Vanuatu, Solomons, New Britain and Bougainville - South Pacific Small Ship Cruise

Board the Coral Adventurer at 3:30pm for a 4:30pm departure. Settle into your cabin and relax as we set sail towards Vanuatu’s outer islands. In the evening, join the Captain for welcome drinks and meet your crew and fellow guests as the sun sets.

Your first stop will be the most fertile island in Vanuatu; Tanna Island. Ride a 4WD to the base of active Mt Yasur volcano and enjoy a guided walk with your Expedition Leader to the Caldera’s Rim, witnessing breathtaking views of the volcano’s smoking centre. Engage with the locals to delve deeper into the Tannese culture and unravel the enigma surrounding John Frum Cargo—a revered messenger who prophesied the arrival of prosperity to the island through American forces during World War II, believed to dwell within Mt Yasur.

This morning, we make our way to Nguna Island which offers a diverse range of activities, from walks and snorkeling to immersive cultural experiences. Embark on an hour-long trek to Mt Marow or explore the local village to experience their culture. Enjoy a well-earned lunch prepared by our chefs on board before heading out to explore the Nguna-Pele Marine Protected area, showcasing vibrant coral reefs, sea grass beds, mangrove forests, and intertidal lagoons.

Malekula is the most culturally and linguistically diverse island of Vanuatu with the primary groups clustered into Big Nambas and Small Nambas. The island’s lush landscapes offer opportunities for adventure, along with its abundant flora and fauna providing a glimpse into its untouched natural beauty. Visit a local village and learn about the unique culture of this island before concluding your visit with a relaxing swim on the beach or snorkel over the stunning reef.

Today we head to Maewo, a remarkable island famed for its waterfalls and springs. Enjoy bushwalking, birdwatching and waterfall activities throughout the day before cruising up the spectacular western coastline, with the opportunity to for Xplorer rides to view sea caves.

Known for its white sand beaches and coral reefs, Rah is the smallest but most well-known island in the Banks region. Experience the allure of Rah Island, renowned for hosting one of Vanuatu’s most famous cultural dances—the snake dance, which is performed by the men in the village, accompanied by traditional drums and kastom songs. Challenge yourself with an optional guided climb of Mota Lava’s Sleeping Mountain. Your visit to Rah Island promises a unique blend of indigenous artistry and warm hospitality.

Enjoy a peaceful day at sea with presentations by our expert Guest Lecturers as we make our way towards Santa Ana in the Solomon Islands. For free time, many guests choose to chat with new-found-friends, read a book from our onboard library, browse the art gallery or simply enjoy gazing out to sea.

Embark on a cultural adventure at Santa Ana, a small island southeast of San Cristobal, known for its distinctive bone fishhooks and creative fishing floats. Upon arrival, receive a warm welcome from locals, greeted by village warriors wielding swords and blowing conch shell horns. Explore the island’s lush landscapes on a guided walk led by a naturalist, traversing shady forests adorned with vibrant orchids, before taking to the water for snorkelling opportunities.

Spend today exploring the stunning Marau Sound, a haven protected by five marine reserves. It is a geographical crossroad separating Guadalcanal’s calm northern waters from its Tasi Mauri or ‘weather coast’. Start your day with the option to snorkel or kayak in the turquoise waters. In the afternoon, visit a village on Marapa Island known for its famous water dancers. Choose from walking options leading to waterfalls, perfect for spotting rainforest wildlife. Divers are treated to an incredible wall dive, while snorkelers enjoy diverse marine experiences. Relax on a sand cay where locals offer shelter, umbrellas, and coconut drinks- a perfect way to end your day.

Step ashore to experience the diverse landscapes of Malaita, the Solomons’ most populous island, marked by its involvement in the ‘Tension’ dispute from 1998 to 2003. The ‘saltwater people’ of the lagoons live on small artificial islands built up on sand bars, where they were forced to flee from the headhunters. Visit Langa Langa Lagoon or Auki to learn about their culture and headhunting history. Later in the day, there will be opportunity for snorkelling in the lagoon.

Explore the World War II history of Russell Islands, where the unopposed occupation by US forces was one of the first steps in the Allied advance along the Solomon Islands. The island’s abundant coconut plantations are now the largest on any Pacific Island. This is a great spot for snorkelling and diving: the sea floor is littered with World War II wreckage. Listen to a ‘bamboo band’ performance during a visit to a local village.

Spend the day exploring the Arnavon Islands marine reserve, home to the largest rookery of endangered Hawksbill Turtles in the South Pacific Region. In 1995 the US based Nature Conservancy helped three local communities come together to create the Arnavon Community Marine Conservation area – it was the first protected area to be established within the Solomons and covers over 40,000 acres of land and sea.  Later in the day, travel ashore at Kerehikapa Island and see the magical moment of turtle hatchlings emerging from their nests.

Choiseul Bay, in Choiseul Island’s northwest, is our last stop in the Solomon Islands. In this beautiful bay surrounded by mountains, we will make our way to Taro Island which is known to be the oldest known site of agriculture in the Pacific. The island is also known for its white sandy beaches where you can further enjoy water activities.

Cruise in the wake of French explorer Louis-Antoine de Bougainville, along the coastline of the island he named after himself in 1768 – nevermind that Melanesian and Austronesian people had populated the island for many millennia prior. The region has two main islands, Bougainville being mountainous, and Buka largely characterized by flat terrain. Tourism within its verdant rainforests remains minimal and untouched, safeguarding its pristine natural allure.

We explore islands by snorkelling, and delve into mainland sites of historical significance. Engage with the locals in a country where 21 different languages are spoken, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of this region.

Before a volcanic eruption devastated it in 1994, Rabaul served as the provincial capital of New Britain province. It was a key Japanese stronghold during the war, housing 110,000 troops by 1943. Extensive tunnel networks were constructed for shelter from allied air raids, along with barracks and support facilities. Tour the abandoned ‘ghost town’ area of Rabaul and surrounds: see the ruins of Rabaul, the hot springs and Mount Tavurvur, World War II bunkers and the famous Rabaul Volcano Observatory. option to embark on an ascent of Mount Tavurvur Volcano, while snorkeling excursions around the Duke of York Islands await those seeking underwater adventures.

Disembark at 08:00am and join a tour of Kokopo, including the township, war museum and bustling markets. Finish with lunch and time to relax at the Rapopo Plantation Resort before being transferred to the airport for your charter flight to Cairns.

Note: post-cruise tour is only included for those passengers that have booked the charter flight.

This itinerary is an indication of the destinations we visit and activities on offer. Throughout the expedition we may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximise your expeditionary experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions, and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel. Coral Expeditions suggests that you do not arrive on the day of embarkation or depart on the day of disembarkation due to any changes that may occur in scheduling.