Asia / Pacific Pacific Islands Cruise

Rites & Relics: Fiji Firewalking, Vanuatu Volcanoes & Beyond

On this 13- or 15-day South Pacific cruise aboard 102-guest Nat Geo Orion, explore through the heart of Melanesia to the western edge of Polynesia, from the Solomon Islands to Fiji. Receive warm welcomes in the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu; be greeted with traditional dances and warm smiles while landing by Zodiac on remote and verdant shores. Search for endemic bird species, snorkel and dive stunning reefs and wrecks, and soak up the tranquil beauty of palm-fringed beaches.

Highlights of this South Pacific cruise involve art, culture, wildlife and activity. Arrive to Owaraha in the Solomon Islands for a series of traditional dances and music, then walk to see the island’s traditional spirit houses. Take a local canoe ride up the crystal-clear Riri River to the spectacular Riri Blue Hole grotto on Vanuatu’s Espiritu Santo Island. Visit mysterious Ambrym Island in Vanuatu—known as a place of magic and spirits—and witness the traditional Rom dance. Visit the traditional island of the Fijian firewalkers—Beqa. Spot rare and colorful birds and flowers on Fiji’s spectacular “Garden Island,” Taveuni, and the lovely and less-visited Kadavu.

The 102-guest National Geographic Orion acts as floating basecamp during this South Pacific cruise. This small expedition ship is technologically advanced and equipped with a full set of exploration tools, including an ROV and enough kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and Zodiacs to send all guests out exploring at the same time. Additionally, select cabins offer private balconies for special moments taking in the awe-inspiring wilderness. The National Geographic Orion features a nearly 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio, ensuring that your trip to paradise comes with attentive service.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Pacific Island cruises and Pacific Island vacations.