South Pacific Discovery

Tourism is the lifeblood of Cairns (pronounced Caans). The city makes a good base for exploring the wild top half of Queensland, and tens of thousands of international travelers use it as a jumping-off point for activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling trips to the Barrier Reef, as well as boating, fishing, parasailing, scenic flights, and rain-forest treks.It's a tough environment, with intense heat and fierce wildlife. Along with wallabies and grey kangaroos in the savannah and tree kangaroos in the rain forest, you'll find stealthy saltwater crocodiles, venomous snakes, and jellyfish so deadly they put the region’s stunning beaches off- limits to swimmers for nearly half the year. Yet despite this formidable setting, Cairns and tropical North Queensland are far from intimidating places. The people are warm and friendly, the sights spectacular, and—at the right time of year—the beachside lounging is world-class.

Welcome on board Scenic Eclipse II, your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht. Settle into your luxurious suite and enjoy the first destination of this incredible Discovery Voyage:. Cairns, the gateway to tropical north Queensland. This is the only place on Earth where two World Heritage sites collide – the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.

Please book your flight to arrive into Cairns prior to 02:00 PM.

Njari is a small island almost entirely covered in trees with just a small sand spit at its eastern end. A labyrinth of reefs and coral heads make an approach only feasible from the north. The small beach invites one to relax, but swimming from the beach is almost impossible as the corals are too close. To enjoy the underwater world one has to enter the water from a small boat, a little distance from the shore, where an amazing array of fish and coral will be visible. Two hundred and seventy nine different fish species have been seen during a single dive; the fourth-highest fish count ever recorded. An indication of why this island is considered a top spot for snorkeling in the Solomon Islands.

Tucked away in the Solomon Islands, Njari is a secluded haven of untouched beauty and vibrant marine life. Njari’s pristine isolation and rich biodiversity offer a perfect blend of exploration and tranquillity, making it an essential stop for those seeking an authentic, off-the-grid South Pacific experience.

Discovery:
Embark on a water experience with your Discovery team, swimming in pristine lagoons, snorkelling amidst colourful marine ecosystems, and skimming the surface on a stand-up paddleboard, all in the heart of breathtaking surroundings.

Honiara is the capital city of the Solomon Islands on the north-western coast of Guadalcanal Island. It is the hub of all activity in the archipelago which has recently undergone an ‘urban boom’. Discover the cities beautiful landscapes and the significance of the city in the World War II.

The Solomon Islands’ largest island, cloaked in tropical rainforest, boasts palm-fringed coasts and pristine white-sand beaches. Surrounded by clear waters teeming with wildlife, delve into history at World War II relics and monuments, including the Battle of Guadalcanal sites. A guided tour of Honiara unveils its wartime significance, with stops at the bustling main market, Vilu War Museum, Cultural Centre, National Museum, and National Archives, blending natural beauty with rich heritage.

Freechoice:
Honiara History & Highlights – Experience a concise look at the capital’s past, focusing on its WWII significance. From the port, journey to the bustling main market, brimming with fresh produce. Visit key local sites, including the Cultural Centre, National Museum, and National Archives. Conclude with a drive through Honiara’s suburbs to a renowned Second World War Museum.

Honiara Cultural Village - Discover Hotomai Village, home to the Gwade people near Honiara. After a brief bus ride tracing WWII battle routes, experience a warrior welcome and cultural performances. Explore traditional displays, including cooking and basket-making, and visit three “Kastom Haus”. See village gardens, then stop at the National Art Gallery and craft market.

Port Mary is the name of the bay adjacent to Ghupuna, the main village in Santa Ana. A bright white sand beach with huge shade-giving trees runs along the shoreline in front of the tidy village. The houses here are made with local materials and most are built on stilts. Islanders generally welcome visitors with traditional songs and dances performed by members of the three different villages on Santa Ana. Some local people will also set up stands offering souvenirs for purchase. The Solomons are best known for strings of traditional shell money and elegant carvings based on local stories and legends.

Sip morning coffee on the Observation Terrace as we weave through scenic channels toward Owaraha. This island, a bastion of ancient traditions, showcases vibrant dances and intricate handicrafts by villagers adorned in elaborate costumes, body paint, and masks. At Nafinotoga, explore Spirit Houses holding the skulls and bones of Snake and Turtle Clan chiefs. In Ghupuna village, a lively cultural performance peaks with a dramatic re-enactment of Polynesians clashing with Melanesians over goods, sparking spirited local reactions. Afterward, wander the village to soak in its rich heritage.

Discovery:
Delight in an array of Discovery activities. Paddle across serene waters by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, snorkel over stunning reefs, or opt for an exclusive helicopterˆ or submersibleˆ tour to uncover breathtaking vistas.

Ndende Island, also called Santa Cruz, enchants with turquoise lagoons teeming with marine life, sprawling reefs, and remote islets fringed by deserted beaches, crystalline caves, and charming villages. A warm onshore welcome features a traditional bamboo band and dancers. Explore Nembo and Pala villages with local guides, immersing in unique island culture through a warrior greeting, Nello Dance, entertainment, flower garlands, and refreshments. Venture further to local springs, enjoy bushwalking and swimming, and visit a forestry plantation, blending natural splendour with vibrant traditions.

Discovery:
Walk across the island to visit the schoolhouse and traditional Spirit Houses, paddle and snorkel in pristine waters, or explore the outer reefs and nearby islands by Zodiac. Alternatively, seek out the endemic Nendo shrikebill alongside your onboard ornithologist.

Vanikoro’s five islands, framed by a dazzling barrier reef, promise superb snorkelling. In 1788, French explorer Jean-François de Galaup, comte de La Pérouse, vanished here after his ships, La Boussole and Astrolabe, crashed into the reef—a monument erected by Dumont Durville in 1827 honours him. Untouched since La Pérouse’s time, this self-sufficient community, powered by modest solar cells, warmly welcomes visitors with cultural performances. The entire village gathers to share their timeless traditions, offering a rare glimpse into a way of life largely free from modern influence.

Discovery:
Revel in a diverse selection of Discovery activities. Glide through tranquil waters by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, snorkel over vibrant reefs, or choose an optional helicopterˆ or submersibleˆ tour for an extraordinary perspective.

Espiritu Santo, the largest island in Vanuatu’s archipelago, enchants with Champagne Bay, one of the world’s most exquisite beaches where a freshwater spring flows into the lagoon creating a spa-like bubbling sensation at low tide. Inhabited by the Ni-Vanuatu, who preserve Melanesian traditions, you’re welcomed ashore with a lively string band and the mesmerising water music women’s performance. Taste seasonal fruits, nuts, and kava—a revered local drink—before a scenic bus ride to swim in a stunning blue hole, immersing you in the island’s vibrant culture and natural wonders.

Discovery:
Enjoy an assortment of Discovery activities. Navigate calm waters by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, and snorkel amidst colourful reefs.

Unlike Espiritu Santo with its raised coral reefs and white sand, Ambrym is a volcanically active island with dark sand beaches. Ambrym is known as the island of magic and is the source of five local languages that all evolved on Ambrym. This handful of languages contributes to the well over 100 languages of Vanuatu. Some of Ambrym’s magic takes place in the lush greenery of the local community of Ranon. Here the people perform a very special and traditional ‘Rom’ dance. Participants prepare their masks and costumes in secrecy and the dance is reserved for special occasions.

Ambrym’s volcanic shores, unlike Espiritu Santo’s white sands, invite you to tread black-sand beaches. Watch woodcarvers transform breadfruit trees and giant ferns into art and marvel at displays of local black magic. The Ambrym Islanders’ iconic Rom dance unfolds with chanting men in vivid costumes.

Discovery:
Today, you might have the opportunity to Zodiac to Ranvetlam’s black-sand beach, or hike up to Funla village to see its thatch huts, carvings, and Captain Cook artifacts.

Tanna’s Mount Yasur, deemed the world’s most accessible active volcano, has been erupting since Captain James Cook witnessed its ash plumes in 1774. Revered as sacred by the John Frum cargo cult, who believe their deity dwells within, it captivates all who visit. Arrive via Zodiac to warm welcomes from local villagers, followed by performances from the John Frum string band and Waisis women’s choir. Enjoy vibrant custom dances and assist with traditional food preparation.

Freechoice:
Island Welcome - Step ashore and be greeted by the lively tunes of the John Frum string band and the harmonious Waisis Women’s Choir. Take a seat to enjoy an array of traditional dances, including the captivating Napam Napam women’s dance, dynamic men’s dances, and vibrant mixed performances. Capture the moment with a photo opportunity, then join in the preparation of authentic local foods, immersing you in the island’s rich cultural tapestry.

Island Welcome & Volcano - Experience the Island Welcome then, after lunch onboard, return ashore and board 4WD vehicles for a 40-minute drive to the volcano, trekking to the rim with guides for a thrilling finale.

North of Nadi through sugarcane plantations and past the Sabeto Mountains is Lautoka, nicknamed the Sugar City for the local agriculture and its big processing mill. With a population of around 50,000, it's the only city besides Suva and, like the capital, has a pleasant waterfront. It's the sailing point for Blue Lagoon and Beachcomber Cruises but is otherwise unremarkable for tourists, itself having few hotels and fewer good restaurants. Locals recommend the city as a less-expensive place to shop for clothing, but note that it can take as long as 45 minutes to drive here. Legend has it that Lautoka acquired its name when two chiefs engaged in combat and one hit the other with a spear. He proclaimed "lau toka" (spear hit) and thus the future town was named.

Your Discovery Voyage concludes today. Enjoy your final morning in the ultra-luxury of Scenic Eclipse II and take the chance to reflect on the incredible experiences and remarkable places you’ve visited.

Disembark in the second largest city of Fiji, Lautoka is located on the western side of the island of Viti Levu, 24 kilometres north of Nadi. As the gateway to Fiji’s Sun Coast, it’s a pleasant mix of sugar-cane fields, grass-covered peaks, rural villages and market towns. Farewell your new friends, the Scenic Eclipse II Captain and crew.

Please book your flight to depart out of Nadi after 12:00 PM.

#Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board. ~Water activities may not operate in all locations. ^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions. Helicopter not operational in Solomon Islands.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.