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asia / pacific: asia

z-Micronesia Revealed

From virgin forests and the unique birdlife in Tingwon to the cultural traditions of Manus and Yap, the Japanese ship graveyard of Truk Lagoon and the great reef systems scattered across Micronesia, you will be enthralled as we explore this oceanic wonder. Palau, with its famed Rock Islands, is a fitting conclusion. Visit outlying islands where visitors are a rarity, even today. Join friendly villagers to absorb their rhythmic, throbbing, traditional dances.

Day 1 – Rabaul, Papua New Guinea – Embark

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. During more than 100 years of settlement, Rabaul has been rocked by massive volcanic eruptions and war, a testament to the resilience of the townsfolk who have rebuilt after each event.

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.

The area played a significant role in WWII and the Japanese occupation in 1942 saw the building of hundreds of kilometers of tunnels underneath the town and the Gazelle Peninsula as protection against constant Allied bombing raids. It is almost hard to miss the rusting relics left over by the retreating forces. In one tunnel are five huge barges that were pulled along rails to the shore and back by prisoners of war. Dozens of sunken aircraft and ships dot the harbor and to the north are sea caves used as a drop-off point by Japanese submarines.

As we depart, Orion will cruise right past the active volcano, Mt Tavurvur.

Accommodations: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel
Included Meals: dinner

Day 2 – Tingwon Island – Wet landing

Tingwon Island, off the coast of New Ireland is home to virgin forests, unique birds and great reef systems. You will be privileged to observe special island culture and village life of the Tingwon people. The community will show us how they make sago and weave in the traditional way. You may even be able to learn to use a native canoe. Local guides will also explain their special fishing techniques and tell you of their legends including the legend of Ainanvogapa, the stone lady of the reef.

In the afternoon we will take advantage of the islands white sand beaches and surrounding reef systems. Swimming and snorkeling will be available weather and conditions permitting.

Accommodations: Spirit of Oceanus
Included Meals: breakfast and dinner

Day 3 – Nauna & Manus Island

The island of Nauna in Manus Province will welcome us with the beat of Manus style Garamut Drums. Whilst the Garamut, or log drum, is common throughout Melanesia, here they use several drums of different sizes in concert together to produce both melodic and rhythmic effects. The council of chiefs on Nauna is known as being highly independent and they have controversially drafted their own "constitution". After being welcomed by the chiefs and a significant cultural display we will have a chance to explore the village and there will be time for swimming and snorkeling as well. Villagers will also demonstrate the unusual kite fishing techniques.

Before departing Papua New Guinea waters for Micronesia we will enter Lorengau Harbor on Manus Island for official clearance procedures. This is a clearance stop only.

Accommodations: Spirit of Oceanus
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Days 4&5 – At Sea

Spend these days enjoying the amenities onboard while the Orion staff cater to your needs. Listen to presentations by your team of onboard naturalists.

Accommodations: Spirit of Oceanus
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 6 – Truk Lagoon (Chuuk) – Dry landing

This is the largest lagoon in the world. A focus for Japanese and US conflict during the Second World War, it has 60 sunken wrecks still containing torpedoes, ammunition, mines, sand shoes, saki bottles, china, trucks and tanks. On shore there are temples, quaint old lighthouses and WWII remnants.

Accommodations: Spirit of Oceanus
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Days 7&8 – Micronesian Atolls

A scattering of 600 plus islands. Exploring the world’s largest ocean, the captain will check the charts for remote atolls and, in true expedition style, undertake opportunistic landings on untouched beaches.

Accommodations: Spirit of Oceanus
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 9 – At Sea

Accommodations: Spirit of Oceanus
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 10 – Yap – Dry landing

Traditional culture remains resistant to outside influence. Yap is known for its stone money, the largest currency in the world, sometimes over 4 meters wide. In villages men still wear loincloths and women grass skirts. Dancing and song is the traditional way to pass down legends. Snorkel and dive with manta rays as they enter through a channel on tidal change.

Accommodations: Spirit of Oceanus
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 11 – At Sea

Accommodations: Spirit of Oceanus
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Days 12&13 – Palau – Disembark

Palauans maintain ancestral worship, nature spirits and a belief in female Gods. Renowned for its World Heritage listed Rock Islands (200 limestone outcrops with dense green jungle and blindingly white sand beaches), exotic bird life, monkeys and a freshwater lake full of harmless jellyfish where you can snorkel. Snorkeling and diving is outstanding with turtles, black coral, grouper, clams, anemones, clown fish and even a Japanese Zero in shallow water.

Accommodations: Spirit of Oceanus
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

For additional information and reservations, please contact us:

800-728-2875 | 530-583-1775 | fax 530-583-1711 | travel@AdventureSmithExplorations.com