20-night Isles & Cultures Of The Andesite Line Cruise

Known as the "Happy Isles," the Solomons are one of the best-kept secrets in the Pacific. These are islands of great natural beauty from jungle-clad peaks and active volcanoes to dashing waterfalls, misty rainforests, turquoise lagoons, and brilliant coral reefs. The islands' variety of cultures and customs is also striking. In Honiara, backstreet quonset huts and an occasional, rusty wreckage provide grim reminders of World War II; over 25,000 Japanese and American soldiers were killed or wounded on Guadalcanal. Honiara has been the capital of the Solomon Islands since Tulagi was devastated during World War II.

The biggest draw for divers to the Island is the wreck of the SS President Coolidge, a WWII troop carrier sunk by friendly mines in 1942. For adventure seekers, a trip to the Millennium Caves filled with bats and sparrows is well worth your time. There are many shops on the main road in town, and there are a good number of local craft stores and restaurants, as well.

Travel across the International Dateline and step forward or backward in time one day.