Here is a fascinating island hopping expedition through Melanesia from Papua New Guinea to the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and finally to Fiji. Travelling independently in Melanesia can be difficult, with little infrastructure in place to accommodate for tourists and information about getting around often scarce. This of course makes the region alluring to the genuine traveller who will encounter beautiful islands with unique features and customs that remain relatively unscathed by the modern world. The region is ideal for exploring by small ship and particularly one as suitable as the MS Island Sky. Her fleet of Zodiac landing craft provides us with the freedom of spontaneity to explore and land in places where relatively few travellers have been before us.
After an overnight stay in Singapore, our expedition will begin in Papua New Guinea where we will moor in the dramatic Simpson Harbour which is part of a huge, flooded caldera and ringed by a number of volcanoes. From here we set sail for the Solomon Islands which were thrust on to the centre stage of world history when the Allied forces took the offensive in the South Pacific and air, land and sea battles ensued for their control. We will visit the majestic Morovo Lagoon, the world’s largest double barrier lagoon and a truly awe-inspiring place, and Tetepare Island which is the largest uninhabited tropical island in the Southern Hemisphere. We continue to Honiara where we explore the war sites and then on to the enchanting small islands of Santa Ana and Utupua. With our time on these remote island paradises we will have the opportunity to visit tribal villages little changed for centuries, see astonishing ceremonial dances, enjoy nature walks inland or swim in the warm waters from isolated palm-fringed beaches. Leaving the Solomon Islands, we have three days in Vanuatu archipelago home to volcanos, rainforests bursting with a magnificent array of flora and fauna, beautiful beaches and a mesmerising underwater world of tropical fish and coral.
Afloat and ashore, our expedition will be filled with unforgettable images, remote idyllic islets, tribal villages unchanged for centuries, astonishing ceremonial dances, kaleidoscopic reefs and soaring white-tailed tropic birds. This voyage has something for everyone, whether your interest lies in natural history, military history, bird watching, photography, the undersea world or simply just being one of the privileged few who are able to set foot on islands of astonishing richness and beauty. We hope you can join us in this faraway haven, for an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the most intriguing places on the map.
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What to Expect
Flexibility is the key to an expedition and each day holds something new. To provide you with an idea of what to expect, below are extracts from the ship’s log from when we were last in the region.
Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu: Our first visit today was to a local village where we were lucky witnesses to the unique water music, which involved local ladies slapping the surface of the water with some force and exhausting consistency. The next visit was another highlight, cavorting in the beautiful freshwaters of the local ‘Blue Hole’. Meanwhile the more aquatically inclined of us jumped into vans for our visit to the end of the coast to Million Dollar Point. Here, the Americans had pushed huge amounts of military gear into the sea rather than take it home, or let it fall into other hands. It was an abstract mish mash of metallic objects and amongst it all there were many fish, including anemone and their ‘nemos’.
Tanna Island, Vanuatu: This spectacular island is home to constantly burping Yassur, a volcano located in the middle of lush tropical rainforest with the occasional small village. We anchored cautiously just outside Resolution Bay. There was a gentle roll filtering into the fairly open bay, forming a slight break on the beach and on arrival the band started up some tropical tunes. The recent wet season rains had turned the jungle even greener than usual and the first section included the flats which were dominated mainly by planted guava and coconut. As we bounced onward and upward, the vegetation developed into simple but beautiful rainforest, dominated by strangler figs. As we drove higher, tall and skinny tree ferns arched over the road. Those with good eyes noticed a number of ‘Tanna Fruit-Doves’, plump green birds that flicked between trees in the canopy. The great fat lady known as Yassur was smoking continuously as we started to clamber up her rocky slopes. Once at the top we could peer into her belly. Before each explosion of sound and debris, we could see a shock wave expand out in a split second, vibrating all the particles in a wave. After the sudden shock wave, red lava and bombs were flung high into the air.
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 Singapore.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Singapore.
Arrive and transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. The remainder of the day is under your own arrangements to relax or explore independently.
Day 3 Singapore to Rabaul.
Spend the morning relaxing in the hotel or exploring the local area at your own pace. Later this afternoon we will take a guided tour of Singapore which will include the National Orchid Garden before we continue to the airport for our scheduled flight to Rabaul via Port Moresby.
Day 4 Rabaul, Papua New Guinea.
Arrive today and transfer directly to the MS Island Sky which will be moored in Rabaul’s dramatic Simpson Harbour which is ringed by six cone-shaped volcanoes. Enjoy a relaxing day on board as we remain moored overnight.
Day 5 Rabaul.
Our morning guided tour will include a visit to the Volcanic Observatory, which monitors 14 active and 23 dormant volcanoes in Papua New Guinea. From here we will enjoy magnificent views over the bay and the volcanoes before we continue to Mount Tavurvur, which violently erupted in 1937 and 1994, and where we will witness the Hot Springs. Before returning to MS Island Sky we will pass old Rabaul Airport, destroyed by the 1994 volcanic eruption, the museum and the vibrant market. This afternoon will be at leisure to explore independently or relax on board before we sail this evening.
Day 6 At Sea.
Spend the day at sea as we make our way towards the Solomon Islands.
Day 7 Marovo Lagoon, Solomon Islands.
Marovo Lagoon is the largest double barrier lagoon in the world. Thousands of islands scatter the lagoon, from tiny coral islets on the fringing reef to massive 1600 metre volcanic islands. Inside the lagoon, the islands are surrounded by spectacular coral formations and white sand beaches, the lagoon waters shimmering in every shade of blue, turquoise and jade green. We have a full day here to explore the villages which produce some of the finest wood carvings in the region. We will also find a suitable spot to snorkel and swim from the beaches as well as enjoying nature walks in the local forests.
Day 8 Tetepare Island.
Tetepare, cloaked in rainforests and fringed with coral reefs, is the largest uninhabited tropical island in the Southern Hemisphere and home to one of the leading conservation projects in the Solomon Islands. Managed by the Tetepare Descendants Association, they have ensured the island was saved from the threat of loggers and many areas remain untouched. A wide variety of plants and animals live in the 120 square kilometres of lowland rainforest that blankets the island. A total of 76 bird species, 25 reptile and 13 mammal species have been recorded here including skinks, dugongs and the endemic Tetepare dark-eyed white eye, whilst the beaches support three species of turtle including the endangered leatherback. Today we will enjoy a range of guided walks in the rainforest with the local conservationists who will educate us on the work they are doing on the island.
Day 9 Honiara.
Prior to World War II Honiara did not exist; it developed around the site of the US military headquarters. The town and Mataniko River, which runs through it, were the front for many months during the battle of Guadalcanal. Today, this is a bustling town with lovely hibiscus and palm tree lined avenues. After breakfast we will join a city tour of Honiara including the central market, parliament building and National Museum where we get an insight into the history of the Solomon Islands. Enjoy lunch before continuing to the World War II sites including Henderson Field, the Japanese Peace Park and the US Memorial at Skyline Ridge. Alternatively, visit a local organic cocoa farm where we can learn about the farming techniques and growing practices before enjoying a tasting of the final chocolate products. This evening we will cruise through Iron Bottom Sound, the site of intense naval battles during World War II and so named for the large numbers of Japanese and American ships and aircraft that sank beneath the sea.
Day 10 Santa Ana.
Spend the morning in Port Mary on Santa Ana Island. We will be welcomed with a stunning dance by the villagers with spears and mud face masks. After the performance we have the opportunity to explore the village further with its plethora of local handicrafts, join a nature walk through the forests or swim from the local beach. Return to the ship for lunch and maybe join a lecture this afternoon as we spend a leisurely afternoon at sea.
Day 11 Nembao Village, Utupua Island.
Our last call in the Solomon Islands is at the remote Utupua Island. After being welcomed ashore we will have the opportunity to meet some of the locals, take a Zodiac cruise to the mangroves or join our naturalists for some beachcombing and nature walks in the nearby forests. We return to the ship for lunch and spend the afternoon at sea as we continue our journey south to Vanuatu.
Day 12 Espiritu Santo Island, Vanuatu.
Espiritu Santo is the largest of Vanuatu’s islands with some of the most beautiful white sand beaches, amazing blue holes, caves and renowned snorkelling. It was also a huge military base during World War II. Today there will be the opportunity to join an island tour including the Nekar Custom Village where we will learn about local traditions and customs, including their unique water music and kava making, before enjoying time to swim in one of the nearby ‘blue holes’. Alternatively, we will plan to swim or snorkel amongst the corals and fish of the region at Million Dollar Point, named after the value of the military equipment dumped into the sea.
Day 13 Port Havannah, Efate Island.
Awake this morning off Port Havannah, situated on the north coast of Efate Island and our base for today’s activities. There are a number of outer islands that we may be able to explore depending on weather and sea conditions. Lelepa Island is 160 acres of unspoilt tropical rainforest and palm fringed beaches. On a nature walk we will see the herbs used in local medicines before exploring Feles Cave thought to be the resting place of the legendary Polynesian Chief, Roi Mata. We also hope to land on Moso Island where the local Tasiriki community has been active in the conservation of the local turtle population and where we hope to set up a snorkelling platform and offer a chance to swim from the beach.
Day 14 Tanna Island.
Our final call in Vanuatu is 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, having been attracted by the glowing light of Mount Yasur. This 361 metre active volcano is situated in the southeast of the island and dominates the landscape. Those feeling adventurous may wish to join a journey to the crater taking local trucks through the rainforest that covers the mountain before walking to the rim. Alternatively, we hope to have the chance to visit local villages where traditional lifestyles are maintained and the local culture has been largely unaffected by western influences.
Day 15 At Sea.
Find a spot on deck, join a lecture or simply relax as we have a day at sea crossing the South Pacific towards Fiji.
Day 16 Lautoka, Fiji to London.
Disembark and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London. Alternatively you can remain in Fiji for a few days with our post-cruise extension.
Day 17 London.
Arrive today.
Dates and Prices
6 to 22 September 2026 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
Magellan Deck Standard Suites | £11995 | £11495 |
Columbus Deck Superior Suites | £12295 | £11795 |
Marco Polo Deck Premium Suites | £12495 | £11995 |
Marco Polo Deck Corner Suites | £13295 | £12795 |
Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites | £13995 | £13495 |
Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £14495 | £13995 |
Explorer Deck Island Suite | £14995 | £14495 |
Magellan Deck Standard for sole occupancy | £12495 | £11995 |
Columbus Deck Superior for sole occupancy | £12995 | £12495 |
Tour Reference Code: SCISK060926
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Overnight hotel accommodation in Singapore with breakfast • 12 nights aboard the MS Island Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia expedition team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, US ESTA (required for transiting en-route), Papua New Guinea & Australia E-Visa, lunch and dinners in Singapore
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 journey on the return flight from Fiji, 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.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with 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.
What to Expect
Flexibility is the key to an expedition and each day holds something new. To provide you with an idea of what to expect, below are extracts from the ship’s log from when we were last in the region.
Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu: Our first visit today was to a local village where we were lucky witnesses to the unique water music, which involved local ladies slapping the surface of the water with some force and exhausting consistency. The next visit was another highlight, cavorting in the beautiful freshwaters of the local ‘Blue Hole’. Meanwhile the more aquatically inclined of us jumped into vans for our visit to the end of the coast to Million Dollar Point. Here, the Americans had pushed huge amounts of military gear into the sea rather than take it home, or let it fall into other hands. It was an abstract mish mash of metallic objects and amongst it all there were many fish, including anemone and their ‘nemos’.
Tanna Island, Vanuatu: This spectacular island is home to constantly burping Yassur, a volcano located in the middle of lush tropical rainforest with the occasional small village. We anchored cautiously just outside Resolution Bay. There was a gentle roll filtering into the fairly open bay, forming a slight break on the beach and on arrival the band started up some tropical tunes. The recent wet season rains had turned the jungle even greener than usual and the first section included the flats which were dominated mainly by planted guava and coconut. As we bounced onward and upward, the vegetation developed into simple but beautiful rainforest, dominated by strangler figs. As we drove higher, tall and skinny tree ferns arched over the road. Those with good eyes noticed a number of ‘Tanna Fruit-Doves’, plump green birds that flicked between trees in the canopy. The great fat lady known as Yassur was smoking continuously as we started to clamber up her rocky slopes. Once at the top we could peer into her belly. Before each explosion of sound and debris, we could see a shock wave expand out in a split second, vibrating all the particles in a wave. After the sudden shock wave, red lava and bombs were flung high into the air.

Videos
Tour Extensions
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If you would like to spend some time in Singapore prior to embarking the MS Island Sky, we are offering a two night extension including guided city tour and a visit to the Gardens by the Bay.
Supertrees
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Singapore.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Singapore.
Arrive and transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. The remainder of the day and evening is under your own arrangements.
Day 3 Singapore.
After breakfast in the hotel a city tour will start in Little India including the magnificent Sultan Mosque. Continue to the bright colours and vibrant hues in Singapore’s exciting Chinatown. Narrow streets centered on the pagoda lead you to a treasure trove of apothecary shops, quaint teahouses and a cornucopia of stalls selling trinkets as well as the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, Sri Mariamman. Here we join a bumboat for a cruise along the Singapore River sailing past a mix of colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers ending at Merlion Park. Return to the hotel and the remainder of the day will be under your on arrangements. (B)
Day 4 Singapore.
This morning we visit the Gardens By the Bay. Covering 100 hectares we can visit the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest, two climate controlled glasshouses. Within the gardens, there are also 18 impressive-looking Supertrees (tree-like structures), which are vertical gardens that perform a multitude of functions. Along with providing a bird’s eye view of the entire gardens, they also collect rainwater, generate solar power and act as vending ducts for the park’s conservatory. This afternoon continue as per day 2 of the main itinerary. (B)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
4 to 7 September 2026 Category Price Twin £1095 Single £1545 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation in Singapore, meals as stated (B – Breakfast), excursions as described, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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If you would like to spend some time in Fiji after your cruise, we will be arranging a three night hotel extension. If you would like to receive details pertaining to the extension once available, please register your interest at time of booking.
Fiji
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Also of Interest
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Itinerary at a glance
- Bali / Satonda Island / Komodo Island / Pink Beach / Taka Bonerate National Park / Wakatobi National Marine Park / Banda Islands / Raja Ampat / Padaido Islands / Wewak & Sepik River / Garove Island / Rabaul / Singapore
Island Hopping in the South Pacific
An expedition from Fiji to Tahiti discovering the islands & atolls of the South Pacific aboard the MS Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Fiji / Levuka Island / Fulaga / Nuku’alofa / Neiafu / Nuku Island / Niue / Rarotonga / Atiu / Aitutaki / Bora Bora / Papeete
Across the Top of Australia
Discover the remarkable Kimberley region aboard the Coral Adventurer
Itinerary at a glance
- Perth / Broome / Lacepede Islands / Horizontal Falls / Buccaneer Archipelago / Doubtful Bay / Montgomery Reef / Prince Regent River / Careening Bay / Prince Frederick Harbour / Bigge Island / Mitchell Falls / Wollaston Bay / Vansittart Bay / King George River & Falls / Darwin
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000