Crossing Melanesia Australia to Fiji - 16-Nights

Explore wild beauty and important history on this immersive journey navigating the remote island countries of Melanesia, from the verdant landscapes of Australia's Northern Territory to the tribal culture of Papua New Guinea and the historical WWII significance of Guadalcanal. Two days in the Solomon Islands allow for incredible snorkeling and diving, with the pristine beaches and enchanting culture of Vanuatu ready to welcome you just beyond. Arrive in Fiji, ready to discover its vibrant markets and famed shores.

Highlights

  • Experience the unique culture of Papua New Guinea's Milne Bay people on a call to Alotau, and explore the region's stunning coral reefs, tropical rainforests, and WWII historical sites.
  • Balance your overnight discovery of Honiara with immersive adventures among waterfalls, coral reefs, and rainforests, and visit the haunting remnants and battlefields of WWII history.
  • Play on Vanuatu's acclaimed beaches - including the iconic Champagne Beach, revered for its effervescent 'bubbles' - and swim in crystal-clear waters; channel Michener's 'Tales of the South Pacific' during a call to idyllic Espiritu Santo.

    Detailed Itinerary

    Day 1 - Darwin, Australia

    A fusion of natural beauty, wildlife, and rich indigenous culture, Darwin is the capital city of the Northern Territory situated on Australia's 'Top End.' Characterized by a tropical climate and lush wetlands, it is the gateway to national parks including the UNESCO-listed Kakadu, known for its ancient rock art; and Litchfield, where waterfalls flow and magnetic termite mounds reach skyward. See jumping crocodiles on the Adelaide River or steal away time in the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens and lose yourself amidst the palms and orchids as rainbow lorikeets and cockatoos flit among the flowers.

    Day 2 - At Sea

    Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you'll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you'll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa... or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

    Day 3 - At Sea

    Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you'll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you'll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa... or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

    Day 4 - Thursday Island

    Immerse yourself in the island's cultural mix of Asian, European, and Pacific Island influences at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre. At Green Hill Fort, built as a defense against Russian invasion and later a World War II military base, admire military artifacts and splendid views, as well as exhibits that pay homage to the island's pearl fishing history. Or join a deep-sea fishing expedition.

    Day 5 - At Sea

    Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you'll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you'll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa... or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

    Day 6 - Alotau, Papua New Guinea

    Discover the hidden gem of Alotau on Papua New Guinea's southeastern shore, a tropical paradise home to pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Warm and welcoming locals are proud to share their rich cultural heritage, notably their traditions of dance and music. Local cuisine tantalizes with a fusion of seafood, exotic fruits, root vegetables, and the ubiquitous coconut. Here you can journey inland to see cascading waterfalls crowning untouched wilderness and dive in to crystal-clear waters in search of majestic sea turtles.

    Day 7 - Samarai Island

    Once an important trading center, Samarai Island was evacuated, and its buildings were destroyed to prevent it from falling into Japanese control during World War II. It has since been rebuilt - though not to the same scale as its glory days. Take a stroll along the pleasant pathway that encircles its pretty town, view spectacular marine life on a SCUBA diving expedition, or simply relax on the beach.

    Day 8 - At Sea

    Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you'll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you'll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa... or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

    Day 9 - Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands

    The largest of the Solomon Islands, Guadalcanal is best known for the six-month battle between Allied and Japanese forces that marked a turning point in the Pacific theater during World War II. The island still brims with World War II relics, monuments, and memorials, as you may discover. Perhaps you'll explore its tropical interior, with its excellent birdwatching. Or see for yourself why the island is revered for its superior snorkeling and diving.

    Day 10 - Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands

    The largest of the Solomon Islands, Guadalcanal is best known for the six-month battle between Allied and Japanese forces that marked a turning point in the Pacific theater during World War II. The island still brims with World War II relics, monuments, and memorials, as you may discover. Perhaps you'll explore its tropical interior, with its excellent birdwatching. Or see for yourself why the island is revered for its superior snorkeling and diving.

    Day 11 - At Sea

    Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you'll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you'll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa... or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

    Day 12 - At Sea

    Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you'll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you'll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa... or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

    Day 13 - Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu

    A stunning island of palm-lined beaches, spring-fed swimming holes, lush rainforests, and lofty mountains, Espiritu Santo also played an important role in World War II. Perhaps you'll explore this heritage or experience the island's traditional village life. You can also enjoy exceptional swimming and snorkeling here. Or simply relax on the beach.

    Day 14 - Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu

    Located on the island of Efate, Vanuatu's enchanting capital is a tropical paradise of pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes - key among them the Mele Cascades, a series of tiered waterfalls and refreshing pools. Explore the Erakor Rainforest, a verdant sanctuary of winding trails with wooden bridges and towering trees home to abundant birdlife including colorful parrots and elusive kingfishers as well as tree-dwelling geckos and dazzling butterflies. Or choose snorkeling, sailing, and jetboating adventures in Mele Bay surrounding the Pango Peninsula.

    Day 15 - At Sea

    Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you'll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you'll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa... or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

    Day 16 - At Sea

    Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you'll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you'll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa... or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

    Day 17 - Lautoka, Viti Levu Island

    Once you arrive in Lautoka (known as 'Sugar City' for the green-gold sugarcane that surrounds the city), there's much to explore. Stroll its palm-lined streets, experience everyday life in a traditional village, or hike in Koroyanitu National Heritage Park.

  • Call 1 (888) 828-8747 for more information or to book today! Mention code 18901529

    Cruise Line
    Paul Gauguin Cruises
    Offer
    Offer valid through 12/31/2024
    Duration
    16 Days
    Cruise Ship
    m/s Paul Gauguin

    Click for more information on this ship.

    DayPortArriveDepart
    Day 1Darwin3:00 PM6:00 PM
    Day 2At Sea  
    Day 3At Sea  
    Day 4Thursday Island8:00 AM2:00 PM
    Day 5At Sea  
    Day 6Alotau12:00 PM6:00 PM
    Day 7Samarai Island 3:00 PM
    Day 8At Sea  
    Day 9Guadalcanal1:00 PM 
    Day 10Guadalcanal 6:00 PM
    Day 11At Sea  
    Day 12At Sea  
    Day 13Espiritu Santo7:00 AM4:00 PM
    Day 14Port Vila7:00 AM10:00 PM
    Day 15At Sea  
    Day 16At Sea  
    Day 17Lautoka7:00 AM8:00 AM
    Dates/Pricing

    Click Quote or call 1 (888) 828-8747 to get additional information on your chosen travel date. Special offers or competitive pricing may be available!

    DatePrice / DescriptionQuote
    04/15/2025$9,870.00* (USD) / F Porthole StateroomQuote
    Disclaimer

    *Price listed is per person cruise only, double occupancy and includes promotional discounts and port security and handle fees. Prices and availability of stateroom category are subject to change until deposit is completed.

    Cruises


    • Crossing Melanesia Australia to Fiji - 16-Nights

      From $9,870.00 (USD)

      Destination: South Pacific/Australia/New Zealand
      Ship: m/s Paul Gauguin
      Explore wild beauty and important history on this immersive journey navigating the remote island count...

     
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