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Frontier Lands of Papua New Guinea Cruise

Frontier Lands of Papua New Guinea Cruise

From AUD $13,940

Description

Frontier lands where over 700 languages flourish amongst 5 million people. Ancient cultures remain unchanged for centuries in this remarkably diverse nation.

Trip Name
Frontier Lands of Papua New Guinea Cruise
Days
13
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Length: 93.4 meters Passenger Capacity: 120 (60 staterooms) Built: 2019 Coral Adventurer is a modern expedition cruise ship launched in 2019, purpose-built to explore Australia’s remote coastlines and international tropical destinations in comfort and style. With a capacity of just 120 guests, she strikes a perfect balance between small-ship intimacy and ocean-going capability. Her shallow draught and state-of-the-art navigation systems allow access to isolated regions unreachable by larger vessels, while dual Xplorer tenders and a fleet of zodiacs provide safe, seamless access to remote shores. Designed with wide open spaces and warm, natural interiors by Brisbane-based Arkhefield, Coral Adventurer embodies the spirit of Australian adventure, hospitality, and connection to the great outdoors. All staterooms are outside-facing with ensuites, most featuring private balconies, and range from elegant Bridge Deck Suites to well-appointed Coral Deck cabins. Guests enjoy single-seating dining, where fresh, locally sourced meals are prepared in an open-view galley and served with boutique Australian wines. Life onboard is relaxed and sociable, with a sundeck bar, panoramic promenade deck, lecture lounge, library, and even a gym. Coral Adventurer also offers complimentary Wi-Fi, a lift between decks, and high levels of guest-crew interaction, creating a welcoming, immersive expedition experience in some of the world’s most spectacular natural environments.

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1: DEPART CAIRNS
Arrive at Trinity Wharf (berth to be advised) for boarding at 7:30am for a 9:00am departure. Join our expedition staff as they introduce you to the journey and the many experiences you will enjoy. This evening, join the Captain’s welcome drinks and meet your crew and fellow guests as the sun sets.
Day 2 - At Sea
Spend today relaxing onboard, listen and learn from our Guest Lecturer presentations, or enjoy an engine room or bridge tour.
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 snorkelling 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 honouring 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 - Day 13: Arrive Rabaul
Disembark at 8:00am in this dramatic volcanic harbour town. For those wanting to explore more, consider adding on our Beyond Frontiers of Papua New Guinea voyage or join the included post-cruise charter flight back to Cairns.
Day 14 - Please note:
Embrace the unexpected - it's part of the adventure. This itinerary is a guide. We adjust plans based on weather, tides, wildlife, and opportunities we encounter. Remote communities may be unavailable due to local customs. Flexibility makes expeditions special. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
16-10-202628-10-2026AUD $13,940CORAL DECK STATEROOM
16-10-202628-10-2026AUD $16,460PROMENADE DECK STATEROOM
16-10-202628-10-2026AUD $21,400EXPLORER DECK BALCONY STATEROOM
16-10-202628-10-2026AUD $23,290BRIDGE DECK BALCONY STATEROOM
16-10-202628-10-2026AUD $29,590BRIDGE DECK BALCONY SUITE
22-09-202704-10-2027AUD $13,950CORAL DECK STATEROOM
22-09-202704-10-2027AUD $16,950PROMENADE DECK STATEROOM
22-09-202704-10-2027AUD $20,950EXPLORER DECK BALCONY STATEROOM
22-09-202704-10-2027AUD $22,950BRIDGE DECK BALCONY STATEROOM
22-09-202704-10-2027AUD $31,950BRIDGE DECK BALCONY SUITE

Inclusions

    • Witness Kula Ring trade and meet master carvers of the Sepik River.
    • Snorkel Tufi’s fjords and float in the mystical “bubbling” reef.
    • Walk through WWII battlefields and honor stories at Buna & Sanananda.
    • Hike to Dei Dei hot springs and drift among volcanic landscapes.

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