Explore the Sepik
Experience a sing-sing, visit waterside markets and witness the famous crocodile initiation ceremony.
This 11-day expedition cruise around PNG offers the chance to access secluded islands for world-class snorkelling and diving, as well as experiencing ancient tribal cultures and spectacular scenery. All from the comfort of the exceptional True North Boat.
Experience a sing-sing, visit waterside markets and witness the famous crocodile initiation ceremony.
Soar above volcanic island archipelagos on the ships helicopter.
Snorkel and dive spectacular and largely unexplored reefs, as well as ship, plane and even submarine wrecks.
Experience village life with welcoming locals, happy to share their unique culture and way of life.
This voyage around PNG offers the trip of a lifetime. Explore remote areas, above and below the water, without leaving any trace of your visit. Adventure-cruising is a low impact means of accessing wilderness without the intrusion of roads and the True North’s shallow draft, six dedicated expedition boats and onboard helicopter allow access to areas, otherwise inaccessible. The crew onboard are exceptional and know the geography, history and wildlife of the area like no one else. Long-standing relationships with tribes allow access to the secretive world of crocodile initiation ceremonies, overwhelming hospitality and an unchanged way of life. We also love True Norths commitment to the local area with initiatives in place to support local communities and promote sustainable employment opportunities in West Papua.
Day 1
Cairns
Day 2
Cairns - Kavieng
Day 3
Kavieng and New Hanover
Day 4
Vitu Islands
Day 5
Manus Province
Day 6
Ponam Island
Day 7
The Hermit Islands
Day 8
The Ninigo Islands
Day 9 - 10
The Sepik River
Day 11
Bagabag and Karkar Islands
Day 12
Madang - Cairns
Day 1
Cairns
Day 2
Cairns - Kavieng
Day 3
Kavieng and New Hanover
Day 4
Vitu Islands
Soar above volcanic island archipelagos on the ships helicopter.
Day 5
Manus Province
Experience village life with welcoming locals, happy to share their unique culture and way of life.
Day 6
Ponam Island
Day 7
The Hermit Islands
Snorkel and dive spectacular and largely unexplored reefs, as well as ship, plane and even submarine wrecks.
Day 8
The Ninigo Islands
Day 9 - 10
The Sepik River
Experience a sing-sing, visit waterside markets and witness the famous crocodile initiation ceremony.
Day 11
Bagabag and Karkar Islands
Day 12
Madang - Cairns
As well as over 5,000 kilometres of coastline and some 600 tiny islands, the interior of Papua New Guinea is dominated by rainforest covered mountains which hide winding rivers, vast swamps and rugged canyons. All of which are home to hundreds of indigenous tribes. Often referred to as one of the world’s last great frontiers a cruise is by far the most practical way to explore this fascinating country, gaining access to remote tribes and little-visited islands.
Diving and snorkelling is a key highlight of this holiday with ample opportunity to explore the reefs and lagoons within the remote Bismarck Archipelago Islands. Much of this underwater world remains largely unexplored, visibility is usually superb and marinelife abundant. Highly fertile fringing reefs with gently sloping coral, turquoise lagoons, steep wall drop-offs, giant clam gardens and wrecks are among some of the fabulous sites. The mosaic of small islands in the area offers a wonderful backdrop and provides a wide range of different habitats.
Expect to see many pelagic species including shark, dog-tooth tuna, barracuda, ray, turtle and dolphin. Vibrant butterflyfish and parrotfish are common among the colourful corals and endless sea fans. Marlin and sailfish are also known to frequent many of the waters.
The Sepik River is the longest river in Papua New Guinea and one of the great river systems of the world. It supports a wealth of wildlife and diverse ecosystems including swamplands, tropical rainforests and mountains. Explore the maze of swamps, small waterways and local communities where traditional tribal crafts still thrive. Visit a waterside market and experience a traditional sing-sing. Also gain privileged access the secret world of the crocodile men, witnessing an elaborate coming of age ceremony where young men are scarified in the image of the crocodile.
For a more affordable but no less comfortable cruise around PNG you could consider the Coral Adventurer. Larger than True North with capacity for 120 passengers this ship has two tenders, six zodiacs and plenty of open deck space. In addition, its shallow draft also allows access to remote locations.
Cruises to Papua New Guinea operate during the months of October, November and December each year. A range of routes are and duration’s are possible.
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Prices will vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. Prices do not include international flights. Please ask one of our Travel Experts for an accurate quote. Flights purchased through Steppes Travel departing from the UK are ATOL protected.
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