Set sail on a 14-day expedition cruise from Honiara to Guam aboard the Le Jacques Cartier. Embark from Honiara on a remarkable journey through remote, untamed landscapes. In the Solomon Islands, experience the beauty of Njari Island's waters and explore the vibrant markets of Ghizo Island. Continue to Papua New Guinea, a diverse land with a myriad of ethnic groups and unexplored ecosystems. Visit the unique autonomous region of Bougainville. Discover the wartime history of Micronesia, where Chuuk Lagoon and Pulap Island preserve poignant relics. Dive into Micronesia's rich underwater world and soak up the charm of its sandy beaches and traditional villages. The voyage concludes on Guam, the largest volcanic island in the Mariana Islands.
Highlights
Explore the picture-perfect beaches and bays of Bougainville, known for its rich marine life
Discover the traditional markets and opportunities for snorkeling and diving in Ghizo Island
Experience world-class snorkeling, diving, and underwater photography in Njari Island
Visit historical sites in Rabaul, Bismarck Archipelago
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Honiara is the capital city of the Solomon Islands, administered as a provincial town on the northwestern 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 its significant role in World War II, particularly the Battle of Henderson Field, the last of the three major land offensives conducted by the Japanese in 1942.
There are plenty of opportunities for world-class snorkeling, diving, and underwater photography throughout the Solomon Islands, with sites in the Western and Central Provinces considered among the most popular. The underwater realm is home to more than 1000 species of reef fish, along with dolphins, rays, sharks, and six of the world's seven species of marine turtles. Almost 500 species of corals have been identified among the 5,750 km2 reefs found in the Solomon Islands. Njari Island is an uninhabited postcard island located 15nm from the town of Gizo. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling on its idyllic shores.
Gizo is situated on Ghizo Island and is the second-largest town in the Solomon Islands, after the capital, Honiara. The people of the Western Province are regarded as among the most skilled carvers in the world. They produce carvings from various woods, including ebony and rosewood. These amazingly intricate carvings can take months to make and, accordingly, command a high price. You can have the opportunity to visit the traditional markets of Gizo. There are plenty of opportunities for world-class snorkeling, diving, and underwater photography throughout the Western Province, and the islands around Ghizo are considered among the most popular.
The Autonomous Region of Bougainville, formerly known as the North Solomons Province, has been known for its picture-perfect beaches and bays since French explorer Louis-Antoine de Bougainville first sighted the island and gave it its name in 1768. The region played a significant role in the Pacific theater of war during WWII. With 685 km of coastline and 240,000ha of coral reefs teeming with life, many destinations are awaiting discovery.
Set at the eastern end of the island of New Britain, the tropical port town of Rabaul has always been famous for its spectacular setting. Nestled beside Simpson Harbor, the township is surrounded by six volcanoes, one of which, Mt. Tavurvur, is still active today. The most recent major volcanic eruption was in September 1994, when Tavurvur and Vulcan covered much of Rabaul and surrounding villages with volcanic ash. This eruption saw the growth of the nearby coastal town of Kokopo, which has now become the administrative and tourism center for Rabaul.
Join your expedition team for a tour by local transport to see Mt. Tavurvur, the Volcano Observatory, and various significant sites from World War II.
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 center. 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.
Chuuk Lagoon, previously known as Truk Lagoon, is one of the four states of the Federated States of Micronesia. The 16 much-eroded volcanic islands within the lagoon have mangrove swamps along their coasts, with rich rainforests in the central mountainous areas. The islands are hugely popular with scuba divers thanks to the incredibly interesting shipwrecks: at depths of 15 to 40 meters, divers can explore a veritable underwater museum of wrecks from the Japanese land-based, aerial, and naval fleet bombarded by the Americans in February 1944 in retaliation for the attack on Pearl Harbour. These shipwrecks have become foundations for new reef growth and extraordinary marine fauna.
Pulap is an atoll consisting of three islands located in the Pattiw group in the Caroline Islands. The three islands are Pollap in the north, Tamatam in the south, and Fanadik at the western fringe of the reef. The island is surrounded by a number of ghostly shipwrecks that are virtually intact, and submerged underwater. This makes for great diving expeditions where you can explore the reef and its incredible marine life, as well as the shipwrecks.
Satawal is a solitary coral atoll consisting of just one island. Like Pulap, Satawal is located in the Caroline Islands, where it is home to just 500 people. Famous for its preservation of traditional navigational techniques without the use of modern instruments, based on indigenous astronomical and maritime concepts, the island is still very traditional, which means visitors rarely step ashore, but those who do are warmly welcomed by the villagers.
The Ifalik coral atoll, lying in the warm waters of the North Pacific in the vast Caroline Island archipelago, is an invitation to serenity, enchantment, and discovery. Ifalik, a veritable hidden paradise edged with magnificent beaches and expanses of fine sand, will reveal its treasures to you. Between the sumptuous underwater scenery, rich biodiversity, ancestral traditions, and warm and welcoming inhabitants, marvel at this lush environment, unlike anywhere else, and far from the frenzy of any town.
Gaferut Atoll is an outlying atoll in the State of Yap in the Federated States of Micronesia. The tiny island is mostly defined by densely covered rolling hills that are lusciously covered with vegetation. Mangrove swamps line the vast majority of the shore with an outer barrier reef, rich in marine wildlife surrounding the island. There is also an enclosed lagoon, which is brimming with a diverse selection of marine wildlife.
Day 14: Guam | Disembark
1 Breakfast
In the Western Pacific, call at Guam, the largest volcanic island of Micronesia, and the Mariana Islands. Here, the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches create a picture-postcard setting, ideal for relaxation and a break from it all. This little-known island, today under the administration of the United States, also offers you the opportunity to visit a number of historical sites, see vestiges of Spanish colonization, and discover the culture of the Chamorros, the first inhabitants of the islands, talented craftspeople who have preserved their traditions.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$9,0002-3 travelers
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Deluxe Stateroom
19 m² area featuring a 4m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Prestige Deck 4
19 m² area featuring a 4m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Prestige Deck 5
19 m² area featuring a 4m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Prestige Deck 6
19 m² area featuring a 4m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
27 m² area featuring, 6m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, shower
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
27 m² area featuring, 6m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, shower
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
27 m² area featuring, 6m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, shower
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
27 m² area featuring, 6m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, shower
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
38 m² area featuring an 8m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Prestige Suite Deck 6
38 m² area featuring an 8m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Privilege Suite Deck 6
32 m² area featuring an 8m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Privilege Suite Deck 5
32 m² area featuring an 8m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
45 m² area featuring, 40m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Bathtub
Owner's Suite
45 m² area featuring an 30m² Private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower
Notes
Please note:
Fares are based on double occupancy and are capacity controlled. Rates may increase at any time as the ship sells out and are subject to change without notice.
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
13 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 13 Dinners
13 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Port Fees
Unlimited Wifi
Onboard Entertainment
Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
Gratuities to Onboard Crew
“Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
24h Room Service (special selection)
English-Speaking Lecturer
Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite.
Flight Brisbane/Honiara selected by PONANT in economy class
Transfer airport/pier
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Visa Fees
Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
Luggage Handling
Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions
Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen
TrustScore 4.8 | 342 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 342 reviews on
3 hours ago
We had such a great experience with Adventure Life when we booked the Galapagos trip a few years ago. Mary Curry helped us then, and again now. She is very knowledgeable, prompt in communication back and forth, and makes it so easy. Thank you, Mary! P.S. Your chat room person, Jo, was also wonderful.
MTPhil
1 day ago
The entire experience was great. Erin really knows her stuff and provided me with a lot of great insight and advice.
MARGARET CINCOTTA
2 days ago
Mary Curry is the BEST! I have worked with her for multiple family trips for over 10 years, and she is responsive, works within your preferences and budget, has great suggestions and has personal travel experience at many of the locations. We prefer active family vacations and Adventure Life and Mary Curry make sure that is what we get!
Heather Spanbauer
2 days ago
Bhutan with stopover in Bangkok. All of our trips with Adventure Life have featured guides and drivers of top professional calibre, a great way to travel. This itinerary was no exception.
Steve Metzler
4 days ago
Very prompt responses. Erin found us the trip we were looking for and gave us good advice.