Florida Islands Solomon Islands, Roderick Bay
Solomon Islands
3
Cruises availables
At departure or passage at this port
Frequently Asked Questions
In Roderick Bay, sheltered behind Sandfly Passage. There is no pier: passengers land by Zodiac on a pale sand beach where tall trees run down to the water.
The World Discoverer, an expedition ship that struck an uncharted reef on 30 April 2000. Her captain steered her into the bay and grounded her gently so everyone could be evacuated safely. The hull still lists there, half swallowed by vegetation.
No. The structure is off limits. You photograph it from the Zodiac, and confident swimmers approach it with mask and snorkel, following the ship's instructions.
Yes, it is one of the best snorkel sites in the archipelago. Coral drop-offs start close to the beach, alive with clownfish, giant clams, electric-blue starfish and clouds of fusiliers. The water stays warm and usually calm.
The welcome is immediate: children's canoes around the tenders, singing, craft stalls set up in the shade. Families paint welcome signs by hand and weave palm-frond parasols on the beach.
Wood carvings, basketry and shell necklaces, sold directly by residents. Bring Solomon Islands dollars or small US notes: there is no bank machine and no card terminal.
A small archipelago north of Guadalcanal, known locally as Nggela. The stretch of water separating them from Guadalcanal is Iron Bottom Sound, where dozens of ships sunk in 1942 and 1943 still lie.
Yes, a guided walk leads to the nearby village: stilt houses, food gardens and timber churches left by 19th-century missions. There is no electricity and no shop, and craft sales fund the school.
Yes, and the gesture is always appreciated. It is the single most useful courtesy of the call, especially with children and in the village.
Mask and snorkel, often supplied by the ship, water shoes, insect repellent and long sleeves for late afternoon. There are no facilities ashore: everything comes off the ship with you.
