Solomon Islands
The heavenly island state, made up of about 1,000 islands, will enchant adventurous spirits with its idyllic beaches and tropical rainforests. Explore the pristine islands as if you were on an expedition: with landings that are subject to both the weather and the tides and cannot be finally decided until after you arrive. On Nendoe, for example, enjoy a warm welcome from the village elder, which is traditionally accompanied by dancing. The agile Zodiacs will be put to the water so that you can reach isolated beaches on Santa Ana Island or Onua Island, for example, and spend some relaxing time on the white sand or snorkelling in the shallow waters. Time and again on these remote islands, you will encounter ancient customs handed down through the generations and see what life is like in the simple villages – perhaps on a stroll through the market on Ghizo Island or on Pirumeri Island. Come away with some thrilling impressions and perhaps one or two souvenirs, which you will find amongst the traditional island marquetry, to remind you of your extraordinary time here.

Rabaul/Papua New Guinea
Untamed nature, mysterious rites and a colourful history – the 600 or so islands of Papua New Guinea are everything an explorer’s heart desires. Six mighty volcanic craters form the impressive backdrop around Rabaul’s little harbour, the former capital of Papua New Guinea’s second largest island. You will see evidence of the volcanoes’ power in the houses sunk down in the ash or on a visit to the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory*. Learn more about the history of the island on a visit to the Japanese tunnel system* or the Kokopo War Museum*.

Garove Island/Vitu Islands/Papua New Guinea
A caldera flooded with sea water forms the impressive centre of this tiny volcanic island. Explore the island on your own individual trip ashore.

Madang/Papua New Guinea
The Coastwatchers Memorial Lighthouse shows the way from a distance. With its villas, mangrove forest and local market, the town is an inviting place to explore. In the Madang Museum*, you will come across reminders of German New Guinea, as well as traditional masks and artefacts. Experience the ancient customs of the country at first hand on a flight* into the Goroka highlands – home of the fascinating Asora “mudmen”, who used to frighten their enemies away.

Kopar/Sepik River/Papua New Guinea
With the ship’s Zodiacs, you can explore one of the world’s largest river systems. In the estuary of the Sepik River, cruise through thick jungle and swamps as you pass the simple houses on stilts and dugout boats of the fishermen.

Port Numbay (Jayapura)/Irian Jaya/Indonesia
Selamat Datang – welcome to the world’s largest island state and to Indonesia’s easternmost province. Whilst Jayapura is quite a modern-looking city with the Museum Loka Budaya* and its own university, in the highlands of Irian Jaya, you will find a remote region in which inhabitants of these tropical cloud forests still hunt with bows and arrows. The fishermen at Lake Sentani* also live and work according to traditions passed down through the generations.

Pulau Aibai/Yapen Strait/Indonesia
Secluded beaches and a colourful underwater world – enjoy a few peaceful hours on Pulau Aibai.

Koror/Palau
The independent island country of Palau stretches out like a floating Garden of Eden – a high-speed boat trip* through the Rock Islands will take you alongside the lush, green islands, which rise up out of the turquoise ocean like mushrooms. There are also some surprising discoveries to make in the island’s interior: as you swim through the salt-water Jellyfish Lake, you will be joined by thousands of these sea creatures, which are completely harmless here.

Tagbilaran/Bohol/Philippines
The capital of the Philippine province of Bohol is your starting point for experiencing a unique natural wonder. The Chocolate Hills* rise up out of the green forests and owe their name to the thick carpet of grass, which turns brown during the dry season. Get some insights into the peaceful everyday lives of the rural population on a visit to Loon* and Maribojoc* – two traditional coastal villages with plenty of charm.

Boracay/Philippines
Sink your feet deep into the white sand and let your gaze sweep over the crystal-clear waters – relax on White Beach, one of the best beaches in the Philippines, or stroll along the lively promenade.

Malcapuya Island/Calamian Group/Philippines
Snorkelling, swimming and collecting mussels: spend a wonderful day of your holidays exactly as you please in this secluded lagoon.

Manila/Philippines
An unforgettable journey comes to an end in the capital of the Philippines.