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Learn about the cultures of Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea Discoverer

Madang to Cairns - Example 13 Day Cruise aboard Coral Discoverer
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Embark on a 13-day Papua New Guinea cruise aboard Coral Discoverer. Begin in Madang and journey across remote islands, reefs, rivers, and villages. Explore Umboi’s volcanic heritage, Tuam’s trading history, and Apalo Village’s fishing life. Cruise the Pulia River and discover Biangatu Island’s marine biodiversity. Visit Bolu Bolu Village for cultural connections and snorkel at Wagifa Island. Walk jungle trails in Sewa Bay, enjoy uninhabited Boia Boia Waga’s beaches, and explore Deboyne Lagoon’s reefs. Snorkel among the Calvados Chain atolls and search for bird-of-paradise at Tawali before visiting Nuakata Island’s canoe traditions. Stroll Samarai’s markets and uncover its maritime history before crossing the Coral Sea to Cairns.
Diving in Papua New GuineaParrots in Papua New GuineaSunrise in Papua New Guinea HighlandsSnorkel the vibrant waters of the South PacificExplore the wonder of coral reefsSkulls in Cave at Samarai Island, Papua New GuineaHiking in jungle of Samarai, Papua New GuineaLearn about the cultures of Papua New Guinea
Highlights
  • Discover Umboi Island’s volcanic heritage and unique cultural traditions
  • Engage with Apalo Village and cruise the Pulia River
  • Connect with Bolu Bolu Village’s vocational training and community life
  • Relax on uninhabited Boia Boia Waga Island beaches
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: Madang | Embark

Travel independently to Cairns International Airport for check-in and a charter flight briefing before boarding your flight. After landing at Madang Airport, transfer to Madang Resort for light snacks and refreshments. At 4:00 pm, step aboard Coral Discoverer in the busy port of Madang to start your island voyage. Meet the expedition team for an overview of the journey ahead. In the evening, attend the Captain’s welcome drinks and get to know the crew and fellow travelers as the day ends.

Day 2: Umboi & Tuam Island

Explore Umboi Island’s volcanic past and learn about its cultural traditions. Continue to Tuam Island to see its long-standing trading heritage, rooted in the Holocene era, and observe distinctive windbreak practices.

Day 3: Kumbun Island & Pulia River

Cross the Dampier Strait to visit Apalo Village on New Britain Island’s remote southwestern tip. Engage with local fishing life and the methods and customs that exist today. In the afternoon, cruise the jungle-flanked Pulia River by Xplorer.

Day 4: Lababia Village & Biangatu Island

Experience colorful welcome rituals and traditional bilum weaving demonstrations at this seaside village on Papua’s mainland. Spend the afternoon exploring the biodiverse underwater worlds of Biangatu Island. Snorkeling and diving are available in Biangatu Island.

Day 5: Sea Day

Enjoy onboard activities and presentations as you sail towards the remote islands of southeastern Papua New Guinea. Take time to process the cultural connections you’ve already made on this unique voyage.

Day 6: Goodenough & Wagifa Island

Engage with vocational training and climate resilience projects in Bolu Bolu Village. Visit the community tourism school and enjoy water activities at nearby Wagifa Island, perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Day 7: Sewa Bay & Boia Boia Waga Island

Choose between a moderate jungle walk to search for wildlife or visit Pwanapwana Village for a cultural experience. Later, relax on the white beaches of uninhabited Boia Boia Waga Island. Snorkeling and diving is available.

Day 8: Deboyne Island & Surrounding Lagoons

The ship will be positioned for the best water activities based on conditions. The Deboyne Lagoon features diverse reefs and islands teeming with marine life, offering excellent opportunities for kayaking and snorkeling.

Day 9: Exploration of the Calvados Chain

Discover pristine atolls in the Calvados chain. Your Expedition Team will source the best locations for snorkeling, diving, swimming, and kayaking amongst these remote coral formations. 

Day 10: Tawali & Nuakata Island

This morning, rise early for a walk in search of the endemic bird-of-paradise through uneven jungle pathways. Enjoy a traditional Mumu lunch before visiting Nuakata Island to learn about the Hale Vaka Initiative and traditional canoe building.

Day 11: Samarai

Discover the island of Samarai, once a key maritime hub connecting Australia and East Asia. Stroll through its vibrant local markets and learn about its pivotal role in regional trade and navigation before continuing towards the Coral Sea.

Day 12: Coral Sea

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea as we sail towards Australia. Reflect on your Papua New Guinea discoveries and enjoy presentations about the remarkable places you’ve visited.

Day 13: Cairns | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Arrive in Cairns at 12:30 pm for disembarkation at 1:30 pm. Bid farewell to newfound friends, the Master and crew. A post-cruise transfer to Cairns CBD hotels or the airport is included.

Ship/Hotel

Coral Discoverer

Coral Discoverer
Bridge Deck Bar aboard the Coral Discoverer

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$9,400 2-3 travelers
Rates displayed are based on the current exchange rate from the Australian Dollar, and therefore may fluctuate
Main Deck B
Averaging 195 sq. ft. Three cabins located on the Main Deck, equipped with twin portholes, desk, sofa, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding.
Main Deck A
Averaging 195 sq. ft. Six cabins located on the Main Deck, equipped with twin porthole windows, desk, sofa, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding.
Promenade Deck B
Averaging 160 sq. ft. Four cabins located on the Promenade Deck, equipped with picture windows, desk, telephone and Junior King bedding.
Promenade Deck A
Averaging 195 sq. ft. Eighteen cabins located on the Promenade Deck, equipped with picture windows, sofa, desk, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding.
Bridge Deck
Averaging 195 sq. ft. Five cabins located on the Bridge Deck, equipped with picture windows, sofa, desk, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding.

Notes

Solo Travelers:
Solo cabin occupancy is limited and based on availability in Promenade Deck B cabins only. Single supplement is an additional 50%.

Important Fare Information:
Rates are posted based off of the current exchange rates from Australian or New Zealand Dollars. Please contact us for current exchange rates.
Included
  • 12 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 12 Dinners
  • 12 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • All entrance fees to National Parks, ports, traditional owner fees and charges imposed by governing authorities
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Selected wines, selected beers and house spirits, juices, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner
  • Captain’s welcome and farewell events, and open bridge access
  • Use of Xplorer, Zodiacs and kayaks
  • All excursions with our Expedition Team
  • Daily lectures and briefings with Guest Lecturers
  • Use of all onboard facilities, incl. a reference library
  • 24-hour barista-style coffee and tea station
  • Wifi Access – Standard speed connectivity enabling email, social image sharing, web browsing and messaging
  • Expedition diary, along with a photo and video gallery documenting the highlights of your voyage
  • Post-cruise transfers (where specified)
  • Charter flight Cairns to Madang (if booked)
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Laundry Service
  • Entry visas/Travel permits
  • Pre and post cruise flights/charter flights
  • Pre and post cruise accommodation
  • Items of a personal nature such souvenir purchases
  • Optional Extras (in some destinations)
  • Alcoholic & non-alcoholic specialty beverages outside of lunch and dinner service
  • Premium Internet services
  • Scuba Diving 

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Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
Justin Chappelle

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