Papua New Guinea Cultural Highlights
aboard the Orion
Retrace the adventurous footsteps of those first explorers to the lost paradise of Papua New Guinea. Witness mysterious ceremonies derived from a thousand cultures across the South Pacific. Explore remote coastal villages surrounded by rainforests and towering volcanoes. Swim and snorkel in some of the clearest, most unspoilt waters in the world. The joy of this expedition is to experience this deeply satisfying life first-hand and see the skills and knowledge that create a sustainable culture.
Itinerary
Upon arrival in Cairns, Australia, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to the Orion. MV Orion – 11-nights (D)
Spend a relaxing day at sea, enjoying the scenery and the amenities of your luxury yacht-like expedition cruise ship. (B, L, D)
Located at the eastern tip of mainland Papua New Guinea, Alotau is cut off from the rest of the country by the rugged Owen Stanley Range. (B, L, D)
In the early 1900s Samarai Island was the thriving colonial capital of the territory of Papua. Just a few miles west is Kwato Island, where European traders broke their journey en route to the South Pacific. After exploring these two islands, dive into the crystal-clear waters off the coast
of uninhabited Deka Deka for some swimming and snorkeling. (B, L, D)
Discover the natural beauty of Kitava Island and the lagoon formed by the tiny coral cay of Nuratu Island. (B, L, D)
The magnificent scenery around Cape Nelson on the north coast of the mainland is a well-kept secret. More than 30 fjords are carved into the shoreline, each surrounded by dense rainforest above sheer basalt walls. Local villages dot the coast and cling to the imposing slopes of Mount Trafalgar. (B, L, D)
The Tami Islands are a small group of coral atolls, with two main villages on the two larger islands and many smaller reefs and cays. Indulge in some swimming, snorkeling and sea kayaking in the pristine blue lagoon, which boasts abundant marine life and stunning coral formations. (B, L, D)
Explore the pretty seaside town of Madang, home to lush gardens and magnificent vistas of tropical seascapes, islands and inlets. In nearby Bilbil Village, the houses are made from traditional materials, and often an entire house can be constructed without the use of nails. (B, L, D)
The Sepik River is the longest river in Papua New Guinea and for years has been a major trading artery linking the coast and the interior. The dense vegetation and swampland along the river’s edge is home to many species of birds — watch for egrets, herons, kites, jacanas, darters, cormorants and kingfishers. Go off the beaten path for a visit to a remote Sepik village that very few outsiders have ever seen. (B, L, D)
Enjoy a peaceful day of cruising, as you make your way east across the Bismarck Sea. (B, L, D)
The tropical port town of Rabaul is surrounded by six volcanoes, one of which, Mt Tavurvur, is still active today. The area played a significant role in WWII and the Japanese occupation in 1942 saw the building of hundreds of miles of tunnels underneath the town as protection against Allied bombing raids. (B, L, D)
Disembark and transfer to the airport for your international flight. (B)
Please note that some departure dates may be reverse journeys. Please ask your travel consultant for details.
Extend Your Journey
- Explore the remote town of Alotau
- Relive the colonial grandeur of Samarai Island
- Revel in the tropical splendor of Kitava Island
- Swim, snorkel and kayak in the gorgeous blue lagoon of the Tami Islands
- Discover the seaside town of Madang
- Exclusive visit to an untouched Sepik River village
12 DAYS & 11 NIGHTS
Cairns, Alotau, Samarai & Kwato, Kitava, Tufi, Tami, Madang, Sepik & Rabaul
2012: May 9, Oct 2, Oct 24, Nov 15
Reverse Itinerary: Mar 2, Oct 13
Category:
B - Stateroom
Single Supplement
A - Stateroom
Single Supplement
JS - Junior Suite
Single Supplement
DS - Deluxe Suite
Single Supplement
BS - Balcony Suite
Single Supplement
OS - Owners Suite
Single Supplement
Charter Flight
Prices From:
$8,095
$4,213
$9,400
$4,700
$11,170
$5,585
$12,230
$6,115
$14,600
$7,300
$16,955
$8,478
$540
Note:
Charter flight is between Cairns and Rabaul.
Includes:
Included in your cruise fare are accommodations as booked, cruise transportation, all meals onboard, 24-hour room service, entertainment and educational programmes, use of ship’s sporting equipment and facilities, port & handling charges, excursions and tender transfers, access to the ship’s library, Govt. Fees & Taxes.