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Peregrine Travel Centre

Nomads of the Wind

Nomads of the Wind

From GBP £8,545

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Description

“This voyage tells the story of Polynesia and uncovers its history and legends as we sail through the South Seas and visit the captivating islands.”

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. This voyage tells the story of Polynesia and uncovers its history and legends as we sail through the South Seas and visit the captivating islands.

Join us aboard the MS Island Sky to explore the Pacific in all its vastness, diversity and warmth and experience the description defying beauty of its islands, its culture and its ambience which have attracted generations of adventurers, explorers and travellers to its magical shores. The natural beauty of these islands is mesmerising. 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.

With our fleet of Zodiac landing craft we can explore inlets, bird sanctuaries and land in otherwise inaccessible places and although we set sail with a set itinerary, it is often the unscheduled events that become the highlight. We will be joined by a hand-picked expedition team, consisting of naturalists, marine biologists and ecologists who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during forays ashore and whilst on board.

Trip Name
Nomads of the Wind
Days
15
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Small Ship Length: 90 metres Passenger Capacity: 116  Built / refurbished: 1992 / 2010 / 2017 Sister ship to Hebridean Sky. Island Sky and Hebridean Sky are truly sisters. Built in the same Italian Shipyard, both boast spacious, well-appointed suites, stylish common areas, and redundant core technology that allows them to operate smoothly, even under the most challenging of conditions. Both ships are all-suite, all-inclusive small expedition vessels with touches of elegance throughout. The Island Sky is scheduled for additional upgrades in 2017, including the addition of tinted sliding glass doors to all cabins on the Promenade Deck. Services: World-Class Cuisine Complimentary Wine or Beer with Dinner Live Entertainment Complimentary Coffee/Tea station Voyage Photographer On-board MD and Facilities Dedicated Passenger Service Manager Pre-voyage hotel night Complimentary Expedition Jacket Facilities: Elevator serving all passenger decks Upgraded WIFI Internet Library with computers Panoramic Top Deck Observation Platform Bar/Lounge with Live Entertainment Lounge with Audiovisual Facilities DVD Movie Library Tinted sliding glass doors in all cabins on the Promenade Deck World-Class Cuisine: Great expeditions require great food! Our team of world-class chefs offer breakfast, lunch and dinner menus that change daily. They have boat-loads of creativity, so you are sure to experience a variety of remarkable cuisine throughout your voyage. Accommodations: All Suites Feature: Exterior views Your choice of queen-sized or two twin-sized beds Sitting area with sofa and side chair Flat Screen TV with DVD/CD player Telephone Independent temperature controls Mini-Bar Marble-appointed bathroom with fine toiletries Hair dryer 220 square feet or more Sofa can be converted to bed for third person PLEASE NOTE - DECK PLANS CAN VARY.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 - Fiji.
Arrive today and transfer to the MS Island Sky moored in Lautoka. Enjoy Welcome Dinner and Drinks as we sail this evening.
Day 2 - Day 2 - Savusavu.
Often referred to as Fiji’s hidden paradise, Savusavu is much the same as it was 30 years ago. It was originally established as a centre for sailing ships trading in sandalwood and copra. It is a small bustling town with an interesting heritage and the surrounding landscape is stunning. This morning choose to either join a nature walk in the Waisali Rainforest, home to Fijian Kauri trees and 30 species of orchid and birdlife including the collared lory and the red shining parrot. Alternatively, a village visit will take us to the chief of Savu Savu where we partake in a kava ceremony before learning more about village life, local crafts and culture. This afternoon will be free to explore the town independently before we sail in the evening
Day 3 - Day 3 - Tavenui island.
We have a choice of excursions this morning. The nature lovers can take a four wheel drive to Dos Voeux Peak. At the summit we will be treated to fantastic views of Taveuni and across to Lake Tagimoucia. Here we will see the tropical plants, palms and rainforest and hope to spot spectacular birdlife such as orange-breasted doves, ferntails and the elusive silktail or local parakeet. Alternatively, join a walking trip to the Bouma Heritage Park to see some of the waterfalls and enjoy a swim. The view from the highest waterfall is spectacular. Our cultural tour will give the opportunity to witness lifestyles in a traditional Fijian village and see cooking demonstrations. In the afternoon we will head to one of the neighbouring islands for some swimming and snorkelling opportunities.
Day 4 - 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 - Day 5 - Fulaga.
After a morning at sea we make our final call in Fiji at 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 meet with the village elder to welcome us to the island before spending the afternoon using our Zodiacs to explore the rocks or find a suitable beach to land for swimming, snorkelling or beachcombing.
Day 6 - Day 6 - Nuku’alofa, Tonga.
After a morning at sea we arrive into Nuku’alofa, the capital of Tonga, during lunch. After clearing immigration formalities 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 the Polynesia), and the famous Tongan blowholes, considered the most spectacular in the South Pacific.
Day 7 - Day 7 - Ha’apai Islands.
Today we arrive at the Ha’apai group which consists of 62 islands comprising of lagoons, barrier reefs and active volcanoes. The islands have a rich maritime history with Abel Tasman being the first European to visit the islands in 1643 whilst Captain James Cook visited twice in the 1770s. However, the most famous event was Mutiny of the HMS Bounty which occurred between the islands of Lifuka and Tofua. It was on the island of Tofua that Captain William Bligh landed after being cast off from the Bounty with limited provisions and nautical equipment. A hostile reception from the islanders meant they quickly fled to sea again. Tropical forests grow along gentle slopes here and at the centre of the island is the volcanic crater, with a clear blue lake at its base. We will explore the rugged coastline and cliff faces on a Zodiac cruise before finding another nearby island and locating a good spot to swim and snorkel.
Day 8 - Day 8 - Neiafu, Vava’u.
We arrive this morning in the Vava’u islands part of the kingdom of Tonga and the pretty port of Neiafu. Spend the morning independently exploring the town, maybe visit the local market or enjoy a drink in a harbourside café. Over lunch we will reposition to one of the nearby islands 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 black-and-yellow angelfish and curious clown fish on the surrounding reefs.
Day 9 - Day 9 - Niue
After crossing the International Date Line we arrive this afternoon in Niue, one of the smallest independent nations on earth at just 260 square kilometres with a population of just 1200 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. We will continue to Matapa Chasm, a secluded cleft in the sea cliffs, where we discover the perfect swimming hole.
Day 10 - Day 10 - At Sea.
Find a spot on deck, relax with a book in the library or join our lecture programme in the lounge as we spend a day at sea.
Day 11 - Day 11 - Palmerston, Cook Islands.
The engaging history of the William Masters family comes alive as we meet the descendants of this eccentric 19th century Englishman who took three native brides. We will be welcomed by the local officials before enjoying a walk through the village. Extremely fine handicrafts are made on this island and here the birdwatchers might catch sight of the red-tailed tropic birds. This afternoon we will have a chance to swim or snorkel from the beach to explore the underwater world.
Day 12 - Day 12 - 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 seeing the oldest church in the Cook Islands. We will see the lush forest of Nikaupara and from the top of Mount Piraki will see the bunkers built during World War II. 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 this afternoon or take the chance for a swim before sailing in the late afternoon.
Day 13 - Day 13 - At Sea.
Relax on board as we spend the day at sea cruising to French Polynesia.
Day 14 - Day 14 - Raiatea & Taha’a, French Polynesia.
Raiatea is recognised throughout Tahiti as its “Sacred Island”, the cultural heart of all Tahiti 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 1000 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 1000 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 15 - Day 15 - Papeete.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for your flight back home.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
28-09-201911-10-2019GBP £8,545Magellan Suite
28-09-201911-10-2019GBP £8,845Columbus Deck Superior
28-09-201911-10-2019GBP £9,145Marco Polo Deck Premium
28-09-201911-10-2019GBP £9,445Marco Polo Deck Corner Suite
28-09-201911-10-2019GBP £10,245Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony
28-09-201911-10-2019GBP £10,445Explorer Owners Balcony
28-09-201911-10-2019GBP £12,045Magellan Suite Sole
28-09-201911-10-2019GBP £12,345Columbus Deck Superior Sole

Inclusions

    • Visit Savusavu
    • Fiji’s hidden paradise
    • Arrive into Nuku’alofa, the capital of Tonga, explore this laidback town and the island of Tongatapu
    • Discover the Ha’apai group which consists of 62 islands comprising of lagoons, barrier reefs and active volcanoes
    • Arrive in Niue, one of the smallest independent nations on earth at just 260 square kilometres with a population of just 1200 people
    • Explore Raiatea that is recognised throughout Tahiti as its “Sacred Island”, the cultural heart of all Tahiti Polynesia

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