Wilderness Travel 2021 Cultural Cruises Brochure

Melanesia Discoverer ABOARD THE SPIRIT OF ENDERBY

Uncover the hidden gems of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands on this wonderfully varied expedition cruise. From the culturally rich waterways of the Sepik River, sail north across the Bismarck Sea to the remote shores of Manus and Mussau Islands. Crossing the Buka Channel, enter a long-isolated world and be among the few travelers who have visited remote Bougainville Island. These waters are home to some of the greatest marine diversity in the world, and you’ll have daily opportunities to snorkel, kayak, and explore the incredible life beneath the waves. For birders, this journey offers sightings of rare species on remote islands where few people travel. In the company of expert naturalists, keep a lookout for the manus friarbird, Mussaua monarch, paradise drango, and the endemic Solomon sea eagle, among others.

forests, and search for dugong and crocodiles along the way. Keep an eye out for the rare roviana rail and other endemic bird species in the volcanic New Georgia Islands, and watch for hawksbill turtles near the Arnavon Islands. Disembark in Honiara on Day 14. idyllic islands, and some of the most phenomenal snorkeling in the world. Oct 22-Nov 2, 2020 & Oct 23-Nov 3, 2021. From $5,495. Secrets of Melanesia ABOARD SPIRIT OF ENDERBY From the Solomon Islands to Vanuatu, discover rare exotic birds, remote villages,

DAYS 1-3 MADANG AND THE SEPIK RIVER Explore the lush highlands of Madang and its colorful street markets before boarding the Spirit of Enderby . Optional birding excursions are also available. Sure to be a trip highlight, the Sepik River is the longest river in Papua New Guinea and home to a bewildering number of traditional artists. Take Zodiac rides down channels and tributaries in search of wildlife, as well as to meet locals in their villages and marvel at their artistry. DAYS 4-6 MANUS AND MUSSA ISLANDS Seldom visited and little known, Manus Island is home to a large number of endemic species including the superb pitta, which promises to capture the attention of bird lovers. Explore the waters around Manus, which contain some of the most

spectacularly rich reefs in the region. Mussa Island is one of the westernmost extensions of the Lapita culture. Spend time with the local people and learn about their culture and traditions. DAYS 7-10 PAPA NEW GUINEA Observe remnants of Japanese occupation on historic Kavieng. Birders will head to the highlands while others will explore the town and snorkel in clear waters. Visit bubbling hot springs on volcanic Rabaul, and snorkel in the tropical atoll of Nissan, where few travelers ever go. Bougainville is a pristine island paradise and home to some of the greatest biodiversity in the region. DAYS 11-14 SOLOMON ISLANDS Explore Choiseul Island, where Zodiac excursions take you deep into mangrove

DATES Oct 10-23, 2020 Oct 11-24, 2021

TRIP COST From $6,995

Price is per person and depends on cabin type

PACIFIC OCEAN

Mussau Is.

Manus Is.

Kavieng

Sepik River

Nissan Is.

Rabaul

Bougainville Is.

Madang

Santa Isabel Is.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Choiseul Is. New Georgia Islands

Honiara

SOLOMON ISL ANDS

200 mi

29 1-800-368-2794 • WTCRUISECOLLECTION@WILDERNESSTRAVEL.COM • WWW.WTCRUISECOLLECTION.COM

200 km