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Peregrine Travel Centre

Grand Pacific Odyssey – Extension: Pacific Island Cruise from New Zealand, via Papua New Guinea, to Japan

Grand Pacific Odyssey – Extension: Pacific Island Cruise from New Zealand, via Papua New Guinea, to Japan

From AUD $16,835

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Description

Set sail on a true adventure with Heritage Expeditions as we expedition cruise reef-fringed tropical islands, visit historic sites and experience forgotten cultures and incredible wildlife encounters cruising from New Zealand to Japan on the incomparable 25-day Grand Pacific Odyssey.
Crossing both the Tropics of Capricorn and Cancer, and the Equator, this Pacific island sojourn has been specially designed with cruise enthusiasts and adventurers in mind. Carefully balancing the excitement of visiting remote islands, snorkelling pristine coral reefs, enjoying thrilling cultural exchanges at isolated villages, observing wildlife and Zodiac cruising tropical isles with languorous sea days spent poolside, in the Observation Lounge or whale watching in the bridge with the captain.
This season guests have the option to disembark in Kavieng, Papua New Guinea, or continue on a specially priced extension through to Japan. Highlights during the voyage include exploring former Australian penal colony now UNESCO World Heritage Site Norfolk Island, discovering the French-infused charms of New Caledonia and visiting idyllic islands and isolated villages where unique time-honoured traditions and elaborately costumed dancers welcome us with unforgettable cultural encounters.
Explore and shop among locals at fascinating marketing and perhaps experience conservation in action at Parc Provincial de la Rivière Bleue in New Caledonia and Japan’s Bonin Islands including the ‘Galapagos of the Orient’ Chichi-Jima Island, rarely-visited Haha-jima and Tori-shima Islands. While historians will appreciate World War II history, wrecks and relics at Honiara and on Bougainville Island.
Join Heritage Expeditions aboard our luxurious, purpose-built expedition cruise ship Heritage Adventurer as we discover the history, experience the culture and observe the incredible wildlife of these remote and beautiful Pacific islands.

Trip Name
Grand Pacific Odyssey - Extension: Pacific Island Cruise from New Zealand, via Papua New Guinea, to Japan
Days
25
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Length: 124 metres Passenger Capacity: 140 Built: 1991 Heritage Adventurer is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree. Often referred to as the ‘Grande Dame of Polar Exploration’ due to her celebrated history and refined design, she was purpose-built for adventure in 1991 at Finland’s Rauma shipyard and specifically designed for Polar exploration.Setting a peerless standard in authentic expedition travel, Heritage Adventurer (formerly known as MS Hanseatic) combines the highest passenger ship ice-class rating (1A Super) with an impressive history of Polar exploration. Having held records for the most northern and southern Arctic and Antarctic navigations, and for traversing both the Northwest and Northeast Passages, makes Heritage Adventurer perfect for pioneering New Zealand-based Heritage Expeditions signature experiential expedition travel.Originally designed to accommodate 184 guests, Heritage Adventurer now welcomes just 140 expeditioners ensuring spacious, stylish and comfortable voyages, while a fleet of 14 Zodiacs ensures all guests are able to maximise their expedition adventure. Heritage Adventurer proudly continues our traditions of exceptional, personalised expedition experiences as Heritage Expeditions flagship. Observation Lounge – One of the most celebrated and best-known features of Heritage Adventurer is the awe-inducing Observation Lounge, Library and Bar. Located on Deck 7 and perched directly above the Bridge, enjoy sweeping 270-degree views through floor to ceiling windows, perfect for wildlife spotting and quick access to the outer deck. Bring your binoculars to spot wildlife, observe the ever-changing landscape, write in your journal or relax with a book. Observation Deck – Enjoy 360-degree views from the highest point on the ship. The Observation Deck sits above the Observation Lounge and provides exceptional outside viewing options. Stretching the full width of the vessel, this is the perfect spot to take in the surrounding land and seascapes. Perfect on a sunny day, recline in the comfortable sun loungers protected from the wind and elements and watch your voyage unfold.  The Bridge – No expedition is complete without visiting Heritage Adventurer’s busy nerve centre. Located on Deck 6, Heritage Expeditions’ Open Bridge Policy means you are welcome to observe the Captain and crew at work while enjoying some of the ship’s best views. It’s a fascinating place to learn about navigation and vessel operations, however please note the Bridge will be closed when departing or arriving at port. Dining Room  – Indulge in fine international cuisine from our talented chefs in the lavish surrounds of our Dining Room on Deck 4. Sensational 270-degree views provide a stunning backdrop to meals here along with an international wine list featuring many outstanding regional wines. With relaxed seating arrangements, all guests can enjoy dining in a single sitting from hearty breakfasts setting you up for the day’s adventure to sumptuous lunches and multi-course evening dining. Bistro  – Simple fast and delicious meals and snacks are on offer in our relaxed Bistro on Deck 6. Perfect for early risers to enjoy tea, coffee and light breakfast options the Bistro provides great views and opens directly onto a covered and heated teak-deck outdoor dining area. The Bar and Lounge  – The social hub of  Heritage Adventurer, the Bar and Lounge on Deck 5 features seating for all guests. Enjoy a beverage at the bar, sink into an armchair, relax on one of the many spacious loungers and watch the world go by through the panoramic windows or make new friends at the communal seating. This multi-tasking space also doubles as the location of daily briefings and evening recaps with the expedition team. The Gym – Featuring spectacular ocean views, the well-equipped gym is adjacent to the pool, hot tub and sauna in Deck 7’s wellbeing zone. Maintain your routine with an elliptical cross trainer, treadmill, rowing machine, stationary bikes, TRX as well as free weights, yoga mats and fitness balls. Towels are provided with change room and shower amenities nearby. Sauna and Steam Room – True to her Nordic origins, Heritage Adventurer features a dry-heat Finnish sauna and European steam room on Deck 7. Perfect for warming up post Polar plunge or unwinding after a day’s adventures, the sauna and steam room include change room facilities, showers and towels. Swimming Pool and Hot Tub – Surrounded by relaxed teak seating including sun loungers, the open-air saltwater pool can be heated or chilled. Encased in glass the hot tub ensures all-weather use, perfect for those who like to relax with a view following a day of exploring. Lectures and Presentations – Enjoy informative and entertaining lectures on history, biology, wildlife, and ecology in the comfort of the Presentation Theatre. With state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, our world-renowned expedition team will bring your adventure to life through interactive presentations and discussions.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1: Auckland, New Zealand
 Join Heritage Adventurer this afternoon in the heart of New Zealand’s commercial capital, Auckland. The captain and expedition team will be waiting to greet you on arrival and show you to your cabin. You will have time to settle in and familiarise yourself with the ship; we will also take the opportunity to introduce you to your expedition team and our voyage plans. You are invited to join the expedition team in the Observation Lounge and up on the Observation Deck as we set sail for the Hauraki Gulf.
Day 2 - Day 2: Mokohinau Islands and the Hauraki Gulf
 Daybreak will find us in the Mokohinau Islands (known locally as the Mokes), a group of small islands in the Hauraki Gulf. This afternoon Heritage Adventurer sails northwards through the Hauraki Gulf, join the naturalists on deck watching for whales and seabirds as these waters usually have a few cetaceans around including Short-beaked Common Dolphin, Long-finned Pilot Whale and occasionally Bryde’s Whale.
Day 3 - Day 3: At Sea
 Today will be spent sailing north to Norfolk Island, an area rich in seabirds. We also have a good chance to see Sperm Whales here. There is time to relax, join the naturalists on deck and enjoy presentations as we prepare for our arrival at Norfolk Island.
Day 4 - Day 4: Norfolk Island, Australia
 We have a full day to enjoy Norfolk Island, a former penal colony, which Captain Cook encountered in 1774 and named after the Duchess of Norfolk. This morning we will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful St Barnabas Chapel. This five-year labour-of-love features mother-of-pearl inlays, stained glass windows and a spectacular vaulted timber ceiling. This afternoon discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Kingston, a former brutal outpost for British prisoners and Australia's second oldest settlement, or visit the Norfolk Island Botanical Gardens with its 40 endemic, or unique, species including 15 plant species considered to be critically endangered. For the more active you may wish to walk in the National Park towards Mt Pitt. The tracks wind through lush palm forests and stands of Norfolk Island Pine leading to remarkable views of the island and ocean.
Day 5 - Day 5: At Sea
 Continuing our journey northwards, today we arrive in the tropics, sailing across the Tropic of Capricorn and into the tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Day 6 - Day 6: Noumea, New Caledonia
 This morning we find ourselves sailing along the southern shores of New Caledonia before passing through the extensive barrier reef that surrounds the island and making our way to Noumea. Today we have a full day set aside to explore the history, culture and beauty of New Caledonia. Visit local institution Port Moselle Market, Noumea and rub shoulders with the locals over the astounding range of fresh produce, souvenirs and handcrafts from around the island before continuing to the Maritime Museum for a journey through the history of the islands including their discovery by Captain Cook. A highlight of our day will be our visit to the Tjibaou Cultural Center which introduces the traditional Kanak culture via six architectural pavilions. There may also be an opportunity to visit Parc Provincial de la Rivière Bleue. This reserve is home to the unique Kagu bird. Enjoy a traditional lunch before spending a relaxing afternoon at the beach and snorkelling.
Day 7 - Day 7: Noumea
 This tropical island has been described as a taste of France in the Pacific, where Melanesian traditions blend with French sophistication. New Caledonia is a fragment of the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana, and it is believed that New Caledonia detached and became an island tens of millions of years ago. It is this isolation which explains both the extent of biodiversity and the incredible levels of endemism on this delightful tropical island. This afternoon enjoy an exploration of Noumea with our local guides. Heritage Adventurer will remain in port overnight so you can enjoy the evening ashore.
Day 8 - Days 8 to 10: At Sea
 Enjoy time aboard as we sail through the tropical waters of the South Pacific, relive the experiences of the past days, watch your passage unfold by the pool or in the Observation Lounge and prepare for our arrival to the Solomon Islands.
Day 9 - Day 11: Honiara, Solomon Islands
 Our passage early this morning sees us cruising through Iron Bottom Sound, named after the large number of Japanese and American ships and aircraft sunk here during the intense World War II naval battles. Located on the northern coast of Guadacanal, by the Mataniko River, Honiara was founded by the British as a military base during World War II. Honiara was witness to the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal, where the Allied forces eventually overcame the Japanese invasion. Options for today include exploring Honiara's bustling central market and visiting historic sites including Henderson Airfield, war memorials and the open-air war museum.
Day 10 - Day 12: At Sea, Solomon Islands
 We sail westwards through the Solomon Islands chain today. Because of its remarkable oceanic topography, the result of volcanic activities and bountiful reefs, the Solomons combines incredible tropical seabirds with marine mammal watching. On previous voyages we have regularly seen Kogias including Dwarf Sperm Whale, and even rare Pygmy Sperm Whales. Spinner and Pantropical Spotted Dolphin are the most regularly observed dolphin species and Pygmy Killer Whales are fairly regular. Blainville’s, Cuvier’s and even Longman’s Beaked Whales have all been seen on previous voyages, while flying fish reach some of their highest diversity in this area. There is also the opportunity to discover the rich history and cultures of these islands in the lecture theatre.
Day 11 - Day 13: Bougainville Island, Papua New Guinea
 Today we discover the treasures of Papua New Guinea's Bougainville Island, long isolated and in a strange way protected due to the conflict which swirled around its shores. Bougainville is emerging once again as a newly vibrant and remarkably pristine island paradise, it is home to some of the greatest biodiversity in the region both above and below the water. We plan to explore the area around Arawa, including the Panguna Copper & Gold Mine site – the setting for the movie Mr Pip – with great opportunities to access the island’s interior and its reefs. Enjoy the unique shopping experience under the thatched roof of the Arawa Markets among the hum and chatter of hundreds of locals.
Day 12 - Day 14: At Sea, off the coast of Bougainville
 Today we will be sailing between Bougainville and New Ireland. Options include relaxing poolside, joining lectures or joining the expedition team observing the impressive numbers of seabirds and cetaceans known to visit this stretch of ocean. It can be particularly good for Kogias (the Dwarf and Pygmy Sperm Whale), along with the blackfish: False Killer Whale, Pygmy Killer Whale, Short-finned Pilot Whale and Melon-headed Whale.
Day 13 - Day 15: Kavieng
 The capital of the Papua New Guinean province of New Ireland and the largest town on the island of the same name, Kavieng is known for its ancient Malagan culture. Those choosing to disembark today say their farewells after breakfast with a transfer to Kavieng Airport. For those continuing we will enjoy a traditional Malagan cultural performance, explore tropical beaches, snorkel abundant coral reefs and visiting Kavieng town and its highlights including the busy local market before we sail northwards.
Day 14 - Days 16 to 20: At Sea
 We now have five days at sea as we sail northwards where we can relax and catch up on notes and photos as we celebrate our crossing of the Equator and sail through a blue desert poolside and enjoy lectures from our expedition team.
Day 15 - Day 21: Chichi-jima Island, Japan
 We will arrive at the Bonin Islands, the most remote part of Japan with plans to complete customs at the largest of the Bonin Islands, Chichijima. While here there may be time for a short walk on shore to explore the settlement and the surrounding area. The largest of Japan's Bonin Islands, Chichi-jima is considered the 'father island' among an archipelgo rightly described as the 'Galapagos of the Orient' and supported by its UNESCO World Heritage Site status. There may also be an opportunity to see Minami-jima's stone arch and the local Bottlenose and Spinner Dolphin populations.
Day 16 - Day 22: Haha-jima Island
 Today we will be returning south to visit the most interesting of the Bonin Islands, biologically speaking, Haha-jima. Known as the ‘mother island’ to Chichi-jima’s ‘father island’ Haha-jima is smaller, more remote and less developed than its neighbour and is known for its outdoor attractions and activities including pristine beaches, impressive snorkelling, jungle treks and cetacean watching with Humpback Whales often seen here in the nearshore waters. Explore the small but busy village centred around Oki Port, take in the grand scale views of Mount Kofuji while historic sites include the former Kita Port and abandoned wartime gun batteries.
Day 17 - Day 23: Tori-shima Island
 With its name literally translating to 'bird island' Tori-shima, an uninhabited 453-hectare volcanic islet, is an internationally-protected bird sanctuary and the largest breeding ground for the once thought extinct Short-tailed Albatross. While no landings are possible, we plan to circumnavigate this rocky outpost learning about the incredible conservation story behind this remarkable, endangered bird and the scientific debate surrounding whether it should be considered two species (Torishima-type and Senkaku-type).
Day 18 - Day 24: At Sea
 Our final day at sea will see us sailing towards Honshu with opportunities to catch up on the previous days adventures, enjoy life at sea while reflecting on our voyage and attend any final lectures. This evening enjoy special a farewell dinner and make preparations for tomorrow.
Day 19 - Day 25: Osaka
 After breakfast and arrival formalities have been completed for Osaka, you will disembark Heritage Adventurer. There will be a complimentary transfer from the ship to Osaka Air Terminal. We ask you not to book any onward flights (Domestic or International) until mid-afternoon to account for any delays and the time it takes to travel to the airports. Note: During our voyage, circumstances may make it necessary or desirable to deviate from the proposed itinerary. This can include poor weather and opportunities for making unplanned excursions. Your Expedition Leader will keep you fully informed.
Day 20 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
13-03-202506-04-2025AUD $16,835Main Deck Triple
13-03-202506-04-2025AUD $18,895Superior Triple
13-03-202506-04-2025AUD $19,895Deck 4 Superior
13-03-202506-04-2025AUD $21,595Deck 5 Superior
13-03-202506-04-2025AUD $24,295Main Deck Single
13-03-202506-04-2025AUD $26,300Superior Single
13-03-202506-04-2025AUD $31,050Worsley Suite
13-03-202506-04-2025AUD $42,800Heritage Suite

Inclusions

    • 25-Day Grand Pacific Odyssey: Embark on an epic 25-day adventure from New Zealand to Japan, exploring remote islands, vibrant cultures, and incredible wildlife.
    • Diverse Experiences: Balance island visits, coral reef snorkeling, cultural exchanges, wildlife observation, and sea days for a well-rounded voyage.
    • Historical & Cultural Riches: Discover UNESCO sites, French-infused charms, World War II history, and traditional village encounters on this unique expedition cruise.

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