Coral Adventurer, The Louisiades, Solomons & Vanuatu ex Cairns to Port Vila

16 Night Cruise sailing from Cairns to Port Vila aboard Coral Adventurer.

Join us onboard Coral Adventurer, for our long-awaited return to the remarkable Melanesian Islands on this voyage through Papua New Guinea, the hidden Solomons and Vanuatu. Discover idyllic tropical island outposts such as the Laughlan Islands, Tetepare and Panasia Island. Visit sacred Skull Island in the spectacular Vonavona Lagoon and learn about slain warriors and headhunting traditions. Share ancient “kastom” such as the Rom Dancers of Ambrym and witness islanders living a traditional subsistence lifestyle, little changed for centuries. Focus on the fascinating anthropological history of the islands and how the Austronesian and Papuan people have inhabited the region through the centuries encountering early explorers and sea traders to the dramatic conflicts of World War II. Enjoy adventure-filled days surrounded by natural wonders as we explore the ‘blue holes’ of Espiritu Santo, view active volcanoes, snorkel and dive on vibrant reef systems and encounter unique wildlife.

- Cruise, snorkel, and dive in the stunning and remote Louisiade Archipelago of Papua New Guinea, and swim in one of Espiritu Santo’s iconic ‘blue holes’.
- Visit Skull Island in Vonavona Lagoon, one of the most sacred sites in the Solomons which is the final resting place of many slain warrior chiefs.
- View diverse wildlife at Tetepare, the conservation jewel of the South Pacific while walking through the jungle.
- Learn about local ‘kastom’ and kula ring trading during village visits and witness the famous Rom Dance performed at volcanic Ambrym, the black magic centre of Vanuatu.
- Snorkel and dive in the world’s largest double barrier enclosed reef saltwater lagoon at Marovo Lagoon, over healthy reefs teeming with fish life.

Note: This itinerary is an indication of the destinations we visit and activities on offer. Throughout the expedition we may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximise your expeditionary experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions, and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel. Coral Expeditions suggests that you do not arrive on the day of embarkation or depart on the day of disembarkation due to any changes that may occur in scheduling.