Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands is well established as a major destination for spectacular dive sites, though there is much more to discover across this exhilarating archipelago of 1,000 islands.
These are small, relatively undiscovered gems of the South Pacific, which make for thrilling superyacht charters where guests become pioneering explorers.
The Solomon Islands are spread across 400,000 square kilometres of glistening South Pacific waters, presenting a string of near-perfect oases primed for adventures onboard your superyacht.
This is a pristine paradise with untouched natural beauty, filled with abundant wildlife and sealife which has been allowed to flourish without interference. A diverse range of activities mean that there is inspiration for everyone, from adventurous mountain treks to beach glamour and high-octane water sports. Everything in the Solomon Islands is enjoyed in a sensational tropical climate, surrounded by crystal blue waters which fuel your spirit of escapism. Split into nine distinct provinces, the Solomon Islands offer a range of varied landscapes all with differing stages of development, guests are treated to unique settings on each day of a charter. The Western Province is home to the more developed of the islands, and here you will have the chance to spend time being pampered in opulent resorts.
The Western Province is a sumptuous mix of verdant greens, bone whites and azure blues which radiate a peaceful and calming atmosphere to soak up from the decks or from a scenic helicopter tour. A must-see is the awe-inspiring Marovo Lagoon, the largest saltwater lagoon in the world, which attracts people to savour its feast of colour and the surrounding volcanic landscape of Vangunu and Nggatokae Islands. Adventurous charter guests will revel in the delights of Ghizo and Kennedy Islands, where a hive of activity awaits both on and at sea. On Ghizo Island you can browse captivating open-air markets or take on one of the exhilarating hikes, at the end of which you will be duly rewarded with sensational panoramic views.
A short sail from Ghizo will bring you to Kennedy Island, where seductive sandy beaches await, and you can inspect colourful coral reefs. The north-eastern province of Choiseul Bay offers an alternative experience. Here, you can venture inland to discover majestic waterfalls and charming villages on an inspiring day trip. Cruising along Choiseul Bay you should always keep your eyes peeled to spot saltwater crocodiles floating in the water.
The Solomon Islands boast delightfully warm waters which are perfect for delving into the sublime diving and snorkelling grounds. This is a world-renowned destination for incredible scuba diving and snorkelling, where you will uncover kaleidoscopic coral gardens, shallow wrecks and an abundance of tropical fish. Chartering a private superyacht in the Solomon Islands is the best way to experience the exhilarating underwater treasures in the area, treating you to secluded luxury away from any crowds of tourists.
The rich sealife also makes the Solomon Islands a fantastic location for big game fishing, as the waters are unspoiled by commercial fishing, so you have access to a private fishing utopia. Pacific sailfish, striped marlin, Spanish mackerel and coral trout are among those which can be caught.
VIEW 7 NIGHTS | 8 DAYS SUPERYACHT CHARTER ITINERARY
Explore the Hidden Paradise
Some of the most laid-back Pacific islands
The Solomon Islands are no doubt a magical place. With 6 major islands and around 900 smaller islands tucked away in the South Pacific, 900 miles South East from Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands are well known as the Pacific’s best-kept secret.
This unspoiled paradise offers a variety of activities that appeal to all audiences, ranging from beach lovers to the adventurous mountain climbers to those looking for a romantic getaway. With never-ending exotic beauty to explore, a unique blend of cultures, and a mesmerizing history – you will never have a dull moment during your stay. This tropical oasis will leave you feeling as you are the first person to visit its crystal blue waters and clear white warm sand.
Climate
The Solomon Islands have an equatorial climate which is typical for tropical areas that leads to hot and humid weather almost all year long. The average temperature is 27 Degrees Celsius (80.6F) which varies from season to season. The most appropriate time of the year for superyacht charters is from July to September when perfect weather is almost guaranteed. A decent sea temperature of 28 degrees Celsius (82.4F) invites to a variety of watersport activities such as surfing or diving – Fun is inevitable.
Underwater
The Solomon Islands have an equatorial climate which is typical for tropical areas that leads to hot and humid weather almost all year long. The average temperature is 27 Degrees Celsius (80.6F) which varies from season to season.
Culture
Trek through the vivid jungle accompanied by colourful birds or visit the villages in the outer islands and step back in time. Experience life much as it was a hundred years ago. No electricity, no internet, no running water supply, no shops, just a few roads and no noise except for the sound of the waves! Learn the local dances and experience the family pride of the Solomon Islanders.
History
The Solomon Islands were the scene of fierce fighting in World War II. Local guides offer memorable and moving tours to the WWII museum and other significant sites including the American memorial at Skyline Ridge and the Japanese Solomons Peace memorial. Many of the WWII relics remaining in the Solomons lie submerged, some deep under water and include oil tankers, seaplanes and submarines.
DAY ONE – Tulagi and Sasape
Arrive on the island of Tulagi where you are immediately overcome with the feeling that you have gone back in time. The island’s untouched beauty and raw landscape welcome guests from the very first glance. Occupied by the Japanese in 1942, Tulagi quickly became home to a fleet of PT boats and US Navy ships until 1943. During this time the Island of Tulagi formed part of Purvis Bay which was also hosting many of the WWII marine vessels. Commence your morning with a visit to Sasape, the Solomon Islands’ Premier International Shipyard established in September in 2012. After your visit, you will prepare for an afternoon of diving. The closest dive is twin tunnels outside of Tulagi – an atoll that comes up to about 13 metres with some vertical shafts that go down to 35 – 40 metres. The Western shaft has a small cave at the rear of the bottom end with painted crays inside. The top is rich with soft corals, mushroom coral, cuttlefish and crocodilefish.
DAY TWO – Florida Islands [2 hours]
Today we will continue our visit of the Florida Islands. Formerly known as the Nggela Islands, the group consists of fifty islands in all. The largest being Nggela Sule, and second-largest Nggela Pile. We first visit Tanavula Point area, which includes sheer drop-offs teeming with red tooth triggerfish, lots of soft corals and gorgonians. Crossing to Anuha, through the Mboli Passage, we will visit this stunning island which consists of beautiful sandy beaches, and features many spots for snorkelling along the seagrass patches looking for seahorses and coral bommies swarming with fish. On our way there or back, it is strongly recommended to visit the must-see Mboli Passage. Situated between Nggela Sule and Nggela Pile, it was used as a sheltered shortcut through the Group of Islands and as an easy passage to Malaita from Tulagi and now from Honiara. Good to note as well, Tulagi was the Protectorate’s capital from 1897 to 1942, and the surrounding islands were the commercial bases for large merchant companies.
DAY THREE – Karamolun Island [6.5 hours]
As we make our way to explore Karamolun Island, our vision today will be to get to know the local culture more intimately. We start the day with a morning dive at a ridge that comes away from the point starting off in the shallows at 4-metres going down to 35-metres and then drops away to nothing. Sharks, big eye jacks, and pelagic life off the point and excellent shallows. In the afternoon we then make our way to the local villages. Offering a stunning location right on the Coast, you will find the dwellings of the local inhabitants who welcome you with open arms. Traditional dances and rich family parades are part of their daily life and will be for one day part of yours.
DAY FOUR – Mborokua & Barracuda Point [2.5 hours]
On the 4th day we will arrive at Mborokua (Mary Island) and spend our time at Barracuda Point.
This is an impressive place for dive enthusiasts, featuring a triangular underwater point that comes straight out from the rocks: typically starting at about 4 metres with the end of the point at about 40 metres. Here you will witness an array of marine life starting with Schooling jacks at around 8 metres, sleeping white tip reef sharks around 10 metres and the larger school of barracuda at around 40 metres. In the shallows, there are also smaller animals to be discovered such as porcelain crabs and anemonefish with eggs.
DAY FIVE – Uepi Island & Marovo Lagoon [5 hours]
Today we’ll make our way to the northernmost point of our trip – Uepi Island.
With an approximately 2.5km long and 600m wide coastline, Uepi is the largest island in the world. Flanked by the warm water of the Marovo Lagoon and the oceanic depths (6000ft/2000m) of ”The Slot”, a deep marine abyss, on the other, this destination will catch everyone‘s breath. The remote island is covered in impressive rainforest and offers a huge variety of diving hot spots to explore. Surrounded by around 100 little islands, the inner lagoon has many complex terrestrial and marine habitats to offer. The natural beauty and environment of Marovo Lagoon is absolutely outstanding and will be a memory for a lifetime.
DAY SIX – Paeva & Mbulo Island [2 hours]
We will spend our 6th day in Paeva, west of Mbulo Island. As part of the cultural visit we will dive in the morning on one of the outlying islands and in the late morning go ashore to view the carvings that are masterfully produced by the locals. It is not compulsory to buy anything. It assists in bringing the village into an enterprising world which we are accustomed to. The dive in the morning is on Mbulo Island – a wall that runs along towards the point with enormous amounts of Gorgonians and whips in all shapes, colours and sizes.
DAY SEVEN – Mane Island
We anchor in the bay with the stern of the vessel tied to the shore. Enjoying the ease of swimming off the back of the boat and water sports amongst the surrounding islands and seascapes in absolute tranquillity. There is a possible dive on the Eastern edge called Mirror Pond with a resident crocodile as a friendly reminder of the local inhabitants. As this is our last day, we will make our way back to Honiara during the night time and will disembark in the morning. This itinerary is a sample only, and suggested by the Captain. It can be tailored to your preferences after consultation with your Travel Creator. The cruising is always subject to changes and amendments pending charter details and weather conditions.
