Ancient Cultures of Papua New Guinea

Nestled on Australia's northeast coast, Cairns is your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system. Dive or snorkel to witness its vibrant marine life, or opt for a scenic reef cruise. For a land-based adventure, explore the Daintree Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can walk among ancient trees and spot diverse wildlife. The Cairns Esplanade offers a relaxed stroll with stunning views, public art, and a swimming lagoon. Don't miss the chance to sample fresh local seafood and tropical fruits at Rusty's Markets.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.

This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Capital of Papua New Guinea’s Milne Bay Province, Alotau is steeped in history, rich in culture and blessed with natural beauty.The gateway to some of the most remote island communities remaining in the world today, this is a place that is enriched with age-old culture and traditions. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do in Alotau:

• explore skull cave
• visit the memorial commemorating WWII’s Battle of Milne Bay
• take a traditional clay pot cooking class
• experience life in a traditional village
• snorkel the shipwreck at Waga Waga

Dobu Island, nestled in the D'Entrecasteaux Islands of Papua New Guinea, is an intriguing destination known for its rich cultural heritage and volcanic landscapes. This remote island is celebrated for its role in the Kula Ring, an ancient ceremonial exchange network, which offers a fascinating glimpse into local customs and social structures.

Exploring Dobu Island presents an opportunity to immerse in traditional village life and pristine natural environments. The surrounding coral reefs are teeming with marine life, making snorkelling and diving here exceptionally rewarding. The island's warm, welcoming locals make visits memorable with opportunities to learn about their unique way of life.

Located off the eastern coast of New Guinea, the Trobriand Islands are famous for their culture and huge yam gardens.

Home to one of the most colourful and fascinating cultures on earth, the islands are often referred to as the ‘islands of love’ due to their customs and practices during the yam harvesting festival.

The islands offer stunning white sand beaches lined with natural shade-trees and crystal clear waters that are perfect for snorkelling. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Located off the eastern coast of New Guinea, the Trobriand Islands are famous for their culture and huge yam gardens.

Home to one of the most colourful and fascinating cultures on earth, the islands are often referred to as the ‘islands of love’ due to their customs and practices during the yam harvesting festival.

The islands offer stunning white sand beaches lined with natural shade-trees and crystal clear waters that are perfect for snorkelling. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Located in Papua New Guinea’s Milne Bay Province, Kiriwina is the largest and by far the most populous of the Trobriand Islands, and home to one of the most colourful and fascinating cultures on earth. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do on Kiriwina Island:

• relax on the white sands of Kaibola Beach
• hike to the burial cave, Kalopa Cave
• shop the market stalls run by local villagers
• swim and snorkel the crystal waters
• watch a game of Trobriand cricket

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.

This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Ghizo Island in the Solomon Islands is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it a top destination for divers and snorkellers. The underwater world here is rich with colourful coral reefs, shipwrecks, and diverse sea creatures. The island's stunning beaches provide a tranquil setting for relaxation and sunbathing.

Explore the bustling Gizo Town, where you can find local crafts, fresh seafood, and friendly locals. The nearby Kennedy Island offers a touch of history, famously linked to President John F. Kennedy. With its mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and historical significance, Ghizo Island promises a captivating and diverse experience for visitors.

Njari Island, part of the Solomon Islands, is a small tropical paradise renowned for its vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs. The island is a favourite destination for snorkellers and divers, offering clear waters teeming with colourful fish, turtles, and occasional reef sharks.

The island's white sandy beaches provide a perfect spot for relaxation and sunbathing, while the surrounding waters are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. Njari Island’s unspoilt natural beauty and tranquil environment make it an idyllic escape for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the Pacific.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.

This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Part of the Florida Islands, Roderick bay is surrounded by beautiful white sand beaches and fringing coral reefs. These clear warm tropical waters give rise to a myriad of colourful corals only metres from the shore. To add to this stunning environment, nosed up onto a nearby beach, listing heavily to its starboard side is the wreck of the World Discoverer; an expedition cruise ship beached here in 2001 after striking a charted rock at the Northern entrance to Sandfly Passage. Venture ashore for a welcome ceremony, take a walk through the village or snorkel around the wreck to witness the marine environment attempting to reclaim this invader.