This exciting tropical expedition on board Le Soleal takes you through some of the most fascinating natural beauty and cultures of Melanesia. Starting in Cairns, sail up to Alotau in Papua New Guinea's Milne Bay Province, and learn about the historical significance of the area with the WWII memorial as well as Japanese and American battlegrounds, and stories of pearlers, miners and missionaries. The two volcanically active islands of Ferguson and Dobu are next on your itinerary.
Join your expedition team on a walk to the DeiDei geothermal hot springs through spectacular forests and...read more learn about the Methodist Church of Australia that established a mission station on Dobu Island. Your call at Tufi will be one of the highlights of your voyage. Dubbed the Scandinavia of the Tropics, you will undoubtedly fall under the charm of this picturesque region, with its deep 'fjords' known locally as 'rias', which were formed through volcanic activity.
In this unique setting, local Papuan tribes will share their customs, beliefs and artwork with you. In the heart of the Solomon Sea, you will discover the splendid turquoise waters and white-sand beaches of the uninhabited islands of the Lusancay archipelago. These spectacular, picture-postcard islands provide the opportunity to swim and snorkel over coral reefs teeming with life. Learn about the traditional 'Kula' trading system on the island of Kiriwina, as well as local village life through their spectacular cultural performances.
In the Solomon Islands, Ghizo and Njari islands are where you will meet some of the most skilled carvers in the world, enjoy world-class snorkelling and diving, and visit the local traditional markets. In Roderick Bay, experience the extraordinary environment featuring white-sand beaches and fringing coral reefs before reaching the Malaita Province. As well as learning about its unique local traditions and social aspects of life such as 'bride price', you will experience their traditional music and sacred dances accompanied by traditional panpipers. Your expedition will finish in the capital of the Solomon Islands, Honiara, where Le Soleal will be positioned alongside the wharf of Point Cruise.
Cruise Itinerary
Arrive
Depart
Day 1:Cairns
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17:00
Day 2: Cruising At Sea
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Day 3:Alotau
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Day 4: Fergusson Island
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Day 4: Dobu Island
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Day 5: Tufi
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Day 6: Lusancay Islands
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Day 7:Kiriwina Island
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Day 8: Cruising At Sea
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Day 9: Ghizo Island
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Day 9: Njari Island
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Day 10: Roderick Bay, Florida Islands
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Day 11: Malaita Island
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Day 12: Honiara, Guadalcanal Island - Flight to Brisbane
07:00
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Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Transfers to and/or from the ship port may be required.
Life Onboard Le Soleal
Brochure
Ponant Luxury Cruises (2023-24)
Discover our range of incredible luxury expeditions and yacht-style voyages in 2023, exploring Antarctica, the Norwegian Fjords, Caribbean & Latin America, The Indian Ocean & Persian Gulf and Oceania & Polynesia. Includes a range of trailblazing polar explorations aboard Le Commandant Charcot. If you are a travel agent, please email brochures.aus@ponant.com...more with your details and number of copies to be ordered.
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Note Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Ponant. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.