radio frequency regulations. Remote locations out of satellite range, weather on earth or in space can also affect signal strength. Please also bear in mind that the network is shared by everyone on board so congestion can be anticipated which will slow down speeds especially at peak times. The bandwidth available to the ship means that connectivity is best served using text-based communications and simple social media. Some applications which involve downloading large files may not be available on board.
Here are some tips for using satellite Wi-Fi on board:
• Avoid peak times such as the return to the ship after an excursion.
• Always log off the system when not in use to free up bandwidth space for other passengers.
• Work offline.
• Download any apps you need before leaving home.
• Turn off or disable background app data services and updates – apps that sync in the background can quickly eat up data without your knowledge.
• Disable push notifications as these use a lot of data.
• Remember to bring any charging or data cables required
• Your Network provider may offer a cruise package but be careful, once the land signal is lost, this will transfer to the satellite signal which will incur greater costs.
• Cruise Terminals ashore often have good land based internet to supplement your connectivity.
• Put your phone on Airplane Mode when not in use to avoid roaming charges from your Network Provider.
• Be careful not to access private accounts such as bank accounts on public Wi-Fi systems.
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your cabin daily.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Chef or the Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night on board to reconfirm your needs.
DINING AND DRINKING
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the Restaurant. During good weather, early riser’s coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner may also be served on The Lido Deck. Afternoon tea is served in The Club or in The Lounge depending on activities. Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits are available self-service 24 hours a day in The Club. House wine, beer and soft drinks are included at lunch and dinner. MS Island Sky operates an open seating policy which greatly enhances the convivial atmosphere on board. The Restaurant has table configurations of 8, 6, 4 and some 2’s. Room service is not available on board. As we operate an open seating policy, we regret that reservations cannot be made. Please note that passengers are not permitted to consume their own supplies of alcohol on board. Water is safe to drink on board and is treated with chlorine. A complimentary bottle of water is provided in your cabin upon embarkation and can be replenished upon request. An eco-friendly, reusable water bottle is also available in the cabin for your use throughout the cruise.
DISABLED FACILITIES
There is a lift, but the ship does not have facilities for disabled or wheelchair dependent passengers. Additionally, most shore excursions involve some walking and some excursions are walking tours only. There is no chair lift on board and access to the ship is by gangway.
DISEMBARKATION
Your Cruise Director / Expedition Leader will provide you with detailed disembarkation information prior to the end of your cruise. This will include transfer information (where applicable). If you should have any specific queries, please do not hesitate to contact the Cruise Director / Expedition Leader as soon as possible after embarkation.
DRESS CODE
The dress code on board is defined as casual. During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual. Jackets and ties are not required. However, we kindly ask you to refrain from wearing shorts during evening meals in the Restaurant. You may wish to wear something a little dressier for the Welcome and Farewell Dinners, for example, a jacket and tie for gentlemen and a dress for ladies. No “black tie” is necessary. It is recommended to wear footwear at all times whilst on board.
ELECTRICITY
Voltage is 110v/60Hz (American standard) and a 220v razor socket. This is only suitable for low voltage electrical appliances, e.g. mobile phone or camera charger. We recommend that you bring a two-pin American adaptor for the 110v plug. Please note that the use of personal hairdryers, clothing irons, coffee makers, curling tongs, etc. in the cabins is strictly forbidden as they may damage the ship’s electrical system. If you require electrical medical equipment, please notify the Reservation Department as soon as possible.
GOING ASHORE
Wait in public areas or in your suite until an announcement is made with instructions to disembark. Sailing times for each port are listed in the Daily Programme. Please note sailing times and ensure that you return back to the vessel at least 30 minutes prior to departure. In some ports a passport or port landing card must be carried when going ashore. This will be announced over the PA System if required. If the ship is in a remote area and you hear a continuous blast of the ship’s horn then please return immediately to the landing site. When leaving the ship at any time while in port always ensure you have checked IN/OUT at the gangway.
HAIR & BEAUTY SALON
MS Island Sky has a hairdresser providing haircuts and hairstyling. Some beauty treatments and massage are also available. Appointments for hair styling can be made on board at the Reception Desk. Fees for all treatments are available at Reception and will be charged to your onboard account. Each cabin is equipped with a hairdryer which can be found in the right hand top drawer of the dresser.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitizers at key positions around the ship particularly at the entrance to restaurants and near the gangway. We kindly ask you to use these regularly.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
A laundry service is available on board. Laundry bags and a price list can be found in the wardrobe in your cabin. Please complete the laundry list and leave it together with the bag of itmes to be laundered on your bed. Your laundered items will be returned within 24 hours. There are no public launderette or ironing facilities on board. In the interest of safety we ask that you do not use an electric iron in your suite. An ironing service is available at reasonable cost. Dry cleaning facilities are not available on board. In the interest of the environment, towels will not be automatically changed every day. We ask that you put used towels on the bathroom floor if you wish them to be changed for fresh towels. Towels left hanging on the towel rack will not be changed.
LIFT
All passenger decks can be reached by lift. Please do not use the lift in the case of a fire or an emergency.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. On board the ship, any liquids, cosmetics, paper(s) and perishable items left behind will be disposed of immediately. Any books left on board the ship will be incorporated into the ship’s library or donated to charity. Other items left behind on the ship will be kept on board for 1 month or 2 cruises (whichever is the longer period), and after this time, any unclaimed items will be given to a local charity at the next main port the ship visits. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia within 21 days of disembarking. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and any costs incurred will be at your own expense.
MAIL
Although reception staff are happy to post letters on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or at the port of call at which you make such a request. Some postal services are unreliable and many letters or postcards that you ask to be delivered on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route. Under no circumstances can we be held liable for such occurrences.
MEDICAL FACILITIES
Medical services are available 24 hours a day. There is a Doctor on board and crew members are trained in first aid. Cabin visits by the ship’s Doctor are available. Please note that all consultations and services are charged for. To arrange an appointment with the ship’s Doctor please contact Reception by dialing 9/301* or in an emergency 500. It takes some people longer to find their sea legs. Sea sickness tablets are available from Reception, and should be taken at least one hour prior to departure.
MINI BAR
For your convenience a mini bar facility has been set up in your suite on a chargeable basis. Items consumed during the cruise will be charged to your onboard account. Your Steward/ess will restock your mini bar on a daily basis and replenish consumed items. The mini bar price list is placed in the cabinet of your mini bar. The final statement will be delivered to your cabin in the early morning of your disembarkation.
NEWS
News channels are available on your cabin TV and in addition daily news bulletins can be found at Reception and in The Library.
NOBLE CALEDONIA TEAM
Throughout your cruise you will be accompanied by your Noble Caledonia team who will be happy to assist you with any queries or requests you may have.
ONBOARD ACCOUNT
All passengers will have their own “ship account” which allows you to sign a receipt for any expenses and then settle your bill at the Reception Desk at the end of the cruise. You will need to register your card at Reception shortly after sailing. If you are sharing a suite with a friend and would like separate bills, please inform Reception. Prices on board are shown in British Pounds. All final accounts will be presented in British Pounds.
Your ship’s account can be paid by:
• Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard or American Express).
• Cash (British Pounds, Euros or US Dollars).
• Travellers’ Cheques (British Pounds, US Dollars or Euros). Debit Cards and pre-paid credit card may not automatically be accepted. Please let us know in advance if you plan to use one.
PASSPORTS
All Passports are collected by the Purser upon embarkation. Passports are necessary to facilitate immigration formalities at each port of call and are returned at the end of the cruise.
PUBLIC AREAS
The Club – Located on Deck 4 aft, The Club features the main bar and a 24 hour tea and coffee station. A quiet place to meet friends or relax during the day. In the evening our onboard resident pianist plays before and after dinner.
The Library – Located on Deck 4 aft. In The Library you can find a well stocked selection of reference books pertaining to the destinations. Fiction books, games and playing cards are also available for your pleasure. Novels brought on board may be exchanged with other books in the paperback library. Should you wish to donate any books which you may have brought with you, we will be happy to add these for the pleasure of future guests. Reference books may not be removed from the ship. In addition, a selection of DVDs are available to play on your cabin TV. Please take the empty DVD box to Reception to collect the DVD disk. Please return all borrowed materials as soon as you have finished using them.
The Lounge – Located on Deck 3 aft. Daily Briefings by the Cruise Director or Expedition Leader are given in The Lounge which is fitted with multiple screens and presentation equipment. Informative talks from the Guest Speaker or expedition team are also given here.
Observation Deck – On the Explorer Deck, Deck 6, there is an area for sun loungers which is ideal for sunbathing as well as a forward facing observation platform.
Promenade Deck – MS Island Sky has a walk around Promenade Deck, on Deck 4. We kindly ask for your consideration to those guests whose cabins are located on and beneath the Promenade Deck. Please use the deck for walking / jogging between 8.30 am and 9.00 pm.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday experience and appreciate the time you take to complete the questionnaire. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire in at Reception.
SAFE
There is a safe in every suite located in the closet. The safe can be programmed with your own code, instructions can be found inside the closet door and cabin staff will be available to assist upon embarkation.. We recommend that you leave money and other valuables in the safe. Kindly remember to remove all items from the safe before disembarking the ship at the end of your cruise.
SAFETY DRILL & SAFETY
International Maritime Law requires a lifeboat safety drill to take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements. During the drill, all ships services will be suspended. Your assigned lifeboat station, location of your life jacket and the signal for lifeboat and fire drills are clearly explained on the emergency card posted on the back of your suite’s door. Life jackets are located in your suite. During the safety drill you will be shown how to wear the life jacket.
It is essential that you take certain safety precautions while on board:
• Walk, never run and be especially careful on wet and slippery decks.
• Ladies are advised to wear low heeled shoes especially on deck.
• Footwear should be worn at all times.
• Hold on to the handrails in passageways and stairways.
SHIP’S ID CARD
These personal ID cards with essential information are issued to each guest during embarkation. Please ensure you remember to check in and out at the gangway with the crew member on duty in order to ensure that you are on board prior to sailing.
SMOKING POLICY
The MS Island Sky offers a smoke-free cruise environment. Smoking is not permitted inside the ship, including the balcony areas. Smoking is only permitted in the designated area outside on Deck 4 aft. Please never throw any cigarette ends overboard – the breeze could carry the smouldering end back on board and start a fire. We thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
TELEPHONE CALLS
Calls to other cabins can be made free of charge by dialing the cabin number. Lift the handset and dial the cabin number. If you wish to make an outside call, please check at Reception to purchase a prepaid telephone card and instructions. Costs are available from Reception and charges are automatically billed to your onboard account.
TELEVISION
All suites are equipped with a flat screen television with a built-in DVD player which can also play CD’s. There will be a selection of channels available including news and documentaries. DVD’s are available to borrow from The Library, please take the empty DVD box to Reception to collect the DVD disk. DVDs are configured to Region 2.
TOILETRIES
Molton Brown shampoo, conditioner, hand soap and shower gel are provided in your bathroom. If you have forgotten anything ie. toothpaste, please ask Reception, who have a selection of items available for purchase.
VISITORS
For the safety and security of all passengers no visitors are allowed on board the ship.
VISITING THE BRIDGE
At times Bridge visits may be possible. If visiting the Bridge, please note this is a working area and access may sometimes be restricted.
WAKE UP CALL
Wake up calls can be requested through the Reception Desk.WATER
Previously the Island Sky used 54,000 bottles of water a year. In order to reduce the damage caused to the environment by waste plastic, we replaced plastic bottled water where possible with eco-friendly, reusable water bottles. The water bottles are for your use during the cruise and we kindly ask you to leave them in your cabin at the end of the cruise. The bottles can be filled from the tap – the tap water is safe to drink – or from the water station in The Club. Some bottled water will be available in your cabin on arrival and can be replenished upon request.
ZODIAC OR LOCAL BOATS TO TENDER ASHORE
Some destinations may require the use of the ship’s Zodiacs or local tender boats to go ashore. Guests will be advised where and when to meet the Zodiac or local tender boat to go ashore. Please ensure that your hands are free at all times and accept the assistance given by the crew on board the MS Island Sky when boarding tenders / Zodiacs. A Zodiac safety briefing will be given.
Please note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
-
Videos
Videos
-
Deck plans
-
2020/2021 Deckplan
-
2020/2021 Deckplan
Our View
“We have been operating voyages in the South Pacific for over twenty five years and this voyage from Tahiti to Easter Island has always been one of the most popular itineraries. The reason is clear to see as how else, other than by a small expedition ship, could you combine the culture of Easter Island, the history of Pitcairn Island and the remote natural wonders of the islands that dot the ocean providing refuge for indigenous birds and sea creatures or the beauty of the Marquesas that so inspired Paul Gaugin. Our journey covers over 3000 nautical miles and many of the places we visit can only be accessed by small groups with the use of the ship’s nimble Zodiacs meaning that once we have landed on a remote beach, we will be the only guests ashore.”
What to Expect...
Flexibility is the key to an expedition cruise; sometimes the whole day’s schedule will be changed to maximise your experience, something that would not be possible on a large cruise ship. Each day holds something new and below are some extracts from the ship’s log from last season which will provide you with an idea of what to expect.
Pitcairn Islands: At dawn, we sailed towards tiny Pitcairn Island which was silhouetted against pink skies and as we approached closer still, a beautiful rainbow. What an amazing welcome to such a mystical place. By 08.00 there was bright sunshine and clear blue skies overhead as the Zodiac shuttles between the ship and aptly named Bounty Bay began. The shuttle itself was an adventure as the Zodiac drivers carefully timed their entry to the harbour on the back of increasingly large waves. On arrival we were welcomed at the small harbour by a group of Pitcairn islanders who provided us with maps and some basic information about the island before we made our way up the Hill of Difficulty to the main square at Adamstown. At the main square and on the roads either side, the islanders had set up market style stalls where we were able to buy much sought after souvenirs such as t-shirts, wooden handicrafts, books, postcards, jewellery and honey which are a key source of income for the 50 or so inhabitants living on the island. The expedition team arranged a series of guided walks around the island. After lunch on board, a new set of activities ensued, kicking off with the much anticipated opening of the post office to buy stamps and souvenir first day covers as well as opening the doors to the island museum where we could see artefacts from the days of the mutineers including the original bible from the Bounty as well as more recent history. Mid-afternoon we returned to the ship where it was clear as everyone chatted together about how they had spent their day and the great conversations we had enjoyed with our island hosts. There was no doubt that thus far Pitcairn Island was a voyage highlight.
Tour Extensions
-
-
Extend your time in Tahiti with our two night stay on the island of Moorea, this heart shaped island is situated close to the main island of Tahiti and is renowned as one of the most beautiful in the world. From our hotel, the Manava Beach Resort & Spa (or similar) there will be the opportunity to enjoy water sports or alternatively you may wish to explore the island seeing the plantations of cotton, coffee, sugarcane and pineapples and the majestic mountains with views over the island.
Moorea
Prices per person based on double occupancy
7 to 10 October 2020 Category Price Twin £725 Single £975 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation on Moorea with breakfast, return
transfers between the main island and Moorea using local boats and vehicles, half
day island tour, gratuities.Not Included: Travel insurance.
-
Also of Interest
Melanesian Odyssey
An island hopping adventure from Australia to Fiji including Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu aboard the MS Island Sky
Island Sky
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Cairns, Australia
- Bonarua Island, Papua New Guinea
- Fergusson & Dobu Islands, D’Entrecasteaux Islands
- Marovo Lagoon, Solomon Islands
- Tetepare Island
- Honiara
- Santa Ana
- Vanikoro
- Mota Lava & Rah Island, Vanuatu
- Espiritu Santo Island.
- Malekula Island
- Port Havannah
- Tanna
- Yasawa Islands
- Fiji
The Chilean Fjords & Patagonia
An exploration of the Land of Fire & Ice from Valparaiso to Ushuaia aboard the MS Island Sky
Island Sky
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- London to Santiago, Chile
- Valdivia
- Puerto Montt
- Chiloe Island
- Chilean Fjords / Punta Arenas / Torres del Paine National Park.
- Cape Horn
- Ushuaia /Buenos Aires
Patagonia & the Chilean Fjords
An Exploration of the Land of Fire & Ice from Ushuaia to Valparaiso aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Ushuaia
- Cape Horn
- Chilean Fjord, Chile / Punta Arenas / Torres del Paine National Park
- Chiloe Island
- Puerto Montt
- Valdivia
- Valparaiso / Santiago
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000