Intense South Sea expedition
From Cairns (Australia) or Port Moresby (Papua New Guinea) to Port Vila (Vanuatu)
18 days (17 nights)
MS Heritage Adventurer
18 days (17 nights) on a small ship (max. 140 passengers) from Port Moresby (Papua New Guinea) via the Solomon Islands to Port Vila (Vanuatu) through the Melanesian archipelago | Including advance flight from Cairns (Australia) to Port Moresby
From 2027: 17 days (16 nights) on a small ship (max. 140 passengers) from Madang (Papua New Guinea) via the Solomon Islands to Port Vila (Vanuatu) through the Melanesian archipelago | Including advance flight from Cairns (Australia) to Port Moresby
+++ Up to 20% early bird discount on selected trips and cabins for new bookings made by April 30, 2026 +++
On this authentic expedition into the heart of Melanesia, you can expect a richly woven potpourri that reveals the beauty of this remote South Sea region and its cultural and historical secrets. Centuries-old traditions and expressive ritual dances give you inspiring insights into fascinating cultures. With striking sites from World War II, you will experience moving history right on the spot. In addition, the exceptionally species-rich wildlife of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu will accompany you on land and at sea.
As you cross the Buka Channel to Nissan Island, you will encounter impressive evidence of fierce wartime events. Then, on Bougainville, you will enter an area that has long been cut off from the outside world. You are actually one of the first tour groups to visit this island in decades. As you navigate the turquoise waters of the Solomon Islands, you will be surprised by new panoramas and unexpected encounters every day. On the unspoiled island of Tetepare, one of the most important nature reserves in the South Pacific, you will experiencelively conservation work up close. A cultural highlight is the mysterious Rom dance ceremony on the island of Ambrym.
Experience a true kaleidoscope of cultures in Vanuatu, where over 100 indigenous languages are spoken. The more than 80 inhabited islands cultivate their own unique traditions, preserved over generations. This expedition opens doors to these unique worlds in one of the happiest countries on earth.
The entire Melanesia region also delights visitors with spectacular reefs, colorful coral gardens, and an extraordinary underwater world. Snorkeling or swimming here reveals a marine diversity that is among the most species-rich in the world. It is certainly no exaggeration to call this a true underwater paradise. You can dive with clownfish, parrotfish, and mandarin fish. On Tetepare Island, with a little luck, you may encounter peaceful dugongs and sea turtles such as the endangered leatherback turtle.
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Renowned natural scientists will be on board throughout your entire expedition through Melanesia. With a sophisticated lecture program and interesting presentations, the naturalists will give you a glimpse behind the paradisiacal backdrop of the tropical island worlds and provide you with deep insights into the flora and fauna of Melanesia above and below the water.
Another way to experience Melanesia even more intensely is through guided sea kayaking tours (optional, extra cost). As you glide silently through tropical coastal waters, you will often encounter curious locals. It is quite possible that these hospitable people will paddle over to you and invite you to their village.
Stephanie Gräf
Travel expert, inventia | Travel beyond the ordinary
Specialist in personalized and exciting trips around the globe.
I am your contact person for questions and bookings regarding your trip.
You can reach me by phone or email:
+49 (0)201 858 90 960
welcome@inventia.de
Good to know
Arrival and departure: We offer a variety of customized travel packages including flights, hotels, transfers, and activities. We are also happy to suggest pre- and post-programs to extend your trip.
A heart for solo travelers: If you do not wish to have a single cabin, accommodation on board is possible in shared cabins. In this case, you will be accommodated with other travelers of the same gender.
Entry requirements: The current entry requirements for Australia can be found here. For Papua New Guinea, you can find the entry requirements here, and for the Solomon Islands here. The current entry requirements for Vanuatu are available from the U.S. Department of State here.
Insurance: Proof of international health insurance covering medical repatriation must be provided.
Medical questionnaire:You are required to completea medical questionnaire before departure.
HIGHLIGHTS
- A true explorer's route to remote atolls such as Vanikoro and Nissan, which can only be reached by expedition ship.
- Active volcanism & thermal springs around Rabaul
- The almost surreal turquoise blue holes in the rainforest on the island of Santo
- Famous World War II sites such as the Japanese caves on Tulagi or Yamamoto's bunker in Rabaul
- Drift snorkeling at Tetepare fringing reef, a hotspot for sea turtles and colorful reef fish
- Rom dance ceremony on Ambrym, an initiation ritual with artistically designed masks and costumes
- Possible sightings of endangered species such as dugongs or the Vanikoro flying fox, which was previously considered extinct.
- Authentic encounters with remote communities, including visits to a village school and markets, and personal conversations
- Kayak excursions in tranquil tropical bays and crystal-clear waters (optional, extra charge)
- Intensive birdwatching program (optional, extra cost)
- Immersive lecture program by experts and renowned scientists on board
route
itinerary
Advance information
Please note that your return flight from Port Vila in Vanuatu is not included in your tour price.
Since our customers all have individual wishes for their trip, we are happy to book flights separately. Of course, the flights then become part of a secure package tour. We recommend an overnight stay in Cairns to cushion any irregularities with your flight or lost luggage. We are happy to organize everything for you on request. Please contact us.
Day 1: Start of the trip in Cairns, Australia
Today you will arrive in tropical Cairns. The city is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, you will head to the hotel where your tour group will spend the first night of the expedition. In the evening, you will get to know your fellow travelers and the expedition team over dinner at the hotel.
Day 2: Flying from Cairns to Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea
After a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, you will board your flight to Port Moresby. In the bustling capital of Papua New Guinea, village life and urban everyday life still coexist side by side. In the afternoon, you will board the Heritage Adventurer, where the captain and expedition team will welcome you and accompany you to your cabin. You will then have time to familiarize yourself with the ship. Later, your expedition team will introduce themselves and give you an overview of the itinerary.
Please note that for trips in 2027, the flight will be from Cairns to Madang and the trip duration will be shortened by one night. Due to the change in the port of embarkation, the itinerary will also change on some days. We would be happy to send you the detailed itinerary.
Day 3: Doini Island
Surrounded by the turquoise waters of Milne Bay, Doini Island lies at the eastern tip of Papua New Guinea. This little-known island paradise is surrounded by white sandy beaches and crystal-clear seas, while the lush rainforest in the island's interior offers numerous opportunities for exploration. With an estimated population of less than 1,000 and hardly any tourist development, Doini's unspoiled beauty is evident both above and below the water.
Take a hike through the rainforest, where you can still find traces of World War II, and visit the traditional burial site "Skull Cave," which contains around 100 skulls—the remains of ancestors who once fought in bitter tribal conflicts. With a mask and snorkel, you can discover colorful coral reefs and exotic sea creatures.
Day 4: Cape Nelson, Tufi Harbor
Today you will reach the rarely visited Tufi Fjords. A total of 25 individual gorges with steep basalt cliffs form this contrasting landscape. As you sail close to the mighty rock faces, new perspectives open up again and again. Zodiacs then take you ashore, where you can not only experience the impressive nature up close, but also visit the local communities and learn more about the ancient traditions of the Tufi people.
Thanks to the sheltered location of the fjords, the surrounding coral reefs are characterized by an exceptionally rich variety of colors and species. The underwater visibility is excellent—ideal conditions for snorkeling among gobies, mandarin fish, pygmy seahorses, sponge corals, and plate corals. Later, you will go on a hike through the surrounding rainforest—with a little luck, you will discover the largest butterfly in the world: Queen Alexandra's Birdwing.
Day 5: D’Entrecasteaux Islands
This morning, you will wake up surrounded by the impressive volcanic D'Entrecasteaux Islands, where you will visit both Dobu and Fergusson Island. On Fergusson Island, you will explore an exciting geothermal area with hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and geysers. During a subsequent village tour, local guides will tell the stories of their people and provide insight into the everyday life of the islanders.
Dobu Island was once the central hub of the traditional Kula Ring. This ceremonial trading system was made famous by anthropologist Bronisław Malinowski. On this island, you can enjoy a performance featuring traditional costumes and rhythmic drumming, gain insights into the art of pottery, and watch local dishes being prepared using traditional methods.
Bird lovers will be on the lookout for the white-capped cockatoo and the curl-crested manucode, while avid snorkelers can look forward to some of the clearest waters of the entire expedition. A steeply sloping reef creates spectacular underwater landscapes with vibrant coral formations and a special diversity of species —including tiny clownfish.
Day 6: Trobriand Islands
Located in the heart of the Solomon Sea and historically known as the "Islands of Love," the Trobriand Islands offer an authentic glimpse into a traditional culture that has remained largely untouched by Western influence to this day. During your visit, you can expect picture-perfect white sand beaches, colorful villages, turquoise waters, and a diverse underwater world.
You will meet the Trobriand Islanders and experience dances that have been passed down through generations, powerfully celebrating fishing and the annual yam harvest. Insights into the complex social system of the "Kula Ring" (a ceremonial trading network that connects the islands of Milne Bay and eastern Papua New Guinea through reciprocal gifts) will deepen your understanding of the cultural richness of the region.
The Trobriand Islanders are also famous for their masterful ebony carvings, often artfully decorated with mother-of-pearl inlays. While snorkeling in the colorful coral reefs, you will discover parrotfish, neon damselfish, and many other brightly colored inhabitants of this fascinating marine habitat.
Day 7: Rabaul, New Britain
Six cone-shaped volcanoes surround the port of Rabaul, which was built on a volcanic crater. Visit bubbling hot springs and enjoy the fantastic view of the port and surrounding volcanoes from Observatory Ridge. Traces of the Japanese occupation can still be seen in many places on the island. You will visit the site of the massive volcanic eruption that almost completely destroyed the city of Rabaul and see the underground bunker where Pearl Harbor commander Yamamoto hid. You will also immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the locals at the lively market in Kokopo.
Day 8: Nissan Island
Nissan Island is a tropical atoll located in the azure waters of the Buka Channel. The island is surrounded by nutrient-rich tropical currents that create ideal living conditions for many marine species. Few people have seen this species-rich world with its pristine coral reefs. On land, traces of the brief but intense fighting during World War II remain, when the islands were recaptured from Japanese occupiers by New Zealand, Australian, and British troops. During your stay, you will meet the friendly locals from all three Balil villages on the island and venture into the dense forests in search of shy bird species. Afterwards, snorkelers will have ample opportunity to explore the colorful coral reefs around Nissan Island.
Day 9: Bougainville Island
Bougainville was isolated for a long time and, in a way, protected by the conflicts that raged around its coasts. However, this autonomous region within Papua New Guinea is at the top of many travelers' wish lists, as it offers an impressive combination of wild, densely forested terrain and spectacular coral reefs just off the coast. It is home to an incredible diversity of species, both above and below the water.
Bougainville consists of two main islands and several offshore islands and atolls. Remote and difficult to access, the region is ideal for voyages of discovery on an expedition ship. A stay in the area around Arawa is planned, which will also take you to the Panguna copper and gold mine, famous as the location for the film Mr. Pip . You can spend your last kina under the palm canopy of the Arawa markets, accompanied by the hustle and bustle and babble of the locals.
Day 10: Kolombangara Island, Solomon Islands
The volcanic New Georgia Islands are located in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands and are characterized by extensive reefs and lagoons, rugged terrain, and a multitude of rivers. After landing on Kolombangara, visit the Imbu Rano Eco Lodge and the surrounding nature reserve around the island's central mountain. Here you can search for the rare Roviana rail and other endemic bird species. The surrounding coral reefs, which are among the most fish-rich in the world, are ideal for snorkeling. You can also look forward to an exciting Zodiac ride and a visit to a village. Remember to stock up on local currency if you want to purchase the famous wood and stone carvings made by the inhabitants of the Western Province.
Day 11: Tetepare Island
The Tetepare Descendants' Association, the most significant community-based conservation project in the Solomon Islands, has established itself on this island, which has been uninhabited for over 150 years and is covered by rainforest with offshore coral reefs. The island's beaches serve as nesting grounds for three species of sea turtles, including the endangered leatherback turtle. The surrounding waters and the island itself are also home to dugongs, the world's largest skink, the endemic Tetepare spectacled bird, and many other distinctive species.
The afternoon is set aside for exploring the island, and you can experience the extraordinary marine biodiversity up close while snorkeling along the fringing reef.
Day 12: Nggela Sule & Tulagi Islands
Today you will arrive in the heart of the Solomon Islands archipelago: the Nggela Island chain consists of 50 densely forested islands with powder-white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water. The region is known for its extraordinary coral gardens, reefs, and rich marine fauna. In Roderick Bay on the main island of Nggela Sule, you can enjoy exploring the beach and rainforest, as well as unforgettable snorkeling experiences. On Tulagi Island, you will experience a traditional welcome by local warriors. The multifaceted island was once the administrative center of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate until it was destroyed by the Japanese during World War II. Visits are planned to the historic sites of Blue Beach and the caves where Japanese soldiers hid during the battles with US troops.
Day 13: Santa Ana Island
Upon arrival in Port Mary on Santa Ana Island—also known as Owaraha or Owa Raha—you will be welcomed in traditional Solomon Islands style. This beautiful coral island, first discovered by Europeans in 1568, is now all yours. Enjoy the warm hospitality and vibrant culture of the locals as you marvel at local craftsmanship, explore the lush forests with your guides, visit the children at the village school, or simply relax in the tropical waters. Bird lovers will be on the lookout for special species such as the tiny Tristam's honeyeater, the gray fruit dove, the Solomon's foxtail, and the black-backed monarch.
Day 14: Nendö Island, Temotu Province
Nendö is the largest of the Santa Cruz Islands, located southeast of the Solomon Islands. In 1595, Spanish navigator Álvaro de Mendaña de Neira attempted unsuccessfully to establish a colony here. Biologically, these islands are more closely related to Vanuatu. Nendö is also home to the famous red feather money. Also known as Tevau, it consists of the bright red feathers of the scarlet honeycreeper. Experience how this traditional currency is made and dance with the locals to rhythms that have been sweeping across the island for centuries.
Day 15: Vanikoro Island
Today you will reach the Vanikoro archipelago, which consists of five islands and is surrounded by an impressive fringing reef that is a delight for snorkelers. The French explorer Jean-François de Galaup, Comte de La Pérouse, tragically disappeared here after his two ships, La Boussole and Astrolabe, were wrecked on the reef in 1788.
On land, visit the monument honoring La Pérouse, erected in 1827 by his fellow explorer Dumont d'Urville. Accompany your fellow naturalists on a hike through the forest and, with a little luck, spot the endemic Vanikoro spectacled bird and the Vanikoro monarch. You may also marvel at the delicate Vanikoro orchid or catch a glimpse of the Vanikoro flying fox, long thought to be extinct.
Day 16: Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu
Today you will spend the day on Santo, Vanuatu's largest island, best known as the setting for James Michener's Tales of the South Pacific. Enjoy a glass of champagne on picturesque Champagne Beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and listen to traditional "water music" played for you by the local villagers. In the afternoon, take a Zodiac ride to the famous Blue Holes of Santo. History buffs also have the opportunity to visit Luganville and the historic Million Dollar Point.
Day 17: Ambrym & Efate Islands
Today you will visit Ambrym, the legendary island of volcanoes and magic. The plan is to land at Ranon on the north coast, where the ancient traditions of Rom dancing and artistic carving are still practiced. A walk through the forest will take you to the "arena," where masked dancers mysteriously emerge from the thicket. The forests of Ambrym are also crisscrossed by excellent hiking trails, so you can join your naturalists in searching for native birds and plants. In the afternoon, a final snorkeling tour off Efate – formerly known as "Sandwich Island" – is on the agenda. This island presents itself as a true tropical paradise with beautiful beaches and historical sites.
Day 18: Port Vila
This morning you will arrive in Port Vila. After breakfast, it will be time to say goodbye to the Heritage Adventurer. A complimentary transfer will take you to your centrally located city hotel or to the airport. This marks the end of your journey through Melanesia. But even though you will no longer wake up every day to views of the sea, picture-perfect beaches, or mysterious tropical forests, these impressions will remain a part of you and accompany you on your journey home around the globe.
To ensure sufficient time for disembarkation formalities, we recommend that you do not book flights from Port Vila before 1:00 p.m.
The daily programs described here are for your guidance. The itinerary may vary due to local weather conditions, last-minute permit procedures, and organizational requirements.Theexpedition leader on board will determine the final itinerary and daily program. Flexibility is of utmost importance during our expedition-style voyages.
DATES & PRICES
Request your trip here!
Submit questions via email Arrange a callback Call now: +49 201 85890960
or please select your preferred date
October 22, 2026 – November 8, 2026
from €14,631 per person
18 days/17 nights
MS Heritage Adventurer (Maximum occupancy: 140)
Port Moresby (Papua New Guinea) Port Vila (Vanuatu)
including flight from Cairns to Port Moresby
Optional extras: Sea kayaking + bird watching
October 23, 2027 – November 8, 2027
From €14,078 €12,671 per person
17 days/16 nights
MS Heritage Adventurer (Maximum occupancy: 140)
Madang (Papua New Guinea) Port Vila (Vanuatu)
including flight from Cairns to Madang
Optional extras: Sea kayaking + bird watching
Up to 20% early bird discount on selected cabins for new bookings made by April 30, 2026
Selected date
October 22, 2026 – November 8, 2026 (18 days/17 nights)
MS Heritage Adventurer | Discovery voyage to the heart of Melanesia
Main Deck Triple
Superior Triple Room
Deck 4 Superior
Deck 5 Superior
Main Deck Single
Superior Single Room
Worsley Suite
Heritage Suite
cabin
options
| Sea kayak (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 1 165,00 € | |
| Bird watching (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 525,00 € | |
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
optional activities
Selected date
October 23, 2027 – November 8, 2027 (17 days/16 nights)
MS Heritage Adventurer | Discovery voyage to the heart of Melanesia
Main Deck Triple
Superior Triple Room
Deck 4 Superior
Deck 5 Superior
Main Deck Single
Superior Single Room
Worsley Suite
Heritage Suite
cabin
options
| Sea kayak (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 1 325,00 € | |
| Bird watching (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 455,00 € | |
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
optional activities
Information
Included services:
- One night's accommodation in Cairns in a double room on day 1, including dinner and breakfast
- Advance flight from Cairns to Port Moresby on day 2
- Accommodation on board during the sea voyage, including full board
- House beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages with lunch and dinner
- All shore excursions and activities
- Lecture program with renowned scientists
- Transfer to the airport in Port Vila
- Discovery Fund
Not included in the price:
- International or domestic flights and transfers – unless specified in the itinerary
- Costs for passport, visas, etc.
- travel insurance
- All personal expenses, including alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of meals), gratuities, laundry service, personal clothing, medical expenses, or telephone charges
- Kayaking (optional)
- Birdwatching program (optional)
Important:
- Language spoken on board: English
- Expedition leaders and lecturers are English-speaking
- Currency on board: US dollar
- A doctor is on board
Your ship during the voyage
Your ship: The MS Heritage Adventurer
Click here for deck plans, cabin categories, facts & figures
> View here
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The MS Heritage Adventurer | © Dana Brown
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Traditional costume on Nissan | © F. Wardle
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Snorkeling off Nissan | © F. Wardle
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Sea turtle on Tetepare Island | © F. Wardle
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Landing on Kolombangara Island | © F. Wardle
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Visit to a remote village | © A. Russ
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Champagne Beach | © F. Wardle
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Traditional performance on Espiritu Santo | © S. Bradley
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Authentic encounters
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Guided kayak tour | © S. Bradley
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Traditional dance in the water | © S. Bradley
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Traces of World War II | © A. Russ
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A hornbill
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Traditional mask | © F. Wardle
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Birdwatching | © S. Bradley
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Exotic bird life | © A. Russ
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