Indigenous man in face paint, ceremonial feather headdress, shell necklaces & leaf garb looks across the dance troupe.
Thatch-roof conical hut with hanging, grass-skirt-like leaves sits in bright green grass among rainforest in Papua New Guinea.
Deserted white-sand beach with driftwood is backed by green jungle & fronted by teal sea on a sunny day in Papua New Guinea.
2 young boys stand in water & hold onto a primitive outrigger canoe during a Sepik River cruise in Papua New Guinea.
Locals in Papua New Guinea sail and outrigger canoe in teal sea near a shoreline of lush green jungle on a sunny day.
View Photos
Asia / Pacific Pacific Islands Cruise

Paspaley Pearl Papua New Guinea Cruises

For cultural immersion in remote communities among picture postcard tropical islands of historical significance, look no further than these Papua New Guinea expedition cruises aboard the Paspaley Pearl. Choose from guided sailings in three areas: the roadless Sepik River, the history-rich New Britain Island, or the ancient fjords of southeast Papua New Guinea.

During a Sepik River cruise, uncover abundant biodiversity, history and culture. Traverse dense rainforests, immerse in the distinctive customs of the Sepik people, and explore the vibrant trading hub of Angoram. Marvel at the breathtaking Blackwater Lakes and the secluded allure of Watam and Awar villages. Encounter the natural wonder of the Witu Islands’ caldera.

On New Britain Island cruises, explore the caldera of Garove Island, dive into Kimbe Bay’s marine biodiversity, and discover the Tolai people’s Duk-Duk society. Unearth World War II history in Rabaul, witness the Baining Fire Dance, and engage with locals on Duke of York and Tami Islands. Marvel at Jacquinot Bay’s landscapes, swim in warm tropical waters, and visit remote picturesque islands.

And along southeast Papua New Guinea, experience picturesque islands, historical sites and diverse cultures. Snorkel over a World War II wreck, discover the ‘Islands of Love’ in the Trobriands, and canoe into the ancient Fiords of Tufi. Immerse in the traditional Morobe culture on remote Tami Islands, unravel Papua New Guinea’s wartime role, and dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Solomon Sea.

Cruise aboard the 30-guest boutique superyacht Paspaley Pearl to reach exotic destinations only accessible to small ships. This upscale yacht pampers guests with modern indoor and breezy outdoor spaces; engaging naturalist guides; activity gear to swim, snorkel, dive and explore off-ship; a highly attentive crew; and refined staterooms and suites.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Pacific Island cruises and Pacific Island vacations.



Itinerary

Sepik River Secrets Itinerary

These departures focus on the Sepik River’s biodiversity, history and culture. Enjoy lush jungle, blackwater lakes, remote villages and a spectacular caldera.

Route map of Sepik River Secrets cruise, round-trip from Madang, Papua New Guinea, with visits to various provinces.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Madang, Papua New Guinea

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. The ship will be alongside in Madang.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

dinner

Read More
Days 2 - 5
The Sepik River, East Sepik Province

The Sepik is one of the world’s great river systems. It meanders some 684 miles (1,100 km) from the Owen Stanley ranges to the North Coast of New Guinea where it enters the Bismarck Sea. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is surrounded by dense and often difficult-to-navigate terrain. The lack of accessible roads in the region has meant the river has served as a central avenue for trade, communication and daily activities, for millennia.

Culturally, the Sepik region is known for its traditional art, with indigenous tribes creating intricate carvings and masks that hold deep cultural and spiritual significance. The river and its surroundings have inspired the artistic expressions of the local communities, reflecting their connection to the natural environment.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Watam Village, Broken Water Bay, East Sepik Province

Watam village is situated at the northwestern end of Broken Water Bay, making it the easternmost village in the East Sepik Province. The Watam people, along with the people of Kopar village at the mouth of the Sepik River, trace their origins to the lower sections of the Ramu River, located farther east. While the Watam people have adopted Catholicism, many aspects of their traditional rituals and beliefs continue to coexist within the religious framework. As a result, Watam village provides a fascinating example of the intersection between traditional practices, migration history, and the influence of external factors on the cultural landscape of Papua New Guinea.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Hansa Bay, Madang Province

During World War II, Hansa Bay was a major Japanese naval base and transit station between the Wewak region and southeastern bases. Today, there are several WWII wrecks scattered along the coastline and in shallow waters. The traditional villages of Awar and Nubia seldom receive visitors from the outside world. Their culture and traditions remain strong, despite the influence of missionaries.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Crown Island, Madang Province

Crown Island is located between the Vitiaz Strait and the southern Bismarck Sea off the north coast of the Papua New Guinea mainland, about 16 miles (25 km) from Long Island. In 1700 William Dampier charted the passage now named Dampier Strait to the east, also naming several islands including Crown Island. This eroded ancient volcanic island is home to a collection of lush valleys, steep ridges, lowlands and sand beaches surrounded by coral reefs. The island’s inhabitants have only recently relocated from the nearby Long and Umboi Islands.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 9
Witu Islands, West New Britain Province

The Witu, or Vitu Islands are volcanic ocean peaks fringed by coral reefs, located in the Bismarck Sea off the north coast of New Britain Island. They were once the chief copra (coconut flesh) center of Papua New Guinea; today, cocoa is now the main crop harvested. The largest island, Garove or Big Witu has a 3-mile-wide (5 km) volcanic caldera where the southern rim has collapsed, creating a spectacular entrance. The main village of Garove is nestled inside this scenic natural harbor.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10
Cape Gloucester, West New Britain Province

Lying on the northern peninsula at the west end of the island of New Britain is the seldom visited location of Cape Gloucester. The Peninsula is densely vegetated with thick rainforest, and the extinct Mount Talawe volcano creates a spectacular backdrop to the south. On the eastern flank of Talawe lie the four overlapping volcanic cones of the active Langila Volcano. Langila is one of the most active volcanoes in the Bismark archipelago. Several uninhabited picture postcard islands lie just offshore, providing the ideal location for swimming and snorkeling in the warm tropical waters of the Bismarck Sea.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 11
Disembark Madang, Papua New Guinea

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. The ship will be alongside in Madang and disembarkation will commence after breakfast.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All meals while on board the ship; captain’s welcome cocktail; “open bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands); room service; highly qualified English-speaking expedition team; lectures presented by the expedition team; Zodiac and shore excursions; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (including child passengers).

Exclusions

Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise; visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind; gratuities.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – AUD250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Sepik River Secrets cruise begins and ends in Madang, Papua New Guinea (MAG). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Optional activities on your Sepik River Secrets cruise include practicing photography, land treks, swimming, snorkeling, Zodiac cruising and cultural visits. Diving is also included, however guests must be a certified Open Water Diver at a minimum, and provide their own buoyancy control device (tanks and weight belts are available on board).

Room Configuration

Ocean Twin Stateroom #102 is available with no single supplement. Additionally, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 30% (Ocean Deck staterooms) or 50% (Horizon Deck suites) of the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability.

Families & Children

Children 6 years and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. There are no child discounts aboard Paspaley Pearl. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Circumnavigation of New Britain Island Itinerary

These departures focus on the coastline of New Britain Island. Explore a marine biodiversity hotspot, WWII relics, a secret society, fire dancing, waterfalls, idyllic islands and a spectacular caldera.

Route map of Circumnavigation of New Britain Island cruise, round-trip from Madang, Papua New Guinea.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Madang, Papua New Guinea

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. The ship will be alongside in Madang.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Cape Gloucester, West Britain Province

Lying on the northern peninsula at the west end of the island of New Britain is the seldom visited location of Cape Gloucester. The Peninsula is densely vegetated with thick rainforest, and the extinct Mount Talawe volcano creates a spectacular backdrop to the south. On the eastern flank of Talawe lie the four overlapping volcanic cones of the active Langila Volcano. Langila is one of the most active volcanoes in the Bismark archipelago. Several uninhabited picture postcard islands lie just offshore, providing the ideal location for swimming and snorkeling in the warm tropical waters of the Bismarck Sea.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Witu Islands, West New Britain Province

The Witu, or Vitu Islands are volcanic ocean peaks fringed by coral reefs, located in the Bismarck Sea off the north coast of New Britain Island. They were once the chief copra (coconut flesh) center of Papua New Guinea; today, cocoa is now the main crop harvested. The largest island, Garove or Big Witu has a 3-mile-wide (5 km) volcanic caldera where the southern rim has collapsed, creating a spectacular entrance. The main village of Garove is nestled inside this scenic natural harbor.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Kimbe Bay, West New Britain Province

Kimbe Bay is at the heart of the Coral Triangle and is considered one of the world’s most diverse ocean environments, with everything from shallow seagrass beds and mangroves to deep seamounts. It is an important biodiversity hotspot, home to more than 60% of the coral species of the entire Indo-Pacific region. Above the water, black volcanic beaches provide a unique and dramatic contrast to the lush greenery of the surrounding forests. The volcanic landscapes create spectacular scenery and a rich flora that adds to the region’s appeal.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Ataliklikun Bay, East New Britain Province

Ataliklikun Bay is home to the indigenous Tolai, who are believed to have migrated to the Gazelle Peninsula relatively recently, displacing the Baining people who were subsequently driven westwards. Whilst the Tolai people almost universally identify as Christians, old beliefs and traditions still persist including the secret Duk-Duk society. The society has religious, political and social objectives, representing a form of law and order through its presiding spirits. Duk-Duk only appeared with the full moon. Justice was executed, fines extorted, taboos, feasts, taxes and all tribal matters arranged by the Duk-Duk members, wearing masks or chalk on their faces.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Rabaul, East New Britain Province

Set at the eastern end of the island of New Britain, the tropical port town of Rabaul has always been famous for its spectacular setting. Nestled beside Simpson Harbor, the township is surrounded by six volcanoes, one of which, Mt Tavurvur, is still active today. The most recent major volcanic eruption was in September 1994 when Tavurvur and Vulcan covered much of Rabaul and surrounding villages with volcanic ash. This eruption saw the growth of the nearby coastal town of Kokopo which has now become the administrative and tourism center for Rabaul.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Duke of York Islands, East New Britain Province

Located in the St George’s Channel between New Britain and New Ireland, the Duke of York islands comprise 13 rarely visited islands totaling 22 square miles (58 sq km) in area. The first European to site the islands and give them their name was the British navigator Philip Carteret, in 1767. In the 1870s, a German trading station was opened at Balanawang Harbor, and the area’s first Methodist mission was established in 1880.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Jacquinot Bay, East New Britain Province

Jacquinot Bay lies on the south coast of the island of New Britain and is surrounded by the densely forested central mountain range that dominates the southern part of the island. Prior to World War II there were several small villages and localities around the bay, including copra (coconut flesh) plantations at Palmalmal and Cutarp. It was used as a logistics and support base during the New Britain Campaign of World War II after being captured by an Allied amphibious operation undertaken on November 04, 1944.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 9
At Sea

A day spent at sea provides an ideal opportunity for contemplation, allowing you to reminisce about the extraordinary moments shared with fellow adventurers. Take a moment for yourself to savor the rare tranquility of the open sea and connect with your expedition team to discover exciting upcoming adventures on the horizon.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10
Tami Islands, Morobe Province

The Tami Islands (Kalal, Wanam & 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.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 11
Disembark Madang, Papua New Guinea

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. The ship will be alongside in Madang and disembarkation will commence after breakfast.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All meals while on board the ship; captain’s welcome cocktail; “open bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands); room service; highly qualified English-speaking expedition team; lectures presented by the expedition team; Zodiac and shore excursions; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (including child passengers).

Exclusions

Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise; visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind; gratuities.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – AUD250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Circumnavigation of New Britain Island cruise begins and ends in Madang, Papua New Guinea (MAG). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Optional activities on your Circumnavigation of New Britain Island cruise include practicing photography, land treks, swimming, snorkeling, Zodiac cruising and cultural visits. Diving is also included, however guests must be a certified Open Water Diver at a minimum, and provide their own buoyancy control device (tanks and weight belts are available on board).

Room Configuration

Ocean Twin Stateroom #102 is available with no single supplement. Additionally, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 30% (Ocean Deck staterooms) or 50% (Horizon Deck suites) of the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability.

Families & Children

Children 6 years and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. There are no child discounts aboard Paspaley Pearl. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Islands & Cultures of Papua New Guinea Itinerary

These departures focus on Papua New Guinea’s southeastern coastline. Experience a WWII wreck snorkel site, ancient fjords by outrigger canoe, and various picture postcard islands and remote cultures.

Route map of Islands & Cultures of Papua New Guinea cruise from Cairns, Australia to Madang, Papua New Guinea with visits along the southeast.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Cairns, Queensland, Australia

Cairns thrives on its tropical climate and has become a hub for travelers seeking to explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and the surrounding Far North Queensland region. The city’s strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for marine adventures, with access to the stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life that characterize the Great Barrier Reef. The ship will be alongside in Cairns.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

dinner

Read More
Days 2 - 3
At Sea

A couple of days spent at sea provides an ideal opportunity for contemplation, allowing you to make the acquaintance of fellow adventurers. Take a moment for yourself to savor the rare tranquility of the open sea and connect with your expedition team to discover exciting upcoming adventures on the horizon.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Samarai Islands, Milne Bay Province

The Samarai islands are located in the China Strait off the southeastern 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 under 2 miles (3km) 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.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Deboyne Lagoon, Milne Bay Province

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 10 feet (3 m) of water, only 164 feet (50 m) from the beach. The friendly villagers lead a subsistence lifestyle with minimal influence from the outside world and warmly welcome guests.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Trobriand Islands, Milne Bay Province

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.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
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 295 feet (90 m) deep and rise over 492 feet (150 m) 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.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Morobe Harbor, Morobe Province

Located at the Southern end of the picturesque Huon gulf lies Morobe Harbor. 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.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 9
Tami Islands, Morobe Province

The Tami Islands (Kalal, Wanam & 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.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
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.

Accommodations

Paspaley Pearl

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 11
Disembark Madang, Papua New Guinea

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. The ship will be alongside in Madang and disembarkation will commence after breakfast.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All meals while on board the ship; captain’s welcome cocktail; “open bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands); room service; highly qualified English-speaking expedition team; lectures presented by the expedition team; Zodiac and shore excursions; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (including child passengers).

Exclusions

Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise; visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind; gratuities.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – AUD250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Islands & Cultures of Papua New Guinea cruise begins in Cairns, Australia (CNS) and ends in Madang, Papua New Guinea (MAG). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Optional activities on your Islands & Cultures of Papua New Guinea cruise include practicing photography, land treks, swimming, snorkeling, Zodiac cruising and cultural visits. Diving is also included, however guests must be a certified Open Water Diver at a minimum, and provide their own buoyancy control device (tanks and weight belts are available on board).

Room Configuration

Ocean Twin Stateroom #102 is available with no single supplement. Additionally, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 30% (Ocean Deck staterooms) or 50% (Horizon Deck suites) of the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability.

Families & Children

Children 6 years and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. There are no child discounts aboard Paspaley Pearl. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Oct 09 - Oct 19, 2025
Paspaley Pearl • 11 days
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From $13870USD
Per Person
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Oct 19 - Oct 29, 2025
Paspaley Pearl • 11 days
From $13870USD
Per Person
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Oct 29 - Nov 08, 2025
Paspaley Pearl • 11 days
small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background
From $13870USD
Per Person
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Nov 08 - Nov 18, 2025
Paspaley Pearl • 11 days
From $13870USD
Per Person
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Nov 18 - Nov 28, 2025
Paspaley Pearl • 11 days
small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background
From $13870USD
Per Person
Read More
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Nov 28 - Dec 08, 2025
Paspaley Pearl • 11 days
From $13870USD
Per Person
Read More
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small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background Alternative Itinerary
Accommodation

Learn About the Luxury Superyacht on Your Itinerary

Yacht
Paspaley Pearl

Purpose built for refined expedition cruising, the 30-guest Paspaley Pearl ship is truly unique. Cruise on this modern ship for gourmet food paired with wine from a curated cellar, plus activity gear (including fishing), an upscale feel and a sense of camaraderie.

Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

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11 Day Cruise
Paspaley Pearl Unexplored Kimberley

Cruise the Kimberley coast aboard the luxurious 30-guest Paspaley Pearl for diversity and pristine nature. Explore ancient landscapes and cultures, prehistoric reptiles, spectacular scenery, unique tidal phenomena and amazing wildlife.

From $13870USD
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
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8 - 13 Day Cruise
Aqua Blu West Papua & Asmat Tribe Expedition

On this 8-day voyage aboard 30-guest Aqua Blu, blend some of Indonesia's highlights (whale sharks, prehistoric art, waterfalls and underwater creatures) with a special 2-day visit to meet the people of a remote, rarely seen part of West Papua.

From $12290USD
Nov Dec
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10 Day Cruise
Sailing Indonesia: Jewels of Raja Ampat

Experience the best of Indonesia travel aboard the 24-guest Ombak Putih or the 12-guest Katharina sailing vessels. This 10-day round-trip cruise from Sorong, West Papua, explores the natural splendor of Raja Ampat, home to the world's most biodiverse coral reefs.

From $7550USD
Jan Feb Oct Nov Dec
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Paspaley Pearl Papua New Guinea Cruises

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