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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.
Set off on an expedition cruise through East Indonesia’s enchanting landscapes. Aboard luxury superyacht Paspaley Pearl, explore Indonesia’s rich cultural tapestry and natural wonders, for an adventure that goes beyond the ordinary.
Experience an array of highlights across all itinerary options. Snorkel and swim with the world’s largest fish, the whale shark. View the Portuguese and Dutch colonial influences on the island of Timor. Hike in search of the infamous Komodo dragon among the spectacular landscapes of Komodo National Park, witness the traditional buffalo races of Sumbawa Besar, and admire woven Ikat designs (not available on Raja Ampat & Spice Islands departures). Along the way, Gain an insight into the history, culture, and incredible diversity of life from your expert expedition team.
On the 11-day cruise from East Timor to Australia, uniquely visit the remote island of Sumba to discover their ancient traditions. On 11-day eastbound and westbound departures, appreciate the distinct opportunity to learn history through song and dance in the mountains of Flores, plus swim and snorkel in the clear tropical waters of the Seventeen Islands Marine Park and visit the remote Lembata Island with its ancient traditions.
The 13-day Raja Ampat & Spice Islands departures sail an entirely different region of Indonesia. Days here feature volcanoes, spice trade history, Karst landscapes, stunning waterfalls, birds of paradise, and swimming and snorkeling in the most biodiverse marine system on the planet.
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 Indonesia cruises and Indonesia trips.
Discover the Rowley Shoals, located 162 miles (260 km) west of Broome in the Timor Sea and regarded as one of the world’s most spectacular diving and snorkeling locations. The three coral atolls of Mermaid, Clerke and Imperieuse Reefs rise, near vertical, from the surrounding crystal-clear waters on the edge of the continental shelf. Each atoll is approximately 31-35 square miles (80-90 sq km) in size and contain shallow lagoons inhabited by a diverse array of corals and abundant marine life, ideal for exploration by snorkelers and scuba divers.
The remote Kimberley coastline covers nearly 7,500 miles (12,000 km) with more than 2,500 islands. This is home to the oldest continuous culture on Earth, the world’s largest living reptile, the only two Horizontal Falls on the planet, the world’s largest inshore reef, extensive undisturbed mangrove forests, wild rivers, important seabird and marine turtle breeding colonies and the largest population of migrating humpback whales on the planet. It is a national biodiversity hotspot and listed in the top 3.7% of least impacted marine environments worldwide.
On these Rowley Shoals departures, enjoy unique highlights such as exploring Rowley Shoals, home to pristine coral lagoons and an abundance of marine life. A dedicated day exploring the Lacepede Islands provides insights into this designated Important Bird Area (IBA), home to tens of thousands of various species. Plus swim and snorkel in the clear tropical waters of the Rowley Shoals.
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, fish 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 Kimberley cruises, small ship cruises in Australia and trips to Australia.
Over 8 days, cruise a route born from pearling company Paspaley’s over 100 years of navigation along the Southern Kimberley coast. On an upscale small ship with like-minded travelers, explore Paspaley’s library of unique destinations and secret spots along the pearling coast.
On these round-trip Broome departures, sail remote reaches between the Dampier Peninsula in the South and the Bonaparte Archipelago in the North. Visit the Buccaneer Archipelago, one of the most spectacular island groups in Australia. Experience Collier Bay and Camden Sound’s unique tidal phenomena such as Horizontal Falls (Garaanngaddim) and Montgomery Reef (Yowjab). And explore Prince Regent National Park’s important conservation sites, containing half of the known bird and animal species in the Kimberley.
Unique highlights will delight even seasoned travelers. Enjoy an exclusive visit to a working Paspaley Pearl farm to witness first-hand the detail and care that is required to produce the most beautiful pearls in the world, recognized as “Paspaley pearls” due to their unique qualities. Visit Western Australia’s largest Green Sea turtle rookery. And in July, witness the largest population of migrating humpback whales on the planet.
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, fish 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 Kimberley cruises, small ship cruises in Australia and trips to Australia.
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.
With nearly 7,500 miles (12,000 km) of coastline and over 2,500 islands, the Kimberley has something for even the most ardent traveler. Experience an exclusive visit to a working Paspaley Pearl Farm. Discover the aboriginal rock art heritage of the Kimberley, the greatest collection of outdoor galleries in the world. Explore the Hunter-Roe river system, lined with ancient rainforest pockets, pristine mangroves and mosaic sandstone cliffs.
View the unique tidal phenomenon of the ‘Horizontal Falls’ in Talbot Bay, and Western Australia’s highest waterfall on the King George River. Experience the wonder of the power of the tides at Montgomery Reef, the world’s largest inshore reef system. In July and August witness the largest population of migrating humpback whales on the planet. The Kimberley is a national biodiversity hotspot, listed in the top 3.7% of least impacted marine environments worldwide.
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, fish and explore off-ship; a highly attentive crew; and refined staterooms and suites.
Read on for details about these luxury Kimberley cruises, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Kimberley cruises, small ship cruises in Australia and trips to Australia.
With only 30 guests, the Paspaley Pearl ship is spacious, yet feels like a private yacht. Her upscale feel comes from the combination of parent companies. Paspaley has been pearl farming in Australian waters for over 80 years, and their signature pearls are available on board. And operator Ponant has decades of experience creating luxury expedition travel experiences around the world.
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Paspaley Pearl review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard similar modern expedition vessels cruising Australia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. Find the detailed ship description and deck plan below. Then contact our experts to compare the Paspaley Pearl ship with other small cruise ships and upscale yachts offering small ship cruises in Australia, Kimberley cruises, Pacific Island cruises, and opportunities to cruise Indonesia.
OUR EXPERTS WERE HERE
You have questions.
We have answers.
Choose the Paspaley Pearl yacht for a boutique, modern ship built and crewed to cater to adventure cruising at its finest. This all-suite, Australia-based small ship features thoughtful food and wine, a sustainability focus, and a plethora of active toys to get guests out exploring.
The Paspaley Pearl’s parent company offers unique opportunities for those who choose to cruise aboard. Paspaley’s over 80 years of experience and knowledge in the cultivated pearl industry allows them to access 30 unique destinations along the Kimberley coast, including visits to their pearl farms. They go where other vessels cannot, due to the ship’s size and the unmatched historical knowledge of the Paspaley family. This translates into exclusive access to private Kimberley destinations. Add the partnership with Ponant, an operator with over 35 years running luxury cruises around the world, and the result is a collection of meticulously crafted itineraries in Australia’s Far North, Papua New Guinea and East Indonesia.
Designed by forward-thinking shipbuilder Vard of Norway, the Paspaley Pearl offers a mix of adventure and elegance. Her large bow, compliance with the latest SOLAS regulations and state-of-the-art stabilizers ensure smooth and safe sailing in remote destinations. Her generous social areas offer space to relax in peace or strike up conversations with newfound friends. And her wine cellar speaks to her appreciation of fine spirits.
Contemporary efficiencies reduce the impact of the Paspaley Pearl within the destinations that she sails. Intentional eco-friendly design features include an advanced wastewater treatment system, fuel-efficient and quiet diesel-electric propulsion, and catalytic invertors that reduce emissions by up to 90%. Further, a heat recovery system recycles heat from the engines to produce 100% of the hot water for showers and the galley. Lastly, a dynamic positioning system avoids the need for anchors, protecting the seabed.
Purpose built in 2021 for coastal cruising and island hopping, she features mid-century modern design and state-of-the-art technology. And despite her remote reaches, guests are treated to unlimited WiFi and access to satellite phones.
The Paspaley Pearl ship features ample spaces for quiet moments or camaraderie, from top to bottom. Her Sun Deck features an 8-guest Jacuzzi with 360-degree views, plus two lounge areas for relaxation, all protected from direct sun. A forward-facing, panoramic sunset lounge area invites guests to toast each day’s adventures.
Step down to the Horizon Deck for al fresco dining (ideal for breakfasts and lunches) adjacent to a lounge area that welcomes all guest for daily briefings. An outdoor bar rounds out this breezy space.
Finally, the Ocean Deck’s intimate dining room encourages stories of the day to be shared over exceptional food and carefully selected fine wines. The chef creates a European-inspired daily menu of fresh seafood and other local, sustainable specialties. Think pearl meat, northern prawns, barramundi (maybe even some caught by guests), plus premium meats (lamb, beef, etc.) and French cheeses.
Every departure aboard the Paspaley Pearl comes with regular off-ship activities lead by four experienced naturalist guides. The ship is equipped for excursions with two hard-bodied tender vessels and two soft-bodied Zodiacs (each with a sun-protective roof), plus a selection of double and single kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. Snorkeling equipment, including a snorkel, mask and fins, is available for every guest to experience the underwater world. Dive equipment supplied on board includes tanks and weight belts. And for select itineraries, the onboard fishing equipment will delight anglers (and the chef) when conditions permit.
All 15 staterooms and suites aboard the Paspaley Pearl ship are above the water line and feature ocean views. These upscale accommodations come with a large wardrobe and convertible bedding, and a private bathroom with shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, towels and a hairdryer. Additional amenities include individually controlled air conditioning, international 240-volt sockets, USB charging points, an entertainment system with a choice of hundreds of movies, and nightly turndown service.
Book your select 2025-2026 Emblematic Antarctica or Great Austral Loop voyage and the single supplement will be waived for single travelers.
Offer valid on new bookings only, for a limited time upon availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. See all Antarctica cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.
Set sail to discover the cultural and artistic jewels of the Aegean, Adriatic and Ionian Seas. On these Dalmatian Coast and Ionian Sea cruises, take in the legacy of mythical ancient civilizations, picturesque seaside cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, architectural treasures and sparkling sea.
The 9-day From the City of Gods to the Canals of Venice cruise features four countries in one itinerary: Greece, Italy, Croatia and Slovenia. In Greece, make the remarkable crossing of the Corinth Canal and fall under the spell of the island of Itea, not far from the marvelous archaeological site of Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Italy, visit the stunning Puglia region with its lavish baroque monuments, limestone cliffs and charming whitewashed houses. In Croatia, discover Split, its town center a UNESCO World Heritage Site with sites like Diocletian’s Palace, and Zadar with its stunning architecture and monumental Land Gate. In Slovenia, enjoy a walking tour of the charming medieval town of Piran. Finish in Venice, home to enchanting sites such as St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace.
The 8-day Cruising The Dalmatian Coast & the Ionian Sea: Venice to Athens itinerary makes unique stops in Ploce, Croatia and Saranda, Albania. This itinerary is tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. These Ponant voyages in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys uniquely include transfers to and from the ship on embarkation and disembarkation days, talks and discussions aboard ship by world-class experts from Smithsonian Journeys, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of the local environment and culture. Look for the themed icon in the Rates and Dates table below.
Passage is aboard 264-guest L’Austral, a luxury expedition ship cruising the Mediterranean. Enjoy her elegant decor that reflects the seas in which she sails. Explore breathtaking medieval walled cities, romantic canals and magical bays off ship, then return on board your luxury ship for 5-star hotel service and a plethora of activities such as performances, culinary tastings and enriching lectures.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s other Greek Island small ship cruises, small ship Croatia cruises, small ship Mediterranean cruises and Mediterranean trips.
Discover the beauty of the Adriatic on this exceptional 8-day luxury Croatia cruise, operating between Venice, Italy and Dubrovnik, Croatia. Aboard a French luxury ship, fall under the spell of the hidden treasures of the Croatian coast and its turquoise waters. The voyage begins in Italy (or reverse) with an embarkation in Venice. Savor the opportunity to discover (or rediscover) the sublime city of the Doges, with its many canals, its vaporetti and its mythical gondolas.
On the Natural Wonders & Cultural Jewels of Dalmatia itinerary, sail south from Venice, Italy to Dubrovnik, Croatia. explore the Croatian coastline with visits to Rovinj, Zadar, Primosten, Split and Hvar. Go on to visit Korčula, full of olive groves, vineyards and ancient buildings. This is an island marked by history as the birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo. Sail to Montenegro for an unforgettable cruise in the Bay of Kotor. This impressive gash between two mountain ranges is home to a veritable inland lake with a magical atmosphere; the medieval city of Kotor and its many historical monuments are its jewels. Finally, plunge into the heart of Croatian history with a visit to the aptly named Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Surrounded by medieval ramparts, its terracotta-tiled roofs, palaces, cloisters and fountains are bound to impress.
On the Cities & Splendors of the Adriatic itinerary, sail north from Dubrovnik, Croatia to Venice, Italy. Start by savoring local cuisine on a family farm in Dubrovnik, then discover Hvar in a Volkswagen Beetle and revel in the captivating atmosphere of Piran. Experience Croatia’s oldest city, Stari Grad, now listed with UNESCO for having retained its original agricultural landscape of vineyards and olive groves. Island hop from Bol to Brac, the proud home of the most beautiful beach in the Adriatic, Zlatni Rat, before calling at Rab with its emblematic bell towers and medieval walls. Brijuni National Park is a highlight with incredibly beautiful landscapes, ancient remains and surprising wildlife. Pula shows off tits dazzling Roman amphitheater while Slovenia’s medieval Piran offers Venetian architecture, ahead of a visit to Venice itself.
Passage is aboard 264-guest L’Austral or 184-guest Le Bougainville, both luxury expedition ships cruising the Mediterranean. Enjoy their elegant decor that reflects the seas in which they sail. Explore breathtaking medieval walled cities, romantic canals and magical bays off ship, then return on board your luxury ship for 5-star hotel service and a plethora of activities such as performances, culinary tastings and enriching lectures.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s other small ship Croatia cruises, small ship Mediterranean cruises and Mediterranean trips.
Step aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville cruise ship for an exceptional voyage with highly trained crew, specialist guides, spotless interiors, exquisite food and experience-driven programming both on the ship and off. This identical twin sister ship to Le Bellot, Le Champlain, Le Dumont D’Urville and Le Jacques Cartier, comes equipped with state-of-the-art technology, sustainability practices, activity gear, and plush staterooms with a private balcony or roomy suites with a terrace. A mix of high-end materials, earthy colors and sweeping sightlines provide guests with a sense of serenity and an appetite for discovery. Follow in the footsteps of French explorer Louis Antoine de Bougainville on this modern expedition ship.
The following cruise ship review includes a detailed description of this luxury small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our expedition ship experts have been aboard similar high-class expedition vessels to bring you firsthand experience. Find the detailed ship description and Le Bougainville deck plan below. Then contact our experts to compare this luxury vessel with other small cruise ships sailing small ship Mediterranean cruises and around the globe.
Choose the Le Bougainville cruise ship for her mix of class and ethno-chic ambiance. Fascinate your senses on an expedition cruise while enjoying the comforts of leading technology, generous accommodations and inviting common areas both indoors and out. Join Le Bougainville anywhere she sails around the world and know you’re traveling alongside top-notch naturalist guides, guest lecturers who are leaders in their field, and fellow inquisitive travelers who also appreciate getting off the ship regularly and immersing in the local communities through which the Le Bougainville cruise ship sails.
Designed with the environment in mind, the Le Bougainville ship offers a more meaningful way to travel. She is a Bureau Veritas-certified “Clean Ship,” qualifying her as a worldwide leader in environmental travel. Additionally, Le Bougainville is fully ADA compliant, with various elevators and lifts up and down stairways, accessible toilets in public areas and two accessible staterooms.
The electric propulsion employed by the Le Bougainville cruise ship reduced carbon emissions 40%, with the added benefit of a silent motor. Her cutting-edge anchorless GPS system helps protect the sea floor. Advanced filtration systems treat and recycle waste water and an onboard compactor saves items for later recycling back in port. CFR and LED lighting throughout the Le Bougainville ship saves 90% of the electricity needed by older lighting systems. And modern sonar with rolling 3D views of the ocean floor enables the Le Bougainville ship to steer clear of fragile marine habitats.
Travelers aboard Le Bougainville are treated to a relaxed atmosphere with upscale service. The panoramic, often floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the ship enhance the experience, constantly reminding guests of the rich environments through which they’re sailing.
High quality audio and visual equipment, including an LED wall, makes the Theater a popular gathering space. At 184 capacity, the Theater is ready to accommodate everyone at once. Programming offers a variety of performances, including educational lectures, jazz and dance performances, karaoke and piano recitals.
Sit down to any meal of the day, indoors or out, at the Panoramic Restaurant. Menus prepared by Le Bougainville’s Ducasse Conseil-trained chefs feature gourmet main cours eoptions with a French, international or local flair. Custom menus for special diets and groups are also available. Various salads, desserts, cheeses, fine wines, champagnes, beers and top-shelf liquors complete the fine dining experience. For similar dishes served in a more casual setting, the poolside Outdoor Grill Restaurant opens for every meal daily. Also found poolside is an outdoor bar and indoor solarium with armchairs and sofas.
Le Bougainville’s Main Lounge and Panoramic Lounge each access an outside terrace and offer afternoon tea and specialty drinks. The Main Lounge is the place to be for card games, live music and tastings centered around wine, spirits and specialty foods. Or visit the Panoramic Lounge’s library to use the internet kiosk or read up on wherever you’re traveling through aboard the Le Bougainville ship.
For a special sensory experience, head to The Blue Eye underwater lounge in the hull of the ship. Experience the underwater world through whale’s eye windows and underwater projectors that reflect the outside. Listen to the sounds that are piped in from hydrophones. And feel the vibrations of acoustic waves while sitting on Body Listening sofas.
Work out with a commanding view from the Deck 7 Fitness Center. Choose from modern machines such as ellipticals, stationary bikes, treadmills and a Kinesis wall. Join a class for fitness, yoga or dance instruction. Or swim against the infinity pool’s counter current. Then treat yourself to the SOTHYS™ Spa/Beauty Corner with a hair appointment, massage, hammam (Moroccan steam spa) experience, or simply unwind in the relaxation room with its herbal tea bar.
An infirmary for non-emergency matters is available around the clock, with an onsite doctor for a nominal fee. The staff at the concierge lounge can assist with excursions, administrative services and sales. Shoppers may delight in the large boutique’s clothing, jewelry, beauty products, postcards and various accessories. Visual artists and families will enjoy Deck 6’s central art gallery and Kid’s Club, equipped with photo and video experts. And the Bridge aboard the Le Bougainville ship welcomes guests to mingle with captain and crew, when weather permits.
A voyage aboard the Le Bougainville cruise ship is a mix of regular off-ship excursions and optional onboard programming. A fresh schedule each day offers guests a varied selection of activities and expeditions. Her 10 comfortable Zodiacs ferry guests ashore and along coastlines known for their history, culture and wildlife. A Marina features a hydraulic marine platform that lowers into the water with an adjacent staircase, for easy access to Zodiacs, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
Expect excellence from the well-trained staff and experienced crew aboard the Le Bougainville ship. Explore under the leadership of experienced guides, then return on board for their fascinating lectures given in English, French and other languages.
Each of the 92 Le Bougainville ship cabins offer comfort. Choose between one king-size bed or two twin beds. Amenities include a private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, minibar, flat-screen satellite TV, desk with stationery, Ipod™ players, on-demand video, a safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, a 110/220-volt outlet, French bath products, 24-hour room service, complimentary WiFi Internet access and added-cost satellite direct-line telephone. Laundry and ironing service is available for a fee.
