The island-nation of Papua New Guinea, where more than 800 tribal languages are spoken, is a land of magic and spirits, of steaming volcanoes and coral atolls, and of fascinating cultural traditions. Aboard the deluxe 106-guest Orion, we call at the beautiful port of Rabaul, surrounded by six volcanoes, the isolated village of Watam on the legendary Sepik River, the stunning tropical fjords of the Tami Islands, the intriguing Trobriand Islands, and Milne Bay, former haunt of missionaries, pearl traders, and Japanese and American warships. Along the way, we snorkel, swim, explore by sea kayak, visit remote artisan markets, and enjoy presentations by our on-board team of experts who share their insight and expertise on Papua New Guinea’s intriguing Pacific cultures.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-3
Cairns, Australia / Rabaul, Papua New Guinea

The tropical town of Rabaul has a majestic harbor—a flooded caldera encircled by dramatic cone-shaped volcanoes. We take a walk on lava flows and perhaps sip some kulau (fresh green coconut milk). A Japanese stronghold in World War II, Rabaul has miles of bunkers, Japanese cave systems, and aircraft wrecks, and we explore these fascinating sites. On Day 3 at sea, we enjoy presentations by our expedition team as Orion sails toward the Sepik River.

Days 4-5
Sepik River / Watam / Madang

One of the world’s great rivers, the Sepik is Papua New Guinea’s major trade artery, for centuries the only link between the coast and interior. At the mouth of the Sepik, we are welcomed in spectacular fashion at Watam village as the locals in full ceremonial dress perform their traditional “dragon dance.” Later we explore by Zodiac along pristine mangroves, home to rich birdlife as well as saltwater crocodiles. Calling at the delightful town of Madang, we explore a bustling market full of shell jewelry, woven bags, and the unique Bilbil clay water pots.

Day 6-7
Tami Islands / Tufi Harbor

The seldom-visited Tami Islands are pristine coral atolls where we can snorkel and sea kayak in an idyllic blue lagoon. Cruising to glorious Tufi Harbor, we feast our eyes on more than 30 tropical fjords with sheer basalt walls laced with waterfalls. Oro pottery and tapa cloth-making are renowned crafts in the isolated villages here, and we can snorkel and swim from the sandy beaches. Another option is a village tour by local outrigger canoe.

Days 8-9
Trobriand Islands / Samarai and Kwato

In the Trobriands, yams are not only the staple diet but a revered cultural symbol, proudly kept in elaborate storehouses. We learn about this unique culture, admire the Trobriands’ famed woodcarving arts, then cruise to the peaceful Samarai and Kwato Islands, two former colonial trading posts.

Days 10-12
Milne Bay / Alotau / Cairns

Our final stop is the province of Milne Bay, where from Alatao’s spectacular harbor, we visit local villages and explore World War II history sites. Day 11 is at sea. We continue to Cairns and disembark on Day 12.

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What the Trip is Like

The trip is rated Level 1, Easiest. There are shore excursions featuring walks, and it is appropriate for anyone in good health who is physically active.

Explanation of Trip Levels