Embark on a boutique expedition through Milne Bay, exploring picturesque islands, historical sites, and diverse cultures. Snorkel over a World War II wreck, discover the `Islands of Love` in the Trobriands, and canoe into the ancient Fiords of Tufi. Immerse in the traditional Morobe culture on remote Tami Islands, unravel Papua New Guinea`s wartime role, and dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Solomon Sea. Guided by experts, this journey seamlessly blends comfort, discovery, and cultural enrichment.
Expedition Highlights:
– Discover Milne Bay, a region defined by picture postcard islands, historical significance and diverse culture.
– Snorkel over a world war II wreck in the Deboyne lagoon.
– Visit the Trobriand islands, made famous as the `Islands of love`.
– Journey on an outrigger canoe into the ancient Fiords of Tufi.
– Visit the remote Tami islands and experience traditional Morobe culture.
– Uncover Papua New Guinea`s role during World War II.
– Swim and snorkel in the clear warm tropical waters of the Solomon Sea.
– Gain an insight into the history, culture, and incredible diversity of life from your expert expedition team.
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Islands & Cultures of Papua New Guinea cruise package includes:
– 10 night luxury expedition cruise aboard the boutique motor yacht Paspaley Pearl by Ponant from Cairns to Madang
– All meals – menus designed by the famed Serge Dansereau of Bathers Pavilion
– Open Bar including French champagne, wine, beer, spirits, cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages
– Complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi (connectivity dependent on navigation and latitude)
– Shore landings and exploration vessel outings guided by a team of expert Expedition guides
– Entry fees to National and Marine Parks
– Non-motorised water sports (Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Snorkeling)
Additional Expenses:
– Pre and/or Post voyage packages
– Additional shore excursions such as scenic Helicopter flights
– Premium wines
– Tips for the onboard crew are appreciated but not compulsory
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Solo Travellers – Secure free solo supplement when you book the Ocean Twin Stateroom (Stateroom 102), applicable on every voyage. For other Ocean Deck staterooms, a 30% supplement applies, while Horizon Deck suites come with a 50% supplement. Solo Supplement is subject to change, and may be increased at any time at the discretion of the company.
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Flexible Expedition Itinerary:
Experience the freedom of a flexible expedition itinerary, where the adventure unfolds in harmony with nature. These itineraries adapt to tides and other environmental factors, ensuring an authentic exploration. Embrace the cultures, history and biodiversity of the remote areas visited, guided by a team of expert guides who offer a dynamic and unforgettable journey tailored to the whims of the elements.
Special Conditions
Special Validity Dates
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09 Oct 2025 | Cairns, Qld, Australia |
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| 10 Oct 2025 | At sea | ||
| 11 Oct 2025 | At sea | ||
| 12 Oct 2025 | Samarai Island, Papua New Guinea |
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| 13 Oct 2025 | Deboyne Lagoon |
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| 14 Oct 2025 | Trobriand Islands, Papua New Guinea |
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| 15 Oct 2025 | Tufi Harbour, Papua New Guinea |
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| 16 Oct 2025 | Morobe Harbour, Papua New Guinea |
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| 17 Oct 2025 | Tami Islands, Papua New Guinea |
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| 18 Oct 2025 | Tuam Island, Papua New Guinea |
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| 19 Oct 2025 | Madang, Papua New Guinea |
All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.
10 Night Cruise sailing from Cairns to Madang aboard Paspaley Pearl.
Embark on a boutique expedition through Milne Bay, exploring picturesque islands, historical sites, and diverse cultures. Snorkel over a World War II wreck, discover the ‘Islands of Love’ in the Trobriands, and canoe into the ancient Fiords of Tufi. Immerse in the traditional Morobe culture on remote Tami Islands, unravel Papua New Guinea’s wartime role, and dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Solomon Sea. Guided by experts, this journey seamlessly blends comfort, discovery, and cultural enrichment.
DAY 1 Embarkation | Cairns. QLD, Australia
Cairns thrives on its tropical climate and has become a hub for travellers seeking to explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and the surrounding Far North Queensland region. The city’s strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for marine adventures, with access to the stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life that characterize the Great Barrier Reef.
PASPALEY PEARL will be alongside in Cairns.
DAYS 2-3 Sea Days
A couple of days spent at sea provides an ideal opportunity for contemplation, allowing you to reminisce about the extraordinary moments shared with fellow adventurers. Take a moment for yourself to savour the rare tranquillity of the open sea and connect with your expedition team to discover exciting upcoming adventures on the horizon.
DAY 4 Samarai Islands, Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea
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 3km west of Samarai, Kwato Island was once an educational centre 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.
DAY 5 Deboyne Lagoon. Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea
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 metres of water, only 50 metres from the beach. The friendly villagers lead a subsistence lifestyle with minimal influence from the outside world and warmly welcome guests.
DAY 6 Trobriand Islands. Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea
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.
DAY 7 Tufi. Oro Province, Papua New Guinea
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 metres deep and rise over 150 metres 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 skilfully decorated.
DAY 8 Morobe Harbour. Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea
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.
DAY 9 Tami Islands, Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea
The Tami Islands (Kalal, Wanam & 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 centre 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.
DAY 10 Tuam Island. Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea
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 Disembarkation | Madang, Papua New Guinea
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 colourful displays of “sing sings” performed by numerous cultural groups from across the Madang Province.
PASPALEY PEARL will be alongside in Madang and disembarkation will commence after breakfast.
Marrying PASPALEY’s heritage of over 80 years in the Kimberley and Northern Australia with PONANT’s 35-year history of luxury expedition travel, PASPALEY PEARL emerges as the embodiment of comfort and adventure. Marking a milestone in the development of boutique expedition travel, she offers a benchmark-setting standard of excellence in the Asia Pacific region.
Featuring 15 staterooms and suites and hosting a maximum of 30 guests per voyage, PASPALEY PEARL emerges as the newest and only boutique expedition motor yacht in the Kimberley with private balconies. Having the ability of reaching exotic destinations previously inaccessible by larger vessels, each expedition promises an authentic and enriching experience, inviting you to not just observe but to participate in the timeless rituals and customs that define the remarkable cultures of the destinations we visit.
PASPALEY PEARL is designed to feel like a home away from home. A classic yet contemporary environment that expresses timeless luxury while harnessing the history of PASPALEY and PONANT’s spirit of adventure.
Ship Profile & Stats
- Length: 53.5 m
- Tonnage: 994
- Maiden Voyage: 2025
- Passenger Capacity (dbl): 30
- Officer Nationality: Australian
- Ship Registration: Marshall Islands
Ship Amenities
- Hair Dryer
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
- International 240V sockets
- USB charging points
- Flat-screen TV
- On-demand entertainment system
- Complimentary WIFI
Ship Facilities
- Sun Deck Lounge & Jacuzzi
- Outdoor Dining, Lounge & Bar
- Main Deck Dining, Lounge & Bar
- Forward Sunset Lounge
EXPERIENCE CRUISING ANOTHER WAY, DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF YACHT CRUISES.
Our mission is to transport you to mythical destinations and secret ports only accessible to small capacity ships.
To offer the delights of a French-inspired cuisine in an intimate environment – a discreet service where no attention to detail is spared – and unforgettable moments of relaxation on board elegant yachts of character.
To combine sophistication and conviviality, with priority given to authentic experiences, emotions and the ongoing quest for excellence.
Yacht cruises: more than a cruise, a privilege…
Attentive, professional, discreet and elegant, the fully bilingual service on board will meet your every desire. Our unique atmosphere is filled with a signature sentiment: a warm welcome from an experienced crew who are passionate about what they do, in the tradition of private yachting.
In the dining areas, our gourmet cuisine is worthy of top fine dining restaurants: exquisite wines are available, and menus are created with expertise by our skilled chefs with a French-inspired menu enhanced by specialties from our various ports of call.
Pleasure, enrichment, discovery: relax – we take care of everything…
Select the Deck to view detail.
Select the Cabin to view detail.
20m2 Including balcony on the Horizon Deck. The Horizon Suite is an elegantly designed suite with a large wardrobe and the choice between a king-size bed or two twin beds. Its most striking feature is the floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a private balcony, offering a panoramic view. The suite includes a spacious bathroom with a shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer. There’s individually-controlled air conditioning and international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps are provided. Entertainment needs are catered for with a flat-screen TV and an on-demand entertainment system. Guests also enjoy complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi, though connectivity may vary depending on navigation and latitude.
17.5 – 18m2 on the Ocean Deck. The Ocean Stateroom is a tastefully designed accommodation featuring a large wardrobe and the option of one queen-size bed or two twin beds. It boasts a spacious bathroom equipped with shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer for added comfort. The stateroom also includes individually-controlled air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps for convenience. Guests can enjoy entertainment through a flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system. Additionally, complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi is available, although its connectivity may vary based on navigation and latitude.
16m2 on the Ocean Deck. The Ocean Twin Stateroom offers a blend of elegance and practical design, featuring a large wardrobe and the option of one double bed or two single beds. Guests can enjoy the comfort of a spacious bathroom equipped with shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer. For convenience and comfort, the stateroom includes individually-controlled air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps. Entertainment needs are met with a flat-screen TV paired with an on-demand entertainment system. Additionally, guests are provided with complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi, although connectivity may vary based on navigation and latitude.
27m2 Including balcony on the Horizon Deck. The Pearl Suite is sophisticated and meticulously crafted, complete with ample wardrobe space. It features floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to a private balcony. Guests have the option of one king-size bed or two twin beds. The suite boasts a spacious bathroom equipped with shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer. For personalised comfort, there is individually-controlled air conditioning, along with international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps for convenience. Entertainment is provided through a flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system. Additionally, guests can enjoy complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi, although its connectivity may vary depending on navigation and latitude.
* Unless otherwise noted all pricing is on a per person twin share basis. All prices based on cash payment - credit card fees may apply. Cruise deposit, amendment and cancellation conditions apply. Special conditions may apply - please ask for full details at time of enquiry. All passports, vaccinations and visas are the responsibility of the travelling guest to secure prior to departure from Australia. Any pricing not in Australian Dollars will be converted on the day of payment into the relevant currency based on our daily rate of exchange. Please note that many of the prices shown on this website are not shown in real time. Whilst we endeavour to keep our pricing as up-to-date as possible, the advertised prices shown here may differ slightly from the live prices in our booking system. All pricing and offers are subject to availability at time of booking. Whilst all information is correct at the time of publication, offers are subject to change. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty. Please submit any data errors/omissions you may notice on this site.
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