South Seas Island Odyssey
An expedition from Vanuatu to French Polynesia aboard the MS Island Sky
- 23 September 2020
The islands of the South Pacific are an extraordinary world that exceed everyone’s expectations. They are as sensuous as the paintings of Gauguin, more adventurous than the tales of Robert Louis Stevenson and more romantic than James Michener’s fabled Bali Hai. Ancient volcanoes, lush rainforest, diverse marine life, encounters with fascinating cultures and some of the world’s most exotic birds all await your discovery during this island hopping expedition.
Join us aboard the MS Island Sky as we sail through the South Seas and visit some extraordinarily beautiful islands with exotic cultures and exceptionally unique and beautiful landscapes. Being welcomed by friendly locals into a remote village untouched by the modern world is truly a memorable experience. Setting off from Vanuatu we will be sailing through an area long associated with Captain Cook, Captain Bligh and the Bounty and 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. Of course 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.
An expedition such as this requires a vessel akin to the MS Island Sky with the ability to adapt to her surroundings, land on remote atolls using the fleet of Zodiac landing craft and follow in the wake of whales and dolphins all while providing a comfortable base. In addition and adding further to your enjoyment will be our experienced expedition team who will be able to inform you on the marine life, birdlife and culture of the islands we will be discovering.
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 are some extracts from the ship’s log from last season which will provide you with an idea of what to expect.
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 school children 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 frigatebirds 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.
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 Brisbane, Australia.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 Brisbane.
Arrive this evening and transfer to the Emporium Hotel (or similar) for a two night stay. The remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Day 3 Brisbane.
After breakfast in the hotel enjoy a leisurely morning to explore independently and perhaps visit the botanical gardens, the central mall or the riverfront. This afternoon we will enjoy a city drive on our way to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary which is home to 130 koalas as well as kangaroos. Continue to Mount Coot-tha for a fantastic lookout over Brisbane before returning to the hotel for dinner this evening.
Day 4 Brisbane to Port Vila, Vanuatu.
After breakfast in the hotel transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Port Vila. On arrival transfer to the MS Island Sky and enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 5 Tanna.
Over breakfast we arrive at the island of Tanna, meaning earth in the local Kwamera language. Captain Cook was the first European to visit the island in 1774, landing at Port Resolution and having been attracted by the glowing light of Mount Yasur. This 361 metre active volcano is situated in the south east of the island and dominates the landscape. The adventurous may wish to join a journey to the crater. We will use local trucks to drive through the rainforest that covers the mountain before walking to the rim. Alternatively, we may have the chance to visit a local village where traditional lifestyles are maintained and the local culture has been largely unaffected by western influences. Here we will learn of customs and also of traditional medicines, crafts and cooking styles. Return to the MS Island Sky for lunch and an afternoon at sea as we make our way to Fiji.
Day 6 At Sea.
Spend a relaxing day at sea as we continue our journey across the South Pacific. Maybe join a lecture or find a spot on deck to relax or read a book.
Day 7 Yasawa Islands, Fiji.
This morning we will drop anchor amongst the twenty islands of the Yasawa group. In 1789 when Captain Bligh was set adrift from the HMS Bounty he passed by the Yasawa Islands from where two war canoes were sent to pursue them. They escaped, and the waters are still known as Bligh Water. Today we can expect a friendlier welcome as we explore the coastline and visit one of the islands.
Day 8 Levuka Island.
The island of Levuka and the town of Ovalau has a special place in Fijian history as it was here in 1874 that the Fiji islands were ceded to the British and also where in 1970 Fiji was declared independent again. The town is unlike any other Fijian town having retained the colonial buildings which made it the first Fijian site to be granted UNESCO status. Join a walking tour around Nasova village on the shores of the bay and visit the museum and Cession Monument, the site where Chief Cakobau signed the deed ceding Fiji to Great Britain. This afternoon we will relocate to one of the nearby islands where we can relax on the beach, snorkel or swim.
Day 9 Fulaga.
Our final call in Fiji will be at 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 afternoon using our Zodiacs to explore the rocks or find a suitable beach for swimming and beachcombing or enjoy a deep water snorkel.
Day 10 Nuku’alofa, Tonga.
Following a morning at sea we arrive into Nuku’alofa, the capital of Tonga, during lunch. After clearing immigration formalities we will have a chance to explore this laidback town and the island of Tongatapu. Having never been colonised by Europeans we will experience traditional Polynesian culture alongside beautiful beaches and spectacular natural wonders. See the historical Captain Cook landing site from his 1777 voyage, explore the Royal Palace (Tonga retains the last monarchy in the Polynesia), and the famous Tongan blowholes, considered the most spectacular in the South Pacific.
Day 11 Neiafu, Vava’u.
We arrive during breakfast in the Vava’u islands, part of the kingdom of Tonga, and the pretty port of Neiafu. Spend the morning exploring the town independently, maybe visit the local market or enjoy a drink in a harbourside café. Alternatively join a tour to the Ene’io Botanical Gardens, founded in 1972 they are the only botanical gardens in Tonga. Here the local guides will identify some of the 550 different plant varieties found in the gardens. Over lunch we hope to reposition to one of the nearby islands and use our Zodiacs to find a suitable location to land and set up snorkelling activities. There are many different species of colourful tropical fish here and we hope to see the graceful black-and-yellow angelfish and curious clown fish on the surrounding reefs.
Day 12 International Date Line & Alofi, Niue.
After crossing the International Date Line (so it is now 3rd October) we arrive this afternoon in Niue, one of the smallest independent nations on earth at just 260 square kilometres with a population of just 1200 people. Populated since the 10th century, the first European to sight Niue was Captain Cook in 1774 but his attempts to land were refused by the inhabitants. Today we will visit the capital, Alofi Village, and stop at the Philatelic Bureau, where some of the world’s most sought after stamps may be purchased. Alternatively take the short drive to Matapa Chasm, a secluded cleft in the sea cliffs, where we discover the perfect swimming hole.
Day 13 At Sea.
Find a spot on deck, relax with a book in the library or join our lecture programme in the lounge as we spend a relaxing day at sea.
Day 14 Palmerston, Cook Islands.
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 might catch sight of the red-tailed tropic birds. This afternoon we will have a chance to find a suitable spot for a swim or snorkel to explore the underwater world.
Day 15 Aitutaki.
This lovely lagoon is famous for its fascinating coral formations and bountiful brightly hued tropical fish. After a lively welcome, choose to join a morning island drive which will explore the sleepy village of Arutanga, seeing the oldest church in the Cook Islands, the lush forest of Nikaupara and from the top of Mount Piraki we will see the bunkers built during World War II. At the summit 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. There will be time to explore independently this afternoon or take the chance for a swim before we set sail.
Day 16 Atiu.
Our final stop in the Cook Islands is the small island of Atiu. With only 560 residents we will be guaranteed a special welcome. Enjoy 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 opportunity 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 17 At Sea.
Relax on board as we spend the day at sea cruising to French Polynesia.
Day 18 Bora Bora, French Polynesia.
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 snorkelling in the clear waters.
Day 19 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 20 Papeete to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Day 21 En-route to London
Day 22 London.
Arrive this afternoon.
Dates and Prices
23 September to 13 October 2020 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
Magellan Deck Standard Suites | £11495 | £10995 |
Columbus Deck Superior Suites | £11895 | £11395 |
Marco Polo Deck Premium Suites | £12295 | £11795 |
Marco Polo Deck Corner Suites | £12795 | £12295 |
Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites | £13795 | £13295 |
Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £13995 | £13495 |
Explorer Deck Island Suite | £14995 | £14495 |
Magellan Deck Standard for sole occupancy | £15795 | £15295 |
Columbus Deck Superior for sole occupancy | £16795 | £16295 |
Tour Reference Code: SCISK230920
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Two nights hotel accommodation in Brisbane with breakfast • Dinner on day 3 • 16 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, dinner on day 2.
Important Visa Information: Please note that British citizen passport holders can obtain an "eVisitor (subclass 651)" visa for entry into Australia. This can be obtained online from the Australian Government's Department of Immigration and Border Protection website, and is currently issued free or charge. Your inbound flight will likely be via Los Angeles, an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) is required for entry into the USA. Further information will be provided in your pre-departure information, which will be sent to you approximately 12 weeks before departure.
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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.
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.
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 school children 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 frigatebirds 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.

Tour Extensions
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For those who would like to have a break in their journey to Australia, we are offering a two night stay in Singapore. Our time here will include a tour to see the sights of the city as well as ample free time to explore independently.
Singapore
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Singapore.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Singapore.
Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel (or similar) for an overnight stay. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration or to relax at the hotel.
Day 3 Singapore.
After breakfast in the hotel we will take a city tour including the 53 hectare Botanical Garden and National Orchid Garden which displays over 1000 species of orchids. Continue to the exotic streets and stalls of “Little India” before visiting Kampong Glam, Thian Hock Keng Temple and the Sri Mariamman Hindu Temple in Chinatown. Return to the hotel and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. You may wish to make your way to the Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island or take some time to shop in one of the centres.
Day 4 Singapore to Brisbane.
This morning we return to the airport for our scheduled flight to Brisbane and join the main itinerary from day 2.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
21 to 24 September 2020 Category Price Twin £475 Single £745 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation in Singapore with breakfast, half day tour, gratuities, airport transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance, meals other than breakfast. -
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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 and wonderful waterfalls.
Moorea
Prices per person based on double occupancy
11 to 15 October 2020 Category Price Twin £725 Single £975 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation in Moorea with breakfast, transfers from ship to hotel and from hotel to airport using local boats and vehicles, half day island tour, gratuities.
Not Included: Travel insurance, meals other than breakfast.
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Also of Interest
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- Tuamotu Islands
- Pukapuka
- Marquesas Islands
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- Tahiti
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- Horizontal Falls, Talbot Bay
- Raft Point / Montgomery Reef
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Itinerary at a glance
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000