Papua New Guinea: A Circumnavigation of New Britain

Your expedition will start with an overnight in Cairns, where you will meet your fellow travellers for the first time. You will then depart the following morning on a charter flight to Madang to meet the ship.

Board Paspaley Pearl in the “Pearl of the South Pacific,” where tree-lined streets and volcanic islands create one of Papua New Guinea’s most attractive settings. Meet fellow adventurers while our expedition team prepares you for dramatic contrasts between active volcanoes and ancient traditions ahead.

Explore uninhabited islands offshore from this historic WWII battlefield, where American forces landed in 1943 during Operation Cartwheel. Swim and snorkel pristine beaches and coral reefs in warm Bismarck Sea waters while learning how this remote wilderness became a crucial Pacific War strategic position.

Navigate inside Garove Island’s spectacular volcanic caldera through the collapsed southern rim creating a dramatic entrance. Join traditional Melanesian communities in this 8-10 kilometre natural amphitheater, exploring lush tropical forests and vibrant marine environments within this remarkable volcanic sanctuary largely untouched by outside influence.

Snorkel among Earth’s most biodiverse marine environment, where over 860 fish species and 400 coral varieties create spectacular underwater gardens. Explore black volcanic beaches contrasting with lush forests, potentially visiting thermal springs while marvelling at volcanic landscapes supporting this UNESCO-recognised biodiversity hotspot.

Meet the distinctive Tolai people known for matrilineal clan systems and traditional “tabu” shell money. Witness elaborate cultural performances including secretive “dukduk” masked dances performed during full moon periods, handling traditional currency while learning how coastal communities balance ancient customs with modern influences.

Tour this dramatic harbour town within an ancient volcanic caldera surrounded by six volcanoes. Explore 1994 volcanic devastation sites and extensive WWII tunnel systems carved by Japanese forces, watch active Mt. Tavurvur still steaming while learning how resilient communities live with constant volcanic activity.

Discover where Methodist missionaries established their first Pacific mission in 1875, spreading Christianity throughout the region. Experience traditional village life maintaining Melanesian customs, walk white sandy beaches, and enjoy exceptional snorkelling among vibrant coral reefs in this historically significant archipelago.

Venture into New Britain’s most remote wilderness where pristine beaches meet rainforest-covered mountains. Hike to hidden waterfalls cascading through dense tropical vegetation, learning how Australian forces used this natural harbour during 1944 Pacific War campaigns in areas seldom visited byoutsiders.

Reflect on remarkable volcanic landscapes and cultural experiences during our Bismarck Sea crossing. Join enrichment sessions about regional geology and biodiversity while spotting marine life from the deck, fostering deeper connections within your expedition community as you process extraordinary encounters with natural forces.

Experience the Pacific’s most influential artistic traditions on four coral atolls encircling a crystal-clear lagoon. Witness famous “Tami style” wooden carvings and ceremonial masks, try traditional techniques, and participate in cultural performances celebrating artistic heritage maintained across countless generations.

Return to where your circumnavigation began, carrying shared memories of volcanic landscapes, cultural encounters, and pristine environments. From active volcanic sites to traditional ceremonies, pristine coral reefs to WWII tunnels, your journey revealed remarkable stories of geological forces and human cultural resilience.

Itineraries are subject to change.