The information contained in this document is current as at the date of printing (June 2023). Please check our website prior to travel for up-to-date information.
WELCOME ABOARD!
Our aim is to provide the experience of a lifetime for our passengers. We follow a proven model of exploring remote areas of the world aboard a small expedition ship. Our company is based on the philosophy of preservation through education; care of the environment is for us and hopefully our clients, paramount. It is the aim of our expeditions to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of some of the least known parts of the globe.
ADVENTURE TRAVEL
Welcome to the adventure. As you are aware, this type of trip can never be entirely cut-and-dried and that is the beauty and excitement of Expedition Cruising. Because we travel to wild and untamed places the itinerary for this expedition is a statement of intent rather than a promise.
We are always at the mercy of the elements and although we know where to find the wild creatures we hope to encounter, we cannot produce them on cue. Our Guides are just as eager as you are to see that special animal or plant species and will use their knowledge to take you to the best places to find them.
It is highly unlikely that the itinerary will be substantially altered, but if changes are necessary your Expedition Leader will decide the best alternative. If a delay or change does occur, we will do everything we can to minimise the effects, but we cannot be held responsible for the results of delays or changes outside our control. No two voyages are alike; there is always an element of the unexpected.
BEFORE YOU GO
Please ensure you read and follow the suggestions in this guide thoroughly. Please read the ‘Customs/Security Requirements’ and the ‘We Need From You’ sections to ensure you are prepared for your voyage.
Double check to make sure your passport is current and valid for six months or more past the date of your return.
It is important that you read your Pre-departure Information thoroughly as well as the final documentation issued 4 weeks prior to commencement of the expedition, these documents both contain essential information and guidelines for your expedition and time at sea. If you do have any questions please contact our reservations team.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our departures, we strongly recommend that passengers take out a comprehensive medical and cancellation worldwide travel insurance.
Heritage Adventurer travels to remote destinations all over the world where medical treatment in the case of an emergency may be difficult to reach. It is therefore impertant all guests have adequate travel insurance cover including medical evacuation cover in remote destinations. Evacuations are extremely expensive.
A few points to note:
• Full Medical Evacuation/Repatriation Insurance is mandatory for all expeditions. Where a passenger requires hospitalisation or medical treatment including evacuation, all costs associated with this are the full responsibility of that passenger. Please check that your policy (particularly if it is issued by your credit card provider) covers this for the destination that you are visiting, and covers any pre-existing medical conditions. If you have pre-existing medical conditions that your insurance company will not cover please contact us.
• If you are arranging your own insurance, you should check that all included activities are covered such as landings, Zodiac cruising, charter flights and optional activities.
• In the event of a cancellation, our terms and conditions as outlined in our brochure apply.
MEDICAL ADVICE
We strongly recommend travellers seek an appointment with a doctor trained in travel health prior to departure for the most up-to-date recommendations on vaccinations and medical information. Please note that we are travelling in malaria zones.
We recommend that you carry any important medication in your hand baggage when you are flying as a precautionary measure, rather than packing it in checked baggage. Occasionally checked items can be delayed in transit.
CURRENCY
There will be opportunities to purchase local crafts at various villages throughout the voyages. The ship has limited capacity to change Pacific currencies for guests so we recommend you bring along sufficient small denominations of cash currency to purchase local crafts. Purchasing from villages supports local communities.
• Indonesia – Rupiah
• Japan – Japanese Yen
• New Caledonia – CFP Franc
• Norfolk Island – Australian Dollar
• Papua New Guinea – Kina
• Solomon Islands – Solomon Dollar
• Vanuatu – Vanuatu Vatu
CUSTOMS/SECURITY REQUIREMENTS
• Please check you have completed your passport details on the Booking Form AND ensure you bring your passport with you. The passport details you supply to the office must be for the passport you intend to travel on.
• Please ensure your passport is current and valid for at least six months past the date of your return travel from all expeditions including Pacific Island voyages. Depending on your nationality the period may differ so it is important that you check the criteria carefully.
• Most destinations require that you have adequate un-used pages in your passport, allowing for any necessary stamps upon arrival and departure. We recommend that you have at least two free pages in Visas section of your passport before any international travel.
• Please forward an electronic copy of the photo page of your passport to the office for Customs purposes.
The Customs information below is a guide only, please be aware that these requirements may change, for the most up-to-date information we advise you to check with the relevant Embassies prior to travel. For the nationals of some countries a visa may be required, please make sure that you obtain any visas needed. All passengers are required to organise their own visas and must hold a valid passport, please note, some destinations my not be applicable to your voyage.
CAROLINE ISLANDS – MICRONESIA
• A temporary 30-day visa will be issued on arrival, citizens of some countries may still require prior approval before entering Caroline Islands as a visitor, please consult with your local embassy prior to travel. A passport must be valid for 120 days beyond the date of planned departure from the islands. www.visit-micronesia.fm/guide/regulation
• An FSM Immigration Arrival and Departure record must be completed on arrival.
INDONESIA
• Foreign nationals from countries which are included in the 169 Visa Free Country List are entitled to a free Short Stay Visit Visa for tourism on entry, or, if your nationality is included on the Visa on Arrival (VOA) list from 68 countries, then a temporary 30-day visa
PRE DEPARTURE INFORMATION
can be issued on arrival (approx US$35). A passport must have minimum 6 months validity beyond the date planned departure from the country. Please check the immigration website https://molina.imigrasi.go.id/ for further information and conditions of entry for your nationality.
JAPAN
• A visa exemption arrangement is in place with 68 countries (as of October 2022) including NZ, AU, GB, FR, DE, BE, CA and US when the purpose of visit to Japan is tourism. A full list of exemption countries (short-term stay) can be downloaded from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/short/novisa.html . The period of stay granted at the time of the landing permission for most of these countries and regions is 90 days, exceptions do apply for some countries, please check the embassy websites for further information.
NEW CALEDONIA – FRANCE
• No visa is required for British, USA, Canadian, Australian, NZ and other EU passport holders for stays of up to three months. www.newcaledonia.travel/nz/passport-visa-customs
NEW ZEALAND
• New Zealand has introduced ‘New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)’ for arrivals to the country. You must request this well in advance of your arrival, it can take up to 72 hours for the NZeTA to be approved. Conditions apply depending on nationality, please ensure you check the immigration website www.immigration.govt.nz/eta for further information (downloading an app to your mobile device may cost you less than applying via the website).
NORFOLK ISLAND – AUSTRALIA
• As the island is an Australian territory, the visa policy of Australia applies. All foreign nationals arriving at Norfolk Island from an overseas location and departing from Norfolk Island to an overseas location are subject to Australian immigration requirements. International citizens (NZ/AU nationals please refer to second point) will require an Australian electronic visa (ETA) before entering Australian territory to meet Australia’s visa entry requirements, however, keep in mind that Australia has agreements in place that grant visa exemption to many nationalities, please check your nationalities individual requirements with a local embassy/consulate or via the immigration website www.immi.gov.au
• If you are a New Zealand or Australian citizen then you will not require a visa, citizens will be required to hold
a valid national passport/travel document, and Noncitizens will be required to hold a valid passport/travel document as well as a valid visa to meet Australia’s entry requirements.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
• For those commencing their travel in PNG most will need to obtain an eVisa for Papua New Guinea depending on your nationality and you will need to apply for this online prior to travel. Please note that the Visa on Arrival service is currently suspended for those arriving by air, for those already on board this will be organised on board depending on your nationality. For information on visa requirements please visit: https://evisa.ica.gov.pg/evisa/account/Apply
• Expeditioners travelling on ‘Indonesian Explorer’ require a PNG visa arriving by ship into Madang. Heritage Expeditions can arrange a PNG visa for passengers as long as we have your complete travel itinerary and your nationality allows us to apply for a visa on arrival. Please refer to the expedition notes for this voyage for further information.
• Citizens of countries not eligible for a visa on arrival will need to obtain a visa from their nearest PNG Embassy abroad prior to their arrival into the country.
SOLOMON ISLANDS
• No visa is required for most travellers as a visitor’s permit can be granted upon arrival into the Solomon Islands. You do not need a visa to enter the Solomon Islands if you are a Commonwealth citizen, a citizen of the United States, or a citizen from most European countries. A passport must be valid for six months beyond the date of planned departure from the islands. www.commerce.gov.sb.
• Citizens of some countries may still require prior approval before entering Solomon Islands as a visitor, please consult with your local embassy prior to travel. There is a list of countries whose citizens do require prior approval on the Solomon Islands Government Ministry of Commerce, Industries, Labour and Immigration website.
VANUATU
• No visa is required for EEC, USA, Canadian, NZ, or Australian passport holders for stays of up to 30 days. A passport must be valid for six months beyond the date of planned departure. www.immigration.gov.vu/
PORT ACCESS
Your passport will be used as identification when entering the port and as such it should be carried with you when boarding. Your passport details must match the information you have previously provided to us.
WE NEED FROM YOU
Booking Form
It is essential that you have completed the Booking Form (if you haven’t already), please answer every question – they are all important. Some questions commonly left blank are Preferred Name and Dietary Requirements.
Dietary Requirements
If you have any special dietary requirements, please ensure you have notified us early.
Preferred Name
For on board purposes if you prefer to be called by a name other than your given name (as it is on your passport), please let us know.
Passport Copy
We need a clear colour copy of the photo page of the passport you will be travelling on (either an electronic scan via email or hardcopy). See the ‘Customs/Security Requirements’ section. If for some reason you need to change your passport from the one that you have originally supplied, please inform the office immediately.
Medical Questionnaire
At four months prior to departure you will be sent a link to your online Medical Questionnaire for your completion, please access this questionnaire as soon as possible and complete sections A, B, C, D and Finish. Each passenger has their own individual link; your honesty with this information would be appreciated as should an untoward event occur while you are travelling with us, we can act accordingly. In addition if you are over 70 years of age at the time of the voyage or have a pre-existing medical condition, we also ask that your Medical Advisor/Doctor complete the additional pages, supplied as a PDF with the link and then return this to the office. Medical information supplied will be on board the vessel for the Medical Advisor of your expedition. This information will remain confidential. If you are taking any medications please ensure that you have sufficient with you past the date of your return and please list all medication when completing the online form including the condition they are treating.
ACCOMMODATION VOUCHERS
Thirty days prior to the start of the voyage you will receive a final letter confirming your travel arrangements. If accommodation is included in the price of your voyage, details regarding this will be on this letter. If you have booked accommodation nights or transfers which are additional to the expedition via Heritage Expeditions this will also be supplied with the letter.
BOARDING PASS
Your boarding pass will be included with your final letter.
ON BOARD INFORMATION
AIR CONDITIONING
Heritage Adventurer is air-conditioned throughout the ship. To maintain temperature and operational efficiency please keep your cabin doors closed when not in use. Each cabin has individual controls.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The onboard public address system will be used to alert you to wildlife, give instructions for shore excursions, and ship board activities. Our shipboard information service is viewed on your cabin TV screen. This includes the daily programme, menus, weather updates and a wide range of information to support your onboard experience.
BEVERAGES
Soft drinks, house wines and house beers are included during service for lunch and dinner. An array of international wines, spirits, premium beers, champagne and juices are available when the Bistro Bar on Deck 6 or the Deck 5 Bar/ Lounge are open and can be charged to your shipboard account. Please note: It is the policy of Heritage Expeditions to only serve alcoholic beverages to persons 18 years and over.
BISTRO & LOUNGE
Situated on Deck 6 this spacious area features comfortable lounges and armchairs. With the added advantage of direct access to the outer decks it is one of the main activity hubs onboard.
BRIDGE
Located on Deck 6 our Open Bridge policy means you are welcome to observe the Captain and crew at work while enjoying some of the ship’s bests views. Access is at the discretion of the Captain, please respect the sign on the door to the Bridge.
CABINS
The spacious and well-designed cabins feature a sitting area, ensuite bathroom with shower, spacious wardrobe and desk work station.
Each cabin is equipped with:
• a TV (internal ship programming only)
• individually controlled heating and air conditioning
• round European two-pronged electrical outlet
• a safe which can be programmed with your own code
• toiletries of shampoo, and body soap and lotion
• hairdryer
All cabins are serviced daily by your cabin attendant. The majority of cabins are two twin beds which can be reconfigured to form a king bed, as requested with Reservations.
COMMUNICATIONS
Heritage Adventurer provides a satellite communication system for voice and email use with WIFI throughout the vessel. Details will
PRE DEPARTURE INFORMATION
be available onboard with instructions for connecting to the wifi and purchasing of vouchers. The system is satellite based, factors outside our control may affect the quality of the service. The telephone in your cabin is for your internal ship use.
CURRENCY AND ACCOUNT SETTLEMENT
The US dollar is the standard currency on board. On board we operate a cashless “account” system for all purchases and services. Your ship ID card, issued on embarkation, is linked to your cabin account for all purchases. You will be asked to sign for purchases during the expedition. Payment of your shipboard account is made near the end of your voyage at Reception. We accept Visa and Mastercard credit cards and USD cash.
Note: If you are sharing a cabin and would like separate accounts, advise reception as you commence your expedition.
DAILY PROGRAMME
The daily programme outlines the day’s events, landing times and hours of meal service. We operate in remote areas where weather and sea conditions play an important role, meaning the days programme and hours may be altered. Flexibility is essential. The daily programme is uploaded to the ships internal website seen on your in-cabin screen as a reference. An additional information screen is beside Reception on Deck 5.
DINING
Our on board dining experience on Deck 4 features international cuisine from our talented chefs. Sensational 270° views provide a stunning backdrop to meals here. With relaxed seating arrangements, all guests can enjoy dining in a single sitting from hearty breakfast, setting you up for the day’s adventure to sumptuous lunches and multi-course evening dining.
For those with a keen interest in eating simple yet delicious meals in a less formal setting with immediate access to an outer deck for wildlife viewing the Bistro is a venue of choice. Located on Deck 6 the Bistro is perfect for an early riser’s continental breakfast service.
Self-service hot beverages are available throughout the day in the Bistro (Deck 6) and the Lounge (Deck 5) The daily menus for our inhouse dining opportunities are featured on the dining menu on the ships internal website viewed on your in-cabin screen.
DRESS CODE
The daytime dress code on Heritage Adventurer is defined as casual, come evening we move to smart casual. In the expedition spirit you may wish to wear something a little dressier for the welcome and farewell dinners – dress shirt and maybe a tie for gentlemen and a dress or smart top with trousers for ladies. For your safety always wear footwear whilst on board.
ELECTRICITY
The electrical current on board is 220 volts. Electrical outlets are standard European sockets with two round pins, be sure to bring an adaptor with you. Adaptors on a use and return basis are available through reception with payment of a refundable deposit on return. If your equipment is 110v and needs to be converted to the 220v onboard, please bring a converter with you.
ELEVATOR/LIFT
There are two elevators/ lifts for passenger access, one aft and one forward. The aft elevator/lift services Deck 3 through to Deck 7. Access to the lecture room is via the aft elevator to Deck 3 with stairs to Deck 2. Access to the Zodiacs for shore excursions is by way of the internal stairs and, or the aft elevator/ lift and gangway stairs located on Deck 3. The forward elevator/lift serves Deck 2 through to Deck 7. Access to the hospital is via the forward elevator to Deck 2. During inclement weather, emergency or fire, the lifts are unavailable.
EMERGENCY BRIEFING & SAFETY AT SEA
Our experienced Captain, Officers and crew lead the safety protocols especially the mandatory passenger lifeboat briefing and drill which is conducted on the first day of the voyage. All guests are required to participate.
Safety at sea is a major objective of life aboard Heritage Adventurer. Heritage Adventurer carries all current certifications required by international maritime law and fully complies with the strict provisions of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and IMO Polar Code.
In the unlikely event of an emergency you be kept informed via the ships public address system. Follow instructions given by the Captain and crew. If directed collect your lifejacket from your cabin and proceed to your Muster Station.
Safety information is detailed on the ships internal website viewed through your in-cabin monitor and on the back of your cabin door.
GIFT SHOP
The gift shop on Heritage Adventurer carries a curated array of product. Opening hours will be published on the daily programme. Any purchases will be added to your shipboard account and settled prior to the end of the voyage.
GOING ASHORE
Ship Identification (ID) cards are issued to each guest during embarkation. Ship ID cards are used to check IN and check OUT at the gangway with the crew member on duty. This applies every time you leave the ship including expedition landings, Zodiac cruises or port excursions.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities are a personal matter reflective of our guest’s culture. Suggested gratuities range between $15 - $20 USD per person per day. You may prefer to make an anonymous cash payment for gratuities at reception on the final day of the voyage, in the special box provided for this purpose.
HEALTH AND HYGIENE
The recent COVID pandemic has reiterated self-responsibility in personal hygiene including handwashing, use of sanitisers and facial mask if required. Your commitment compliments the use of approved products and controls on board. All protocols are aimed at minimising or eliminating potential spread of any infectious agent, including coronavirus. We will be following the local regional and Government specific rules and regulations during our expeditions. Heritage Adventurer carries a medical physician for emergency services, should medical support be required.
LAUNDRY
Laundry for your personal clothing is available. Place your laundry in the laundry bag from the wardrobe with a completed laundry slip and leave this by your door before your cabin is serviced in the morning. Your laundry will be returned within 48 hours, with the charges based on your completed laundry slip, added to your shipboard account. A 24 hours Speedy service is available for an extra charge. Public laundrette or ironing facilities are unavailable on board.
LEISURE FACILITIES
True to her Nordic origins Heritage Adventurer features a dry -heat Finnish sauna and European steam room on Deck 7. Perfect for warming up post polar plunge or unwinding after a day’s adventures, the sauna and steam room include change room facilities, showers and towels.
The spacious and well-appointed fitness room is also in Deck 7’s Wellbeing Zone. A range of equipment is available for your use. Opening hours for the sauna, steam and fitness room are advised through the internal website viewable on your in-cabin monitor.
Opening hours for the onboard Spa with massage service are advised on the information screen service, reservations are made with Reception.
LIBRARY
Our onboard library, hosted in the Observation Lounge on Deck 7, offers a wide selection of reference books covering the regions we explore. These are yours to enjoy whilst on board. The everchanging fiction collection may tempt you into the world of mystery, intrigue, science fiction or life.
MEDICAL FACILITIES AND SERVICES
We travel in remote areas without sophisticated medical facilities. Heritage Adventurer has a small infirmary and a full time Ship’s Doctor. Most expeditions will also have a First Responder onboard to accompany us on shore excursions. While well stocked with a variety of commonly required medications and first aid equipment, it does not replace a modern hospital. We strongly recommend you have sufficient personal medications with you to cover the entire expedition and your associated travels.
Cabin visits are available, noting all consultations and services are charged for.
Dial 888 for an emergency, dial 800 for the onboard Hospital, in an emergency at night dial 701 for the bridge. Dial 8108 for the physician pager.
MUDROOM
Heritage Adventurer has two mudrooms for use immediately prior to and after Zodiac excursions and shore visits. Each cabin has a designated numbered locker for storing the life vests for zodiac excursions and shore boots. Groups will be called to use the mudrooms in rotation to facilitate smooth use of the space.
RECEPTION
Reception opens at 6.30am, or 30 minutes before early riser’s breakfast, closing at 10.00pm each day.
SCENTS AND ALLERGIES
Your thoughtfulness to others is appreciated in minimising the use of perfumes, colognes and scented lotions which may cause discomfort and allergic reactions in others.
SMOKING
Heritage Adventurer offers a smoke free cruise environment. There is a No Smoking policy inside the vessel including your cabin, all balcony and public areas. The only designated smoking zone is situated on Deck 5, aft of the bar/lounge. Cigarette butts are to be disposed of in the container provided, never overboard. Due to environmental considerations our policy is no smoking on landings or in the Zodiacs.
VALUABLES
Heritage Expeditions accepts no liability for loss or theft of personal belongings you bring onboard. We recommend valuable items, especially jewellery, are left in your safe during shore excursions.
WATER
Water from the taps is drinkable with no additional purification required. Heritage Adventurer is equipped with a sophisticated desalination and purification system. Drinking fountains for chilled water or sparkling water are located close to the aft stairwells on guest levels.
PRE DEPARTURE INFORMATION
CLIMATE INFORMATION
Our expeditions are scheduled during the late spring and summer seasons in the Southern Hemisphere.
CAROLINE ISLANDS
In the more northern islands you could almost be guaranteed that the temperature will be between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F) at any time of the day, any day of the year. Closer to the equator things are a bit warmer and days usually creep into the low thirties (high eighties). Humidity is usually high but the even temperature and fresh sea breezes mean conditions are never too stuffy. Heavy rainfall occurs between June and December but closer to the equator rainfall is distributed more evenly throughout the year, bulging a bit around DecemberJanuary.
INDONESIA
Straddling the equator Indonesia has a tropical climate with two clear seasons. The dry season runs from April to October, the rainy season from November until March. Temperatures and rainfall vary across the archipelago because of elevation and monsoon patterns. Temperatures are determined by elevation and nearness to the sea. The amount of rain varies from island to island influenced by geography and altitude, the word ‘rain’ has a different connotation in Indonesia; a downpour in the high temperatures can have a very refreshing effect, clearing away humidity. The climate of West Papua includes high temperatures, plenty of strong sunshine and periods of wet weather.
Raja Ampat enjoys a year-round day length of about twelve hours and air temperatures are also reliably constant with a daytime average maximum of 31˚C (89˚F) and a nightly minimum of 25˚C (78˚F) – although it can often feel hotter than that due to the region’s average relative humidity of 83%. Raja Ampat has a microclimate that can vary substantially from that of Sorong in West Papua. The ocean is warm year-round in Raja Ampat, having an average surface temperature of 29˚C (84˚F).
JAPAN
Spring is probably the best time of year to be in Japan. The temperatures are warm but not hot, there’s not too much rain. From the end of March to early May much of the Japanese mainland is a blaze with beautiful white and pink cherry blossom, celebrated with an increasingly popular Cherry Blossom Festival. The warmer temperatures are found in the Nampo and Bonin Islands, which enjoy a subtropical climate due to the combination of latitude, distance from the Asian mainland, and warming effect of winds from the Kuroshio, as well as the Volcano Islands (at the latitude of the southernmost Ryukyus, 24˚N)
NEW CALEDONIA
With slight seasonal changes, hotter, drier weather occurs between December and February, with temperatures between 23°C (74°F) and 30°C (86°F). Tropical cyclones are an occasional occurrence and rainfall in some parts is more consistent throughout the year than others, but generally rainfall gets a bit heavier between February and May. Around the middle of the year, temperatures drop by about 5°C (10°F) each way and the rain eases off.
NORFOLK ISLAND
Norfolk Island has a sub-tropical climate which is tempered by the surrounding sea. Temperature ranges are small. Average maximum temperatures range from 18°C to 19°C in winter to between 23°C and 25°C in summer. Rainfall is greatest during the four months from May to August, the wettest month is June.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
The wet and dry seasons in PNG are not as black and white as elsewhere in Asia. In practice, for most places the wet just means it is more likely to rain, the dry that it’s less likely. Temperatures rarely get too hot but the humidity is always high and can be oppressing. Rainfall is generally heavy but varies greatly. In dry, often dusty Port Moresby, the annual rainfall is about 1,000mm. Elsewhere rainfall can vary from a little over 2,000mm, in Rabaul, to over 4,500mm in Lae. In extreme rainfall areas, such as West New Britain Province or the northern areas of the Gulf and Western Provinces, the annual rainfall can average more than 8m a year!
The island provinces have a steady climate, with the ‘dry’ season from December to late May having milder temperatures (about 21°C to 28°C during the day) and infrequent, light rainfall. The heat and humidity rise during the ‘wet’ monsoon season, from late May to December. Cyclones can blow between January and April. PNG has one of the most variable climates on earth, which can confound the best of travel planning. The wet season is roughly from December to March and the dry is from May to October. April and November are anyone’s guess. The months from June to September are cooler, drier and better to visit, but it’s generally hot and humid year-round.
SOLOMON ISLANDS
From late May until early December (the dry season) south-easterly winds produce pleasantly mild weather. Rainfall is light and rain periods are usually several days apart. From mid-December to mid-May, monsoon winds come from the west or north-west bringing the wet season – a time of higher temperatures, humidity and rainfall. Short, sharp torrential rains are followed by bright sunshine. Honiara’s annual rainfall is about 215mm, which is dryer than most of the rest of the country. Some areas such as Guadalcanal’s south coast, receive as much as 12.5m of rain.
Daytime coastal temperatures vary through the year from 27°C to 32°C. At night the temperature falls to around 19°C. The humidity can be oppressive and is highest in the morning, regularly reaching 90%. The coolest time of the year is from June to September, although humidity levels are lowest from October to December.
VANUATU
During summer, November to March, the average temperature is 28°C and it can be hot, wet and humid. Winter, April to September, the temperature averages 23°C. The warmer months from December to April are also the wettest with good rain in every month. The summer months are part of the tropical cyclone season.
CLOTHING/GEARLIST INFORMATION
During these voyages we can experience a variety of weather conditions. Your ability to cope with these and to dress accordingly will ensure that you are able to participate fully in the expeditions. Please read these suggestions thoroughly so that you can be prepared for the weather conditions.
• The choice of clothing for warmer climates is a very personal matter. It depends on your individual experience with warm conditions.
• The climate experienced in the South Pacific will range from temperate through subtropical to tropical so clothes that ‘breathe’ and dry quickly are recommended for your comfort.
• For your comfort and safety bring wind and waterproof outer layers.
• The secret to staying comfortable is the ‘layer principle’. This says that you are better to have several light layers of clothing than one heavy layer. This also gives you flexibility in your clothing so you can take off a layer if you are too warm or put another layer on if you are cold.
ON BOARD THE SHIP
The ship is cooled throughout with the normal temperature 17-25°C. In keeping with our expedition atmosphere, dress on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing. Keep in mind that much of the spectacular scenery can be appreciated from deck, which can be slippery, so sturdy shoes with non-slip soles are preferred.
TIPS TO STAY COMFORTABLE AND COOL IN WARM WEATHER
• Avoid overdressing to reduce perspiration.
• Be sure to wear a sun hat. Hats that can be pulled down to protect your ears, forehead and neck are recommended.
• Dress in comfortable, loose layers. It is better to wear layers of relatively light, loose clothing.
• Remember the ‘slip-slop-slap’ principle. Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen and slap on a hat.
PACKING LIST
When packing, don’t weigh yourself down with too many clothes or too much gear. Select practical attire for your expedition that can be worn in layers. This checklist will provide some guidance as to what you are likely to need. If you have any questions, please give us a call.
PRE DEPARTURE INFORMATION
Clothing Packed
Light, quick dry shirts (long and short sleeved)
Light, quick dry shorts and trousers
These double up as a sun and mosquito protection while out on deck and also on landings. Quick dry is essential in the hot humid temperatures.
Trousers help protect from the sun and mosquitos, while shorts are useful on landings when you are required to hop out of the Zodiacs into shallow water. Shorts can also be used while snorkelling and swimming to protect from sunburn as well as around the ship.
T-shirts For around the ship and on landings.
Light-weight sweaters/jerseys For those cooler evenings and Zodiac trips.
Lightweight waterproof & windproof raincoat
While warm, the Pacific can also be wet. While you may not wear much underneath the jacket, it will be useful for keeping the wind-chill out while on Zodiac cruises as well as keeping dry during those tropical downpours. Gore-Tex or sailing gear is ideal although it is possible to find cheaper waterproof gear.
Swimsuit For snorkelling and swimming. It is also important to have clothing such as a rash vest or similar to wear to protect yourself from the sun while snorkelling. A light pair of shorts and t-shirt will suffice.
Sun hat A breathable hat is indispensable in the tropics. Some people soak their hats in water to keep them cool on hot days. You may want one with a skirt that shields your neck and ears from the sun.
Shirt/Sarong Knee-length shirt or sarong for women when visiting temples and other places requiring modesty.
Foot Wear
Hiking Boots/ Shoes While not essential, if you are planning on joining the longer walks some water repellent shoes or boots will add to your comfort and help protect from mosquitos and bugs.
Walking sandals Can be used on landings and short walks as well as on board the ship.
Reef shoes or similar Optional for getting in and out of the Zodiacs on-shore as well as while snorkelling to protect from sharp coral.
Miscellaneous
Backpack This is essential for putting camera gear and/or binoculars in for shore excursions. Placing these into waterproof plastic bags before placing in them into a backpack will provide the best protection. Be sure to choose a bag with shoulder straps so that your hands are FREE for embarking the Zodiacs and landings.
Sunglasses Good quality sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare and reflection off the water.
Water bottle High temperatures and humidity mean that keeping up your hydration is essential while out on walks and in the water. 1-1.5L will suffice.
Insect Repellent The tropics are well known for biting insects and insect repellent is a must. Use a brand that works for you.
Moisturiser To prevent and treat skin from the dry airflow around the vessel, ensure you have a supply of moisturiser for the duration of your voyage.
Sun protection lotion SP50+ sun protection lotion, preferably waterproof.
Swimming towel Towels are offered on board the vessel, but if you have a small, quick drying towel that you like to use while on landings (to mop your sweating brow) or take with you in the boat for snorkelling, please feel free to bring it along.
Binoculars Highly recommended.
Earplugs May be useful if sharing a cabin with a snorer!
Walking Stick Can be used on landings and short walks where there is uneven terrain.
READING LIST
GENERAL
BirdLife International Threatened Birds of the World
Barcelona and Cambridge, 2000
Carwardine, Mark Eyewitness Handbooks: Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises Dorling Kindersley Publishers Ltd, 1995
Charles Rawlings-Way, Breet Atkinson, Sarah Bennett, Peter Dragicevich, Lee Slater
Lonely Planet Guide to the South Pacific
Lonely Planet Guide to New Zealand (16th Ed.)
Harrison, Peter Seabirds: An Identification Guide
Harrison, Peter Seabirds of the World: A Photographic Guide
Jim Enticott and David Tipling
Reeves, R R et al.
Lonely Planet Publications Pty Ltd, 2012
Lonely Planet Publications Pty Ltd, 2012
Revised 1985
Princeton University Press, 1997
Photographic Handbook of the Seabirds of the World New Holland Publishers Ltd, 2002
Sea Mammals of the World
Tickell, W Albatrosses (The most comprehensive book on the subject but not a field guide)
MELANESIA
Allen, Gerald Et Al. Reef fish identification: tropical Pacific
Chanticleer Press, 2002
Pica Press, Sussex, 2000
Jacksonville: New World Publications, 2003
Beehler, Bruce M., et al. Birds of New Guinea 1986
Beehler, Bruce & Laman, Tim New Guinea: Nature and Culture of Earth’s Grandest Island
Cole, Brandon and Scott Michael
Reef life: a guide to tropical marine life
Conru, Kevin Solomon Islands Art
Dutson, Guy Birds of Melanesia: Bismarks, Solomons, Vanuatu and New Caledonia (Helm Field Guide)
Flannery, Tim Mammals of the South-West Pacific and Moluccan Islands
Gailey, Harry A.
Bougainville, 1943-1945: The Forgotten Campaign
Princeton University Press, 2020
Richmond Hill: Firefly Books, 2013
Five Continents Editions, 2011
Princeton University Press, 2012
Chatswood: Reed, 1995
The University Press of Kentucky, 2003
Gamble, Bruce D. Fortress Rabaul: The Battle for the Southwest Pacific, January 1942-April 1943 Zenith Press, 2013
Höft, Robert Plants of New Guinea and the Solomon Islands: Dictionary of the Genera and Families of Flowering Plants and Ferns (Wau Ecology Institute Handbook, 13)
Humann, Paul; and Ned DeLoach
Laman, Tim and Edwin Scholes
Mytinger, Caroline
St. Louis, Regis
Reef creature identification: tropical Pacific
Birds of paradise: revealing the world’s most extraordinary birds
University of Papua New Guinea Press, 2012
Jacksonville: New World Publications, 2010
Washington DC: National Geographic Society, 2012
Headhunting in the Solomon Islands: Around the Coral Sea 2001
Lonely Planet - Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands
Utteridge, Timothy & Jennings, Laura Trees of New Guinea
Lonely Planet Publications, 2011
Kew Publishing, 2022
PRE DEPARTURE INFORMATION
INDONESIA
Allen, Gerald Marine Fishes of South East Asia
Anderson, R. Charles Nature: An Underwater Guide To Indonesia
Blair, Lawrence Ring of Fire
Burnet, Ian Archipelago: A Journey Across Indonesia
Burt Jones, Maurine Shimlock Diving Indonesia’s Bird’s Head Seascape
Gavan Daws, Marty Fujita Archipelago – From the Nineteenth-Century Discoveries of Alfred Russel Wallace to the Fate of Forests and Reefs in the Twenty-First Century
Gerald Allen, Roger Steene Indo-Pacific Coral Reef Field Guide
Western Australian Museum, 1997
University of Hawaii Press, 2000
Didier Millet, 2010
Rosenberg Publishing, 2015
Saritaksu Editions; 1 edition, 2011
University of California Press
Sea Challengers, 1998
Gregory, Phil Birds of New Guinea: Including Bismarck Archipelago and Bougainville Lynx Edicions, 2017
James A. Eaton, Bas van Balen, Nick W. Brickle, Frank E. Rheindt
Birds of the Indonesian Archipelago Greater Sundas and Wallacea
Laman, Tim The Raja Ampat Through The Lens Of:
Raby, Peter Alfred Russel Wallace: A Life
Lynx Edicions, 2016
Conservation International & RARCC, 2009
Princeton University Press, 2002
Severin, Tim The Spice Island Voyage Abacus, 1998
Strange, Morten A Photographic Guide To The Birds Of Indonesia: Second Edition
Ver Berkmoes, Ryan The Lonely Plant Guide to Indonesia
Tuttle Publishing; 2nd ed. Edition, 2012
Lonely Planet; 10 edition, 2013
Wilson, John G The Forgotten Naturalist – In Search Of Alfred Russell Wallace Arcadia/Australian Scholarly Publishing Pty Ltd; First Edition edition, 2000
PACIFIC
Doughty, C, Day, N & Plant, A
Field Guide to the Birds of the Solomons, Vanuatu and New Caledonia (Helm Field Guide)
Dutson, Guy Birds of Melanesia: Bismarcks, Solomons, Vanuatu and New Caledonia (Helm Field Guide)
Galbraith, K Lonely Planet Micronesia
Heather, Barrie & Robertson The Field Guide to the Birds of New Zealand
Kanouchi, T, Abe, N, Hideo, U Wild Birds of Japan: A photographic guide
Christopher Helm Publishers Ltd, 1999
Princeton University Press, 2012
2000
Hugh Viking, 2000
Yama-kei Publishers Co. Ltd
Marchant, S & Higgins, P J Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds Vol. 1 Melbourne Oxford University Press, 1990
Morcombe, M Field Guide to Australian Birds (covers Norfolk Island)
Pratt, H, Bruner, P & Berrett, D Field Guide to the Birds of Hawaii and the Tropical Pacific
