Arrive in the vibrant tropical paradise of Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest. Check into your hotel, where your group will spend the first night of the expedition. Join your fellow voyagers and expedition guides for dinner at the hotel in the evening.

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before flying to Madang, a picturesque peninsula surrounded by islands and waterways. Known for its thriving community of traditional artists and lush forests, Madang offers much to explore. Upon arrival, enjoy a Madang and Environs tour, which includes visits to the Coastwatchers’ Memorial Light at Kalibobo, the Madang Museum, and Bilbil Village, followed by a visit to the local markets.

Once you board your ship, the Heritage Adventurer, take time to settle into your cabin and familiarise yourself with the vessel. You will be introduced to your expedition team, who will share the voyage plans. As your ship sets sail for the Sepik River, you are invited to join the team in the Observation Lounge and on the Observation Deck.

The Sepik River experience is sure to be a highlight of your expedition. Your Expedition Team have allotted ample time to fully appreciate this remarkable river, its wildlife, and the people who call it home. As the longest river in Papua New Guinea, the Sepik flows from the highlands to the Bismarck Sea, nurturing a rich tradition of artistry along its banks.

You will explore the river by Zodiac, navigating its tributaries and channels in search of local wildlife. At Kopar Village, enjoy a warm welcome and immerse yourself in village life, including a traditional Dragon Dance unique to this region. Be sure to bring local currency (kina) to purchase unique carvings directly from the artists.

Rarely visited and little known, Manus Island is regarded as a jewel in Papua New Guinea’s crown. Due to its biological isolation, Manus Province hosts many endemic species, making your stop here a likely birding highlight. Once the site of a detention centre as part of Australia’s 'Pacific Solution', life on Manus Island continues to follow traditional customs.

Your visit to Derimbat Village, which consists of 10 villages and has a population of fewer than 1,000, includes participating in an elaborate welcoming ceremony. Afterwards, you'll explore the village and its unique way of life with a local guide.

Today, you will explore the remote beauty of Tsoilik Island, nestled in the New Ireland archipelago within the New Hanover District of Papua New Guinea. This hidden South Pacific paradise features stunning white sand beaches lined with coconut trees, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and wildlife-rich jungles.

You can immerse yourself in the locals' warm hospitality and traditional lifestyle, explore dense rainforests in search of birdlife, try paddling a traditional outrigger canoe and basket weaving, or simply enjoy this unspoiled tropical haven. A highlight of the visit is drift snorkelling along the outer reef edge, where you'll encounter vibrant corals and marine life, including Pipefish, Nudibranchs, and Anemone Fish.

Be sure to stay on deck as your ship navigates the thrilling narrow passage between New Hanover and New Ireland.

Six stunning cone-shaped volcanoes encircle Rabaul's dramatic, flooded-caldera harbour. Visit the bubbling hot springs and enjoy magnificent views of the harbour and volcanoes from Observatory Ridge. As you explore the island, you'll encounter fascinating remnants of the Japanese occupation, including the site of the massive volcanic eruption that nearly destroyed Rabaul town and the underground bunker where Pearl Harbor commander Yamamoto hid. You'll also join the locals shopping at the bustling Kokopo markets.

A tropical atoll floating in the azure waters of the Buka Channel, Nissan Island is nourished by rich tropical currents teeming with marine life. Rarely visited by outsiders, this island offers a world of abundant fish and pristine coral reefs. Onshore, remnants of the brief but intense World War II battles, where Kiwi, Australian, and British forces recaptured the islands from Japanese occupiers, can still be found.

During your visit,  meet the friendly locals from the island's three Balil Villages and search the dense woods for elusive bird species. If you enjoy snorkelling, you will have plenty to discover in the vibrant coral reefs surrounding Nissan

Today, you will uncover the treasures of Bougainville, a region long secluded and uniquely sheltered by past conflicts surrounding its shores. Highly coveted by many travellers, this autonomous region within Papua New Guinea seamlessly combines rugged, jungle-clad landscapes with breathtaking offshore coral reefs, boasting some of the richest biodiversity in the region both above and below the water.

Situated east of the mainland and north of the Solomon Islands, Bougainville comprises two main islands and several outlying islands and atolls, making it remote and challenging to access yet ideal for exploration by expedition ship. Explore Bougainville's deep historical and cultural ties with the Solomon Islands, which are evident in their music, culture, and language.

Located in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, the volcanic New Georgia Islands boast expansive reefs, lagoons, rugged terrain, and numerous rivers. Nature enthusiasts will delight in a visit to Kolombangara Island, to explore the Imbu Rano Lodge and Conservation Area, dedicated to preserving the island's central peak. Here, keep an eye out for the rare Roviana Rail and other endemic bird species.

Remember to bring local currency to purchase the renowned wood and stone carvings crafted by the skilled artisans of the Western Province.

Uninhabited for 150 years, Tetepare Island is rugged, draped in rainforest and bordered by coral reefs. It is home to the Tetepare Descendants’ Association, a leading community-driven conservation effort in the Solomon Islands. Internationally recognised for its conservation and archaeological significance, Tetepare Island hosts nesting grounds for three species of turtles, including the endangered leatherback. Its rich biodiversity includes dugongs, the world’s largest skink, the endemic Tetepare White-eye, and many other species in its island and surrounding waters.

This afternoon, an undoubted highlight of your voyage will be exploring Tetepare Island and enjoying a drift snorkel along its fringing reef, renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity.

Malaita, known for its towering mountains and hosting one-third of the Solomon Islands' population, also boasts pristine rivers and untouched tropical forests. This morning, explore the serene and crystal-clear waters surrounding the island.

In the afternoon, you will enjoy a special invitation from the world-renowned Kwaio People, under the leadership of Chief Esau, to delve into their traditional way of life. The Kwaio community has steadfastly preserved their cultural heritage and ancestral lands, making this invitation a rare privilege. Heritage Expeditions has a longstanding connection with the community and supports its innovative conservation initiatives, which gives you special access to this unique opportunity.

This experience offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to immerse yourself in the presence of one of the region's most authentic and forward-thinking communities.

Makira, the easternmost of the main islands in the Solomon archipelago, awaits you this morning as your ship anchors in the tranquil waters of Star Harbour. Join your onboard naturalists for a Zodiac expedition through the thriving mangrove forests lining the shores, followed by a brief stroll to Makira's southern coast, where villagers have lived much as they have for millennia.

Here, you will be able to engage with locals who graciously share their traditional songs and dances. With luck, you may witness local boys surfing on hand-carved palm wood boards, adding to the cultural richness of your experience.

Nendö, the largest of the Santa Cruz Islands situated southeast of the Solomon Islands, holds historical significance dating back to the unsuccessful 1595 colonisation attempt by Spanish navigator Álvaro de Mendaña de Neira. Biologically, these islands have closer ties to Vanuatu.

Nendö is renowned as the birthplace of red feather money, crafted from the plumage of the Scarlet Honeyeater. Witness the intricate process of making red feather money and participate in traditional dances that resonate through generations, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the island.

Today, the Heritage Adventurer will set sail for the Torres Islands, Vanuatu's northernmost and seldom-visited Pacific paradise. Our destination is Loh Island, which comprises four main islets surrounded by white sandy beaches, crystal-clear azure waters, volcanic rocks, and lush jungle-clad cliffs.

Upon arrival, you will be greeted with a warrior escort and a warm welcome from the Chief. You'll have the privilege of witnessing the exhilarating and rarely-seen cultural spectacle known as lēh-temēt – vibrant ritual headdresses called temēt, representing primordial spirits. These headdresses play a central role in special ceremonial rituals involving singing and dancing. Revered for their supernatural powers, the colourful temēt are ceremoniously destroyed at the conclusion of the dance.

Afterwards, you'll have the opportunity to explore the village, take guided tours of the surrounding island, or delve into Loh's stunning underwater world through snorkelling adventures.

Today, you will embark on an exploration of Santo, Vanuatu’s largest island and the setting of James Michener’s 'Tales of the South Pacific'. Take a refreshing swim in the pristine waters of Champagne Beach, renowned for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters.

In the afternoon, experience the beauty of Santo's iconic blue holes with Zodiac cruises. For history enthusiasts, a visit to Luganville and Million Dollar Point offers insight into the island's past.

Today, you explore Ambrym, celebrated across Vanuatu as the island of volcanoes and mysticism. Our journey begins with a landing at a secluded spot on the northern coast, where the ancient Rom dance tradition thrives and traditional carving continues to flourish. A forest trek leads you to an enchanting "arena," where masked dancers emerge from the lush foliage.

Ambrym's verdant forests also offer excellent opportunities for guided walks with naturalists to discover local bird species and native flora. In the afternoon, enjoy a final snorkelling expedition to cap off your adventures.

Upon arrival in Port Vila, you will disembark after breakfast and be transferred to either a central city hotel or the airport to conclude your voyage. Please note, for smooth disembarkation procedures, it is advised against booking flights from Port Vila before midday.

Please be aware that circumstances such as inclement weather or unexpected opportunities for additional excursions may necessitate deviations from the planned itinerary during your voyage. Your Expedition Leader will provide ongoing updates and information.

This expedition voyage features a variety of activities and excursions tailored to different interests. You can choose which activities best suit your preferences. Please note that some activities may overlap in timing, making it impossible to participate in both. 

Secure your space today by calling one of our Travel Specialists on 0203 196 1000 or enquire here