Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands Cruise from Honiara to Koror — 16 Days

Honiara

Honiara sits on Guadalcanal’s northern coast, where the capital’s busy streets meet a landscape shaped by the Pacific War. At the Central Market, island produce, fish and woven goods offer a glimpse of daily life across the Solomons. The Guadalcanal American Memorial recalls the fierce campaign fought here, while nearby Bonegi beaches offer access to Japanese wartime wrecks. Beyond town, rainforest-covered hills and village roads invite exploration with a local guide.

Solomon Islands

Honiara, the capital, lies on Guadalcanal’s north coast, the gateway to an archipelago of more than 900 islands. The capital’s Central Market brings island produce, fish and handwoven goods into vivid view. Beyond town, the Battle of Guadalcanal left a powerful legacy, while clear-water reefs invite snorkelling and diving. Pair market browsing with wartime memorials, or arrange a guided reef excursion.

Bakawari Island PNG (Scenic Stop)

Taiof Island PNG (Scenic Stop)

Rabaul

Rabaul occupies the rim of Simpson Harbour, where rainforest slopes meet a dramatic volcanic caldera. Tavurvur still steams above town, recalling the 1994 eruptions that buried old Rabaul in ash. Explore Japanese wartime tunnels and wreckage, then visit the Rabaul Museum for context. For a closer look at local life, Kokopo, the province’s quieter commercial centre, lies about 30 kilometres away.

At Sea (At Sea)

Chuuk Islands Micronesia (Scenic Stop)

Lamotrek Island Micronesia (Scenic Stop)

At Sea (At Sea)

Yap Island Micronesia, Micronesia

Yap rewards travelers who value culture as much as scenery. On this remote island in the Federated States of Micronesia, stone money still stands beside village paths. These immense limestone discs tell a story of voyages, negotiation and status. Beyond the villages, clear channels and coral reefs draw divers hoping to encounter manta rays. Visit respectfully, and Yap offers more than a striking stop in the western Pacific. It offers a close look at traditions still woven into daily life.

Koror-Palau, Palau

Koror is Palau’s commercial heart, but the real draw lies offshore. Boats from Koror reach the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, a UNESCO-listed maze of limestone islets. Turquoise channels and coral reefs make the area a rewarding outing. Snorkelers can explore sheltered lagoons and World War II wreck sites; divers may encounter manta rays near German Channel. Jellyfish Lake is another celebrated excursion, though access and swimming rules can change. Visit the Palau National Museum for island history and culture.