Tropical Islands of Fiji, Samoa & Tonga: An 11-Day South Pacific Expedition Cruise

Meet your fellow adventurers at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort in Nadi, the multicultural gateway to Fiji on the mainland of Viti Levu and home of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest Hindu temple, Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, and the Garden of the Sleeping Giant featuring more than 1,000 species of orchids. Join our transfer to Heritage Adventurer where the captain and expedition team will be waiting to greet you on arrival and show you to your cabin. You will have time to settle in and familiarise yourself with the ship; we will also take the opportunity to introduce you to your expedition team and our voyage plans. You are invited to join the expedition team in the Observation Lounge and on the Observation Deck

This morning, wake off the palmfringed coast of Savusavu, the tiny tropical town on Fiji’s secondlargest island, Vanua Levu. Known as the ‘Hidden Paradise of Fiji’ and famous for its hot springs and its colonial trading history, Savusavu is the paradisical hub for today’s adventure. Enjoy an authentic slice of Fiji, where ancient volcanic landscapes meet lush greenery and pristine reefs. Options today include exploring Nakawaga Rainforest, a lush 200-acre virgin tropical rainforest home to enormous indigenous trees, wildlife such as Flying Foxes and the Fiji Goshawk, and wild orchids. After a warm village welcome, a hike through the rainforest is rewarded with a swim in the crystal-clear pools below the backdrop of the stunning 50-foot Nakawaga Waterfall. Enjoy your time in the jungle exploring Wainiliku Creek and the surrounding limestone caves. Alternatively, experience the cultural heartbeat of Fiji with a visit to a local village to learn about their way of life. Witness a thrilling performance of the traditional Meke, a powerful blend of storytelling, singing and rhythmic dancing used to celebrate, recount legends and record historic events. Then enjoy a ‘tree to bar’ tour at the KokoMana Chocolate Factory before sampling their famous sustainable, handmade Fijian chocolates.

Forming part of the French overseas collective of Wallis and Futuna, the volcanic island of Futuna offers a rare glimpse into a way of life largely untouched by the outside world. Still deeply rooted in traditional Polynesian culture, and one of the Pacific’s more remote inhabited islands, we will have the opportunity to learn the island’s stories amid grand mountainous landscapes. Discover the striking Poi Basilica, built on the sacred site where Saint Peter Chanel, the only canonised martyr of Oceania, lost his life, and learn about the thousands-of-years-old taro crop and its importance to the region. After lunch on board, it’s time to discover what lies below Alofi Island’s gin-clear waters on a snorkelling excursion, Zodiac cruise its shorelines or enjoy a nature walk and birding with our guides. Inhabited until 1840, Alofi is now recognised as an Important Bird Area, home to many native species including Polynesian Wattled Honeyeaters, Polynesian Trillers, Fiji Shrikebills and Polynesian Starlings. Snorkel this impressive underwater world where Parrotfish, Butterflyfish, Angelfish, anemones, sea stars, urchins and cucumbers live among vast coral gardens patrolled by harmless Reef Sharks. Alternatively, enjoy a Zodiac cruise, discovering the island’s vibrant coastline looking for wildlife. This evening, enjoy stargazing under what is considered one of the best night skies in the Pacific.

Say bonjour to the remote French territory of Wallis, also known as Uvéa and one of the three customary kingdoms of the French Overseas Collective of Wallis and Futuna. This volcanic outpost wraps off-the-beaten-track island charm in a stunning natural landscape featuring a pristine, reef-fringed lagoon scattered with 13 white-sand islets, all easily explored by our Zodiacs. Wallis is rich in history, as part of the Tongan maritime empire Tu’i Tonga Empire, which dates back to 950 CE and peaked during the 13th to 16th centuries. An important World War II U.S. military and naval base, Wallis was home to 6,000 American troops before it became a French Overseas Territory in 1961. We will explore both the island’s natural beauty and its rich history, starting with a visit to Lake Lalolalo, one of Wallis’ three crater lakes and one of the Pacific’s largest at 80 metres deep and 450 metres wide. Take in stunning views from the lookout and explore the surrounding sacred rainforest and dramatic cliffs. Discover the ancient ruins of Kolonui Tongan Fort, one of the Pacific’s most extensive walled fortifications, and the sacred mound of Talietumu for a fascinating glimpse into Wallis’ medieval past. In Mala’efo’ou village, explore the Church of St. Joseph, the island’s oldest church, built in 1912, visit the national monument of the Cathedral of Our Lady, and uncover the relics of Wallis’ World War II and Pacific history at the impressive local museum.

Today we arrive in beautiful Samoa to explore the untouched beauty of Savai‘i, the former kingdom’s largest island. Here, ancient customs and traditions passed through generations are still proudly practised today through ‘fa’a Samoa’ (the Samoan way). Enjoy an authentic slice of traditional island life on one of the South Pacific’s most culturally preserved outposts. There is much to experience exploring Samoa’s ‘wild heart’, from lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, pristine beaches and impossibly blue waters to otherworldly volcanic landscapes. Options today include the Tafua Rainforest Reserve where sprawling rainforest meets jagged stretches of lava coast, complete with towering cliffs and spectacular sea arches. Explore Samoa’s own ‘lost world’ where Samoan Flying Foxes roost in the trees above, and discover the massive volcanic caldera known as Tafua Crater. The Reserve offers excellent birding; look for rare and endangered endemics including the Mao, Samoan Triller, Samoan Island Thrush, and elusive Tooth-billed Pigeon, Samoa’s treasured national bird and one of the closest living relatives of the Dodo. Those interested in history and culture will enjoy a cultural immersion and exchange at the remote village of Palauli. Be warmly welcomed with a Taualuga, a revered traditional dance considered the apex of Samoan performance art and the centrepiece of the country’s culture. Join villagers and guides and learn about their traditional way of life with opportunities to make Siapo, traditional barkcloth, or tapa cloth, from the inner bark of the paper mulberry tree. This versatile cloth plays an important role in Samoan life, serving as ceremonial attire, bed coverings and cherished decorative pieces.

Today’s adventures see us sailing to Apia, Samoa’s bustling capital on the island of Upolu. This laid-back island city, where traditional Samoan culture blends with modern life, is also the country’s only city, and its commercial, governmental and cultural heart. Colourful markets, historic landmarks and a lively waterfront make it a fascinating place to discover. Enjoy a day of cultural immersion as we explore the numerous highlights, both old and new, across the city. Those interested in gardens and culture can visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, dedicated to the famed Scottish author, and pay their respects at his tomb overlooking the village of Vailima and out across the ocean, just below the 1,560-foot summit of Mount Vaea. Learn about native flora at the Vailima Botanical Garden, a national reserve established in 1972 to promote conservation. Spanning 50 acres, it offers a glimpse into Samoa’s rich biodiversity with more than 400 species of plants, including rare and endangered Samoan varieties sych as Maniuniu (Balaka insularis) and Matalafi (Psychotria insularum), alongside excellent birdwatching opportunities. Next, marvel at the towering Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Originally built in 1884 and extensively rebuilt following damage from the 2009 earthquake, it is a breathtaking landmark featuring vibrant stained-glass windows, hand-carved timber ceilings, and a massive 2,000-person capacity. Try the local coffee at the Immaculate Café & Religious Shop before we venture to the lively Fugalei Market, featuring local arts, crafts and delicacies. For those wanting to explore the crystal-clear warm waters of Samoa’s famed Palolo Deep Marine Reserve, a spectacular underwater world awaits. One of the South Pacific’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems, and under protection since 1974, this pristine reserve and vibrant underwater trench is complete with a blue hole, sprawling coral gardens and thousands of colourful Parrotfish, Butterflyfish and Angelfish, with sea turtles, Eagle Rays and octopus also known to frequent these waters.

Relax on board after our adventures; join a lecture, edit your photos or update your journal. You can also watch your voyage unfold from the Bridge with the captain, in the Observation Lounge, or poolside, as we sail towards the Kingdom of Tonga.

Mālō e Lelei Tonga! Today we wake up in the Kingdom of Tonga, the last remaining Polynesian monarchy and an archipelago of more than 170 tropical islands, most of which are uninhabited. Tonga’s white sand beaches, stunning azure waters, pristine coral reefs, verdant jungles, rich Polynesian culture and genuinely friendly hospitality have seen it labelled the ‘Friendly Islands’; making it perfect for our day’s adventure. Located in northern Tonga, Vava’u is a paradise for intrepid travellers seeking both adventure and tranquillity, and is one of the world’s premier Humpback Whale sanctuaries. We have two options for spending your morning here. On the nature tour, discover the natural beauty of Tonga with a visit to iconic Mount Talau National Park, named after its flat-topped mountain with its peak said to be stolen by spirits, where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the Port of Refuge and nearby islands. Birdwatchers will be on the lookout for the endemic Tongan Whistler along with the Polynesian Starling and Pacific-imperial Pigeon. Afterwards, enjoy exploring the island’s rich flora at the Ene’io Botanical Garden, Tonga’s only botanical garden, unofficial bird sanctuary and life’s work of Haniteli Fa’anunu, the former Tongan Director for Agriculture and Forestry, helping save Tonga’s endangered plant species. Or discover the fascinating world of Mabé pearls, also known as half pearls, during a hands-on tour at one of Vava’u’s pioneering community pearl farms. Learn how they’re cultivated before being turned into stunning jewellery, and try your hand at polishing a pearl yourself before enjoying a unique shopping opportunity. Continue for a visit to Tonga’s only certified organic vanilla farm. Here, explore the fragrant vanilla plantations and learn about vanilla cultivation, followed by a visit to Sia’o Kafoa, a remarkable man-made mound built by two brothers during a legendary race for land ownership, where local legend provides a fascinating glimpse into Tonga’s rich cultural heritage. This afternoon we reunite and make our way to Kapa Island to explore the astounding natural beauty of Swallows Cave, one of Vava’u’s most iconic and enchanting sea caves, named after the large number of Swallows which nest here. Accessible only by boat, this majestic cavern reveals shimmering turquoise waters framed by towering limestone walls and stalactites. As sunlight pours through the entrance, it casts an ethereal glow across the underwater world, creating an unforgettable setting for snorkelling and photography. Or soak in the sun ashore, unwinding on the expansive white-sand beach and explore the idyllic surroundings.

Today marks our return to Fiji, and a rare glimpse into authentic Fijian village life in one of the most unspoiled corners of the South Pacific. Expect to be captivated by the astounding beauty of the remote horseshoe-shaped island of Fulaga in the Southern Lau archipelago. Here, where jungle-capped islands are joined by impossibly clear turquoise water, white sand beaches and incredible limestone formations and caves, we will explore Fulaga’s tranquil inner lagoon dotted with hundreds of small, mushroom-shaped limestone islands and islets complete with nodding palms. Fulaga is home to a close-knit community of around 400 residents living across three traditional villages and has a rich history of traditional navigation and canoe craftsmanship, with local knowledge passed down through generations. We will immerse ourselves in traditional Fijian culture as we gain insight into this remote corner of the Pacific through a traditional kava ceremony. A deeply meaningful Fijian custom, we will also have a chance to witness and purchase traditional Fijian crafts made by local artisans before exploring these time-honoured villages.

Another day in Fiji brings new adventures on the country’s third-largest island, Taveuni. Known as the ‘Garden Island’ due to its lush tropical rainforest, featuring dramatic waterfalls and rich biodiversity, including impressive coral gardens, Taveuni is a paradise for nature lovers, hikers and anyone wanting to explore Fiji’s authentic wild side and local culture. Options today include exploring Bouma National Heritage Park, which encompasses some 435 square kilometres and 80% of the island’s interior. This impressive conservation initiative is co-managed by local villages and the Fijian Government. It receives some of the highest rainfall in the Pacific, contributing to its spectacular waterfalls and otherworldly, primordial rainforest. Sure to impress birders and botanists, be on the lookout for rare flora and fauna including endangered endemic wildlife like the Taveuni Silktail, Orange Dove and the Fijian Monkey-faced Bat. Alternatively, enjoy a day of underwater discovery exploring the iconic waters of the Somosomo Strait. Nestled between the islands of Taveuni and Vanua Levu, this spectacular stretch of ocean is renowned as one of the world’s premier diving and snorkelling destinations and the ‘soft coral capital of the world’. Beneath its crystal-clear waters lies a kaleidoscope of vibrant corals teeming with an extraordinary diversity of marine life with more than 1,400 species of reef fish including Butterflyfish, Angelfish, and Parrotfish, as well as sea turtles, Manta Rays and Spinner Dolphins. This evening, enjoy a special final night dinner as we celebrate our South Pacific adventure.

Be sure to be out on deck or in the Observation Lounge early this morning for our arrival into the impressive waterfront city of Lautoka, also known as ‘Sugar City’, due to its famous crop. After a final breakfast together and farewells, join your transfer to either the Nadi International Airport or Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort. To allow time for disembarkation procedures and travel from the port, we do not recommend booking flights departing before 1300 hours. Note: During our voyage, circumstances may make it necessary or desirable to deviate from the proposed itinerary. This can include poor weather and opportunities for making unplanned excursions. Your Expedition Leader will keep you fully informed. This tour offers a variety of activities and excursions. Your personal interests will determine which of these you wish to join. Please note that some activities and excursions will run at similar times, and it will not be possible to participate in both. Accordingly, refunds for excursions and missed landings are not available. Voyages are planned and scheduled pending final regulatory approval.

Itineraries are subject to change.