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Sepik River Scouting Expedition

Sepik River Scouting Expedition

From $4,990 AUD

Description

The Sepik is one of the world’s great river systems. Meandering 1,100 km through Papua New Guinea, this mighty river has nurtured tribes and cultures for millennia. With dense terrain making this part of the world largely inaccessible by road, the river provides access to villages and towns along its course. Coral Expeditions first explored the Sepik River nearly a decade ago. We were amazed at what we saw. We encountered a truly wild and unspoilt land – increasing in magnificence the further upriver we went.

In response to increased demand to see more of Papua New Guinea, we have planned a short series of four landmark expeditions in February 2018, each of 7 days duration. Positioning the Coral Expeditions I at the Sepik for a short month-long window, we will take advantage of her shallow draft and maneuverability to travel as far as the middle Sepik, where few have ventured before.

Allowing the rhythm of the river to determine our schedule, we will visit local tribes who have had little contact with modernity, pass through some of the oldest and densest rainforests in the world, and look out for local species including the famed Bird of Paradise. Reconnaissance voyages up smaller tributaries can be taken in smaller tender vessels, returning after each excursion to the comfort of Coral Expeditions I.

Coral Expeditions draws from our own experience cruising the Sepik, as well as the expertise of local operators, to develop an itinerary that is both comprehensive and exploratory. This knowledge of the area, as well as the experience and professionalism of our staff, will ensure you have a safe and exciting cruise.

Trip Name
Sepik River Scouting Expedition
Days
7
Overview
Vessel Type: Motor Catamaran Length: 35 metres Passenger Capacity: 44/46 (25 cabins) Built: refurbished 2016 Coral Expeditions I is fully equipped for the ultimate expedition cruising experience in Australian coastal waters. Australian flagged, registered and staffed, the ship was purpose-built for cruising in the region and is the ideal size to access the very best parts of Western Australia’s remarkable Kimberley region, the northern coastlines of Cape York and Arnhem Land and the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. The 25 onboard rooms are bathed in natural light, with a fresh and modern decor creating a breezy feel. You can choose between double and twin bedded rooms, each fully equipped with a spacious private ensuite, air conditioning and ample storage space. The ship’s forward lounge is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery in air-conditioned comfort, and features a comprehensive reference library and plasma screens. The Sun Deck at the rear with a new bar outdoor area added in 2016 is another popular place to relax and take in the panoramic views. Meals are served in the modern dining room, and with space for all guests to dine during one sitting and no assigned seating, meal times are a great opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers. Coral Expeditions I operates an open bridge policy, allowing you to spend time with the Captain and his maritime crew as we cruise. Follow our progression on the ship’s charts and chat with Captain, or simply sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery. Coral Expeditions I is fitted with modern safety and navigation equipment, and wireless internet facilities. FACILITIES ON BOARD Limited wireless internet available. Service quality may vary on location and weather Sun Deck with sun lounges Fully stocked cocktail bars Spacious, modern dining room Forward lounge Reference library Gift shop Open bridge Limited laundry facilities available SCUBA diving department (selected itineraries) STATEROOM ACCOMMODATION Choose from four grades of well-appointed rooms, each tastefully decorated with comfortable furnishings and original artworks. Enjoy the comforts of an en suite bathroom, featuring hairdryer and international power outlets. Rooms also feature picture windows for expansive ocean views (except some Cabin category rooms featuring portholes), ample storage space and air-conditioning. All rooms are serviced daily and feature Australian toiletries.

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1: MADANG / SEPIK MOUTH
Board at 3:00pm for a 4:00pm departure. LeavingMadang, we sail through the Laggon, past many coral-laced islands to Sek Harbour and then out to the BismarckSea. As you pass the volcanic island of Manam, you maysee the crater spewing hot ash and lava.
Day 2 - DAY 2: MURIK LAKES / MENDAM / BIEN
Leaving the ship by tender, we follow the barak (canal)through rainforest to the Murik Lakes and the village ofMendam were you will be introduced to the Sepik people.A traditional drama may be performed by the youths, andunique carvings are available at the market.In the afternoon, visit Bien where the school will welcomeyou with a “sing sing” and a chance to purchase billumbags and a range of handicraft before continuing bytender to Taway.
Day 3 - DAY 3: KAMBARAMBA / TAMBANUM
After overnighting in Angoram, the main trading townshipon the river, we visit Kambaramba, a village built entirelyon stilts over the river. Arriving at Tambanum, the largestvillage on the Sepik, you will have the chance to haveyour face painted in the traditional way - an unforgettableexperience.
Day 4 - DAY 4: TAMBANUM / KAMINDIMBIT
An early morning departure takes you past the Catholic Mission Station andupriver through the Iatmul Region. At Kamindimbit you will witness traditionalvillage demonstrations, a “sing sing”, and a chance to visit the local markets. Inthe evening it may be possible to see the sacred flutes played aboard as theycannot be played within earshot of the women in the village.
Day 5 - DAY 5: CHAMBRI LAKES
Today you will be taken by tender through a beautiful canal that winds its wayto the lake. Chambri Lake, with many islands and backdropped by the HunsteinMountains, is home to vibrant birdlife and pukpuks (crocodiles). In Chambri youwill visit Aibom, famous for its pottery.
Day 6 - DAY 6: KANGANAMAN & PELAMBEI
Kanganaman is home to the largest Haus Tambaran (spirit house) on theSepik River. These buildings play an important role in the life of the Iatmulpeople, being used by the men to administer village and cultural affairs,including initiations. The carvings, hooks, garamut drums, and sacred flutesare a significant part of life in this region. You will see a demonstration of thegaramut drums played by the elders in the village.
Day 7 - DAY 7: KAMINDIMBIT / KOPAR / BOISA / TIMBUNKE
As we cruise back down the river, several stops will be made at villages as timepermits. Leaving the river, we sail to Boisa and enjoy the crystal clear waters.Visit the village before the voyage overnight back to Madang.
Day 8 - DAY 8: MADANG
Arriving in Madang, disembark as you say farewell to a magnificent and ancientcountry.
Day 9 - Please Note:
An expedition of this nature cannot be planned to the hour. We will use trusted local guides and the rhythm of the river to plan our daily schedule. Every trip may be slightly different, depending on the current of the river and the local conditions. You are guaranteed a spectacular insight into one of the world’s last frontier lands.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
27-02-201806-03-2018AUD$7,935Stateroom Sole
27-02-201806-03-2018AUD$7,485Cabin Sole
27-02-201806-03-2018AUD$5,590Upper Deck Stateroom
27-02-201806-03-2018AUD$5,890Deluxe Stateroom
27-02-201806-03-2018AUD$4,990Cabin
27-02-201806-03-2018AUD$5,290Stateroom

Inclusions

    • Follow the barak (canal) to Murik Lakes. You may see traditional drama performed, or purchase carvings at Mendam
    • Be welcomed with a “sing sing”in the village of Bien
    • Kambaramba
    • a village built over the water
    • You may have your face traditionally painted at Tambanum
    • Witness a “sing sing” and village demonstration at Kambinambit. You may see the sacred flutes played
    • Explore Chambri Lakes and see vibrant bird and animal life
    • Visit Aibom
    • famous for its pottery
    • See the largest Haus Tambaran at Kanganaman and view carvings and sacred flutes. You may see the famous garamut drums being played by village elders at Pelambei

Map