Join a commercial flight to the stunning Solomon Islands. On arrival in Honiara you will be greeted by your cruise director and escorted to the True North. Enjoy a welcome aboard cocktail and let your attentive crew introduce you to the onboard delights of the True North.

Then savour a leisurely evening cruise washed with the intoxicating aromas of the TRUE NORTH’S renowned cuisine.

Embark in our comfortable expedition boats as we begin to discover the Solomons! Savo Island is a volcanic island which last erupted in the years between 1835 and 1850. One eruption was so violent - it wiped out all life on the island! A previous eruption also occurred in 1568. Because of its proximity to the strategic Guadalcanal Island, Savo figured in many naval engagements during World War II. Several naval battles between the Allied naval forces and the Imperial Japanese Navy were fought in the adjacent “Ironbottom Sound”.

The island is also reported to be a dependable location for seeing large pods of dolphins. After lunch visit the Russell Islands. These islands feature dramatic topography and stellar underwater visibility. During World War II the islands were occupied by U.S. forces. They established two airfields, a major supply base and a PT-boat base operated on Mbanika Island. At White Beach and Lever Point artificial reefs were created when trucks, jeeps, tractors, bulldozers and large amounts of ammunition were discarded. Other remnants of the U.S. presence, such as large storage sheds, are also still evident.

The islands are partially covered in coconut plantations and there are copra and oil factories at Yandina. The Lavukal people live on these islands. Their language is Lavukaleve. In Yandina, people from all over the Solomon Islands have come to work in the coconut plantations. The deep Sunlight Channel separates Mbanika Island from the Russell’s largest island, Pavuvu. Just offshore, the former coastal trader Ann sits upright at the edge of the channel. The ship was deliberately sunk a few years ago and makes a superb dive site. There is also a settlement of Polynesians, resettled from Tikopia, that live in Nukufero on the west side of Pavuvu.

The afternoon will be spent exploring all from the air in the ship’s helicopter and, on the water in the expedition boats - ample and convenient opportunity to swim, dive, snorkel and fish!

Then it’s onto Gizo - the capital of Western Province is a remote and relatively quiet place with only 6000 friendly residents. Although it is one of the Solomon’s most touristic centres, Gizo receives on average not more than 5000 visitors a year. Gizo has many small shops and an open air market located next to the waterfront - perhaps the perfect opportunity to purchase local art and craft or just soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Nearby, after a beautiful coastal walk, you can reach Saeraghi Village where life is still as it was hundreds of years ago. You can also visit other Melanesian and Gilbertese villages or, enjoy the beauty of Simbo Island.

Views across to majestic Kolombangra, the tallest dormant volcano in the region, dominate the skyline and inland bird watching trips, beautiful rainforest hikes and swimming in crystal clear lagoons are all on the agenda.

Visits to Kennedy Island will also be popular. Known locally as Plum Pudding Island, the atoll lends its other name from the late US President John F. Kennedy.

JFK and the crew of the motor torpedo boat PT-109 swam ashore at the island after being rammed by a Japanese cruiser during World War II. It’s a sandy beach island offering unsurpassed snorkelling opportunities for beginners and more challenging sites on the outer reef for experienced divers.

This morning we explore Vonavona Lagoon. The lagoon extends for 28km between the tiny islets of Blackett Strait & the long sandy islands of Nusaghele. Within the lagoon there are numerous atolls fringed by coral-encrusted shallows. Diving, snorkelling and fishing will beckon and the helicopter will provide yet another breathtaking perspective. In the afternoon, join the shore parties when we visit mysterious Skull Island. The island is the final resting place for the skulls of countless vanquished warriors and chiefs. Then celebrate a perfect day in paradise with a sunset cocktail and stories of the day’s adventures.

Wake today off Tetepare – an island known for its wildlife and, headhunting! A dazzling variety of animals make their home on Tepepare – an island primarily covered in lowland rainforest. Resident species include several rare and endemic varieties of bird and bat. Leatherback turtles also nest on the islands volcanic sand beaches.

Jungle walks will reveal the island’s birdlife – and the afternoon snorkelers are likely to encounter turtle and perhaps dugong! Also visit the remnants of abandoned village sites linked to headhunting. Learn about Tetepare’s mysterious past as you explore sites of interest to archaeologists who are still trying to piece together the story of the island’s lost civilisation.

Join the crew as we explore the 140km long Marovo Lagoon - one of the largest lagoons in the world. The area is renowned for its superb scuba diving and remote snorkelling. The ship’s helicopter will be the perfect vehicle for exploring such a large area and underwater highlights will include spectacular drop-offs and stunning coral gardens. Adventure at its absolute best swathed in warm water featuring excellent visibility and a wide diversity of marine life. .

This morning take advantage of a late check-out and enjoy a sumptuous farewell breakfast. Join the expedition boats for a spot of sightseeing or just make sure you swap addresses with your fellow adventures and say your last goodbyes to the crew. After some morning tea we will escort you to the airport for your return flight to Brisbane and, we will already be looking forward to welcoming you back onboard the mighty True North.