Isolated by miles of ocean over thousands of years, the islands of Polynesia, 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 French Polynesia and our journey to Fiji takes us through the Cook Islands and Tonga 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.
- Bora Bora’s Volcanic Splendor and Cultural Sites, French Polynesia: Tour Bora Bora’s stunning island, with its dramatic basaltic peaks and vibrant villages, visiting archaeological sites, World War II relics, and scenic viewpoints, with opportunities to swim from pristine beaches.
- Aitutaki’s Vibrant Lagoon, Cook Islands: Explore Aitutaki’s breathtaking lagoon, renowned for its coral formations and tropical fish, with options for a snorkeling cruise or an island tour visiting Arutanga’s historic church, ancient marae, and panoramic views from Maunga Pu.
- Fulaga’s Unique Lagoon and Woodcarving Heritage, Fiji: Discover Fulaga in Fiji’s Southern Lau Group, with its mushroom-shaped islands and colorful lagoon, engaging with local woodcarvers, meeting village elders, and enjoying snorkeling or nature walks in this remote paradise.
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Fly by scheduled flight via Los Angeles.
Arrive today and transfer directly to the MS Island Sky which will be moored in Papeete. After free time to acclimatise we sail in the early evening.
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.
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea cruising towards the Cook Islands.
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, explore independently or take the opportunity for a swim before we sail in the late afternoon.
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.
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.
Spend two days at sea as we continue our journey across the Pacific. Maybe join a lecture in the lounge or stay on deck to watch for wildlife.
Over breakfast we arrive 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. Later the more 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. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon sailing.
After crossing the International Date Line (today is the 5th March) we arrive this morning in the Vava’u islands, part of the kingdom of Tonga, and the pretty port of Neiafu. 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 black-and-yellow angelfish and curious clownfish on the surrounding reefs.
Spend the morning in Nuku’alofa, the capital of Tonga where we 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. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon cruising.
Arrive this morning in Fiji at 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 meet with the village elder to welcome us to the island before spending the day chatting with the villagers, taking nature walks or using our Zodiacs to find a suitable beach to land for swimming, snorkelling or beachcombing.
The island of Levuka and the town of Ovalau have 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.
Disembark and transfer to Nadi airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Arrive today.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Island Sky
| Length: | 90 Metres |
|---|---|
| Built/Refurbished: | 1992/2018 |
With a maximum passenger capacity of only 116, a vessel of her size is capable of carrying many more but instead the MS Island Sky has the benefit of unusually large suites, luxuriously appointed public areas and spacious outside decks.
There is a high ratio of crew to passengers- the friendly crew of 75 crew and Scandinavian captains are experienced mariners, having been in service aboard large 2000 plus passenger vessels and who now prefer a less frantic life aboard a small ship. If, like them and us, you prefer a more peaceful life at sea, you will find the MS Island Sky the perfect ship. When choosing the vessel for your next voyage of discovery, you can select a ship with endless entertainment and impersonal service or come with us where peace, high quality service and attention to detail are the order of the day. We promise there will be no organised entertainment, fancy dress, deck games or any of the usual big ship experiences. The atmosphere on board is more akin to a private yacht or country hotel. A little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, guest speakers, informative port briefings from our cruise director and of course good food which may be enjoyed leisurely in the attractive dining room. After a day ashore you will return to the comfort and peace of a well run and exceedingly comfortable ship.
Your SuiteOnboard there are 57 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. All feature a sitting room area and some have private balconies. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, large wardrobes, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD player which can also play CDs and a telephone in each suite. Bottled water, towelling dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted toiletries and individually controlled air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be.
Your SpaceThe spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a large lounge where daily briefings and talks will be provided throughout the voyage and an elegant bar where a pianist plays periodically throughout the day. The bar also features a 24-hour tea and coffee station. The onboard library is the perfect place to relax with a book and is stocked with reference books pertaining to the places the vessel is visiting along with a selection of games and two computers with internet access. Daily newspapers and magazines are also placed in the library depending on local availability. There is also WI-FI access throughout the vessel. Outside there is a rear sun deck where meals are served in warm weather under shade, a bar and comfortable deck furniture for sun bathing or relaxing with a book. On the top deck there is a Jacuzzi and further observation and sun deck. There is also a small hairdressers on board with appointments made on request.
Your DiningAnother benefit of a small ship is the quality of the cuisine. With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the galley is able to provide delicious meals. Where possible and when it meets his high standards, the chef will obtain local produce in markets or buy the catch of the day from a passing fishing boat. Such purchases enhance the well stocked larders and bring a local touch to the varied menus.
Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.
