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 and this voyage tells the story of Polynesia and uncovers its history as we visit the captivating islands. Our expedition begins in Fiji and our journey to Tahiti takes us through Tonga, the Cook Islands and the Society Islands all of which embody the laid-back lifestyle and idyllic surroundings of the South Pacific.
Our expedition aboard the MS Island Sky promises to be a marvellous island hopping adventure and an enjoyable undertaking for those who relish travelling off the beaten track to remote and extraordinary islands. From coral reefs teeming with life to powerful legends that shaped history, each island group we will visit is unique, each culture distinct. The description defying beauty and remoteness of the islands have attracted generations of adventurers, explorers and travellers to their shores. 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.
The only comfortable way to explore this beautiful and intriguing region is by sea and sailing aboard the all-suite MS Island Sky with just 100 fellow, like-minded travellers, we will be able to use the onboard Zodiacs to explore inlets, bird sanctuaries and land in otherwise inaccessible places accompanied by our expert expedition team including naturalists, marine biologists and ornithologists who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during forays ashore and whilst on board. Our days will be spent on nature walks, searching for endemic birds, beachcombing, snorkelling or swimming from the beautiful beaches, interacting with the locals and learning about their way of life and traditional handicrafts or, simply experiencing some of the most pristine tropical scenery to be found anywhere in the world.
Exploring Ashore: During this expedition, the vessel will be at anchorage most days and the Zodiacs will be used to transport passengers ashore and to explore remote inlets. Landings will be at small harbours or on to beaches, so will be wet landings in warm water. Visits to specific islands are weather dependent. Ashore, our onboard team will endeavour to arrange a selection of walks to include longer and shorter options to cater for different abilities and interests. There will be opportunities to swim and snorkel and some snorkelling opportunities will be from a snorkelling platform and only suitable for the more confident swimmers. Transport on the islands is very limited and when used will be small minivans, trucks and taxis.
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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 extracts from the ship’s log from when the MS Island Sky last visited the region.Nuku’alofa, Tonga: Our first day in the Kingdom of Tonga and we begin with the capital, Nuku’alofa. The police band played us off the MS Island Sky and dancers greeted us on the wharf as we made our way to the interesting assembly of vehicles of diminishing size. Our first stop on our tour was at Ancient Tonga where we spent time learning about the kava ceremony in depth, making of tapa cloth, weaving, traditional medicine and cooking. Some energetic dancing from the men and some less energetic but nonetheless lovely dancing from the women. We were invited to taste the food and ask lots of questions, some of us were even dressed up in traditional garb. Leaving Ancient Tonga behind we then had a tour of the island including stops at the spot Captain Cook landed, past a two-headed palm tree, a blowhole and the royal palace. Back to our ship which was alongside until late into the evening so we could explore the nightlife of this compact capital at our leisure.
Vava’u, Tonga: The scenery as we arrived at our last stop in the Kingdom of Tonga was just spectacular, the raised coral beds turned islands made for a dramatic coastline topped with lush vegetation. Our little ship negotiated the channels to arrive at the port of Neiafu. Our welcome party were in traditional dress with mat skirts and traditional prints, and an array of brass instruments to play us down the gangway. They played with gusto for over an hour as we arrived and started to trickle out to explore the small town of Neiafu and the little markets full of fish, fruit and local handicrafts. The ship repositioned over lunch and we had a choice of afternoon activities; a Zodiac cruise along the edges of the little islands that surrounded us, an advanced cave snorkel trip or a drop off at a postcard perfect beach off which we could swim or snorkel. A special afternoon tea on lido deck to farewell the Kingdom of Tonga. The recap and briefing was informative as always followed by another fabulous dinner.
Raiatea, French Polynesia: A last presentation of the trip by Tony on Birds without Borders all about the amazing migratory feats accomplished by the avian community. After an early sushi lunch and a face-to-face with the French Polynesian immigration officials we were ready to go. A welcome committee in traditional attire greeted us, blowing a conch and placing scented laes (flower garlands) around our necks, the perfume of which followed us all the way to the waiting transport. And what transport it was! Known as ‘Le Truck’ these vehicles are standard across these islands as public transport, a sort of delightful hybrid of minibus and truck. Our guides told us all about life on the island as our Le Truck meandered through the street (not streets, street, it was a very small place …) of the town and out along the coastline to the south-east, journeying through the lush vegetation. We arrived at the main destination the Marae Taputapuatea, a large UNESCO listed heritage site comprising several marae, sacred ceremonial and social spaces which can be found throughout Polynesia. This particular site was once considered to be the religious centre for Eastern Polynesia. We enjoyed some light refreshments and local bananas before returning on our fleet of Le Trucks to the town which we had time to explore. Some of us even had time for one last snorkel before finishing our day.
Island Sky
The MS Island Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Hebridean Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Fiji.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 En Route.
Transit as we continue our journey to Fiji.
Day 3 Fiji.
Arrive this morning and transfer directly to the MS Island Sky which will be moored in Lautoka. The remainder of the day is free to relax on board before we sail this evening.
Day 4 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 5 Fulaga.
We arrive this morning in the Southern Lau group and the island of 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 be welcomed to the island by the village elder before spending the day meeting with the villagers, taking nature walks or using the Zodiacs to find a suitable beach to land for swimming, snorkelling or beachcombing.
Day 6 Nuku’alofa, Tonga.
After a morning at sea we arrive into Nuku’alofa, the capital of Tonga. Once the immigration formalities are complete 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. We will see the historical Captain Cook landing site from his 1777 voyage, explore the Royal Palace (Tonga retains the last monarchy in Polynesia), and the famous Tongan blowholes, considered the most spectacular in the South Pacific.
Day 7 Neiafu & Nuku Island, Vava’u.
We arrive during breakfast at the pretty port of Neiafu in the Vava’u islands, part of the kingdom of Tonga. 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 the nearby Nuku Island 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 blackand- yellow angelfish and curious clownfish on the surrounding reefs.
Day 8 International Date Line & Niue.
After crossing the International Date Line (therefore still 9th 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 1,200 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. Later, those feeling active may choose to continue to Matapa Chasm, a secluded cleft in the sea cliffs, where we can walk down to discover the perfect swimming hole. Alternatively, enjoy a swim or snorkel from the beach.
Days 9 & 10 At Sea.
Spend a leisurely two days at sea as we continue our journey across the Pacific towards the Cook Islands. Maybe join a lecture in the lounge or spend time on deck to watch for wildlife.
Day 11 Rarotonga, Cook Islands.
Arrive this morning in Rarotonga, the hub of the Cook Islands where we have a day to explore. Join a nature walk in the Takitumu Conservation area, a 155 hectare forested area in the interior of the island. Here we can look for some endemic birds such as the Rarotongan flycatcher, Pacific pigeon and fruit dove whilst walking in the beautiful scenery of the park. Alternatively, explore the history and culture of the island on a drive including the sacred marae, site of the seven canoes and local churches. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon to explore further at your own pace.
Day 12 Atiu.
Our exploration of the Cook Islands continues at the small island of Atiu. With only 560 residents we will be guaranteed a special welcome. A choice of activities this morning includes a bird tour to search for the Rarotonga monarch, chattering kingfisher, Cook Islands fruit dove and Atiu swiftlets. Alternatively, discover the island on a tour which will include James Cook’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 for a relaxing afternoon swimming from the beach or maybe enjoy a taste of the local Tumunu, a traditional drink brewed from fermented oranges.
Day 13 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 with the oldest church in the Cook Islands. We will see the lush forest of Nikaupara, ancient marae and the bunkers built during World War II which are visible from Mount Piraki. From the top of Maunga Pu we are treated to breathtaking views of the island and lagoon. Alternatively, you may wish to join our naturalists for a cruise and snorkel in the lagoon. We have a few hours to explore independently or take the chance for a swim before sailing in the late afternoon.
Day 14 At Sea.
A relaxing day at sea cruising toward French Polynesia.
Day 15 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, scenic viewpoints and World War II relics. This afternoon explore independently or take the opportunity to swim from the beach.
Day 16 Raiatea & Taha’a.
Raiatea is recognised throughout French Polynesia as its “Sacred Island”, the cultural heart of all French 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 1,000 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 1,000 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 17 Papeete, Tahiti to London.
Moor in Papeete over breakfast where a morning tour will include the house of James Norman Hall. Hall was the co-author of the Mutiny on the Bounty and his reconstructed house is now a museum decorated with original 1920s furniture and photos. Continue to the Venus Peninsula, it was here in 1769 that Captain Cook’s observatory was located as he planned to record the transit of Venus. Today we can see the 19th century lighthouse and black sand beaches before our final stop at the Arahoho blowholes. Return to the ship for lunch before our afternoon transfer to the airport for the scheduled flight to London via Los Angeles.
Day 18 En Route.
Transit in Los Angeles for our onward flight to London.
Day 19 London.
Arrive today.
Exploring Ashore: During this expedition, the vessel will be at anchorage most days and the Zodiacs will be used to transport passengers ashore and to explore remote inlets. Landings will be at small harbours or on to beaches, so will be wet landings in warm water. Visits to specific islands are weather dependent. Ashore, our onboard team will endeavour to arrange a selection of walks to include longer and shorter options to cater for different abilities and interests. There will be opportunities to swim and snorkel and some snorkelling opportunities will be from a snorkelling platform and only suitable for the more confident swimmers. Transport on the islands is very limited and when used will be small minivans, trucks and taxis.
Dates and Prices
LAUNCH OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 3 to 20 October 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Magellan Deck Standard Suites | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Columbus Deck Superior Suites | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Marco Polo Deck Premium Suites | £12995 | £12495 |
| Marco Polo Deck Corner Suites | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Explorer Deck Island Suite | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Magellan Deck Standard for sole occupancy | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Columbus Deck Superior for sole occupancy | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
Tour Reference Code: SCISK031026
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 14 nights aboard the MS Island Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch & dinner • Noble Caledonia expedition team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, US ESTA (required for transiting en-route).
FLIGHTS: Please note that flight schedules and routings are yet to be released at the time of promotion. If you would like to break your journeys to Fiji, and from Tahiti, please register your interest at the time of booking. Details will be confirmed approximately 10 months prior to departure. For flights which transit via the USA, passengers will be required to apply for an ESTA.
During this expedition you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by Zodiac landing craft. The use of Zodiacs will be key to the operation of the itinerary as shown. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced travel consultants.
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Deckplan
Island Sky
The MS Island Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Hebridean Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two 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 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 75 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.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Passengers: 118
Length: 90.60 metres
Width: 15.30 metres
Registered: Bahamas
Crew/Staff: 75
Year built: 1992
Language: English
Gross Tonnage: 4200 tonnes
Net Tonnage: 1262 tonnesADAPTORS
There is a small supply of adaptors that can be obtained from Reception. These should be returned to Reception at the end of the cruise. There is also an adaptor extension box with USB ports in the suite.
AIR-CONDITIONING
The entire ship is air-conditioned. All suites 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 suites.
COMMUNICATIONS
Telephone
If you wish to contact the ship, please call +1 954 6726785. This is a US number so calls will be charged at an international rate. There is a phone in your suite which has access to an outside line. Outgoing call costs will be advised on board. You can make suite to suite calls free of charge. The ship can be contacted by email at rec@is.salenship.com. Please indicate the passenger name and suite number in the subject field.
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. Complimentary Wi-Fi provided by Starlink is available in the public areas and passenger suites. You will need to bring your own device to connect in these areas. Wi-Fi details, including your unique log in, will be available in your suite. 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 and to pause your usage allowance.
• 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 suite 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 & DRINKING
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the Restaurant. 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. As we operate an open seating policy, we regret that reservations cannot be made. House wine, beer and soft drinks are included at lunch and dinner. Please note that passengers are not permitted to consume their own supplies of alcohol on board. Whether we have a morning at sea or you choose not to partake in an excursion, breakfast times have been extended, where possible, for your convenience. Times may vary and will be indicated on the Daily Programme. 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. For those guests who may prefer more flexibility with regards to their meals we are delighted to offer an additional menu on board between 11.00 am and 4.00 pm. Details are available in The Club.
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 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 occasion wear for ladies. No “black tie” is necessary.
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 flat pin American adaptor for the 110v plug. Please note that the use of personal hairdryers, clothing irons, coffee makers, curling tongs, etc. in the suites is strictly forbidden as they may damage the ship’s electrical system. If you require electrical medical equipment, please notify the Reservations 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 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 suite is equipped with a hairdryer which can be found in the right hand top drawer of the dresser.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
We have comprehensive plans in place to protect the health and hygiene of our passengers and crew. These are kept up to date in line with new advice and guidance and are continually evaluated. The ventilation system provides all suites and communal areas with fresh non recycled air. There is no recirculation of air on board. UV technology has been installed to ensure no risk of transmission via ventilation units. Hand sanitisers are present throughout the vessel particularly at entrances to dining venues and at the gangway. We kindly ask that you ensure to use these regularly. When it is required to bring in enhanced procedures you will be advised in either your pre cruise documentation or on board.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
A laundry service is available on board. Laundry bags and a price list can be found in the wardrobe in your suite. Please complete the laundry list and leave it together with the bag of items 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 suite 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. Suite 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. 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/FRIDGE
This is stocked with complimentary soft drinks and beer and will be replenished daily/on request.
NEWS
News channels are available on your suite 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:
Your ship’s account can be paid by:
• Cash (British Pounds, Euros or US Dollars).
• Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard or American Express).
If you intend to settle your shipboard account using your credit card, please provide Reception with an imprint of your card at your convenience during the cruise. As a standard procedure, a GBP10.00 pre-authorisation hold for settlements is made via credit card. Please note that this is only a temporary hold placed on your funds and released several days after the final onboard settlement is made. Debit cards and pre-paid credit cards 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 the Marco Polo Deck, 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 the Marco Polo Deck. 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. Novels brought on board may be exchanged with other books in the paperback library.
The Lounge – Located on the Columbus Deck. 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.
Lido Deck – Located on the Erikson Deck aft. The Lido Deck is an alternative venue to the restaurant for meals, weather permitting. Outside of meal times it is an area where you can relax outside. Enjoy a drink from the bar or something to eat from the all day menu.
Observation Deck – Located on the Explorer Deck. There is an area for sun loungers which is ideal for sunbathing as well as a forward facing observation platform.
Promenade Deck – Located on the Marco Polo Deck. We kindly ask for your consideration to those guests whose suites are located on and beneath the Promenade Deck. Please use the deck for walking / jogging between the hours of 08.30 am and 9.00 pm only.
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 housekeeping 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 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:
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 Columbus Deck. Please never throw any cigarette ends overboard.
SUITES
On board there are 59 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. All feature a sitting area, en-suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Suites on Explorer (Deck 6) and Erikson (Deck 5) have private balconies. Suites 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 suites have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet & USB ports
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar/fridge
• Safe
• Toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• TelephoneEach suite has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Suites are serviced each morning by housekeeping and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that on MS Island Sky, all suites have a shower but none have baths.
TELEVISION
All suites are equipped with a television. There is a selection of channels available including news, films and documentaries.
TOILETRIES
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 before 11.00 pm.WATER
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 and water carafes. These are for your use during the cruise and we kindly ask you to leave them in your suite at the end of the cruise. The bottles and carafes can be filled from the tap in your suite or from the water station outside The Club. Alternatively your Steward/ess can refill your carafe daily. Should you prefer to use plastic bottled water then please just let your Steward/ess know.
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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Deck Plan
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Deckplan
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Deckplan
Skys Video Tour
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 extracts from the ship’s log from when the MS Island Sky last visited the region.
Nuku’alofa, Tonga: Our first day in the Kingdom of Tonga and we begin with the capital, Nuku’alofa. The police band played us off the MS Island Sky and dancers greeted us on the wharf as we made our way to the interesting assembly of vehicles of diminishing size. Our first stop on our tour was at Ancient Tonga where we spent time learning about the kava ceremony in depth, making of tapa cloth, weaving, traditional medicine and cooking. Some energetic dancing from the men and some less energetic but nonetheless lovely dancing from the women. We were invited to taste the food and ask lots of questions, some of us were even dressed up in traditional garb. Leaving Ancient Tonga behind we then had a tour of the island including stops at the spot Captain Cook landed, past a two-headed palm tree, a blowhole and the royal palace. Back to our ship which was alongside until late into the evening so we could explore the nightlife of this compact capital at our leisure.
Vava’u, Tonga: The scenery as we arrived at our last stop in the Kingdom of Tonga was just spectacular, the raised coral beds turned islands made for a dramatic coastline topped with lush vegetation. Our little ship negotiated the channels to arrive at the port of Neiafu. Our welcome party were in traditional dress with mat skirts and traditional prints, and an array of brass instruments to play us down the gangway. They played with gusto for over an hour as we arrived and started to trickle out to explore the small town of Neiafu and the little markets full of fish, fruit and local handicrafts. The ship repositioned over lunch and we had a choice of afternoon activities; a Zodiac cruise along the edges of the little islands that surrounded us, an advanced cave snorkel trip or a drop off at a postcard perfect beach off which we could swim or snorkel. A special afternoon tea on lido deck to farewell the Kingdom of Tonga. The recap and briefing was informative as always followed by another fabulous dinner.
Raiatea, French Polynesia: A last presentation of the trip by Tony on Birds without Borders all about the amazing migratory feats accomplished by the avian community. After an early sushi lunch and a face-to-face with the French Polynesian immigration officials we were ready to go. A welcome committee in traditional attire greeted us, blowing a conch and placing scented laes (flower garlands) around our necks, the perfume of which followed us all the way to the waiting transport. And what transport it was! Known as ‘Le Truck’ these vehicles are standard across these islands as public transport, a sort of delightful hybrid of minibus and truck. Our guides told us all about life on the island as our Le Truck meandered through the street (not streets, street, it was a very small place …) of the town and out along the coastline to the south-east, journeying through the lush vegetation. We arrived at the main destination the Marae Taputapuatea, a large UNESCO listed heritage site comprising several marae, sacred ceremonial and social spaces which can be found throughout Polynesia. This particular site was once considered to be the religious centre for Eastern Polynesia. We enjoyed some light refreshments and local bananas before returning on our fleet of Le Trucks to the town which we had time to explore. Some of us even had time for one last snorkel before finishing our day.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000