South Seas Island Voyage - 2019
An island hopping expedition from Tahiti to Fiji aboard the MS Island Sky
- 19 April 2019
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’s first island cultures, developed a pantheon of gods, myths and legends. This voyage tells the story of Polynesia and uncovers its history and legends as we sail through the South Seas and visit the captivating islands. The real age of European exploration did not take place until the 18th century and many 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. You are invited to join us aboard the MS Island Sky to explore the Pacific in all its vastness, diversity and warmth. To experience the descriptiondefying beauty of its islands, its culture and its ambience which have attracted generations of adventurers, explorers and travellers to its magical shores. With our fleet of Zodiac landing craft we can explore inlets, bird sanctuaries 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 by a hand-picked expedition team, consisting of naturalists, marine biologists and ecologists 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.
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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 is an extract from the MS Caledonian Sky’s (sister ship to the MS Island Sky) ship log from when she last visited Bora Bora. If you are new to expedition cruising, this extract should provide you with an idea of what to expect.
Bora Bora – 18th December 2015: Bora Bora is one of the most beautiful islands on earth, home to film stars, captains of industry and oligarchs, hotels with rooms on stilts in the sea, coral reefs and sun-drenched sands. And when we woke, looked out of our cabin windows or portholes, there it was in all its splendour. Zodiacs took us ashore to the main town of Vaitipu where we boarded buses for a tour of the island. The buses had been built on lorry chassis (le truck) with windows which remained open giving a cool breeze as we drove slowly around the coast road. Stops were made at various vantage points including Faanui Bay, the Faanui Marae, the island’s biggest ancient temple where Polynesian gods and idols were worshipped long ago, and a wall of large sandstone and coral slabs could be seen. Bora Bora’s involvement in World War II was marked by metal bunkers built by American forces who used the island as a military supply base. It had an oil depot, airstrip (the only international airport in French Polynesia until Faa’a in Tahiti was opened in 1960) seaplane base and defensive fortifications. It was officially closed on 2 June, 1946. Our tour passed some of the remnants of this occupation. On the landward side we had the twin peaks of Mt Pahia and Mt Otemanu (it marks the highest point of the island at 727m or 2,385ft) remnants of a long extinct volcano. Superb sea views over a huge lagoon were enjoyed from the Belvedere lookout while at Anau we had time to sample Matira Beach the most famous on Bora Bora. Our options after lunch included snorkelling from one of two Zodiac platforms close to the ship (a moray eel was seen by most who went), taking a trip back to Matira Beach for snorkelling lessons or swimming, or relaxing in Vaitapu town. Our departure from Bora Bora was equally exciting as the ship sailed into a beautiful sunset which illuminated the fast disappearing island.
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 this morning and transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. The afternoon and evening will be at leisure to relax and enjoy the hotel facilities or explore independently.
Day 3 - Tahiti.
After breakfast in the hotel we will embark on a full day tour of Tahiti. We will start at the Arahoho Blow Hole. This lava tube, designed by liquid lava flowing under cold and hard lava, has created a channel. When waves crash against the rocks and enter the channel the result is a powerful sea water geyser. We will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the Museum of Tahiti And Her Islands. Later this afternoon we transfer to the MS Island Sky and sail tonight.
Day 4 - Raiatea & Taha’a.
Raiatea is recognised throughout Tahiti as its “Sacred Island”, the cultural heart of all Tahiti Polynesia. Local Polynesian legends say Raiatea, formerly known as “Havai” was the island of origin of great voyaging canoes that took the people as far as Hawaii. This, the second largest Tahitian isle, was the centre of religion and culture over 1000 years ago and still lends enchantment to ancient legends told to this day. This morning’s island tour will include a visit to the Taputapuatea marae which dates back over 1000 years. This afternoon we sail over to the neighbouring island of Taha’a where we plan to visit a vanilla plantation. With the rich aroma of vanilla lingering heavily in the air, Taha’a offers a glimpse of the traditional, tranquil life of the Tahitians.
Day 5 - Bora Bora.
One of the most stunning islands on the planet, Bora Bora’s 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 and World War II relics. This afternoon explore independently or alternatively take the chance to swim from the beach or enjoy our first snorkelling opportunity in the clear waters.
Day 6 - At Sea.
Relax on board as we sail to the Cook Islands.
Day 7 - Atiu, Cook Islands.
Our first stop in the Cook Islands is the small island of Atiu. With only 560 residents we will be guaranteed a special welcome. There will be the chance to join the local expert “Birdman George” on a walking 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’s landing site from 1777, the coffee plantations and a visit to some of the local houses. After lunch on board there will be the chance to return to Atiu for a relaxing afternoon exploring from the beach or maybe enjoy a taste of the local Tumunu, a traditional drink brewed from fermented oranges.
Day 8 - Aitutaki.
This lovely lagoon is famous for its fascinating coral formations and bountiful brightly hued tropical fish. After a lively welcome, choose this morning from an island drive which will explore the sleepy village of Arutanga seeing the oldest church in the Cook Islands. We will see the lush forest of Nikaupara and from the top of Mount Piraki will see the bunkers built during World War II. 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. We sail after lunch and enjoy an afternoon on board as we cruise to our next island.
Day 9 - Palmerston.
The engaging history of the William Masters family comes alive as we meet the descendants of this eccentric 19th century Englishman who took three native brides. We will be welcomed by the local officials before enjoying a walk through the village. Extremely fine handicrafts are made on this island and here the birdwatchers could catch sight of the red-tailed tropic birds. This afternoon we will have a chance to swim or snorkel from the beach where large coral blocks team with goatfish, boxfish, groupers, stingray and turtles.
Day 10 - At Sea.
Enjoy a day at sea, maybe join a lecture in the lounge or simply find a spot on deck and watch the world go by.
Day 11 - Niue.
Niue is 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’s most sought after stamps may be purchased. We will continue to Matapa Chasm, a secluded cleft in the sea cliffs, where we discover the perfect swimming hole. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at sea.
Day 12 - Vava’u, Tonga.
After crossing the International Date Line (so it is now 1st May), we arrive this morning in the Vava’u islands part of the kingdom of Tonga and the pretty port of Neiafu. Spend the morning independently exploring the town, maybe visit the local market or enjoy a drink in a harbourside cafe.
Day 13 - Ha’apai Islands.
Today we arrive at the Ha’apai group which consists of 62 islands comprising of lagoons, barrier reefs and active volcanoes. The islands have a rich maritime history with Abel Tasman being the first European to visit the islands in 1643 whilst Captain James Cook visited twice in the 1770s. However, the most famous event was Mutiny of the HMS Bounty which occurred between the islands of Lifuka and Tofua. It was on the island of Tofua that Captain William Bligh landed after being cast off from the Bounty with limited provisions and nautical equipment. A hostile reception from the islanders meant they quickly fled to sea again. Tropical forests grow along gentle slopes here and at the centre of the island is the volcanic crater, with a clear blue lake at its base. During the morning we hope to offer a hike on the slopes of the volcano through a spectacular forest full of birds, unique tree ferns and ironwood or, depending on conditions, a Zodiac cruise and snorkel. This afternoon we continue our journey towards Fiji.
Day 14 - Fulaga, Fiji.
Our first call at a Fijian island will be on Fulaga, famous for its woodcarving and the making of large outrigger canoes. Over 100 tiny islands in the Fulaga Lagoon have been undercut into extraordinary mushroom shapes and the surrounding waters are tinged with striking colours by the dissolved limestone. On arrival we hope to meet with the village elder to welcome us to the island before spending the morning using our Zodiacs to explore the rocks or find a suitable beach to land for swimming, snorkelling or beachcombing.
Day 15 - Levuka & Leleuvia.
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 in unlike any other Fijian town having retained the colonial buildings which made it the first Fijian site to be granted UNESCO 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 Leleuvia where we can relax on the beach or join an organised snorkelling trip.
Day 16 - Tavenui Island.
We have a choice of excursions this morning. The nature lovers can take a fourwheel drive to Dos Voeux Peak. At the summit we will be treated to fantastic views of Taveuni and across to Lake Tagimoucia. Here we will see the tropical plants, palms and rainforest and hope to spot spectacular birdlife such as orange-breasted doves, ferntails and the elusive silktail or local parakeet. 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. Our cultural tour will give the opportunity to witness lifestyles in a traditional Fijian village and see cooking demonstrations. In the afternoon we will head to one of the neighbouring islands for some swimming and snorkelling opportunities.
Day 17 - Savu Savu.
Often referred to as Fiji’s hidden paradise, Savusavu is much the same as it was 30 years ago. It was originally established as a centre for sailing ships trading in sandalwood and copra. It is a small bustling town with an interesting heritage and the surrounding landscape is stunning. This morning choose to either join a nature walk in the Waisali Rainforest, home to Fijian Kauri trees and thirty species of orchid and birdlife including the collared lory and the red shining parrot. Alternatively, a village visit will take us to the chief of Savu Savu where we partake in a cava ceremony before learning more about village life, local crafts and culture. This afternoon will be free to explore the town independently before we sail in the evening.
Day 18 - Fiji to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Day 19 - London.
Arrive today.
Dates and Prices
19 April to 8 May 2019 | ||
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Category | Price | |
Magellan Deck Standard Suites | £11295 | |
Columbus Deck Superior Suites | £11595 | |
Marco Polo Deck Premium Suites | £11995 | |
Marco Polo Deck Corner Suites | £12495 | |
Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites | £13495 | |
Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £13695 | |
Explorer Deck Island Suite | £14695 | |
Magellan Deck Standard for sole occupancy | £15495 | |
Columbus Deck Superior for sole occupancy | £16495 |
Tour Reference Code: SCISK19419
Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel for international flights, overnight hotel accommodation on bed and breakfast basis in Tahiti, 15 nights aboard the MS Island Sky on a full board basis, house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, Noble Caledonia Expedition Team, shore excursions, gratuities, transfers and port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, visas.
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2019 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.
Video Library
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 is an extract from the MS Caledonian Sky’s (sister ship to the MS Island Sky) ship log from when she last visited Bora Bora. If you are new to expedition cruising, this extract should provide you with an idea of what to expect.
Bora Bora – 18th December 2015: Bora Bora is one of the most beautiful islands on earth, home to film stars, captains of industry and oligarchs, hotels with rooms on stilts in the sea, coral reefs and sun-drenched sands. And when we woke, looked out of our cabin windows or portholes, there it was in all its splendour. Zodiacs took us ashore to the main town of Vaitipu where we boarded buses for a tour of the island. The buses had been built on lorry chassis (le truck) with windows which remained open giving a cool breeze as we drove slowly around the coast road. Stops were made at various vantage points including Faanui Bay, the Faanui Marae, the island’s biggest ancient temple where Polynesian gods and idols were worshipped long ago, and a wall of large sandstone and coral slabs could be seen. Bora Bora’s involvement in World War II was marked by metal bunkers built by American forces who used the island as a military supply base. It had an oil depot, airstrip (the only international airport in French Polynesia until Faa’a in Tahiti was opened in 1960) seaplane base and defensive fortifications. It was officially closed on 2 June, 1946. Our tour passed some of the remnants of this occupation. On the landward side we had the twin peaks of Mt Pahia and Mt Otemanu (it marks the highest point of the island at 727m or 2,385ft) remnants of a long extinct volcano. Superb sea views over a huge lagoon were enjoyed from the Belvedere lookout while at Anau we had time to sample Matira Beach the most famous on Bora Bora. Our options after lunch included snorkelling from one of two Zodiac platforms close to the ship (a moray eel was seen by most who went), taking a trip back to Matira Beach for snorkelling lessons or swimming, or relaxing in Vaitapu town. Our departure from Bora Bora was equally exciting as the ship sailed into a beautiful sunset which illuminated the fast disappearing island.

Travelling with You
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Guy Esparon
Guy Esparon was born in the Seychelles and migrated to Australia in 1971, where he spent 30 years living between many of Australia’s cities and the outback. However, his heart never left the Seychelles. Guy lived his dream when he worked on the Aldabra World Heritage Site as Chief Warden. He has an incredible passion and love for Aldabra. He has worked on various expedition ships calling at the Seychelles, and has shared his love for nature and Aldabra with those fortunate enough to visit.
Guy Esparon will be on the following tour dates: 19 April 2019 to 8 May 2019 -
Craig Ward
Craig is a marine professional, dive instructor, marine biologist & ship’s captain and studied Zoology at James Cook University, Cairns. For over twelve years he has been involved in marine research and education throughout the Indo-pacific, particularly the Northern Great Barrier Reef, the Kimberley, south-east Asia, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand.
He became a wildlife keeper working with many native Australian species including crocodiles, snakes and cassowaries and wrote a number of public education presentations on topics such as wetlands, reptiles, jellyfish and conservation, Craig developed his lecturing skills and became recognized as a regularly cited author. He is credited on a number of scientific papers, has been published in a variety of magazines and has co written and edited several natural history works.
Craig is based in tropical northern Australia, where he is actively involved in conservation research. He spends much of the year travelling to remote parts of the world in search of, sadly, rare animals with like-minded people who share his passion for nature and travel, and he goes out to sea as often as he can.
Craig Ward will be on the following tour dates: 19 April 2019 to 8 May 2019 -
Andrea Machacek
Born in Salzburg/Austria Andrea has worked four years as Project Manager organizing events and incentive projects across the world: from Dragon boat competitions in Shanghai to Ice-Rallying and dog sledding in Finland to camel racing in the Sahara desert. She trekked across South America, scaling Andean peaks and boating down the Amazon, crossed Iceland, Rajasthan and the Tauern mountain range on horseback and traveled 9.288 km on the Trans-Siberian Railway from Moscow to Vladivostok.
But it was her first trip to Antarctica that awoke her passion for Expedition Cruising an the Polar Regions. It has become her passion to share her enthusiasm and respect for these sublime but fragile regions with fellow passengers on Expedition ships in her maternal German as well as in English, Spanish and French and (with hand and feet:-) also in Russian. After 3 years onboard Expedition ships in the Polar Regions (Antarctica, Svalbard, East Greenland & Norway), she exchanged icebergs for sand dunes and just recently explored the West coast of Africa from Cape Town to Agadir/Morocco.
When back at home in Austria, Andrea enjoys horse riding and works as voluntary Emergency Medical Technician with the Red Cross.
Andrea Machacek will be on the following tour dates: 19 April 2019 to 8 May 2019 -
Phoebe Olsen
Phoebe Olsen grew up in a small fishing village on the rugged southwest coast of Ireland. There she was never far from a boat and spent most of her summers out on the water in one form or another. Being of Danish and Irish stock she felt drawn to Viking history and pursued a career in archaeology as a result. She studied archaeology and Italian at the University College of Cork followed by a Master’s degree in Osteoarchaeology. For the past few years Phoebe has been working as a field archaeologist in the UK working on a range of projects from the unearthing of a Saxon cemetery next to a Neolithic monument in Wiltshire to the deconstructing of Bronze Age cremation urns from Kent. In addition to archaeology Phoebe has also cultivated an interest in languages, having studied Irish from a young age and growing up with bilingual parents. She caught the travel bug from a young age and has lived in Hong Kong and Italy as well as working on an archaeological dig in Azerbaijan.
Phoebe Olsen will be on the following tour dates: 19 April 2019 to 8 May 2019 -
Jake Morrison
Jake has always loved life on the water; he began driving boats when he was 5, landed his first job at a marina aged 13, and at 16 fulfilled his childhood dream-job of driving the water taxi at his family’s cottage in Canada. Jake’s first time leaving North America was in University when he participated in an exchange at Copenhagen Business School; over the next 2 years he travelled to all seven continents. Working in expedition travel since 2010, Jake enjoys sharing his passion for exploring with people from across the planet. He likes to keep busy and has logged over 150 hours flying planes as a private pilot, is a certified sailboat skipper and PADI open water diver and enjoys finding new places to hit the seas and the skies on his kiteboard.
Jake Morrison will be on the following tour dates: 19 April 2019 to 8 May 2019
Tour Extensions
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7th to 11th May 2019
If you would like to extend your time in Fiji, we are offering a relaxing three night stay at the Lomani Island Resort. Lomani is located in the Mamanuca group of islands which are offshore west of Fiji’s main island, Vitu Levi. The Mamanuca islands are famous for their white sand beaches and this boutique hotel features just 24 suites.
Fiji
Prices per person based on double occupancy
7th to 11th May 2019 Category Price Beachfront Bure: Double occupancy £1095 Beachfront Bure: Sole Occupancy £1795 Beachfront Pool Bure: Sole Occupancy £1845 Beachfront Pool Bure: Double occupancy £1195 Price Includes: Three nights accommodation on half board basis (breakfast and dinner), orientation tour, transfers to and from the resort using local boats.
Not Included: Travel insurance, gratuities.
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18th to 21st April 2019
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 base 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 and wonderful waterfalls.
Moorea, Society Islands
Prices per person based on double occupancy
18th to 21st April 2019 Category Price Twin £595 Single £795 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation in Moorea on a bed and breakfast basis, transfers from airport to hotel and from hotel to the MS Island Sky using local boats and vehicles, half day island tour.
Not Included: Travel insurance, gratuities.
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Also of Interest
In the Wake of the Bounty - 2019
An epic voyage from Easter Island & through the South Seas aboard the MS Island Sky
Island Sky
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Santiago, Chile
- Easter Island
- Ducie Island / Pitcairn Islands
- Henderson Island
- Gambier Islands
- Tuamotu Islands
- Pukapuka
- Marquesas Islands
- Hiva Oa
- Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands
- Tuamotu Islands
- Tahiti
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000