Set sail on an extraordinary 21-night blue water sailing expedition across the heart of the South Pacific, linking four of the region’s most remote and captivating destinations—the Vava'u Group in Tonga, Samoa, Wallis & Futuna, and Vanuatu. This 1,600-nautical-mile journey combines offshore adventure with island-hopping exploration, offering a rare opportunity to experience traditional Polynesian and Melanesian cultures, unspoiled anchorages, and the open-ocean magic of life under sail.
Your adventure begins in the protected waters of the Vava’u archipelago, known for its humpback whales (in season), limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear anchorages. From there, we head northeast to Samoa, where dramatic volcanic peaks rise above lush rainforests and cultural heritage thrives in every village. Continuing on, we cross into French territory at Wallis & Futuna, a seldom-visited chain of islands with deep Catholic roots, secluded lagoons, and welcoming locals.
Our final leg takes us southwest to Vanuatu, arriving among its outer northern islands before concluding in Port Vila. Along the way, you’ll experience a mix of trade wind passages, celestial navigation, night sailing, and island exploration—anchoring off remote villages, snorkelling vibrant coral reefs, and connecting with cultures unchanged by time.
Ideal for adventurous sailors and curious travellers alike, this expedition offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore some of the South Pacific’s least-visited cruising grounds—under sail, and far from the beaten path.
Sail aboard Silver Fern across 1,600 nautical miles of open ocean
Embark on an epic blue water voyage aboard Silver Fern, purpose-built for offshore adventure and comfort. This 21-night journey spans four unique island nations, offering a rare taste of traditional Polynesian and Melanesian life.
Explore Tonga’s stunning Vava’u Islands
Begin in the calm, protected waters of Vava’u, famed for limestone cliffs, coral gardens, and seasonal humpback whale encounters. Enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and anchoring in tranquil island lagoons.
Sail to Samoa’s volcanic peaks and vibrant culture
Experience the lush landscapes and warm hospitality of Samoa. Visit local villages, hike rainforest trails, and immerse yourself in a culture rich in tradition, dance, and storytelling.
Visit seldom-seen Wallis & Futuna
Drop anchor at one of the Pacific’s most remote territories. With French influence, Catholic heritage, and beautiful lagoons, Wallis & Futuna offers a unique and little-visited stop along your passage.
Island-hop through Vanuatu’s outer islands
Sail into the northern islands of Vanuatu, exploring untouched beaches, volcanic ridges, and traditional kastom villages before finishing your adventure in bustling Port Vila.
Hands-on sailing and celestial navigation
Gain offshore miles and build seamanship skills as you stand watches, steer by the stars, and sail under the guidance of experienced crew across some of the most remote waters on earth.
Unplug, connect, and explore the true South Pacific
From bioluminescent nights to coral reef snorkels, beach bonfires to village visits, this is a chance to live simply, sail deeply, and experience the Pacific as few ever will.
Acting as watch captain (day and night), helming, navigating, checking weather and monitoring AIS and radar and for both traffic and rain squalls. View gallery
Downloading and analysing the latest weather forecasts and calculating best route to destination. View gallery
Navigating, hazard identification, entering waypoints and calculating updated ETA’s. View gallery
Watch roster planning, matching responsibility to experience, crew management and communication. View gallery
Familiarisation of all safety procedures, sail planning, storm preparation planning and abandon ship procedures. View gallery
Advice on how to take responsibility for managing clothing, hydration, sleep and nutrition to maintain your health and well being aboard. View gallery
Planning our arrival and route to safe harbour including timing with daylight (if required), weather factors, navigational hazards, communications / customs and sail/motor arrival plan. View gallery
Hoisting, trimming and reefing both upwind (main, genoas, and jibs) and downwind sails (poled out headsails, spinnakers, gennakers and code 0’s (subject to weather). View gallery
Use of PDF’s (Personal Flotation Devices), PLB’s (Personal Locator Beacons), safety tethers, dan buoy’s, storm drogue, liferaft and any other equipment required to ensure you remain safe in all conditions. View gallery
Onshore activities include hiking and bushwalking to scenic lookouts, exploring local towns, and discovering the unique charm of each destination. Enjoy cultural immersion through local traditions, relax with games, or uncover hidden gems as you explore islands. View gallery
Coastal exploring offers the thrill of venturing to remote places using a RIB, uncovering hidden gems like pristine reefs, secluded beaches, and winding rivers. Discover shipwrecks teeming with history, indulge in beach combing for unique treasures, and experience the untouched beauty of coastal landscapes. View gallery
Dining out offers the chance to enjoy local flavours, explore regional specialties, and experience unique culinary traditions. From seaside cafes to hidden gems, each meal is an opportunity to savour the culture and cuisine of the destination. View gallery
Fishing provides an opportunity to connect with nature, whether casting a line from the shore or exploring deeper waters. Enjoy the thrill of the catch, the serenity of the surroundings, and the chance to bring home a fresh, rewarding meal. View gallery
Exploring historic places offers a glimpse into the past through ancient sites, architectural landmarks, and local stories. These visits bring history to life, connecting you with the culture, traditions, and events that shaped each destination. View gallery
Kayaking allows you to glide through serene waterways, explore hidden coves, and get up close to nature. It’s a peaceful yet adventurous way to discover rivers, coastlines, and marine life from a unique perspective. View gallery
Snorkelling offers an up-close view of vibrant underwater ecosystems, from colourful coral reefs to fascinating marine life. It's a relaxing and immersive way to explore the wonders beneath the surface of the water. View gallery
Swimming offers refreshing escapes in stunning settings, from crystal-clear bays and tranquil rivers to diving off the back of the boat into azure waters. It's a perfect way to relax and be rejuvenated by nature. View gallery
Wildlife watching offers unforgettable encounters with nature, from observing birds and dolphins to spotting whales, turtles, and sharks. Discover diverse marine life, from playful fish to delicate starfish, in their natural habitats. View gallery
Step aboard Silver Fern, a sleek and spacious sailing yacht crafted for comfort, camaraderie, and coastal exploration. Whether you're navigating hidden bays, sharing stories over dinner on deck, or trimming sails on an offshore leg, Silver Fern offers the ideal balance of relaxation and hands-on adventure. With warm hospitality, inviting living spaces, and a spirit of discovery at its core, every journey on Silverfern feels like coming home—only at sea.
You can fly directly into Vavaʻu Airport, Tonga to join the yacht.
We’ll start in the Vavaʻu Group, enjoy 3 - 4 nights exploring the surrounding islands, then set sail for Samoa. From there, we continue through Wallis & Futuna before making our final passage to the northern islands of Vanuatu, concluding the expedition in Port Vila.
15 Sep 2027
Arrive in Vavaʻu by 3:00pm
Yacht familiarisation and safety training
Crew welcome dinner
16 - 19 Sep 2027
Explore the Vavaʻu Group
20 Sep - 4 Oct 2027
Sail to Port Vila, stopping at Samoa and Wallis & Futuna along the way
Spend 2-3 days in both Samoa and Wallis & Futuna, exploring the regions
Opportunities to explore the Samoan culture, waterfalls, snorkelling, swimming and vibrant local markets
5 Oct 2027
Arrive into Port Vila Marina by midday
Clear Customs
Farewell crew dinner and stay onboard
6 Oct 2027
Depart Vanuatu
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, accommodation onboard, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal floatation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.
Exclusions
Your crew package excludes; meals and accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear. Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules.
Eligibility
You will need to complete either a 5-hour online or 2-day classroom based Sea Safety and Survival Training Course or equivalent prior to departure.
Accommodation
If you plan to fly in a day earlier, or stay onboard the night after we return to port, an extra night's accommodation is available onboard, prior to departure and/or after arrival as an add-on, for $100 per person, per night. This can be purchased through your We Travel account during the booking process or prior to departure.
Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
Book and pay
Click Book Now button above to secure your place. Choose from Pay in Full or deposit options. Direct debit from bank account, debit card or credit card options available. Pay in the currency of your choice.
Personalise your payment plan
If you want to set up a payment plan, contact us here and let us know your desired deposit (minimum 10% required) and your preferred payment. You can make up to 18 payments, for the balance. You can choose the frequency and customise each payment amount.
Not ready to pay, but want to secure your place?
Reserve your place onboard today, with no obligation. We’ll send the confirmation details, itinerary, deposit invoice and be sure to answer all your questions, while you finalise your plans before confirming. Reserve here.
100% cancellation guarantee
If you book and then cancel prior to an event, for any reason, 100% of your payment will be issued as a credit, that you can apply to any future event/s. For a full refund of sailing trip, flights and hotel costs, we recommend travel insurance. View Terms & Conditions.
Members
Check for Member's availability here before booking this event, using Members Benefits. When you book Reserve your place here.