Micronesia

The far frontier of the vast Western Pacific hosts the most diverse and traditional cultures and exotic tropical landscapes found in todays world of Oceania. We are very pleased to announce a sweeping voyage through this exciting region aboard the luxurious expedition ship, the Clipper Odyssey.

Join us as we sail to the outer Islands of Papua New Guinea, Yap and Palau, discovering the best of Melanesia and Micronesia.Our journey begins in Papua New Guinea, where we spend several days exploring this countries far-flung Islands, rich with vibrant, intact cultures, lush scenery and an intriguing history.

The time-honoured traditions of this Melanesian paradise will allow us a comparative perspective with the Micronesian cultures we later experience. Forming part of the Kula Ring of ritual trading, the Trobriand Islanders greet us with exuberant dances by women clad in red brush skirts and by men in feathered headdresses.

On the Island of New Britain, Rabaul is famed for its entrancing scenery – a keyhole harbour surrounded by magnificent volcanoes so active that you’ll see steam plumes, volcanic ash and pumice – as well as a captivating, primeval Fire Dance over red hot coals. The Micronesians of Yap State are rarely visited by the outside world. Traditional clans on Satawal, Ifalik and Sorol welcome us with the intoxicating beat of ancestral drums before guiding us through their villages dressed in lava-lava loincloths and fibrous skirts.

Whilst visiting these Islands, we watch men spinning coconut husks into sennit for lashing out-rigger canoes, observe women weaving pandanus mats and witness carvers hewing sculptures inlaid with pearl shell. A thrilling ride in a local sailing canoe across the azure lagoon or a lazy walk along a long sandy beach – the heavenly scent of frangipani wafting through groves of palms and papaya – present other pleasing options.