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Sailing Outrigger

Islands & Cultures of Papua New Guinea

Cairns to Madang - Example 11 Day Cruise aboard Paspaley Pearl
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Embark on an 11-day cruise aboard the Paspaley Pearl, starting in Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Visit some of the most remote and stunning locations in Papua New Guinea, including the Samarai and Kwato Islands, famous for their rich colonial history and cultural significance. Explore the coral reefs of the Deboyne Islands and the ancient traditions of the Trobriand Islands. See the dramatic Tufi Fjords and Morobe Harbour, where locals maintain traditional lifestyles. Explore the craftsmanship of the Tami Islanders and immerse yourself in the pristine waters of their secluded lagoons. End your journey in the picturesque town of Madang, known for its vibrant cultural festivals and natural beauty.
Hornbill Papua New Guinea Paspaley PearTufi ManTrobriand IslandsCultural HousesCultural EncountersMadangSailing Outrigger
Highlights
  • Experience vibrant marine life near Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef
  • Discover Samarai Island's colonial history and scenic landscapes
  • Witness the traditional culture of the Trobriand Islands firsthand
  • Walk Kwato Island’s tree-lined paths to a historic stone church
Activities
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Cairns | Embarkation

Embark in Cairns, a popular spot for travelers looking to explore the Great Barrier Reef and Far North Queensland. Its tropical climate and location make it a great base for marine adventures, with easy access to the coral reefs and diverse marine life of the Great Barrier Reef.

Day 2-3: At Sea

Reflect on the great moments shared with others during your days at sea. Enjoy the quiet of the open ocean and talk with your expedition team about the adventures ahead.

Day 4: Samarai Islands| Milne Bay

The Samarai Islands are located in the China Strait off the south-eastern tip of New Guinea. In its colonial heyday, it was said to be one of the most beautiful places in the Pacific. The island was declared a National Historical Heritage Island by the government of Papua New Guinea in 2006. Just 3 km west of Samarai, Kwato Island was once an educational center and home to a thriving boat building industry. Following the old tree-lined road to the top of the island reveals a stonewalled church that was built in 1937 and remains a testimony to the missionaries of a bygone era. Join your expedition team for a guided walk on Samarai Island.

Day 5: Deboyne Lagoon | Milne Bay

Located on the northwestern side of the Louisiade Archipelago bordering the Coral Sea, the Deboyne Islands are located inside the Deboyne Lagoon and are known for their stunning beaches, natural beauty, coral reefs, and the wreck of an A6M2 Zero that sits in 3 meters of water, only 50 meters from the beach. The friendly villagers lead a subsistence lifestyle with minimal influence from the outside world and warmly welcome guests.

Day 6: Trobriand Islands | Milne Bay

The Trobriand Islands remain one of the most culturally intact places in the Pacific. Their unique social system is dominated by hereditary chieftains who continue to wield tremendous power and influence, although inheritances and lines of power are passed through the female side of the family. Despite the influence of external forces such as missionaries, the traditional dancing in the Trobriand Islands has retained its original sensuality. The dances are a significant aspect of their cultural expression and identity.

Day 7: Tufi | Oro Province

Often described as the “Scandinavia of the Tropics." The spectacular Tufi fiords are located along the coast of Cape Nelson at the base of the Owen Stanley Range. They plunge over 90 meters deep and rise over 150 meters vertically above the water, making for a spectacular backdrop. The traditional way of life plays a very important role amongst the villagers, with many living in isolated areas along the coast. The area is known for its production of tapa cloth, made from the bark of the paper mulberry tree and skillfully decorated.

Day 8: Morobe Harbour

Located at the southern end of the picturesque Huon Gulf lies Morobe Harbour. Here, in one of the remotest parts of the Papua New Guinea mainland, culture and tradition remain strong. Several villages are spread along the foreshore amid lush forests where locals can be seen fishing or tending to their communal crops.

Day 9: Tami Islands | Morobe Province,

The Tami Islands (Kalal, Wanam, and Idjan) are a small group of uplifted coral atolls, with two main villages on the two larger islands and many smaller reefs and cays. In the center is a beautiful, crystal clear blue lagoon with abundant marine life and stunning coral formations. The seldom-visited islands are located off the coast not far from the town of Finschaffen. Tami Islanders are renowned artisans and are most famous for their intricately decorated bowls.

Day 10: Tuam Island | Morobe Province

Located between the mainland of Papua New Guinea and the island of New Britain. The Siassi archipelago comprises a total of 18 islands, of which only seven are inhabited. The Island of Tuam is a raised coral outcrop and home to a remote community far from the regular tourist routes.

Day 11: Madang | Disembarkation

  • 1 Breakfast
Madang Township was once known as the “prettiest town in the South Pacific." Its peninsula setting is a showplace of parks, waterways, luxuriant shade trees, and sparkling tropical islands. The diverse geographical nature of Madang province is reflected in the 170 different languages that are spoken. This diversity is showcased in the Madang festival with its colorful displays of “sing sings” performed by numerous cultural groups from across the Madang Province.

Paspaley Pearl is alongside Madang, and disembarkation commence after breakfast.

Ship/Hotel

Paspaley Pearl

Main Lounge
Outdoor
Outdoor

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit Papua New Guinea Cruises.
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Ocean Twin Stateroom
Ocean Twin Stateroom
The Ocean Twin Stateroom combines style and functionality with a large wardrobe and the choice of twin or king beds. It features a spacious bathroom with a shower, heated floors, high-quality amenities, and a hairdryer. The stateroom has adjustable air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging ports, and wall-mounted reading lamps. Entertainment is provided by a flat-screen TV with an on-demand system, and guests have access to free, unlimited Wi-Fi, though connectivity may vary depending on location.
Ocean Stateroom
Ocean Stateroom
The Ocean Stateroom offers practical and stylish design with a large wardrobe and the choice of twin or king-sized beds. It has a roomy bathroom with a shower, heated floors, high-quality amenities, and a hairdryer. The stateroom also features adjustable air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging ports, and wall-mounted reading lights. Guests can use the flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system and enjoy free, unlimited Wi-Fi, though connectivity may vary depending on location.
Horizon Suite
Horizon Suite
The Horizon Suite features a well-designed layout with a large wardrobe and the option of twin or king beds. Its standout element is the floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to a private balcony with a panoramic view. The suite has a spacious bathroom equipped with a shower, heated floors, toiletries, and a hairdryer. It includes individually controlled air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging ports, and wall-mounted reading lamps. For entertainment, there is a flat-screen TV with an on-demand system. Guests receive complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi, although connectivity may vary based on location and navigation.
Pearl Suite
Pearl Suite
The Pearl Suite features elegant design and practical layout, including ample wardrobe space. It has floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to a private balcony. Guests can select between twin or king beds. The large bathroom is equipped with a shower, heated floors, toiletries, and a hairdryer. The air conditioning is individually controlled for comfort. Additional conveniences include international 240V sockets, USB charging ports, and wall-mounted reading lamps. Entertainment is provided by a flat-screen TV with an on-demand system. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available, though the connection may vary based on location and navigation.
Included
  • 10 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners
  • 10 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Port Fees
  • Unlimited Wifi
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
  • “Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
  • 24h Room Service (special selection)
  • English-Speaking Lecturer 
  • Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
  • Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
  • Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite. 
  • Shore landings and exploration vessel outings guided by a team of expert Expedition guides.
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Visa Fees
  • Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
  • Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
  • Luggage Handling 
  • Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
  • Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions 
  • Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
  • CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses
  • Premium wines
  • Tips for the onboard crew are appreciated but not compulsory.

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Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen

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