Marine expedition to New Caledonia, Vanuatu & Solomon Islands
NEW CALEDONIA + VANUATU + SOLOMON ISLANDS
March 21 — April 3, 2027
New Caledonia, Vanuatu & Solomon Islands
тур на Соломоновы острова, тур в Папуа Новая Гвинея
March 21 — April 3, 2027
New Caledonia, Vanuatu & Solomon Islands
тур на Соломоновы острова, тур в Папуа Новая Гвинея
Marine expedition through the heart of the South Pacific — encounter the pristine nature and living culture of Melanesia's islands.
Set sail from Auckland through the untouched atolls of New Caledonia, the volcanic islands of Vanuatu with their ancient traditions, and the remote shores of the Solomon Islands — all the way to historic Honiara on Guadalcanal.
Explore white-sand beaches and turquoise lagoons, snorkel among vibrant reefs, discover World War II relics and living villages with traditions thousands of years old. Learn the origins of bungee jumping on Pentecost Island and meet the descendants of the Bounty mutineers on Norfolk Island.
The luxury vessel SH Minerva creates an atmosphere where genuine adventure meets refined comfort.
Set sail from Auckland through the untouched atolls of New Caledonia, the volcanic islands of Vanuatu with their ancient traditions, and the remote shores of the Solomon Islands — all the way to historic Honiara on Guadalcanal.
Explore white-sand beaches and turquoise lagoons, snorkel among vibrant reefs, discover World War II relics and living villages with traditions thousands of years old. Learn the origins of bungee jumping on Pentecost Island and meet the descendants of the Bounty mutineers on Norfolk Island.
The luxury vessel SH Minerva creates an atmosphere where genuine adventure meets refined comfort.
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SCHEDULE AND COST:
Dates: March 21 – April 3, 2027
Duration: 13 nights / 14 days
Cost per person (double occupancy)*:
*Cabin prices are subject to change. Please check availability and current pricing with your manager. Cabin descriptions are available at the end of the page.
TRAVEL PROGRAM: TOUR to Papua New Guinea
Day 0. March 21, 2027 (Friday). Auckland, New Zealand
Our journey begins in Auckland, from where we will board on our vessel.
Meals included: none
Accommodation included: 4/5* hotel in Brisbane
Day 1. March 21, 2027 (Saturday). Auckland, New Zealand
New Zealand's largest city spreads across volcanic hills between two harbours. A vibrant, multicultural metropolis with the Auckland Art Gallery, the War Memorial Museum with Maori treasures (taonga), and the revamped Britomart district with restaurants and boutiques. The Sky Tower (328 m) offers sweeping panoramic views.
Meals included: not included
Accommodation included: embarkation aboard SH Minerva
Days 2–3. March 22–23, 2027. AT SEA
Two full days at sea to settle into the expedition atmosphere. Enjoy ocean views from observation decks, attend expert lectures on WWII Pacific history and Melanesian culture, join photography workshops with the ship's professional photographers. Sauna, jacuzzi, pool, and gym are all available.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 4. March 24, 2027 (Tuesday). Norfolk Island, Australian Territory
Halfway between New Zealand and Australia — a self-governing territory with a remarkable history. Captain Cook claimed it for Britain in 1774, a penal colony was established in 1788, and in 1856 descendants of the Bounty mutineers were resettled here — and their descendants still live here today. The island's connection to the Bounty mutiny is preserved in ruins, historic buildings, and four museums.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 5. March 25, 2027 (Wednesday). AT SEA
A full day on board with lectures, photography workshops, and time by the pool. The expedition team prepares you for the upcoming stops in New Caledonia.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 6. March 26, 2027 (Thursday). Isle of Pines, New Caledonia (France)
One of the most beautiful islands in the world. White-sand beaches, turquoise bays, and the ancient pines that gave the island its name when Cook arrived. In Oro Bay, a natural coral pool shelters brilliantly coloured tropical fish in crystal-clear water. To the north of Kuto Bay lie remains of a 19th-century penal colony. Scenic trails lead to Mount N'ga (262 m) with broad panoramic views.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 7. March 27, 2027 (Friday). Lifou Island, Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia
The largest of the three coral islands of the Loyalty archipelago — the jewel of New Caledonia. Sheltered coves, scenic cliffs, and secluded beaches like Luengoni. Local Melanesians live in traditional round huts in harmony with nature. Vanilla is the island's main crop, and the Vanilla House shares its production secrets. Snorkellers will find vibrant reefs near the Jokin cliffs.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 8. March 28, 2027 (Saturday). Port Vila, Efate Island, Vanuatu
The capital of Vanuatu — a lively yet unhurried city with a rich Melanesian past shaped by Portuguese, British, and French settlers. Totem poles stand alongside waterfront cafes and bars. The National Museum of Vanuatu holds tribal artefacts; Ekasup Cultural Village offers traditional songs and dances; the busy Mama's Market reveals the authentic life of Melanesia.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 9. March 29, 2027 (Sunday). Ambrym + Pentecost, Vanuatu
Two remarkable islands in one day. Ambrym — a volcanic island with black-sand beaches and the dramatic twin volcanoes Marum and Benbow. Lush tropical forests, traditional magic, famous sand drawings, and ceremonial kava. Pentecost — the birthplace of bungee jumping. The naghol ritual — leaping from 30-metre towers with lianas tied to the ankles — is performed here from April to June to celebrate the yam harvest. A legendary and mesmerising spectacle.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 10. March 30, 2027 (Monday). Champagne Beach, Espiritu Santo Island, Vanuatu
Fine powdery white sand and dazzling turquoise water make Champagne Beach one of the most exceptional beaches in the South Pacific. Named for the bubbles that fizz and hiss at low tide from volcanic activity — like a glass of champagne. A crescent-shaped bay perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing in the shade of coconut palms.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 11. March 31, 2027 (Tuesday). Tegua Island, Torres Islands, Vanuatu
A tiny crescent-shaped island less than six kilometres long — one of five coral atolls in the Torres group, some 1,050 km north of Efate. Visitors are few; life moves at a slow pace. Tegua made world history as home to the first recognised "climate refugees" — villagers who were relocated inland to higher ground due to rising sea levels.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 12. April 1, 2027 (Wednesday). Lata, Nendo Island, Solomon Islands
Nendo (also Santa Cruz) lies in the remote south-eastern Solomon Islands and preserves a culture distinct from the rest of the archipelago. Village life continues with ancient customs: residents in palm-leaf clothing, fish cooked on hot stones, jungle dwellings. The island is renowned for its unique ritual currency tevau — "red-feather money" — crafted from the feathers of the scarlet honeyeater.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 13. April 2, 2027 (Thursday). Santa Ana Island, Solomon Islands
A lush green coral island east of San Cristobal (Makira), with quiet white-sand beaches and scenic inland lakes. Locals take great pride in their rich cultural heritage, welcoming visitors with traditional songs and dances in vibrant costumes. The island is known for its finely crafted ceremonial wooden bowls that carry the stories of ancestors. Tropical fish swarm among the reefs.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 14. April 3, 2027 (Friday). Honiara (Solomon Islands)
The expedition concludes in the capital of the Solomon Islands. Honiara spreads along the north-eastern coast of Guadalcanal at the mouth of the Matanikau River, growing up around a US military base during and after WWII. The American War Memorial offers a comprehensive lesson in the military history of the region. Today the city has a relaxed atmosphere, virtually free of tourists, with an authentic everyday feel — and the palm-fringed Bonegi Beach conceals sunken WWII ships for snorkelling.
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: not included
*Please do not purchase flight tickets without prior confirmation from us.
Duration: 13 nights / 14 days
Cost per person (double occupancy)*:
- Cabin with window D4, 20 m² — from USD 11,100
- Suite, 40 m² — from USD 19,425
- Premium Suite, 47 m² — from USD 22,200
*Cabin prices are subject to change. Please check availability and current pricing with your manager. Cabin descriptions are available at the end of the page.
TRAVEL PROGRAM: TOUR to Papua New Guinea
Day 0. March 21, 2027 (Friday). Auckland, New Zealand
Our journey begins in Auckland, from where we will board on our vessel.
Meals included: none
Accommodation included: 4/5* hotel in Brisbane
Day 1. March 21, 2027 (Saturday). Auckland, New Zealand
New Zealand's largest city spreads across volcanic hills between two harbours. A vibrant, multicultural metropolis with the Auckland Art Gallery, the War Memorial Museum with Maori treasures (taonga), and the revamped Britomart district with restaurants and boutiques. The Sky Tower (328 m) offers sweeping panoramic views.
Meals included: not included
Accommodation included: embarkation aboard SH Minerva
Days 2–3. March 22–23, 2027. AT SEA
Two full days at sea to settle into the expedition atmosphere. Enjoy ocean views from observation decks, attend expert lectures on WWII Pacific history and Melanesian culture, join photography workshops with the ship's professional photographers. Sauna, jacuzzi, pool, and gym are all available.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 4. March 24, 2027 (Tuesday). Norfolk Island, Australian Territory
Halfway between New Zealand and Australia — a self-governing territory with a remarkable history. Captain Cook claimed it for Britain in 1774, a penal colony was established in 1788, and in 1856 descendants of the Bounty mutineers were resettled here — and their descendants still live here today. The island's connection to the Bounty mutiny is preserved in ruins, historic buildings, and four museums.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 5. March 25, 2027 (Wednesday). AT SEA
A full day on board with lectures, photography workshops, and time by the pool. The expedition team prepares you for the upcoming stops in New Caledonia.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 6. March 26, 2027 (Thursday). Isle of Pines, New Caledonia (France)
One of the most beautiful islands in the world. White-sand beaches, turquoise bays, and the ancient pines that gave the island its name when Cook arrived. In Oro Bay, a natural coral pool shelters brilliantly coloured tropical fish in crystal-clear water. To the north of Kuto Bay lie remains of a 19th-century penal colony. Scenic trails lead to Mount N'ga (262 m) with broad panoramic views.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 7. March 27, 2027 (Friday). Lifou Island, Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia
The largest of the three coral islands of the Loyalty archipelago — the jewel of New Caledonia. Sheltered coves, scenic cliffs, and secluded beaches like Luengoni. Local Melanesians live in traditional round huts in harmony with nature. Vanilla is the island's main crop, and the Vanilla House shares its production secrets. Snorkellers will find vibrant reefs near the Jokin cliffs.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 8. March 28, 2027 (Saturday). Port Vila, Efate Island, Vanuatu
The capital of Vanuatu — a lively yet unhurried city with a rich Melanesian past shaped by Portuguese, British, and French settlers. Totem poles stand alongside waterfront cafes and bars. The National Museum of Vanuatu holds tribal artefacts; Ekasup Cultural Village offers traditional songs and dances; the busy Mama's Market reveals the authentic life of Melanesia.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 9. March 29, 2027 (Sunday). Ambrym + Pentecost, Vanuatu
Two remarkable islands in one day. Ambrym — a volcanic island with black-sand beaches and the dramatic twin volcanoes Marum and Benbow. Lush tropical forests, traditional magic, famous sand drawings, and ceremonial kava. Pentecost — the birthplace of bungee jumping. The naghol ritual — leaping from 30-metre towers with lianas tied to the ankles — is performed here from April to June to celebrate the yam harvest. A legendary and mesmerising spectacle.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 10. March 30, 2027 (Monday). Champagne Beach, Espiritu Santo Island, Vanuatu
Fine powdery white sand and dazzling turquoise water make Champagne Beach one of the most exceptional beaches in the South Pacific. Named for the bubbles that fizz and hiss at low tide from volcanic activity — like a glass of champagne. A crescent-shaped bay perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing in the shade of coconut palms.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 11. March 31, 2027 (Tuesday). Tegua Island, Torres Islands, Vanuatu
A tiny crescent-shaped island less than six kilometres long — one of five coral atolls in the Torres group, some 1,050 km north of Efate. Visitors are few; life moves at a slow pace. Tegua made world history as home to the first recognised "climate refugees" — villagers who were relocated inland to higher ground due to rising sea levels.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 12. April 1, 2027 (Wednesday). Lata, Nendo Island, Solomon Islands
Nendo (also Santa Cruz) lies in the remote south-eastern Solomon Islands and preserves a culture distinct from the rest of the archipelago. Village life continues with ancient customs: residents in palm-leaf clothing, fish cooked on hot stones, jungle dwellings. The island is renowned for its unique ritual currency tevau — "red-feather money" — crafted from the feathers of the scarlet honeyeater.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 13. April 2, 2027 (Thursday). Santa Ana Island, Solomon Islands
A lush green coral island east of San Cristobal (Makira), with quiet white-sand beaches and scenic inland lakes. Locals take great pride in their rich cultural heritage, welcoming visitors with traditional songs and dances in vibrant costumes. The island is known for its finely crafted ceremonial wooden bowls that carry the stories of ancestors. Tropical fish swarm among the reefs.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: aboard SH Minerva
Day 14. April 3, 2027 (Friday). Honiara (Solomon Islands)
The expedition concludes in the capital of the Solomon Islands. Honiara spreads along the north-eastern coast of Guadalcanal at the mouth of the Matanikau River, growing up around a US military base during and after WWII. The American War Memorial offers a comprehensive lesson in the military history of the region. Today the city has a relaxed atmosphere, virtually free of tourists, with an authentic everyday feel — and the palm-fringed Bonegi Beach conceals sunken WWII ships for snorkelling.
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: not included
*Please do not purchase flight tickets without prior confirmation from us.
SH Minerva
The SH Minerva was designed for voyages to the most remote corners of our planet, including polar regions.
SH Minerva is the first in a series of three creatively conceived and designed next-generation expedition vessels of enhanced polar class.
Featuring an Ice-Strengthened PC5 hull and oversized stabilizers for smooth sailing, the ship is capable of expeditions to the world’s most inaccessible and breathtaking regions. SH Minerva offers its guests five-star accommodations, surrounded by elegant and refined interiors in a "Scandinavian Chic" style.
SH Minerva is the first in a series of three creatively conceived and designed next-generation expedition vessels of enhanced polar class.
Featuring an Ice-Strengthened PC5 hull and oversized stabilizers for smooth sailing, the ship is capable of expeditions to the world’s most inaccessible and breathtaking regions. SH Minerva offers its guests five-star accommodations, surrounded by elegant and refined interiors in a "Scandinavian Chic" style.
CABIN TYPES
- Oceanview D4, M420 sqm, 3 paxCabins of this category are located on 4 deck, in the bow part of the ship (D4) and closer to the middle of the ship (M4).
Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m2 (215ft2) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom. - Balcony D5, М5, D625 sqm, 3 paxCabins of this category are located in the bow and in the aft part (D5), in the middle part of the ship (M5) on 5 deck, and on 6 deck (D6).
Balcony Staterooms measure 25m2 (269ft2) – including a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom. - Suite40 sqm, 4 paxCabins of this category are located on 5 and 6 decks, in the middle part of the ship.
Suites feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and walk-in shower – and a 10m2 (108ft2) private balcony. - Premium Suite47 sqm, 4 paxCabins of this category are located on 6 deck, in the aft part of the ship.
Premium Suites have a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and shower – walk-in wardrobe, and a 12m2 (129ft2) private balcony.
Available in all cabins:
- Interactive TV
- Mini bar
- Safe
- Air conditioning system
- Pillow Menu
- Hair dryer Babyliss
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Coffee machine
- Service 24/7
- 24-hour self-service laundry on deck
Cost includes:
- Airport–hotel transfer
- 1 night at a hotel in Brisbane
- Hotel–airport transfer
- Charter flight Brisbane – Honiara
- Cruise
- Port–airport transfer
- Charter flight Jayapura – Bali
- All meals on board
- Accommodation in a cabin of the selected category
- 24-hour cabin service
- Coffee, tea, soft drinks, and selected alcoholic beverages available 24/7
- Lectures by our expedition team and guest speakers
Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):
- International flight to Brisbane an return flight from Denpasar;
- Compulsory health insurance;
- Travel insurance;
- Private Zodiac Boat Tours & Kayaking During the Cruise
- Alcoholic beverages of premium brands,
- Spa and beauty services, laundry services, shopping at retail stores on board
To take with:
- Shoes and clothing for arrival and departure cities;
- Waterproof (necessarily!);
- One or two t-shirts;
- Jeans or other comfortable trousers;
- Sports clothing for the onboard fitness centre;
- Swimwear for visiting the spa and pool;
- Comfortable, moisture-resistant boots with ribbed soles (hiking boots);
- Trainers or comfortable shoes that make you feel comfortable on board;
- Waterproof backpack for shore drop-offs;
- A waterproof, airtight case for your camera and other electronic gear;
- UV-protective sunglasses;
- Sunscreen for face and lips, and hand cream;
- Camera, extra memory cards and flash drives, removable batteries, and lenses;
- Laptop or tablet for uploading photos;
- Charges for electronics, adapters, and power banks as required;
- An extra pair of eyeglasses;
- Medical supplies prescribed by your doctor, with a few extra days to spare
- Documents
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
- UNIQUENESS
We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears. - ADVENTURISM
Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again. - SAFETY
In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features. - EXPERIENCE
We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbings are guided by Mzungu himself, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort. - REASONABLE PRICE
All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.
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