Passage through Polynesia
An expedition from Tahiti to Fiji aboard the MS Island Sky
- 16 April 2020
The name Polynesia means ‘many islands’ and no one could argue with the suitability of this title. There are islands of low lying coral with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and contrasting volcanic mountainous structures of lush, incomparable beauty. 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 are breeding grounds for countless species of fish.
From the Polynesian paradise of Tahiti we travel to the Cook Islands and Tonga with visits to a number of the smaller islands such as Atiu, with only 560 residents, and uninhabited Tofua. Meet local villagers, learn about Polynesian culture and its many ancient rituals and experience a wide range of unique flora and fauna.
The only comfortable way to explore this intriguing region is by sea and we are fortunate in having one of the finest and best equipped expedition vessels in the world for our explorations. Helping us understand all the wonders we will encounter will be our expedition team who will accompany us ashore and enlighten us with their onboard talks. With our fleet of Zodiac landing craft we will explore inlets, lagoons and land in otherwise inaccessible places.
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 to provide you with an idea of what to expect, below are some extracts from ship’s logs from previous expeditions:
Palmerston, Cook Islands: What a wonderful surprise Palmerston proved to be. The island is delightful, as close to a paradise coral atoll as it is possible to get. The 60 residents have no form of transport other than small motorcycles so there is no need for roads, only sandy tracks. A welcoming group gave us coconuts to drink from. A minister conducted a service of welcome and the mayor gave a short speech before accepting materials for the school we had brought with us. Islanders staged a dance programme, largely performed by schoolchildren who took us off in small groups to see the village afterwards. We visited Lucky School, the solar farm which supplies the majority of the island’s electricity, and chatted to islanders in their homes. Our time was our own and we gained a great impression of life which is devoid of most modern facilities such as television. Lunch was on board, although a few people chose to stay ashore. The Duke’s Pool is a popular swimming spot which we descended upon in the afternoon. People enjoyed snorkelling, sunbathing, further exploration of the island or watching the red-tailed tropicbirds and great frigate birds which drifted low over our heads. We left Palmerston with regret: it had been a taste of the simplest life imaginable, with sweet children who displayed a non-worldliness and innocence long lost in western society.
Atiu, Cook Islands: We would spend three days in total exploring the Cook Islands and our first stop was Atiu where Captain Cook landed on the west side of the island in 1775. Today we were offered a choice of two local tours. The first was a wildlife tour led by local Birdman George (accompanied of course by our own Birdmen Tony and Brent) and the second a cultural tour with a variety of guides who would drive small groups of us around the island visiting some of the key points of interest. Over the course of the next couple of hours we visited the site where Captain James Cook is believed to have taken his first footsteps on the island as well as coffee plantations, taro patches, churches and many of us were invited to the local island homes and gardens of our guides providing even more personal insight to life on the island. Meanwhile on the eco tour, Birdman George led a convoy of three vans around the island to take a closer look at local birds and plants. Between the three ornithologists both the endemic Atiu swiftlet and the Rimatara lorikeet were spotted. In addition to these rare birds, the groups also enjoyed sightings of the chattering kingfisher resting on power lines and football posts, the lesser frigate bird and the beautiful white or fairy terns.
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 Intercontinental Hotel (or similar) 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 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 - At sea.
Relax on board as we sail to the Cook Islands.
Day 6 - 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 Island 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 7 - Aitutaki.
This lovely lagoon is famous for its fascinating coral formations and bountiful brightly hued tropical fish. After a lively welcome this morning, join 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 view 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 cruise and snorkel in the lagoon. We sail after lunch and enjoy an afternoon on board as we cruise to our next island.
Day 8 - 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 9 - Day at sea.
Relax on board, join a lecture in the lounge or simply find a spot on deck and watch the world go by.
Day 10 - 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 11 - Vava’u, Tonga.
After crossing the International Date Line (so it is now 27 April), 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 12 - 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 Zodiac cruise to explore the coastline of this historic island.
Day 13 - 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 14 - Levuka & Honeymoon 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 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 Honeymoon Island where we can relax on the beach or join an organised snorkelling trip.
Day 15 - Fiji to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Day 16 - London.
Arrive today.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER - SAVE £500 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 16 April to 2 May 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Magellan Deck Standard Suites | £9995 | £9495 |
| Columbus Deck Superior Suites | £10295 | £9795 |
| Marco Polo Deck Premium Suites | £10595 | £10095 |
| Marco Polo Deck Corner Suites | £10895 | £10395 |
| Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites | £11695 | £11195 |
| Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £11895 | £11395 |
| Explorer Deck Island Suite | £13495 | £12995 |
| Magellan Deck Standard for sole occupancy | £13495 | £12995 |
| Columbus Deck Superior for sole occupancy | £13795 | £13295 |
Tour Reference Code: SCISK160420
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Overnight hotel accommodation on bed and breakfast basis in Tahiti • 12 nights aboard the MS Island Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia Expedition Team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Group transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, visas.
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.
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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.
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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.
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Cabin Plans
Cabin Plan
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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.
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Videos
Videos
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Deck plans
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2020/2021 Deckplan
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2020/2021 Deckplan
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 to provide you with an idea of what to expect, below are some extracts from ship’s logs from previous expeditions:
Palmerston, Cook Islands: What a wonderful surprise Palmerston proved to be. The island is delightful, as close to a paradise coral atoll as it is possible to get. The 60 residents have no form of transport other than small motorcycles so there is no need for roads, only sandy tracks. A welcoming group gave us coconuts to drink from. A minister conducted a service of welcome and the mayor gave a short speech before accepting materials for the school we had brought with us. Islanders staged a dance programme, largely performed by schoolchildren who took us off in small groups to see the village afterwards. We visited Lucky School, the solar farm which supplies the majority of the island’s electricity, and chatted to islanders in their homes. Our time was our own and we gained a great impression of life which is devoid of most modern facilities such as television. Lunch was on board, although a few people chose to stay ashore. The Duke’s Pool is a popular swimming spot which we descended upon in the afternoon. People enjoyed snorkelling, sunbathing, further exploration of the island or watching the red-tailed tropicbirds and great frigate birds which drifted low over our heads. We left Palmerston with regret: it had been a taste of the simplest life imaginable, with sweet children who displayed a non-worldliness and innocence long lost in western society.
Atiu, Cook Islands: We would spend three days in total exploring the Cook Islands and our first stop was Atiu where Captain Cook landed on the west side of the island in 1775. Today we were offered a choice of two local tours. The first was a wildlife tour led by local Birdman George (accompanied of course by our own Birdmen Tony and Brent) and the second a cultural tour with a variety of guides who would drive small groups of us around the island visiting some of the key points of interest. Over the course of the next couple of hours we visited the site where Captain James Cook is believed to have taken his first footsteps on the island as well as coffee plantations, taro patches, churches and many of us were invited to the local island homes and gardens of our guides providing even more personal insight to life on the island. Meanwhile on the eco tour, Birdman George led a convoy of three vans around the island to take a closer look at local birds and plants. Between the three ornithologists both the endemic Atiu swiftlet and the Rimatara lorikeet were spotted. In addition to these rare birds, the groups also enjoyed sightings of the chattering kingfisher resting on power lines and football posts, the lesser frigate bird and the beautiful white or fairy terns.
Tour Extensions
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14th to 17th April 2020
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, 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 and wonderful waterfalls. Upon check-out on 17th April, transfer to the main island and continue with the main itinerary from day 2.
Cook's Bay, Moorea
Prices per person based on double occupancy
14 to 17 April 2020 Category Price Twin £725 Single £975 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation in Moorea on a bed and breakfast basis, group transfers from airport to hotel and from hotel to the main island using local boats and vehicles, half day island tour.
Not Included: Travel insurance, gratuities.
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If you would like to extend your time in Fiji after disembarking the MS Island Sky, we are offering a relaxing three night stay at the Matamanoa Island Resort which is located in the Mamanuca group of islands, offshore west of Fiji’s main island, Vitu Levi. The Mamanuca islands are famous for their white sand beaches and this hotel offers an intimate and secluded experience on a small Fijian island.
Fiji
Prices per person based on double occupancy
1 to 5 May 2020 Category Price Beachfront Pool Bure Twin £1295 Beachfront Pool Bure Single £1945 Price Includes: Three nights hotel accommodation on half board basis (breakfast and dinner), transfers to and from the resort using local boats.
Not Included: Travel insurance, gratuities, optional hotel activities
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Also of Interest
Indian Ocean Island Odyssey
Discover the beauty of Mauritius, Madagascar, the Seychelles and Tanzania aboard the MS Serenissima
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Mauritius
- Reunion
- Ile Sainte Marie, Madagascar
- Nosy Mangabe / Masoala National Park
- Diego Suarez
- Aldabra Islands, Seychelles
- Mafia Island, Tanzania
- Zanzibar
- Dar es Salaam
Seychelles Odyssey
An Island Hopping Expedition in the Indian Ocean aboard the MS Serenissima
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Zanzibar
- Kilwa Kisiwani
- Aldabra Islands, Seychelles
- Farquhar Islands
- Alphonse Islands
- Amirante Islands
- Aride / Curieuse
- Praslin / La Digue
- Mahe
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000