Three voyage series showcasing the remote island realms of Vanuatu, Solomons, New Guinea and the Federated States of Micronesia  

Coral Expeditions, Australia’s pioneering cruise line, has unveiled their latest series of expedition voyages set to traverse the farthest regions of New Guinea, Melanesia, and Micronesia from January to February 2026 onboard the Coral Adventurer. This trilogy of expeditions includes two inaugural voyages: ‘The Louisiades, Solomons and Vanuatu' and 'Vanuatu, Solomons, New Britain and Bougainville', alongside the reintroduction of the successful 'Through the Islands & Atolls of Micronesia' which sailed in 2023 to high guest acclaim. 

The three-voyage series departs in January 2026 and will explore the remote archipelagos of Vanuatu, Solomons, Papua New Guinea and the Federated States of Micronesia, where a small number of intrepid guests will discover untouched natural habitats and encounter cultures and traditions lost in time. Guests will make connections with the friendly island locals as they are greeted with colourful welcome ceremonies and bear witness to their modern-day subsistence lifestyle. The itineraries encompass learning about the history and anthropology of the region from its first inhabitants, early explorers, trade, and seafaring traditions to the conflicts of World War II.   

A key highlight will be almost daily snorkel and dive experiences in crystal-clear waters, protected caldera lagoons, and pristine biosphere reserves. The series presents an immersive travel adventure for explorers with a curiosity for the natural history and heritage of small islands in the far reaches of our planet. 

"We are excited to be returning to these special regions of the South Pacific having been absent since 2018" said Commercial Director Jeff Gillies. "Our recent outstanding feedback from guests on the 2023 Micronesia expedition and regular requests from our past passengers give us the impetus to create this new series”. “This series is designed for guests who are interested in travelling on a single itinerary or for those who seek to fully immerse themselves in a once in a lifetime chance to join all three and delve deeply into this remote part of the world” 

Voyage Information  

The Louisiades, Solomons and Vanuatu 

16 Night | Cairns to Port Vila | Departs 12 January 2026 | Coral Adventurer 

On this 16-night journey through Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, we venture into remote destinations accessible only by sea, far away from the large cruise ship routes. Immerse yourself in local 'kastom' and captivating performances of the Rom Dance at Ambrym Island. Discover the unique wildlife of Tetepare Island, and marvel at sea caves in the Louisiade Archipelago along a 400km stretch of the Coral Sea.   

Expedition Highlights:  

• 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.  

Fares from $16,390 per person 

Vanuatu, Solomons, Bougainville and New Britain 

16 Night | Port Vila to Rabaul | Departs 29 January 2026 | Coral Adventurer  

Discover the remote and lesser-visited outer islands of Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, and Bougainville. Encounter striking landscapes, pristine islands, unique wildlife, and vibrant cultural traditions including women’s Water Dance at Marau Sound and famous Snake Dance of Rah Island. Explore historic World War II battle sites and join in conservation efforts at the Arnavon Islands with our expert guides before concluding the voyage in New Britain’s historic Rabaul. 

Expedition Highlights:  

• Witness the power of nature as you gaze into the depths of an active volcano on Tanna Island. 
• Discover the hidden gems of Maewo Island, renowned for its pristine waterfalls and sea caves. 
• Immerse yourself in Vanuatu's rich culture with a mesmerising performance of the famous Snake Dance on Rah Island. 
• Watch the women perform the Water Dance at Marau Sound, and snorkel over colourful coral gardens enriched by the currents of the 'Tasi Mauri' or 'weather coast'. 

Fares from $17,390 per person and include an air charter transfer from Rabaul to Cairns. 

Through the Islands & Atolls of Micronesia  

21 Night | Rabaul to Sorong | Departs 14 February 2026 | Coral Adventurer  

This journey takes you through Micronesia's hidden gems. From Micronesia's southernmost point, Kapingamarangi Island to the remote beauty of Helen Reef, interact with locals while learning about their way of life. Immerse yourself in Yapese culture, discovering the secrets of stone currency and ancient construction. Explore the culture and history of Nan Madol and Truk Lagoon, revealing the mysteries of these enchanting islands and atolls. Dive into crystal-clear waters at most stops, from renowned lagoons to pristine biosphere reserves. 

Expedition Highlights: 

• Visit all four states of the Federated States of Micronesia including Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae. 
• Traverse the fringing reefs of Ant Atoll to explore the pristine waters and spot several Micronesian birds, which the islet has been rewarded with four endemic birds: Pohnpei parakeet, Pohnpei white-eye, Pohnpei flycatcher and the Pohnpei fantail. 
• Discover some of the World War II Japanese wrecks scattered across the floor of Truk Lagoon - warships, merchant ships and aircraft. 

Fares from $25,900 per person and include an air charter transfer from Cairns to Rabaul at the beginning of the voyage as well as from Sorong to Darwin at the voyage conclusion. 

Guests seeking to travel on multiple voyages will benefit from the usual 10% adjoining saving offered by Coral Expeditions. 

The Islands of South Pacific itineraries are bookable directly with Coral Expeditions’ reservations team on 1800 079 545 or via email explore@coralexpeditions.com. You can secure your stateroom immediately online at https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/papua-new-guinea/  

Find accompanying imagery and past Expedition logs from this region HERE 

For trade and media access to brochures, images and video of the region please visit HERE 

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For media enquiries please contact: 

Jeff Gillies | Commercial Director 
jgillies@coralexpeditions.com 
0418 415 581. 
  
About Coral Expeditions 
Recognised as Australia’s longest established and most awarded expedition cruise operator, Coral Expeditions is Australia’s pioneering cruise line. Our single purpose is to take small groups of like minded explorers to remote natural regions with expert guidance and warm Australian hospitality. Founded on offering environmentally sensitive cruises on the Great Barrier Reef 40 years ago, our modern fleet has grown into a purpose-built blue water fleet featuring the intimate Coral Discoverer and the advanced flagship vessels Coral Adventurer and sister ship Coral Geographer. All ships are equipped with the company’s trademark ‘Xplorer’ safari tender boats and supporting zodiacs that take guests to shore quickly and comfortably.  Headquartered in Cairns, Coral Expeditions offers expedition cruises to the Great Barrier Reef, the Kimberley, Tasmania’s wilderness coast, Cape York and Arnhem Land, New Zealand and further afield to the small Islands of Japan, the Philippines, New Guinea, Indonesia and the South Pacific. 
www.coralexpeditions.com