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Islands & Cultures of Papua New Guinea - From Cairns to Madang Luxury Cruise
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Post-Expedition Flight – Madang to Cairns (None USD)view cabin photo
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Islands & Cultures of Papua New Guinea - From Cairns to Madang Luxury Cruise itinerary:
Cairns thrives on its tropical climate and has become a hub for travellers 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.
PASPALEY PEARL will be alongside in Cairns.
A couple of days 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 savour the rare tranquillity of the open sea and connect with your expedition team to discover exciting upcoming adventures on the horizon.
The Samarai islands are located in the China Strait off the south-eastern 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 3km west of Samarai, Kwato Island was once an educational centre 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.
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 3 metres of water, only 50 metres from the beach. The friendly villagers lead a subsistence lifestyle with minimal influence from the outside world and warmly welcome guests.
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.
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 90 metres deep and rise over 150 metres 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 skilfully decorated.
Located at the Southern end of the picturesque Huon gulf lies Morobe Harbour. 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.
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 centre 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.
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.
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 colourful displays of “sing sings” performed by numerous cultural groups from across the Madang Province.
PASPALEY PEARL will be alongside in Madang and disembarkation will commence after breakfast.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Islands & Cultures of Papua New Guinea - From Cairns to Madang Luxury Cruise reverse itinerary:
Itineraries are subject to change.
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 colourful displays of “sing sings” performed by numerous cultural groups from across the Madang Province.
PASPALEY PEARL will be alongside in Madang and disembarkation will commence after breakfast.
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.
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 centre 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.
Located at the Southern end of the picturesque Huon gulf lies Morobe Harbour. 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.
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 90 metres deep and rise over 150 metres 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 skilfully decorated.
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.
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 3 metres of water, only 50 metres from the beach. The friendly villagers lead a subsistence lifestyle with minimal influence from the outside world and warmly welcome guests.
The Samarai islands are located in the China Strait off the south-eastern 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 3km west of Samarai, Kwato Island was once an educational centre 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.
A couple of days 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 savour the rare tranquillity of the open sea and connect with your expedition team to discover exciting upcoming adventures on the horizon.
Cairns thrives on its tropical climate and has become a hub for travellers 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.
PASPALEY PEARL will be alongside in Cairns.
Paspaley Pearl
Vessel Type: Yacht
Length: 53 meters
Passenger Capacity: 30
Built / Renovated: 2021 / 2024
Designed to feel like your home away from home
Marrying PASPALEY’s heritage of over 80 years in the Kimberley and Northern Australia with PONANT’s 35-year history of luxury expedition travel, PASPALEY PEARL emerges as the embodiment of comfort and adventure.
Featuring 15 staterooms and suites and hosting a maximum of 30 guests per voyage, PASPALEY PEARL emerges as the newest and only boutique expedition motor yacht in the Kimberley with private balconies.
The perfect place to relax while exploring
Main Dining, Lounge and Bar
Nestled on the Ocean Deck is our main dining area, lounge, and bar. As our skilled chefs craft your locally-inspired dinner, take a moment for a pre-dinner drink before being spoiled with the finest produce Australia has to offer. If you’re interested in exploring some of PASPALEY’s exquisite offerings, you’ll be delighted by their showcase of the world’s most beautiful pearls, available for purchase as a cherished memento of your time on board.
Outdoor Dining, Lounge and Bar
When journeying through the tropics, immersing yourself in the outdoors becomes essential. Indulge in breakfast and lunch daily within a relaxed yet refined setting. With two expansive dining tables and abundant lounges, relish the idea of dining amidst the natural surroundings you explore. Craving a refreshing drink after a day of exploration? Our friendly staff at the Outdoor Bar have you covered. The Outdoor Lounge doubles as the perfect space for afternoon briefings with your expedition team, ensuring you receive all the information needed for the following day’s adventure.
Sun Deck Lounge and Jacuzzi
Bask in the sunshine on the Sun Deck, furnished with sun beds, lounges, and an 8-person jacuzzi. Whether you prefer reading a book under the shelter of the protective shade cloth or engaging in conversations with newfound friends, the Sun Deck promises a haven of pure relaxation.
Sunset Lounge
Located ahead of the bridge, you can savour panoramic views rivaling those of the captain at the Sunset Lounge. Order a drink from one of the bars downstairs and relax as you witness some of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ve ever seen.
• Snorkel over a world war II wreck in the Deboyne lagoon.
• Visit the Trobriand islands, made famous as the ‘Islands of love’.
• Journey on an outrigger canoe into the ancient Fiords of Tufi.
• Visit the remote Tami islands and experience traditional Morobe culture.
• Uncover Papua New Guinea’s role during World War II.
• Swim and snorkel in the clear warm tropical waters of the Solomon Sea.
• Gain an insight into the history, culture, and incredible diversity of life from your expert expedition team.