special OFFER o SAVe up t £700 PER PERSON

From Papua New Guinea to the An expedition from Rabaul to Manila aboard the MS Caledonian Sky 21st February to 14th March 2017 Raja Ampat

Fisherman, Island

or the well-travelled, our voyage from Papua New Guinea to the Philippines offers a unique opportunity to visit little known Manila Donsol andF remote regions that are well away from the usual cruise routes. Ticao Island The privilege of exploring these remarkable lands from a small PHILIPPINES Surigao City ship and in the company of knowledgeable speakers, expedition Camiguin Island team members and local guides is an opportunity not to be missed. Marvellous experiences are to be had as we snorkel among multi-coloured corals, land on pristine beaches, witness traditional Bunaken Bitung Raja Ampat Padaido Islands ways of life in remote communities and explore jungle looking Alim Island Jayapura Rabaul out for endemic flora and fauna and each evening returning to the INDONESIA Wewak Garove Island considerable comforts of our vessel the MS Caledonian Sky as we Sepik River NEW GUINEA then sail on to our next adventure.

Birders will delight in the opportunity to see the red bird of paradise, red As we came to anchor, a Zodiac was dropped to help guide the ship into footed boobies, brown noddies, hornbills and kingfishers to name but a few a safe anchorage, quickly making it apparent to all just how variable the whilst there will also be ample opportunity to snorkel in what are some of the terrain is both above and below the water. Gathering into Zodiacs for our most bio-diverse waters in the world. Perhaps most of all though, our voyage first Zodiac cruise of the voyage, we had plenty of time and opportunity to will provide the opportunity to interact with local villagers who always offer explore the many fine passageways and magnificent rock formations of this such a warm welcome and experience their local culture and traditions such isolated area. For the bird lovers, numerous Reef Egrets (or Reef Herons) as communal net fishing. were seen cruising the water’s surface, while Brahminy Kites and one or two Sea Eagles soared high overhead. Even the non-bird lover couldn’t help The only comfortable way to explore this vast and intriguing land is by but be thrilled as the white flash of the local Cockatoos broke the stillness sea and we are fortunate in having one of the finest and best equipped of the treetops. For those with eyes only for the marine environment, the expedition vessels in the world for our explorations. We hope you will join ever-changing underwater terrain kept the views interesting and diverse. us for this unparalleled opportunity to explore, one of the most intriguing Coral mounds rose from aqua-blue depths and the multi-coloured fish places on the map. and reefs were clearly visible clinging to the limestone outcroppings. As we ventured over towards the only human habitation in the area, a small fishermen’s camp that provides home for local fishermen as they ply the What To Expect… waters for food for their village, some of us witnessed a magnificent grouper Flexibility is the key to an expedition cruise; sometimes the whole day’s that had been caught by the men. Yet the highlight for many were the pitcher schedule will be changed to maximise your experience, something that plants, endemic to this area and, while a miniscule example of the species, would not be possible on a large cruise ship. Each day holds something new still a remarkable sight, clinging to the limestone walls. After lunch we and below is an extract from the MS Caledonian Sky’s ship’s log from when gathered back in our Zodiacs to head ashore for an afternoon of exploring she last visited Raja Ampat where on this expedition we hope to spend two the underwater environment. There were options available for everyone days. If you are new to expedition cruising, this extract should provide you from absolute beginners to advanced snorkellers and the underwater world with an idea of what to expect. couldn’t possibly disappoint. Turtles, Parrot Fish, Anemone Fish (or Clown Fish) and a myriad of corals and other fish species were seen, and some guests spent up to three hours underwater exploring this rarely seen world. An entire afternoon spent here gave everyone time to not only enjoy the water, but also get some beach time in, reading on the sand or finding a quiet corner to savour. Tony, birder extraordinaire, was also ashore pointing out the fascinating local bird species and a highlight, even for a weathered expert like him, were the Hanging Parrots, tiny, sparrow-sized parrots that are, nonetheless, a rainbow of greens, yellows and reds. Tiny swiftlets dived and wheeled overhead and it was hard to believe that these same birds are the construction artists behind the famed Bird’s Nest Soup, a delicacy that is savoured throughout eastern Asia. The islands were more than magnificent and there were plenty of smiles as we returned to the ship. Day gradually Raja Ampat – January 2014 sinking towards evening carried us home to watch the sunset while a final This was a day that everybody onboard was looking forward to, arrival in group of Frigate Birds circled high overhead to see us off. Recap and briefing this, one of the marine hot-spots of the planet. Considered the most diverse was a brief affair this evening as little needed to be said after such an marine environment in the world, Raja Ampat is a series of islands sitting on extraordinary visit to New Guinea – for many, this day epitomised what had the convergence of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, making it utterly unique. brought us here in the first place.

www.noble-caledonia.co.uk Kingfisher

Turtle Exploring by Zodiac

The Itinerary Day 1 London to Singapore. Fly by largest of these, Garove Island. we sail to Wewak where we will clear looking for flora and fauna. On Gam scheduled flight. The fringing reef surrounding the immigration only before continuing Island a strenuous hike will search island offers fine swimming or enjoy our journey along the Papuan coast. for the red bird of paradise whilst Day 2 Singapore. Arrive this the first snorkelling opportunity further walks may find kingfisher, afternoon and transfer to the amongst the corals. Day 9 Jayapura. Over breakfast lorikeets and parrots whilst on Kri Shangri La Hotel (or similar) for a we arrive in Jayapura, the capital Island we can swim amongst the two night stay. Day 7 Alim Island, Admiralty and largest city in Papua. We will colourful reef fish. Islands. The Admiralty Islands are drive inland to Lake Sentani, one Day 3 Singapore. Enjoy a morning an archipelago of 18 islands in of the largest lakes which is still Day 13 At sea. at leisure before our city tour this the Bismarck Sea. We plan to use virtually untouched by tourism. afternoon. our Zodiacs to land on one of the The people, who call the shores Day 14 Bitung. From our berth at pristine beaches on Alim Island, an of this magnificent lake home, still Bitung we travel inland for a morning Day 4 Singapore to Rabaul, Papua uninhabited island and paradise live in a traditional manner and are at the Tangkoko Nature Reserve. New Guinea. Enjoy a leisurely for birds. Here we can find up to renowned for their woodworking This 8800 hectare park ranges from morning. This afternoon we will visit 2000 pairs of breeding red footed and pottery. We will drive up to beaches at sea level to the top of the 53 hectare botanical garden boobies, kingfishers and brown Gunung Ifar to view the World War Tangkoko Mountain and is a haven and National Orchid Garden before noddies. There will be the option to II monument of General McArthur for endemic flora and fauna. On a transferring to the airport for our swim or snorkel from the beach, join with its spectacular view of Sentani guided walk we will search for black scheduled flight to Rabaul via Port a Zodiac cruise to the mangroves or Lake and Cyclope Mountain. macaque monkey and the tarsiers, Moresby. join our expedition staff as they lead the smallest primates in the world nature walks. Day 10 Padaido Islands. Today and for whom the Tangkoko Reserve Day 5 Rabaul. Arrive and transfer to we will cruise along the coastline is their last refuge, whilst for the the MS Caledonian Sky. Day 8 Sepik River & Wewak. At and we will take advantage of our birders we will hope to see hornbills. dawn we anchor at the mouth of the small ship and fleet of Zodiacs to Return to the ship for lunch and this Day 6 Garove Island. After a Sepik River. We will rise early and explore the islands off the coast. afternoon we discover more about relaxing morning at sea we arrive at use our Zodiacs to explore the river Our itinerary will be flexible and be the Minahasa people of the region. the Witu Islands, a small group of system surrounded by lush forest guided by our Captain, Expedition On a village tour we will see the volcanic reef-ringed islands situated and birdsong. Later we will visit a Leader and local weather traditional fishing boats, visit the within the archipelago of Bismarck. local village where we will receive a conditions. In the late afternoon we local markets and see the “waruga” We spend the afternoon on the traditional welcome.This afternoon hope to visit the Padaido Islands, traditional tombs unique to this part a chain of 31 mainly uninhabited of Sulawesi. islands and the site of some of the world’s most intact and biologically Day 15 Bunaken Marine Park. diverse coral reef systems. Bunaken National Park is a treasure Padaido is a local word, meaning trove of biodiversity situated near indescribable beauty and we will the centre of the Coral Triangle. snorkel in the reefs which harbour Here we will find nearly 400 species 95 coral and 155 fish species. of coral and over 90 species of fish, whilst seven of the eight species Days 11 & 12 Raja Ampat. We of giant clams are also found here. spend the next two days exploring Meanwhile on land we can find the 1500 karst limestone islands macaque and deer whilst mangrove which make up the archipelago forests are home to crabs. We of Raja Ampat, also known as will use our Zodiacs to land on a “Four Kings,” after its four main local beach and set up snorkelling islands. Watch from on deck as platforms whilst our naturalists lead our ship sails through the narrow walks ashore. channels between the islands off New Guinea’s north-western tip Day 16 At sea. known as Bird’s Head. The waters off Bird’s Head are heralded as Day 17 Surigao City, Philippines. the most bio-diverse on earth and During lunch we will arrive at include 600 species of hard coral Surigao on the north of and 1200 types of reef fish whilst Island. Here we will clear customs ashore on the islands we can enjoy and immigration before using our Sulawesi black-crested macaques beachcombing and nature walks Zodiacs to explore the Asan Village. Kingfisher Pre-Cruise Highlands Extension - 19th to 25th February 2017

Whale shark, Donsol Tribesman Bird of paradise

Rondon Ridge Lodge We will explore the many channels, these beautiful creatures and the see the local fisherman and spend hardy have the opportunity to swim time ashore in the village. and snorkel. Over lunch we cross over to Ticao Island where the Day 18 Camiguin Island. Camiguin Zodiacs take us to the impressive Island is a small island formed Katadayagan Falls. Enjoy a swim through a series of volcanic at the base and visit the small eruptions and earthquakes. We Torogon village. will see an example of this when the eruption of Mount Vulcan in Day 20 Sibuyan Island. Our last the late 19th century submerged morning finds us at Sibuyan Island, the old town of Catarman leaving known as the “Galapagos of Asia” behind the ruins of a church and due to the rich range of wildlife. Rondon Ridge Lodge its bell tower whilst a white cross We have a choice of options this marks the sunken cemetery. We morning, the keen birders will Before our expedition aboard the MS Caledonian Sky begins, you also visit the Philippine Volcanology disembark early for a strenuous can join a three night stay in Papua New Guinea’s Western Highlands Observation Station For the walk in the Cantigas Mountain where you will have the opportunity to discover local tribes and keen birders we will leave early offering fantastic views of Mount learn more of their traditions. We will stay at Rondon Ridge which is for Mount Timpoong looking for Guiting-Guiting National Park and located 7100 feet above sea level, near the town of Mount Hagen, the endemic loricus camiguinisis over the . Alternatively on the outer fringes of the Kubor Range. Over 180 species of birds whilst we may also see kingfishers, we immerse ourselves in the island have been recorded in the rainforests around Rondon Ridge including egrets and whiskered owl. Enjoy an culture, see communal net-fishing, ten species of Birds of Paradise. The lodge has hours of walking afternoon at sea. visit the local market and the paddy trails providing ample opportunity to explore the unique ecology fields to see the traditional methods of this area and during your time at the lodge there will be nature Day 19 Donsol & Ticao Island. of growing this staple crop. and birding walks accompanied by experienced and knowledgeable Between November and June the nature guides. While staying at Rondon Ridge Lodge, there will be waters in Donsol Bay are home Day 21 Manila to London. excursions which will take you on a journey through the traditions and to many whale sharks, the largest Disembark and transfer to the customs of the local Melpa People. fish in the ocean which are often airport for our scheduled indirect found just below the surface. This flight to London. The Itinerary morning we will use local boats Day 1 London to Singapore. Fly by scheduled flight. to head into the bay in search of Day 22 London. Arrive this morning. Day 2 Singapore. Arrive this morning and transfer to the Shangri-La Singapore (or similar) for an overnight stay. Day 3 Singapore to Mount Hagen. Enjoy a leisurely morning to either explore independently or relax at the hotel. In the afternoon enjoy a Prices per person city tour with a visit to the Botanical Garden before we transfer to the Based on double occupancy airport for our scheduled flight to Mount Hagen via Port Moresby. On arrival in Mount Hagen you SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE UP TO £700 PER PERSON Day 4 Mount Hagen - Rondon Ridge. FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY will be met and transferred to your lodge for a three -night stay. Spend the rest of the day at leisure or join a nature walk. Deck Suite Category Brochure Price Special Offer Days 5 & 6 Rondon Ridge, Western Highlands. We have two full days Castle Standard Forward £8295 £7945 to explore the Highlands and learn of the unique culture and traditions Castle Standard £8595 £8245 of the tribes in the region. We will visit villages with our knowledgeable Caledonian Superior £9095 £8745 local guides and learn more about the fascinating birdlife of the Promenade Premium £9495 £9145 Highlands. Bridge Deluxe Balcony £10195 £9495 Day 7 Mount Hagen to Rabaul. After breakfast, check out and transfer Promenade Premium Balcony £10695 £9995 to Mount Hagen airport for your flight to Rabaul via Port Moresby. On Promenade Owners Corner Suite with balcony £11295 £10595 arrival transfer to the MS Caledonian Sky. Castle Standard for sole use £11495 £11145 Caledonian Superior for sole use £11995 £11645 Price per person based on double occupancy Twin: £1895 Single: £2145 Economy class scheduled flights, two nights hotel accommodation Price Includes: Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, overnight hotel in Singapore on a bed and breakfast basis, 16 nights aboard the MS Caledonian accommodation in Singapore with breakfast, three nights accommodation at Sky on a full board basis including wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner Rondon Ridge on full board basis, transfers, excursions, port taxes, airport taxes. onboard, shore excursions, Noble Caledonia Expedition Team, transfers, port Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas. taxes, gratuities. Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas.

+44 (0)20 7752 0000 MS Caledonian Sky Formerly known as Hebridean Spirit, this 114-passenger vessel began her new life with Noble Caledonia in May 2012 following an extensive refurbishment. Built in the same ship yard as the MS Island Sky, the MS Caledonian Sky shares the same attributes as her sister vessel, joining her as one of the finest small ships in the world.

Your Suite Your Space consistent superior quality. Where Onboard there are 57 exceptionally shower and/or bath tub. Facilities The spacious and finely decorated possible and when it meets his spacious and well designed suites. in the suites also include walk-in or public rooms include a large lounge high standards, our accomplished The passenger accommodation is spacious wardrobes, dressing table where daily briefings and talks will chef will obtain local produce in arranged over four decks and all with large mirror and stool or desk, be provided throughout the voyage markets or buy the catch of the suites have outside views. All feature mini-fridge, flat screen television, and an elegant bar where a pianist day from a passing fishing boat. a sitting room area and some have telephone, programmable plays periodically throughout the Such purchases enhance the well private balconies. Each affords electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted day. The bar also features a 24-hour stocked larders and bring a local considerable comfort with en-suite toiletries, air-conditioning and tea and coffee station. In addition touch to the varied menus. In bathroom featuring a country style heating. Bottled water, towelling there is the Club Lounge on the the main elegant dining room, wash basin, hot towel rack and dressing gowns and slippers are also Panorama Deck which features a breakfast is served buffet-style, with vanity unit with sink and walk-in provided for your comfort. bar. The onboard travel library is the certain items cooked to order and perfect place to relax with a book lunch and dinner is à la carte. To and is stocked with reference books enhance your dining experience Premium Balcony Suite pertaining to the places the vessel even further a selection of wines is visiting along with a selection of are included with lunch and dinner. games and two computers with internet access. Outside there is a rear Lido deck where meals are served in warm weather under shade. On the top deck there is a further observation and sun deck with bar service and comfortable deck furniture for sun bathing or relaxing with a book. There is also a small gymnasium onboard and hairdressers with appointments made on request.

Dining onboard With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the cuisine will be of a Restaurant Sun deck Standard Suite special OFFER o SAVe up t £700 PER PERSON

Panorama Lounge

Your Day to Day Life Onboard MS Caledonian Sky a memorable Deck Plan Onboard the MS Caledonian and joyful experience. Dress on Sky, you will not find endless board is casual and relaxed and entertainment, round the there will be no ‘black tie’ evenings. clock buffets and the people management which is so much Exploring Ashore a part of today’s big ship style. One of the joys of expedition Instead the atmosphere onboard cruising aboard a small vessel is is warm and peaceful and more the flexibility it allows. Although akin to a private yacht or country we set sail with a set itinerary it Panorama Deck hotel in which you can learn more is the unscheduled events that Panorama Lounge about the wonders of nature, culture often become the highlight of the and ancient civilisations in the journey and with our fleet of Zodiac company of like-minded people. landing craft, we can explore inlets, A little music in the lounge or bar fjords, bird sanctuaries, land in Bridge Deck after dinner, guest speakers and otherwise inaccessible places and Hotel Buffet Pantry Manager’s 511 509 507 505 informative port briefings from our be footloose in a way that would Office

Chief Captain expedition leader, all contribute to be totally impractical for larger 512 510 508 506 Engineer make any voyage aboard the groups of passengers.

Promenade Deck Dining on deck Your Comfort, Safety & Security Our vessel is equipped with Hairdresser 433 431 427 425 423 421 419 417 415 the latest safety, navigation and WC communications equipment along Gym 434 432 428 426 424 422 420 418 416 414

with roll stabilisers to minimise the ship’s motion. During your voyage Caledonian Deck

you will have the opportunity to 347 345 343 341 339 335 333 331 329 visit the Captain and Officers on Reception the Bridge to check the vessel’s 348 346 344 342 340 338 336 334 332 330 progress by charts and learn more about your journey. Onboard you Castle Deck will also find a clinic and doctor and 261 259 257 255 Doctor a lift that serves all decks.

262 260 258 256 254 252 250

This cruise visits out of the way destinations. You will be accompanied by an expedition team and some Standard Suites (Forward) Premium Suites Premium Balcony Suites landings ashore will be made by Zodiac landing craft. Standard Suites Deluxe Balcony Suites Owner’s Corner Suites with Balcony

Cruises such as this will appeal to the more adventurous Superior Suites and those who enjoy the natural world. NB. All Suites on Castle Deck feature a minimum of two portholes.

2 Chester Close, Belgravia, London, SW1X 7BE +44 (0)20 7752 0000 | [email protected] | noble-caledonia.co.uk 150915-S

All special offers are subject to availability. Our current booking conditions apply to all reservations and are available on request. Cover image: Paradise Kingfisher