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Explore the wonder of coral reefs

Frontier Lands of Papua New Guinea

Cairns to Rabaul - Example 13 Day Cruise aboard Coral Adventurer
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Embark on a 13-day voyage from Cairns to Rabaul aboard Coral Adventurer. Cross the Coral Sea and explore Papua New Guinea’s diverse islands, villages, and reefs. Walk through historic Samarai, witness volcanic landscapes at Dobu, and visit Dei Dei hot springs. Experience the culture of the Trobriand Islands and explore the dramatic fjords of Tufi. Pay tribute at Buna and Sanananda battlefields, learn about traditional crafts in Morobe, and dive into Madang’s history and markets. Cruise along the Sepik River to meet skilled carvers and observe village life. Swim, snorkel, and dive at Kimbe Bay and the Witu Islands, home to marine biodiversity. This adventure combines cultural encounters, historical insights, and spectacular natural wonders, making it an unforgettable exploration of Papua New Guinea’s remote regions.
Trobriand Island dancers in the South PacificSkulls in Cave at Samarai Island, Papua New GuineaCooking in thermal area Dobu Island, Papua New GuineaTraditional house of the Sepik people, Papua New GuineaAerial photo of Sepik RiverExplore the wonder of coral reefs
Highlights
  • Explore historic Samarai Island and snorkel nearby Ebuma reefs
  • Visit Dobu Island and experience bubbling reef hot springs
  • Cruise the Cape Nelson fjords and explore tapa cloth traditions
  • Dive Kimbe Bay with unmatched coral and fish diversity
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 | Embark

Arrive at Trinity Wharf (berth to be advised) and board at 7:30 a.m. for a 9:00 a.m. departure. Meet the expedition staff for an introduction to the voyage and planned activities. In the evening, join the Captain’s welcome drinks to meet the crew and fellow guests.

Day 2: At Sea

Spend the day onboard at your own pace. Attend informative presentations led by the Guest Lecturer, or take part in a guided tour of the bridge or engine room.

Day 3: Samarai Island

Clear into Papua New Guinea at this historic former administrative capital, once the second largest settlement after Port Moresby. Choose to explore colonial Samarai and purchase pearls or snorkel at nearby Ebuma Island.

Day 4: Dobu Island & Dei Dei Springs

Walk to the mythical Dei Dei Hot Springs, where locals share spiritual tales and still cook food in palm frond baskets. Learn about the ancient Kula Ring trading network at Dobu Island and snorkel the bubbling springs reef.

Day 5: Kuiawa Island | Trobriand Islands

Visit the famous ‘Islands of Love’ where Trobriand Islanders employ traditional magic to grow better produce. Witness cultural performances, browse local markets and swim off pristine beaches in this Polynesian-influenced community.

Day 6: Tufi Fjord

Explore the spectacular fjords of Cape Nelson, famous for tapa cloth production. Enjoy cultural demonstrations, nature walks, and world-class snorkeling and diving amongst uncharted reefs in this dramatic landscape.

Day 7: Buna & Sanananda

Pay tribute at these significant WWII battlefields where fierce fighting occurred between Australian, American, and Japanese forces. Visit the village-built War Museum and experience traditional welcomes honoring all sides.

Day 8: Dregerhafen, Morobe

Experience a high-spirited welcome at Gingala Village and browse the markets, famous for their traditional Tami bowls and timber paddles. Enjoy water activities in pristine lagoons surrounded by the stunning coastline of the Finschhafen district.

Day 9: Madang

Discover Madang, the capital of Madang Province, named during the late German administration in the 1890s. Visit BilBil village for traditional clay pot demonstrations and the Coast Watchers monument, then spend the afternoon diving, relaxing at the waterside Madang Resort, or browsing the town’s vibrant markets.

Day 10: Sepik River

Navigate Papua New Guinea’s longest river, renowned as one of the world’s most prolific art-producing regions. Visit Bien village to meet master carvers, enjoy traditional performances, and cruise by Xplorer to spot a diverse array of wildlife.

Day 11: At Sea

Sail towards New Britain while enjoying presentations about the remarkable coral reef systems ahead. Reflect on the incredible cultural connections you’ve made throughout Papua New Guinea’s diverse frontier regions.

Day 12: Kimbe Bay

Explore the ‘coral crucible’ with over 860 tropical fish species and 400 coral varieties. Join traditional sing-sings at the Catholic Mission before swimming, snorkelling and diving at the spectacular Witu Islands.

Day 13: Rabaul | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Disembark at 8:00 am in this dramatic volcanic harbor town. For those wanting to explore more, consider adding on the Beyond Frontiers of Papua New Guinea voyage.

Ship/Hotel

Coral Adventurer

Coral Adventurer
Coral Adventurer
Coral Adventurer

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$9,190 2-3 travelers
Rates displayed are based on the current exchange rate from the Australian Dollar, and therefore may fluctuate
Coral Adventurer
Coral Deck Stateroom
Identical to the Promenade Deck Staterooms except for their location one deck below. These staterooms have twin portholes rather than picture windows.
Coral Adventurer
Promenade Deck Stateroom
Located below the Explorer deck and furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk, and armchair are included.
Coral Adventurer
Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom
Comfortably furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk, and armchair are included.
Coral Adventurer
Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom
Comfortably furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles. A wardrobe, desk, and armchair are included.
Coral Adventurer
Bridge Deck Balcony Suite
Suites are equipped with a lounge area, minibar, and personal coffee machine. They have special King sized beds which can be separated into two singles.

Notes

Important Fare Information:
Rates are posted based off of the current exchange rates from Australian 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)
  • Post-cruise charter flight
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 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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This was our first trip to South America and we were a little nervous. But Adventure Life made things so easy! All our questions were answered before we left, and our guide, Vidal, was amazing! He gave us enough space to explore without rushing us along. He also knew where the best picture taking opportunities were, which was great.
Lindsay Gompf

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