Day 1: Alotau
Boarding commences at 2:00pm for a 3:00pm departure. Time to settle in and explore Oceanic Discoverer before joining the Captain and his crew at the Captain's Welcome Cocktails.

Day 2: Dobu and Fergusson Islands
We are greeted by a flotilla of canoes as we approach the Dobu anchorage. Our Guest Lecturer will share with you the history of the Kula Ring where Dobu Island was a pivotal link between the north and south Kula trade routes. The local primary school children welcome us with a traditional dance performance. After lunch we join our Expedition Leader on an excursion to the Dei Dei Hot Springs where the landowner shares the mythical and spiritual tales of these hot water and mud springs.

Day 3: Trobriands and Kitava
Historically known as the 'Islands of Love' the Trobriands offer a glimpse of traditional culture largely unspoilt by outside influence. Witness traditional Trobriand dances.

Day 4: The Idyllic Island of Tuam
Tuam, in the Siassi group of islands, offers a mix of both mainland and Bismark Archipelago cultures. Their prized trinkets and decorations include dog's teeth, spondyllus shells and wonderful balsa wood and sago bark headdresses. We enjoy the welcome dances and village hospitality.

Day 5: Historic Madang
Madang sits on a peninsula surrounded by a number of picturesque islands. Madang is famed for its diving, with excellent visibility and many WWII wrecks to explore. Discover the town and enjoy the opportunity to purchase a large selection of artefacts from the Sepik region. Enjoy diving, snorkelling, swimming and a harbour exploration.

Day 6: The Mighty Sepik River
Sure to be a highlight, this morning we enter the mouth of the mighty Sepik River - one of the world's great river systems. Oceanic Discoverer will cruise upriver to the middle Sepik region renowned for its unique artefacts. We visit the remote villages of Angoram and Bien where the local Sepik people are amongst the greatest primitive artists on earth and each village has its own distinct style. We anchor this evening in this mighty river whilst overhead hundreds of flying foxes stream through the sky.

Day 7: Sepik River and Boisa Island
An early morning start offers a great opportunity for bird watching. Join the Guest Lecturers to identify Spotted Blue-eyed Cockatoos, the enormous Blyth's Hornbill and others as we cruise back down river. On farewelling the great Sepik we arrive at Boisa Island where villagers were evacuated following volcanic eruptions from the neighbouring Manam Island in 2004. An abundance of children, outrigger canoes and genuine friendliness ensure an unforgettable experience.

Day 8: Crown Island
Join our Expedition Leader and Guest Lecturers aboard Xplorer and head ashore on this uninhabited island. Known as a turtle nesting ground and home of the giant lizard we explore the beaches of this seldom visited island. Spend time relaxing or snorkelling in the beautiful clear waters.

Day 9: New Britain Coastline
Enjoy a full day cruising the northern coastline of New Britain. Join the Expedition Leader and Guest Lecturers on guided tours aboard the Xplorer before arriving at the entrance to Kimbe Bay late this afternoon.

Day 10: Kimbe Bay
With the support of local guides, our Expedition Leader will lead us on an exploration of the region. Kimbe Bay has one of the world's richest and most diverse coral reef systems, home to over 860 different species or tropical fish and in excess of 400 different varieties of coral. Experience real island friendliness and hospitality as we are welcomed by a flotilla of outrigger canoes.

Day 11: Rabaul
We enter magnificent Simpson Harbour early in the morning, passing the striking islands known as the Beehives. Our arrival in Rabaul at 8:00am marks the end of our voyage of exploration and adventure. If time permits, you may wish to take the opportunity to explore the 'ghost town' of Rabaul that lies under volcanic ash deposited when Mt Tuvurvur erupted in 1994.

Optional 2 Night Cairns to Alotau Extension

Join Oceanic Discoverer in Cairns two days earlier and cruise the Coral Sea, China Strait and Milne Bay before arriving in Alotau.

Day 1: Depart Cairns
After boarding Oceanic Discoverer at 12:00 noon for a departure at 1:30pm, we leave Cairns on the start of our great adventure. Take the opportunity to explore your new 'home' for the next thirteen days. Enjoy an evening sunset drink before sitting down to the first of many delicious meals.

Day 2: At Sea
Having passed through the Great Barrier Reef, we cruise northeast towards the China Strait. E njoy the facilities and get to know your travelling companions. This evening, join our Guest Lecturer for an informative presentation on Papua New Guinea.

Day 3: Alotau
Enjoy waking up to the spectacular scenery of the China Strait as we approach our first Papua New Guinea landfall - Alotau. Our experienced Guest Lecturers will interpret the traditional welcome dances prior to leading us on a tour of historical Alotau. We welcome new friends embarking today and this evening we meet the Captain and his crew at the Captain's Welcome Cocktails.

Group airfares from selected Australian cities are available. Relax in the knowledge that you will be met by a Coral Princess Cruises staff member. Enquire for details.

Rates

Prices start from $8250 per person twin share. Click here for full rate and departure information.

This itinerary is an indication of the destinations we visit and activities on offer. Whilst every effort will be made to follow this itinerary we do reserve the right to vary this itinerary to make allowances for weather, tidal conditions and any other reason whatsoever.

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