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Beyond Frontiers of Papua New Guinea – Small Ship Cruise

Beyond Frontiers of Papua New Guinea – Small Ship Cruise

From AUD $13,280

Description

The remote Solomon Sea corners, where WWII history meets pristine atolls, Milne Bay stands as a gateway to vibrant marine life and enduring traditional cultures.

Trip Name
Beyond Frontiers of Papua New Guinea - Small Ship Cruise
Days
11
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 Rabaul
Take our included charter flight from Cairns to Rabaul before boarding the Coral Adventurer at 4:00pm in this bustling Papua New Guinea port town. 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 - Nissan Island (Green Island)
Discover significant WWII history, alongside innovative climate resilience programs. Meet facilitators of community development projects, including solar power and water supply initiatives, addressing climate change impacts.
Day 3 - Tol, New Britain Island
Visit the memorial commemorating 160 Australian soldiers of the 2/22nd Battalion executed here in 1942. On return, enjoy a seafood lunch prepared by village women and explore Japanese caves or visit the local high school.
Day 4 - Jacquinot Bay
Explore this tranquil bay with white sandy beaches and tropical palms. Visit the spectacular waterfall flowing from mountainside to beach, engage with villagers at the local carving market and cruise the Kalamalage River to a WWII flagpole.
Day 5 - Gasmata (Linden Harbour)
Honour fallen Australian soldiers at the newly erected 2025 memorial. Discover Dr. Andrew Forrest’s connection to this location and experience cultural performances before exploring Japanese WWII wrecks and limestone karst formations—diving option available at Linden Reef, including Japanese plane wreck diving and Elsie’s Reef for snorkelling.
Day 6 - Lusancay Reef
Enjoy pristine waters at this uninhabited reef perfect for swimming, diving and snorkelling. The crystal-clear waters showcase fantastic coral and marine biodiversity, making it an ideal location for beach refreshments in paradise.
Day 7 - Nasikwabu (Alcester) Island
Immerse yourself in the ancient Kula Ring traditions and the rich culture of Milne Bay. Experience traditional welcome ceremonies and cultural performances before enjoying water activities in these remote Kiriwina Islands.
Day 8 - Gunu Bara Bara Island
Search for manta rays at their cleaning station on this island, home to just 20 members of the Mailulu family. Discover blue economy opportunities while savouring local delicacies, such as sago fish patties.
Day 9 - Bona Bona Island & Delima Island
Experience village life and spot a diverse array of birdlife, including pied imperial pigeons and eclectus parrots. Learn about palm oil plantation impacts before moving to Delima Island for exceptional reef diving and snorkelling.
Day 10 - Itamarina Island
Visit the turtle sanctuary where conservation efforts protect nesting green and hawksbill turtles. Engage with local sea rangers working to support Papua New Guinea’s blue economy through marine protection initiatives. Snorkelling and diving opportunities available.
Day 11 - Day 11: Arrive Port Moresby
Disembark at 8:30am in Papua New Guinea’s capital. Bid farewell to new-found friends, the Captain and crew.
Day 12 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
28-10-202607-11-2026AUD $0CORAL DECK STATEROOM
28-10-202607-11-2026AUD $0PROMENADE DECK STATEROOM
28-10-202607-11-2026AUD $0EXPLORER DECK BALCONY STATEROOM
28-10-202607-11-2026AUD $0BRIDGE DECK BALCONY STATEROOM
28-10-202607-11-2026AUD $0BRIDGE DECK BALCONY SUITE
04-10-202714-10-2027AUD $0CORAL DECK STATEROOM
04-10-202714-10-2027AUD $0PROMENADE DECK STATEROOM
04-10-202714-10-2027AUD $0EXPLORER DECK BALCONY STATEROOM
04-10-202714-10-2027AUD $0BRIDGE DECK BALCONY STATEROOM
04-10-202714-10-2027AUD $0BRIDGE DECK BALCONY SUITE

Inclusions

    • Join Kula Ring exchanges and share seafood meals with island villagers.
    • Snorkel pristine atolls and witness manta rays in crystal waters.
    • Reflect at Nissan Island’s WWII memorials and Tol massacre site.
    • Explore climate resilience programs and remote Solomon Sea corners.

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