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Island Hopping in the South Pacific – An Expedition from Fiji to Tahiti

Island Hopping in the South Pacific – An Expedition from Fiji to Tahiti

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Description

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 and this voyage tells the story of Polynesia and uncovers its history as we visit the captivating islands. Our expedition begins in Fiji and our journey to Tahiti takes us through Tonga, the Cook Islands and the Society Islands all of which embody the laid-back lifestyle and idyllic surroundings of the South Pacific.
Our expedition aboard the MS Island Sky promises to be a marvellous island hopping adventure and an enjoyable undertaking for those who relish travelling off the beaten track to remote and extraordinary islands. From coral reefs teeming with life to powerful legends that shaped history, each island group we will visit is unique, each culture distinct. The description defying beauty and remoteness of the islands have attracted generations of adventurers, explorers and travellers to their shores. 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.
The only comfortable way to explore this beautiful and intriguing region is by sea and sailing aboard the all-suite MS Island Sky with just 100 fellow, like-minded travellers, we will be able to use the onboard Zodiacs to explore inlets, bird sanctuaries and land in otherwise inaccessible places accompanied by our expert expedition team including naturalists, marine biologists and ornithologists who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during forays ashore and whilst on board. Our days will be spent on nature walks, searching for endemic birds, beachcombing, snorkelling or swimming from the beautiful beaches, interacting with the locals and learning about their way of life and traditional handicrafts or, simply experiencing some of the most pristine tropical scenery to be found anywhere in the world.

Trip Name
Island Hopping in the South Pacific - An Expedition from Fiji to Tahiti
Days
19
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 London to Fiji.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 - Day 2 En Route.
Transit as we continue our journey to Fiji.
Day 3 - Day 3 Fiji.
Arrive this morning and transfer directly to the MS Island Sky which will be moored in Lautoka. The remainder of the day is free to relax on board before we sail this evening.
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.
We arrive this morning in the Southern Lau group and the island of 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 be welcomed to the island by the village elder before spending the day meeting with the villagers, taking nature walks or using the Zodiacs to 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. Once the immigration formalities are complete 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 Polynesia), and the famous Tongan blowholes, considered the most spectacular in the South Pacific.
Day 7 - Day 7 Neiafu & Nuku Island, Vava’u.
We arrive during breakfast at the pretty port of Neiafu in the Vava’u islands, part of the kingdom of Tonga. Spend the morning exploring the town independently, maybe visit the local market or enjoy a drink in a harbourside café. Alternatively, join a tour to the Ene’io Botanical Gardens, founded in 1972 they are the only botanical gardens in Tonga. Here the local guides will identify some of the 550 different plant varieties found in the gardens. Over lunch we hope to reposition to the nearby Nuku Island 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 blackand- yellow angelfish and curious clownfish on the surrounding reefs.
Day 8 - Day 8 International Date Line & Niue.
After crossing the International Date Line (therefore still 9th October) we arrive this afternoon in Niue, one of the smallest independent nations on earth at just 260 square kilometres with a population of just 1,200 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. Later, those feeling active may choose to continue to Matapa Chasm, a secluded cleft in the sea cliffs, where we can walk down to discover the perfect swimming hole. Alternatively, enjoy a swim or snorkel from the beach.
Day 9 - Days 9 & 10 At Sea.
Spend a leisurely two days at sea as we continue our journey across the Pacific towards the Cook Islands. Maybe join a lecture in the lounge or spend time on deck to watch for wildlife.
Day 10 - Day 11 Rarotonga, Cook Islands.
Arrive this morning in Rarotonga, the hub of the Cook Islands where we have a day to explore. Join a nature walk in the Takitumu Conservation area, a 155 hectare forested area in the interior of the island. Here we can look for some endemic birds such as the Rarotongan flycatcher, Pacific pigeon and fruit dove whilst walking in the beautiful scenery of the park. Alternatively, explore the history and culture of the island on a drive including the sacred marae, site of the seven canoes and local churches. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon to explore further at your own pace.
Day 11 - Day 12 Atiu.
Our exploration of the Cook Islands continues at the small island of Atiu. With only 560 residents we will be guaranteed a special welcome. A choice of activities this morning includes a bird tour to search for the Rarotonga monarch, chattering kingfisher, Cook Islands fruit dove and Atiu swiftlets. Alternatively, discover the island on a tour which will include James Cook’s landing site from 1777, the coffee plantations and a visit to some of the local houses. After lunch on board there will be the opportunity for a relaxing afternoon swimming from the beach or maybe enjoy a taste of the local Tumunu, a traditional drink brewed from fermented oranges.
Day 12 - Day 13 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 with the oldest church in the Cook Islands. We will see the lush forest of Nikaupara, ancient marae and the bunkers built during World War II which are visible from Mount Piraki. 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 or take the chance for a swim before sailing in the late afternoon.
Day 13 - Day 14 At Sea.
A relaxing day at sea cruising toward French Polynesia.
Day 14 - Day 15 Bora Bora, French Polynesia.
One of the most stunning islands on the planet, Bora Bora’s interior is crowned by majestic eroded volcanic formations and a distinctive black basaltic peak. A tour of the island will take you past colourful villages, archaeological sites, scenic viewpoints and World War II relics. This afternoon explore independently or take the opportunity to swim from the beach.
Day 15 - Day 16 Raiatea & Taha’a.
Raiatea is recognised throughout French Polynesia as its “Sacred Island”, the cultural heart of all French 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 1,000 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 1,000 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 16 - Day 17 Papeete, Tahiti to London.
Moor in Papeete over breakfast where a morning tour will include the house of James Norman Hall. Hall was the co-author of the Mutiny on the Bounty and his reconstructed house is now a museum decorated with original 1920s furniture and photos. Continue to the Venus Peninsula, it was here in 1769 that Captain Cook’s observatory was located as he planned to record the transit of Venus. Today we can see the 19th century lighthouse and black sand beaches before our final stop at the Arahoho blowholes. Return to the ship for lunch before our afternoon transfer to the airport for the scheduled flight to London via Los Angeles.
Day 17 - Day 18 En Route.
Transit in Los Angeles for our onward flight to London.
Day 18 - Day 19 London.
Arrive today.
Day 19 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
03-10-202621-10-2026Array Array12,995Marco Polo Deck Premium Suite
03-10-202621-10-2026Array Array0Marco Polo Deck Corner Suite
03-10-202621-10-2026Array Array0Explorer Deck Island Suite
03-10-202621-10-2026Array Array0Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite
03-10-202621-10-2026Array Array0Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite
03-10-202621-10-2026Array Array0Magellan Deck Standard Suite
03-10-202621-10-2026Array Array0Columbus Deck Superior Suite
03-10-202621-10-2026Array Array0Columbus Deck Superior Single
03-10-202621-10-2026Array Array0Magellan Deck Standard Single

Inclusions

    • Explore the unique cultures and natural wonders of Fiji, Tonga, and the Cook Islands.
    • Discover Bora Bora's breathtaking landscapes and ancient Polynesian legends in Raiatea.
    • Immerse in French Polynesia's vanilla plantations, sacred marae, and pristine lagoons.

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