Embark on an 11-day cruise aboard the Paspaley Pearl, starting in Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Visit some of the most remote and stunning locations in Papua New Guinea, including the Samarai and Kwato Islands, famous for their rich colonial history and cultural significance. Explore the coral reefs of the Deboyne Islands and the ancient traditions of the Trobriand Islands. See the dramatic Tufi Fjords and Morobe Harbour, where locals maintain traditional lifestyles. Explore the craftsmanship of the Tami Islanders and immerse yourself in the pristine waters of their secluded lagoons. End your journey in the picturesque town of Madang, known for its vibrant cultural festivals and natural beauty.
Highlights
Experience vibrant marine life near Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef
Discover Samarai Island's colonial history and scenic landscapes
Witness the traditional culture of the Trobriand Islands firsthand
Walk Kwato Island’s tree-lined paths to a historic stone church
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Embark in Cairns, a popular spot for travelers looking to explore the Great Barrier Reef and Far North Queensland. Its tropical climate and location make it a great base for marine adventures, with easy access to the coral reefs and diverse marine life of the Great Barrier Reef.
Reflect on the great moments shared with others during your days at sea. Enjoy the quiet of the open ocean and talk with your expedition team about the adventures ahead.
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 3 km west of Samarai, Kwato Island was once an educational center 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 meters of water, only 50 meters 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 meters deep and rise over 150 meters 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 skillfully 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, and 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 center 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.
Day 11: Madang | Disembarkation
1 Breakfast
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 colorful displays of “sing sings” performed by numerous cultural groups from across the Madang Province.
Paspaley Pearl is alongside Madang, and disembarkation commence after breakfast.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$13,8702-3 travelers
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Ocean Twin Stateroom
The Ocean Twin Stateroom combines style and functionality with a large wardrobe and the choice of twin or king beds. It features a spacious bathroom with a shower, heated floors, high-quality amenities, and a hairdryer. The stateroom has adjustable air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging ports, and wall-mounted reading lamps. Entertainment is provided by a flat-screen TV with an on-demand system, and guests have access to free, unlimited Wi-Fi, though connectivity may vary depending on location.
Ocean Stateroom
The Ocean Stateroom offers practical and stylish design with a large wardrobe and the choice of twin or king-sized beds. It has a roomy bathroom with a shower, heated floors, high-quality amenities, and a hairdryer. The stateroom also features adjustable air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging ports, and wall-mounted reading lights. Guests can use the flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system and enjoy free, unlimited Wi-Fi, though connectivity may vary depending on location.
Horizon Suite
The Horizon Suite features a well-designed layout with a large wardrobe and the option of twin or king beds. Its standout element is the floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to a private balcony with a panoramic view. The suite has a spacious bathroom equipped with a shower, heated floors, toiletries, and a hairdryer. It includes individually controlled air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging ports, and wall-mounted reading lamps. For entertainment, there is a flat-screen TV with an on-demand system. Guests receive complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi, although connectivity may vary based on location and navigation.
Pearl Suite
The Pearl Suite features elegant design and practical layout, including ample wardrobe space. It has floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to a private balcony. Guests can select between twin or king beds. The large bathroom is equipped with a shower, heated floors, toiletries, and a hairdryer. The air conditioning is individually controlled for comfort. Additional conveniences include international 240V sockets, USB charging ports, and wall-mounted reading lamps. Entertainment is provided by a flat-screen TV with an on-demand system. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available, though the connection may vary based on location and navigation.
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
10 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners
10 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Port Fees
Unlimited Wifi
Onboard Entertainment
Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
“Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
24h Room Service (special selection)
English-Speaking Lecturer
Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite.
Shore landings and exploration vessel outings guided by a team of expert Expedition guides.
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Visa Fees
Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
Luggage Handling
Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions
Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses
Premium wines
Tips for the onboard crew are appreciated but not compulsory.
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen
TrustScore 4.9 | 334 reviews
TrustScore 4.9 of 5
Based on 334 reviews on
7 hours ago
Super smooth with questions answered & booking in just 2 days with Mary Curry. AND, the price was great!
Roger Allen
2 days ago
Erin is such a fabulous resource! She helped us bring our target destinations to life by suggesting activities that match our interests, fabulous lodging and excursion options, and patiently coordinating a seamless experience.
Debra D - RI USA
3 days ago
I don’t have the words to describe it but the last week has been one of the best I can remember. 6 days of adventure in South East Alaska including trekking through lush rain forest, sitting in silence listening to glaciers calving, up early to see the northern lights, kayaking and stupidly swimming in iceberg frozen waters ! (That actually hurt).
Animal sightings including black and brown bears, Minke and hundreds of Humpack Whales, porpoises, sea lions, mountain goats, harbour seals, bald eagles, salmon and more birds than I can count. Wonderful friends and connections made. A huge shout out to Trevor and his totally amazing crew on the Admiralty Dream whose energy and enthusiasm made this most incredible experience.
DAVID JAMES
4 days ago
Excellent safari trip with Adventure Life and Albatross Travel. Special shout out to our guides Eric Turasha (Kenya), and Blasi Shirima (Tanzania) from Albatross Travel. Both were world class!!! The trip went off without a hitch; all the camps were amazing…worth mentioning...one of the camps we were going to stay in on the Tanzanian side was damaged by high winds so we ended up in a different camp (Mara under Canvas Camp). Can't say enough good things! A great experience and superb service!!
Brenda Cox
5 days ago
very easy to deal with kassandra. she listened to what our interests were and planned a great trip for us. nothing to worry about!
