Secret Islands of Melanesia

Lautoka is the second largest city of Fiji. Located on the western side of the island of Viti Levu, 24 kilometres north of Nadi. Lying in the heart of Fiji's sugar cane growing region, it is known as the Sugar City. Lautoka is the gateway to Fiji’s “Sun coast” a land of abundant sunshine, azure skies and dramatic grass-covered peaks chequered with sugar-cane fields, rural villages and quaint market towns.

The former capital of Fiji, Levuka enjoys a peaceful setting on the island of Ovalau and retains the unique charm of a small town facing the sea. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands as a reminder of the archipelago’s colonial history through its 19th-century buildings, its wooden houses and its timeless atmosphere. During the excursion, you will be able to wander around the town’s historic streets, go to Mission Hill and explore the significant sites in Fijian history, particularly those associated with the cession of Fiji to the British Crown. Legacy and cultural heritage will thus set the rhythm of this unforgettable port of call.

Northwest of Fiji, the Yasawa Islands form a volcanic chain boasting spectacular landscapes, between steep slopes, turquoise lagoons and beaches of clear sand. In this isolated environment, the villages perpetuate a way of life that is profoundly focused on the community and on local traditions. The port of call will thus enable you to plunge into the heart of these islands’ warm atmosphere through welcome ceremonies, moments spent relaxing on the beach and encounters with the inhabitants. Between tropical charm and stunning marine landscapes, Yasawa offers a privileged immersion into one of the South Pacific’s most iconic archipelagos.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

A visit to Vanuatu cannot be complete without viewing the erupting Mount Yasur Volcano on the Island of Tanna. It is regarded as the world’s most accessible active volcano. Known for its spectacular persistent strombolian activity consisting of regular small to violent explosions, it has been in more-or-less continuous activity since Captain James Cook observed ash eruptions in 1774. Often referred to as “the lighthouse of the Pacific”, the glow of the volcano apparently led Captain Cook to Tanna during the first European journey to the island. Today the volcano is considered a sacred area by members of the John Frum cargo cult, who believe their deity resides in the heart of the volcano.

Epi is a peaceful, volcanic island located in the Shefa Province of Vanuatu, a stunning archipelago nation in the southwestern South Pacific Ocean. Spanning roughly 27 miles (43 km) long and 11 miles (18 km) wide, it is widely known for its pristine white and black sand beaches, rugged rainforest interior, and rich local Melanesian culture.

The island of Ambrym in Vanuatu is often referred to as the "black" island due to its volcanic ash and because of its 'black magic' steeped in mystery. In the villages, the ancient customs play a significant part in day to day living. The "Man blong Majik" are treated with the utmost respect and practice sorcery and magic beyond all imaginings. Ambrym prides itself on some unique characteristics, such as the magnificent tam-tams (or slit gongs) sculpted out of tree trunks, sand-drawing, black-fern masks and local dances. The most striking custom dance is the Rom (or masked) dance – where 9 foot covertly cloaked and masked 'spirits' stomp out ancient rhythms to the beat of the tam tam.

Malekula is the second largest island in Vanuatu and the most diverse, culturally and linguistically, with over thirty distinct languages spoken. Some of the best custom dances come from the island. The very friendly villagers will be proud to share with you their cultural heritage. Guests will be transferred ashore for a welcome and cultural performance. Afterwards, you will have an opportunity to witness traditional village life in Malekula, with demonstrations of traditional village practices such as weaving and Kava, and purchase genuine artefacts.

At the end of the world, in the north of New Caledonia, lies Vanuatu, a little archipelago that subsists mainly from fishing and farming. It is composed of several islands, Espiritu Santo being the largest and one of the most beautiful. You can meet the people here who are very welcoming and who live in harmony with nature. Plus you will see unimaginable landscapes formed of volcanic rocks, as well as sandy beaches and lagoons of turquoise waters. You will be surprised to find, in the middle of dense vegetation, brackish water with an amazing ecosystem called “blue holes”. If paradise exists, it must be here.

Mavea Island, Espiritu Santo Island

Near Espiritu Santo, the island of Mavea offers a seaside interlude in a peaceful tropical environment. Accessible by Zodiac dinghy, this port of call invites you to make the most of its sandy beaches edged with clear water, perfect for swimming and relaxing. The experience will also feature the discovery of the famous “Water Music”, a local tradition performed by the women and young girls of Gaua. This unique performance, based on the percussions and rhythms created on the surface of the water, is an iconic cultural moment on the archipelago. Visitors will then be able to try out this original practice themselves. Between cultural discovery and enjoyable water sports, Mavea unveils a simple and authentic approach to insular life in Vanuatu.

Ureparapara, also known as Parapara for short, is the third largest island in the Banks group of Northern Vanuatu and formed by an extinct volcano cone that has been breached by the sea on its east coast, forming a spectacular 3km long harbour. During your voyage, your ship will sail into the natural harbour, affording guests spectacular views from the outer decks. You will also have the opportunity to go ashore for a welcome and custom dances. An opportunity to witness life in one of the remotest parts of Vanuatu. Very few vessels visit this part of Vanuatu and the local residents are eager to welcome visitors.

Located in the Torres islands, the northernmost part of the republic of Vanuatu, the island of Loh is a protected site. It only has around 200 inhabitants, for a surface area of around 14 square kilometres. So, it is easy to meet people here, and maybe even share in their age-old traditions. Loh carries the promise of a timeless journey, in the heart of virgin forest and immaculate beaches, tropical transparent waters that invite you to observe marine life at your leisure. Here, you will find the most amazing plant and animal life.

Nestling in the heart of the Solomon Islands archipelago, the Santa Cruz Islands offer a timeless interlude, with their turquoise lagoons and ancestral traditions. On the main island of Nendo, the charming village of Lata will captivate you with its peaceful atmosphere and its immaculate beaches, edged by sparkling coral reefs. On land, you will find a full expression of Melanesian authenticity as you are immersed in the local customs and set off to meet the inhabitants, who are proud to share their way of life — well off the beaten track.

Owaraha (formerly Santa Ana) is located at the eastern end of Makira (San Cristobal) and just north of the smaller Owariki (Santa Catalina). Our ship will navigate through the picturesque channel separating the Islands before dropping anchor just outside Port Mary. The islanders are well known for preserving ancient traditions and producing intricate wooden carvings. Their artefacts include magnificently carved fishing floats and ceremonial bowls intricately inlayed with shells. After a short zodiac ride ashore you will be guided through the village to an open area to witness a number of traditional performances. Afterwards experience life in a traditional Solomon Island village or take a swim in the warm tropical waters of Port Mary.

Honiara is the capital city of The Solomon Islands, administered as a provincial town on the north-western coast of Guadalcanal Island. Honiara comes from the local Ghari Language “naho-ni-ara” meaning 'facing the ara', the place where the southeast winds meet the land. Discover this city, its beautiful landscape, and the significant role it played in World War II. Particularly The Battle of Henderson Field, the last of the three major land offensives conducted by the Japanese in 1942.