Voyage to Melanesia

02 March 2009 - 21 March 2009

Clipper OdysseyThe 118-passenger 'Clipper Odyssey' provides superior onboard comfort while sailing to remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations. All of A&K's 'Odyssey' voyages are accompanied by destination experts and lecturers individually selected for each sailing, so that you know the stories behind all that you see. Staterooms are spacious and comfortable and all have an ocean view (some with a balcony). Each room includes a private bathroom, sitting area with sofa, in-room music system and television. An INMARSAT telecommunications system permits email access and an infirmary is staffed with an accredited physician on every voyage. After your daily adventures, relax in one of the lounges, visit the bridge with the ship’s officer, take a dip in the pool, work-out in the fitness room or pamper yourself with a massage. The intimate onboard atmosphere and expert hospitality, delivered by a well-trained crew of 73, ensures an unforgettable experience as ‘Clipper Odyssey’ makes her way through remote and culturally interesting waters. Onboard the ship all meals, drinks (except premium brand) and gratuities are included. Voyage to Melanesia ItineraryExplore the islands of Vanuatu, the Solomons and Papua New Guinea on a voyage of culture, history and natural beauty. Stroll along pristine white beaches, view active volcanoes, snorkel in crystal clear waters and learn about the epic battles of the allied forces.2 March – London/Nadi, Fiji Depart from London Heathrow for Nadi via Los Angeles, crossing the International Dateline. 4 March - Nadi, FijiUpon arrival, transfer to the Sofitel Hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore. 5 March - Nadi, Fiji/Embark Clipper OdysseyAfter breakfast, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Nadi including lunch. This afternoon, board Clipper Odyssey and settle in for the first evening on board.6 March – Yasawa Group, FijiThe ship anchors at one the northernmost islets of the Yasawa chain, where we receive a traditional Fijian Bula welcome. Join the naturalist to identify tropical plants and look at ancient volcanic landscapes; go birding with the ornithologist to hunt for endemic species; or snorkel and dive amongst rainbow-hued fish.7 March – At SeaJoin the expedition staff as we begin our series of stimulating lectures, relax in the library with a good book, or enjoy the beautiful weather out on deck as you look for marine life and seabirds.8 March - Ambrym Island, VanuatuVolcanic Ambrym has two twin active volcanoes located in its centre. The rich volcanic soil produces some of the lushest foliage imaginable. Go ashore today for one of the most famed dances in the South Pacific – the men’s Rom Dance – which celebrates the yam harvest. Each dancer, clad in tall conical masks and a costume of thick banana leaves, represents a magical spirit, dancing to the sound of the slit drum. 9 March - Luganville, Espiritu Santo Island, VanuatuThe large jungle-clad island of Espiritu Santo, first sighted by the Spaniards in 1606, became known worldwide in World War II. At the conclusion of the war, there was so much leftover war material, that it was bull-dozed into the sea. Go ashore at Luganville where war relics can still be seen, or take a drive through the lush countryside to visit a traditional local village. Meet the villagers, learn about daily life in Vanuatu and take a nature walk to search for orchids and some of the island’s 55 species of birds. Enjoy snorkelling over exquisite coral reefs or keen divers may wish to explore the wreck of the USS President Coolidge.10 March - At Sea The lecture series continues with a focus on the Solomon Islands and their pivotal role played during the World War II South Pacific campaign.11 March - Santa Ana, Solomon IslandsIn the far southeastern corner of the archipelago of the Solomon Islands lies tiny Santa Ana, an enchanting island whose inhabitants are our cordial hosts. Enjoy a birding hike or a several-hour hike across the island to an elaborately decorated ‘Spirit House’. There will also be the opportunity for snorkelling along reefs in crystal clear coves. 12 March - Florida Islands, Solomon IslandsThe Florida Islands offer sinuous waterways and enticing coves. Go ashore in the morning to explore the small town of Tulagi, the Solomons’ former capital, to meet the villagers. Lecturers describe the history of WWII, and how it affected these islands. Enjoy snorkelling in calm waters, where colourful corals proliferate on war relics. Nearing sunset, Clipper Odyssey crosses Iron Bottom Sound – aptly named for the numerous WWII ships that sank here – to cast a wreath in honour of all those who died there. 13 March - New Georgia Group, Solomon IslandsRoads are so scarce in the New Georgia Islands area, that the only way to access these wonderful islands is by water. The ship winds its way through countless passageways, studded with green-covered islands. Conditions permitting we may stop at Plum Pudding Island. Enjoy snorkelling in these warm waters abounding with corals, parrotfish and groupers. 14 March - Western Province/Vella Lavella, Solomon IslandsSail through Blackett Strait to Enoghe Inlet for Zodiac excursions around the dense jungle and palm groves of this former WWII stronghold of the Japanese. Snorkel and dive enthusiasts can see some of the most intact and accessible WWII wrecks in these waters.15 March - Buka, Bougainville Island, Papua New GuineaThe large island of Bougainville is geographically related to the Solomon Islands, but became part of Papua New Guinea in 1898. Listen to the fascinating onboard lecturers’ commentary about its intriguing yet brutal history, as the ship approaches the large Empress Augusta Bay. Going ashore at Buka, we enjoy a welcome by the local islanders, a visit to the lush botanical gardens and a stroll through the marketplace to look out for Buka baskets, for which this region is famed. 16 March - Rabaul, East New Britain Island, Papua New GuineaThere are few harbours in the world more magnificent than Rabaul’s, located on the tip of East New Britain Island. The keyhole entrance opens up into a spectacular circular lagoon-like setting surrounded on all sides by very active, sometimes smoking volcanoes. Ashore, explore the colourful open-air market, the hillside seismological station and two small museums. In the evening, witness one of the most dazzling sights of the South Pacific – the eerie outdoor Fire Dance – where members of the Bainings tribe march across hot coals to the beats of haunting drums; a spectacle rarely seen by visitors.17 March - At SeaToday, take advantage of a relaxing day at sea. Enjoy a massage, a dip in the pool, or just relax on-deck. Be sure to join the expedition team as they continue their informative lecture series.18 March - Kairiru Island, Papua New GuineaWake before dawn to look out for the orange glow of volcanic embers and smoky plumes as we sail passed the conical volcano of Manam. Late afternoon, there’s time for a brief visit to Kairiru Island, located within visual distance of the mainland. Ashore, depending on the ship’s anchorage, you may have the opportunity to hike to the summit for superb views, meet the islanders or visit the local hot springs. 19 March - Wewak, Papua New Guinea/Cairns, AustraliaDisembark in Wewak and transfer to the airport for a charter flight to Cairns, Australia. Transfer to the Shangri-La Hotel for an evening at leisure. 20 March - Cairns/LondonAfter breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to London Heathrow, via Auckland and Los Angeles, arriving the following day. The nature of expeditionary cruising means the captain may change the itinerary based on local conditions.

The price includes international flights, all transfers and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary, and full board in an A-Deck Mid Ship Cabin on Clipper Odyssey.

Room supplements (per person per night) from

Prices are per person per CRUISE from: Main Deck Forward Cabin £230; Main Deck Mid Ship Cabin £474; Lido Deck Mid Ship Cabin £850; Bridge Deck Deluxe Cabin £1280; Bridge Balcony Suite £1984; Bridge Owners Suite £2930.