Day 0-1 Sydney, Australia Apr 24, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025

TRANSFER HOTEL/AIRPORT SYDNEY CHARTER AIR TO HONIARA

Sydney’s status as a vibrant metropolis equal to the world’s greatest cities, is justifiably earned. With iconic architecture such as the famous Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, shimmering beaches such as Bondi Beach, and a laid-back and roughly charming and friendly attitude, this city is a pleasure to visit. Sydney is Australia’s oldest city, and the area’s Aboriginal cultural heritage followed by its convict history can be explored in a variety of museums and galleries. Opportunities to discover and experience new things include visiting the botanical gardens, swimming on the beach, eating a delicious meal in Chinatown, watching unique Australian animals in the Sydney Wild Life Zoo or Sea Life Aquarium, taking in the Maritime museum, exploring the fish market, walking through Hyde Park, and learning about WWI Anzac history at the Anzac memorial. Of course, the opera house, completed in 1973 with its competition winning design offers concerts, theater and dance, as well as a one-hour guided tour. This symbol of the city, along with the Harbour Bridge, the largest and heaviest steel arch bridge in the world, together give Sydney Harbour an exciting and fascinating vibe with which to enjoy the surrounding metropolis.​\

Day 1 Honiara, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands - Apr 25, 2025 DEPARTS 05:00 PM

TRANSFER AIRPORT/SHIP

Honiara is the capital of the Solomon Islands, and a large city with a population of over 92,000 people. As the capital, government buildings and institutions, as well as businesses, shops, schools, hospitals and churches, a port and international airport, make the city a busy and bustling place.  Trade and economy are mainly based on coconuts, timber, cacao, palm oil, fruits and fish. The history of violence in this city dates back to WWII and the Guadalcanal campaign fought both on land and at sea between Allied forces and Japanese. The Battle of Henderson Field, the last offensive in this campaign took place just 7 miles to the east of the center of the city. Ethnic tension and land disputes increased after the battle and eventually led to a paramilitary coup in 2000. Rival faction are the ethnic Malaitans and the Guadalcanal natives. Today the city is a wonderful jumping-off place to explore the sparkling Solomon Islands from. With various WWII battlefield sites around the city, colorful markets, war memorials, museums and an atmospheric wharf, Honiara can be a fascinating place to explore.

Day 2 Days At Sea - Apr 26, 2025 ARRIVES 12:00 AM DEPARTS 11:59 PM

Day 3 Alotau, Papua New Guinea - Apr 27, 2025 ARRIVES 08:00 AM DEPARTS 02:00 PM

TENDER BY ZODIAC

Alotau, Papua New Guinea. Alotau is the capital of the Milne Bay province of Papua New Guinea, located on a peninsula in Milne Bay in the Coral Sea. The town and water comprise the site of the 1942 battle of Milne Bay, in which the invading Japanese army suffered its first decisive defeat in the Pacific Theater of World War II at the hands of Allied, mostly Australian forces. A War Memorial commemorates the battle. Today the area is largely given over the palm oil plantations. The local people keep their Tawala cultural traditions alive, with the exception of the long-past ritual cannibalism. In Bibiko Village, they will be pleased to show them off in displays of prowess with Kundu drum ceremonies and exhibitions of their impressive war canoes. At the Ahioma village of Dodobana, the many specialized skills of daily Melanesian life are demonstrated in a family-style setting, such as basket weaving, grass skirt making and gardening.

Day 4 Conflict Islands (Panawal Group), Papua New Guinea - Apr 28, 2025 ARRIVES 07:00 AM DEPARTS 01:00 PM

TENDER BY ZODIAC

Don’t let the name scare you. This idyllic archipelago of 21 coral atolls off the coast of New Guinea was named after the British ship HMS Conflict by its discoverer, a most patriotic captain. You could hardly ask for a more conflict-free paradise. The island group is privately owned by a passionate conservationist, who insists on sustainable methods for any activity within his tropical domain. Activities are therefore tailored for enjoying the exceptionally beautiful beaches, the supremely biodiverse coral reefs and the clear, warm waters. Kayaking, snorkeling and paddle-boarding are the more strenuous varieties. Simply relaxing mindfully on the sugary fringes of the lagoon are also acceptable. The area is under consideration for UNESCO World Heritage inscription.

Day 5-6 Days At Sea - Apr 29, 2025 - Apr 30, 2025 ARRIVES 12:00 AM DEPARTS 11:59 PM

Day 7-8 Agats, Indonesia - May 01, 2025 - May 02, 2025 ARRIVES 01:00 PM DEPARTS 10:30 PM

OVERNIGHT, VISA REQUIRED

Day 9 Days At Sea - May 03, 2025 ARRIVES 12:00 AM DEPARTS 11:59 PM

Day 10 Misool, Yapap Lagoon, Indonesia - May 04, 2025 ARRIVES 10:00 AM DEPARTS 05:00 PM

TENDER BY ZODIAC, VISA REQUIRED

Misool, nestled within the Yapap Lagoon in the Raja Ampat region of Indonesia, is a mesmerizing and remote island paradise. Characterized by its karst limestone formations, pristine coral reefs, and lush mangrove forests, Misool is a sanctuary for biodiversity both above and below the waterline. Beneath its turquoise waters, snorkelers are treated to a kaleidoscope of marine life, including vibrant coral gardens, reef sharks, manta rays, and an abundance of colorful fish species. The island's terrestrial beauty is equally captivating, with hidden lagoons, sea caves, and secluded beaches awaiting exploration.

INCLUDED EXPERIENCES ON EXPEDITION VOYAGES

Snorkeling
Yapap Lagoon, alongside the island of Misoo, is a snorkeler's dream, offering exquisite experiences that we look forward to sharing with you throughout the day.

Zodiac® Cruises
Zodiac® cruises allow you to marvel at the dramatic limestone karst formations unique to this region. These natural wonders present a stark contrast to those found at the Wayag Islands, offering their own brand of captivating beauty.

Day 11 Wayag Island, Indonesia - May 05, 2025 ARRIVES 06:00 AM DEPARTS 06:00 PM

VISA REQUIRED

Nestled at the northernmost tip of the enchanting Raja Ampat region, the uninhabited Wayag islands are a treasure trove of natural wonders and aquatic adventures.

The islands are adorned with dramatic limestone karst hills that majestically rise from the azure sea, painting a picture-perfect landscape. Your underwater journey here will reveal a vibrant tapestry of marine life. The reefs, a riot of color and activity, are home to diverse species of sharks and a thriving community of fish.

INCLUDED EXPERIENCES ON EXPEDITION VOYAGES

Zodiac Cruise
Experience the limestone karsts of the Wayag Islands up close on our thrilling Zodiac® cruises. This is your chance to witness nature's grandeur in its most raw and unfiltered form.​

Guided Hike
If conditions allow, we may also offer a challenging hike to the summit of one of the island's pinnacles. Conquer this strenuous trek and be rewarded with panoramic views of the stunning landscape. ​

Snorkeling
The Wayag Islands are a diver's paradise. We will seek out the best spots for snorkeling, giving you the opportunity to explore the breathtaking underwater world in all its glory.​

Day 12 Yenwaupnor, Indonesia - May 06, 2025 ARRIVES 04:00 AM DEPARTS 11:00 AM

TENDER BY ZODIAC

Day 12 May 06, 2025 ARRIVES 01:00 PM DEPARTS 06:00 PM

TENDER BY ZODIAC

Day 13-14 Days At Sea - May 07, 2025 - May 08, 2025 ARRIVES 12:00 AM DEPARTS 11:59 PM

Day 15-16 Darwin, Australia - May 09, 2025 - May 10, 2025 ARRIVES 07:00 AM

OVERNIGHT, VISA REQUIRED FOR SOME

​Capital of the Northern Territory (NT), with an estimated population of 150,000, Darwin is home to most of the Northern Territory population. The Darwin region, like much of the Top End, experiences a tropical climate with a wet and dry season and boasts a vibrant multicultural community, where Indigenous heritage blends seamlessly with the influence of diverse international populations.  Darwin's rich history provides an incredible background for the diverse cultural and historical activities. On the 9th September 1839, HMS Beagle sailed into Darwin harbor during its survey of the area. John Clements Wickham named the region “Port Darwin” in honor of their former shipmate Charles Darwin. The city has been rebuilt almost entirely four times, following cyclones and Japanese air raids in World War II.

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