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The Solomon Islands are a captivating archipelago of six major islands—Choiseul, Guadalcanal, Malaita, Makira, New Georgia, and Santa Isabel—fringed by nearly 1,000 smaller islets and atolls. These remote and biologically rich waters are home to the world’s second-highest coral diversity, boasting over 485 species of coral and more than 1,000 species of fish. This 12-day journey immerses you in the natural and cultural richness of the region, using the Solomons Master liveaboard as a comfortable and mobile base. Beginning and ending in Honiara, the itinerary has been thoughtfully refined to include extended exploration of the magnificent Marovo Lagoon—the largest saltwater lagoon in the world and one of the South Pacific’s crown jewels. From the haunting WWII wrecks of the Russell Islands to the lush coral gardens of Mary Island and the intricate waterways of Marovo Lagoon, we explore this tropical paradise by sea kayak, snorkel, and dive. Kayaking offers a low-impact, intimate way to discover these unspoiled islands—gliding over shallow reefs, landing on remote beaches, and journeying inland to rainforest waterfalls. This method of travel fosters cultural connection as we encounter locals paddling traditional dugout canoes, often exchanging warm greetings and stories. The highlight of the expedition is our extended stay in Marovo Lagoon. Here, you’ll find an extraordinary blend of marine biodiversity and tranquil scenery: vibrant reefs teeming with life, turquoise channels lined with mangroves, and palm-draped islands untouched by mass tourism. The lagoon's remoteness makes it accessible only by boat, and our liveaboard allows for in-depth exploration of its outer and inner reaches. Each day is filled with adventure—kayaking, snorkelling, or diving—followed by relaxing evenings aboard the Solomons Master, where you can enjoy delicious meals, spacious cabins, and stargazing from the deck.
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Day 1
Join Honiara
For those flying in today, you will be met on arrival at the airport and transferred to the group hotel. Check in is available from 2pm. The rest of the day is at your own leisure before meeting your guide for a late afternoon/early evening trip briefing (the time will be confirmed closer to the trip departure). Overnight: Coral Sea Resort, Honiara (or similar)
Meals: Nil
Day 2
In Honiara board Solomons Master in the late afternoon
The day is at your own leisure until 6pm when we transfer to the Solomons Master. On boarding, you’ll meet the captain and crew who will conduct boat and safety briefings. Then it’s time to relax over a delicious dinner and settle into your comfortable cabins. We set course for the Russell Islands, located northwest of Guadalcanal.
Meals: D
Day 3
White Beach, Russell Islands
Wake up to the Russell Islands! After breakfast, your guide will conduct a safety briefing and gear fittingbefore the first kayak outing. This morning we may paddle around Hai Island and explore White Beach—atranquil cove with towering mangroves and sunken WWII relics. This area once served as a U.S. military supplybase, and its’ underwater history includes sunken trucks, jeeps and piers, now home to thriving marine life.Snorkellers can explore the crystal-clear shallows while divers descend into this fascinating submergedlandscape. Paddlers may spot archerfish using jets of water to knock insects from overhanging branches—aniconic local behaviour. We return to the vessel in the afternoon and prepare for an overnight cruise westwardtoward remote Mary Island.
Meals: B,L,D
Day 4
Mary Island (Mborokua)
Today we explore Mary Island, an uninhabited, jungle-covered extinct volcano. Kayakers will aim to circumnavigate the island, with opportunities to land and explore the vibrant rainforest, which echoes with thecalls of hornbills and monarch flycatchers. Snorkellers and divers will be thrilled by the coral-covered slopes and walls teeming with wrasse, bumphead parrotfish, reef sharks and the occasional turtle. Mary Island’s isolation means its reefs are healthy and vibrant,offering some of the best underwater visibility in the region. In the afternoon, we continue our cruise northwest towards the legendary Marovo Lagoon.
Day 5-8
Marovo Lagoon
We now spend four full days exploring the expansive beauty of Marovo Lagoon — the world’s largest saltwater lagoon and a UNESCO World Heritage candidate. The lagoon surrounds the islands of Vangunu and Gatukai and is protected by a double barrier reef system. Kayakers will enjoy paddling over calm turquoise waters, weaving through islets and coral cays. The water is so clear you’ll often see sharks, rays or turtles gliding beneath your kayak. Each day presents new snorkelling opportunities, with gardens of hard and soft corals, giant clams, and hundreds of tropical fish species. Diving highlights include Mbulo Island, with its iconic coral slopes and six dive sites, ideal for lazy drift dives or macro photography. We’ll also take time to visit villages where carvers create intricate works from ebony andhardwoods, explore food markets, and meet local children eager to share their stories. Our days follow a relaxed rhythm—mornings paddling or diving, midday meals aboard the Solomons Master, followed by afternoon explorations or leisure time. This extended stay allows for a deeper connection with both the natural environment and the people who call Marovo home.
Day 9
We spend our final day in the lagoon visiting some of the more remote and lesser-explored islets, offering one last chance to paddle through mangroves, dive dramatic reef walls or simply enjoy a swim from a palm-fringed beach.By late afternoon, we begin our overnight return voyage eastward, bound once again for the Russell Islands.
Day 10
Outer Russell Island
As we return through the Russell Islands, we’ll stop at one of the outer reef systems or smaller islets for a snorkel, paddle or dive. We may return to the five-metre wide crevice called the Leru Cut, or explore a new anchorage with untouched reef walls and coral bommies teeming with life. This is our opportunity to reflect on the journey while enjoying the tranquillity and beauty of the Solomon Islands one last time from the water.
Day 11
Cruise to Honiara
Today is spent cruising back toward Honiara. The open ocean crossing gives us time to rest, recharge, and enjoy afinal lunch and afternoon tea on board. In the evening, we share a celebratory dinner as the sun sets, toasting to new friendships and a week of unforgettable experiences.
Day 12
Trip conclude in Honiara after breakfast
After breakfast, we return to port and disembark in Honiara at 9am. Depending on travel plans, a transfer will be arranged to either the airport for your departure flight or the Coral Sea Resort for those extending their time in the Solomon Islands. NB* The following itinerary should be seen as an approximate guide only. The program may change to take advantage of opportunities as they arise, to suit local conditions and according to the preferences of the group. Please note that the weather, tides and currents, along with logistical conditions, can cause alterations and delays to our itinerary. The itinerary involves some long-distance cruising, which will usually be overnight.
Meals: B
What's included
What's not included
Our voyages are designed for curious, capable travellers—not just passengers. While our itineraries offer a range of activities, from gentle Zodiac cruises to more challenging hikes and paddles, it’s essential to understand the nature of this experience before you join us. You don’t need to be an elite athlete, but you do need an adventurous spirit, good health, and the ability to move confidently on a small vessel—especially in changing weather and sea conditions. Some shore landings and activities may involve uneven terrain, wet landings, or light scrambling. Boarding Zodiacs and moving around the yacht may require balance and agility, though assistance is always provided. Our paddling program is designed for active guests looking for a deeper connection with the places we visit. Divers must be certified prior to joining the departure and carry necessary documentation onboard. Of course, all activities are optional—and you’re welcome to enjoy the boat at your own pace. Not sure if this trip suits you? Please get in touch with our team—we’re here to help you choose the experience that’s right for you.
The steel hulled Solomons Master has comfortable accommodation for up to 16 guests. She has eight twin and double occupancy cabins with a choice of classic or premium classes. Each cabin benefits from ensuite bathroom facilities and individually controlled air conditioning.
Classic Twin Cabin
Located on the lower deck of the vessel, each cabin benefits from ensuite bathroom facilities and individually controlled air-conditioning.
Premium Twin Cabin
Located on the main deck of the vessel, this cabin benefits from ensuite bathroom facilities and individually controlled air-conditioning.
Premium Twin/Double Cabin
Situated on the main deck of the vessel, these cabins offer flexible twin or double bed accommodation along with ensuite facilities, air-conditioning and ample storage.
Per Person, Twin Share
Essentials include lightweight, quick-dry clothing and robust water shoes. For daily needs, bring a small dry bag. We will provide all kayaking and safety equipment, including kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and first aid kits. All full guide will be given on booking.
The Solomon Islands lie just south of the equator and experience a warm tropical climate year-round, with average temperatures hovering around 27°C (81°F). Like many South Pacific island nations, the Solomons receive rainfall throughout the year, though it is heavier between November and April, coinciding with the wet season. The best time to visit is typically during the dry season from May to October, when conditions are more stable, and humidity is lower. Diving and snorkeling are excellent year-round, but visibility tends to be at its peak during the dry months. For wildlife lovers, this season also offers better opportunities to explore the islands’ vibrant coral reefs, marine megafauna, and endemic bird species in calmer weather.
The Solomon Islands snorkel & dive trips are suitable for people with some paddling experience, focusing on enjoying the serene environment at a leisurely pace. Everyone must complete a kayak and dive experience form.
The waters surrounding the Solomons are part of the Coral Triangle, making them one of the world’s most biodiverse marine environments. Divers and snorkelers can encounter an incredible variety of marine life, including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, barracuda, reef sharks, and vast fields of hard and soft corals. Wreck diving is also a major draw, especially around Guadalcanal and the Florida Islands, where World War II shipwrecks have become thriving artificial reefs.
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Explore places the big ships can’t with the widest selection of genuine small-ship, activity-first cruising. On Water Expeditions offers exceptional value, quality services, no hidden costs, and plenty of inclusions.
Don't watch the action sail past your window, dive into it! Designed for active travellers, these itineraries give you more time to adventure off the boat.
Activity is built into every journey. From paddling to hiking, enjoy a basecamp-style experience that injects fun, meaningful connections and thrilling adventure into it.
Each voyage is thoughtfully selected for low-impact exploration, supporting genuine conservation and sustainability while respecting local communities and environments.