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Cultures and nature in Papua New Guinea Cairns - Cairns
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Cultures and nature in Papua New Guinea
Cairns - Cairns
to 19/3/2024
nights on board
Starting from*
10% Ponant Bonus
This PONANT 13-day Expedition cruise aboard Le Lapérouse will take you to discover the wonders and ancestral tribes of Papua New Guinea.
You will board your ship in Cairns. With its many colonial buildings, its picturesque port and its exceptional panorama of the surrounding natural environment, this city in the north-east of Australia is sure to win you over.
Sail up to Alotau in Papua New Guinea's Milne Bay Province and learn about the historical significance of the area with the WWII memorial as well as Japanese and American battlegrounds, and stories of pearlers, miners and missionaries.
The two volcanically active islands of Ferguson and Dobu are next on your itinerary. Join your expedition team on a walk to the DeiDei geothermal hot springs through spectacular forests, and learn about the Methodist Church of Australia, which established a mission station on Dobu Island.
Your call at Tufi will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your voyage. You will fall under the charm of this picturesque region, dubbed the 'Scandinavia of the Tropics', with its deep fiords or locally known 'rias' formed through volcanic activity. In this unique setting the local Papuan tribes will share their customs, beliefs and artwork with you.
After a stopover in Tami Islands, you will head north along the coast to Madang, nicknamed the most beautiful city in the South Pacific. This captivating province features great geographical diversity and 170 different languages are spoken here. Madang's festival showcases the rich, colourful traditional performances or 'sing sings' by many of the cultural groups of the province. These include the mysterious Asaro Mudmen, who re-enact a warrior episode from their history, wearing masks of mud, their bodies coated in clay.
For the first time ever, Le Lapérouse will set sail for Dregherhafen, at the eastern end of the Huon Peninsula. You will have the chance to experience the local hospitality during discussions about their customs and traditions.
In Kitava, in the Trobriand Islands, you will be welcomed by spectacular cultural performances and traditional ceremonies by the local islanders, and you will have the opportunity to snorkel and swim in the local clear and prisitine waters. Learn about the traditional 'Kula' trading system on the island of Kiriwina, as well as local village life, through their spectacular cultural performances.
Then you will head back to Cairns, your port of disembarkation.
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Discover the mysteries of Papua New Guinea, the land of a thousand cultures. Zodiac outings and shore visits with your team of naturalist guides. From Tufi, journey on an outrigger canoe into the ancient...
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A luxury cruise for a privileged travel experience
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24h room service
Butler service and priority boarding : Owner's suite, Grand de Luxe Suite, Privilege Suites, Prestige Suite Deck 6
Inclusive Internet access Wifi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
Selection of Hermès top-of-the-line bath products
Minibar included
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Stateroom size
- than 25 m2
+ than 25 m2
Boarding conditions and passenger travel abilities
We invite you to read our boarding conditions and passenger travel abilities by clicking here.
Any new reservation implies the acceptance of these conditions.
The information below is current but subject to change at any time without advance notice from government authorities. Please consult your respective government agencies for visa and health information.
Passport valid for at least six (6) months beyond the completion of your trip. Passport must contain at least two completely clear, blank, unused visa pages for each visa required, not including any amendment pages. Visa pages with stains or ink from other pages in the passport are not usable. Guests who deviate from the scheduled embarkation or disembarkation port should research the foreign entry requirements for the port country. Due to government regulations, regrettably, Ponant will have to deny boarding to any guest who fails to obtain the appropriate travel documentation for this trip.
Australia: an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) must be obtained before your arrival in Australia. For more information, please visit https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder/visit. Carriers should be aware that there will not be any physical evidence in your passport. A copy of your ETA must be sent to PONANT at the latest 45 days prior to your cruise date. We also ask you to keep a copy of your ETA and keep it with your passport throughout the duration of your trip.
Australian customs regulations are very strict, especially for the import of food items such as fresh food (even sealed), fruits, eggs, meat, plants, vegetables, seeds, grains. Fur and feathers are also forbidden. We highly recommend you consult this website for further details : https://www.abf.gov.au/entering-and-leaving-australia/can-you-bring-it-in.
It is recommended that you contact your health professional for any specific medical advise relating to travel through these regions, including advice on Malaria prevention and dengue fever.
Papua New Guinea: Visa delivered onboard free of charge.
Warning about the use of drones: the use of drones aboard PONANT ships, whether they are sailing at sea, at a port of call or anchored, is strictly forbidden. The use of drones on land in the Arctic and Antarctic regions is also strictly forbidden by international polar regulations. In other regions, it may be possible to use drones on land if permission has been obtained from the relevant authorities of each country and each region travelled through, as well as a pilot's licence that should be obtained from your home country. Passengers are responsible for obtaining these permits; they should be able to present them at all times. Passengers who do not obtain these authorisations expose themselves to the risk of legal proceedings.
It is recommended that you contact your health professional for any specific medical advise relating to travel through these regions (including compulsory inoculations).
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
Light weight long trousers
Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
Aquatic non-slip sandals
Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
Comfortable walking shoes
Highly protective sunglasses.
Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
Walking poles (highly recommended).
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
Skirt or trousers
For men:
Pleated trousers or chinos
Sports jacket
Officer's evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer's Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
Evening dress (if you wish to)
Dark suit
Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
Wind and waterproof light "breathable" outer layer
Sweater/pullover for the evening
Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
Small waterproof backpack
Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
Gym wear (fitness)
Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
Mobile phone charger
Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
Mosquito and insect repellent
Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
Casual outfits for the day
Smarter outfits for dinners
Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
White or black and white outfit
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
Diving - Expedition Cruise
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 2 star CMAS or the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers' ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
For those with PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 25 metres.
If two PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) wish to dive together independently, they must have a briefing first. They must have dive computers and are allowed to go to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver's experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
Diving wetsuit
Stabilising jacket
Regulator with octopus and pressure gauge
Diving computer (for divers mastering their use)
Fins,
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Fauna and flora of the Pacific ocean
The fauna of the Pacific ocean is very varied. During the various dives, divers can observe various species of benthic fauna such as napoleon fish, racoonbutterfly fish, and pelagic fauna such as manta rays, gray reef sharks, dolphin fish, as well as endemic wildlife such as different soft corals.
Scuba diving activities on this cruise
(for certified divers)
(for beginners)
Australie – Cairns
Papua New Guinea – Alotau
Papua New Guinea – Fergusson Island
Papua New Guinea – Dobu Island
Papua New Guinea – Tufi
Papua New Guinea – Tami Islands
Papua New Guinea – Madang
Papua New Guinea – Dregerhafen
Papua New Guinea – Lusancay Island
Papua New Guinea – Trobrian Islands
Papua New Guinea – Samarai Island
These sites are indicative. The proposed diving excursions may be changed depending on weather and safety conditions and the number of divers.
Excellence and Passion packages must be pre-booked with your travel consultant before departure. Beyond that, all reservations will be confirmed once on board and subject to availability.
Exploration dives must be organised on board directly with your diving instructor.
Certified divers :
Exploration (1 dive) : €80
Excellence Package (3 dives) : €225
Passion Package (6 dives) : €420
Discover the mysteries of Papua New Guinea, the land of a thousand cultures.
Zodiac outings and shore visits with your team of naturalist guides.
From Tufi, journey on an outrigger canoe into the ancient Fiords of Cape Nelson.
Visit the remote Tami islands.
A fabulous stopover in Dregherafen, strongly impacted by the World War II.
Witness the traditional ceremonies of the Asaro Mudmen of the Madang region.
Visit the Trobriand islands, made famous as the 'Islands of love'.
Walk on the picture-perfect postcard Lusancay Islands.
Discover the colonial history of Samarai Island and of Papua New Guinea's role during World War II.
Gain an insight into the history, culture and the diversity of flora and fauna from your expert
expedition team.
Possibility of diving (PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board and of snorkelling with your expedition team.
Ports of Call & Excursions
7 March 2024 - Cairns
Embarkation 7/3/2024 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 7/3/2024 at 7:00 pm
Washed by the Coral Sea, the harbour town of Cairns is located on Australia's north-east coast. The seafront esplanade is a popular place for locals and visitors to walk, swim and picnic under the shade of swaying palm trees. The hills surrounding Cairns form the gateway to the Queensland Rainforests, proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage site for their fauna and flora from the Gondwana era.
8 March 2024 - At sea
Arrival 8/3/2024
Departure 8/3/2024
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.
9 March 2024 - Alotau
Alotau became the provincial capital of Milne Bay in 1969 and today has a population of approximately 16,000. It serves as our port of entry into Papua New Guinea. Missionaries, miners, pearlers, Japanese and American warships have all contributed to the History of Milne Bay. Perhaps the most significant history surrounds the Battle of Milne Bay. It was here that the invading Japanese army suffered their first land defeat in the Pacific War in 1942. A memorial park at the battle site commemorates the event. The local people are warm and welcoming resulting in one of the most relaxed, secure and easy-going towns in Papua New Guinea. Join your expedition team for a tour taking in the town markets and WWII memorials.
10 March 2024 - Fergusson Island
Arrival 10/3/2024
Departure 10/3/2024
Fergusson is the largest island in the D'Entrecasteaux archipelago. Situated to the east of Papua New Guinea, the latter was discovered in the late 18th century by the French navigator Antoine Bruny d'Entrecasteaux. Fergusson's terrain is very mountainous, with the highest peak reaching some 2,000 metres in altitude. At the heart of this island, a tropical rainforest is home to a rich and varied flora as well as beautiful bird species, including parrots and birds of paradise. In the south, the smoke and geysers of the Dei Dei hot springs are a magical sight.
10 March 2024 - Dobu Island
Dobu Island is one of the 5 islands in the D'Entrecasteaux archipelago to the east of Papua New Guinea. It is home to several bird species, including the white cockatoo and the curl-crested manucode. The local tribes are very attached to their ancestral traditions and theirs is a matrilineal social system, dominated by maternal lineage. The Dobu Islanders are also known for practising magic rituals and witchcraft. Their language is spoken on most of the islands in the D'Entrecasteaux archipelago.
11 March 2024 - Tufi
Often described as the "Scandinavia of the tropics". The spectacular Tufi "fiords" 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 an important role amongst the villagers with many living in isolated areas along the coast of Cape Nelson and on the slopes of Mount Trafalgar. The area is known for its production of tapa cloth, made from the bark of the paper mulberry tree and skilfully decorated. Guests will travel into the ancient mangrove forests of the Fiords to witness one of the most colourful traditional performances in all of Papua New Guinea. There is also the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the clear waters of Kamoa Beach.
12 March 2024 - Tami Islands
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 islands, located in Morobe Province not far from the town of Finschaffen are seldom-visited. Tami Islanders are renowned artisans and are most famous for their intricately decorated bowls.
13 March 2024 - Madang
Madang Township was once known as the "prettiest town in the South Pacific". Its peninsula setting is a show-place 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. Today, you will also be treated to a number of cultural performances showcasing the local customs, costume and dance of the coastal, midland and highland communities.
14 March 2024 - Dregerhafen
Nestled on the Eastern edge of the Huon Peninsula the Scenic Finschhafen district was first charted by the British navigator Captain John Moresby in 1873–1874. It was the German scientist and explorer Otto Finsch who gave his name to the town in 1884. It became a colonial station with a Lutheran mission as part of the Colony of German New Guinea up until its abandonment in 1901. During the Second World War, Dragerhaffen (Dreger Harbour) was used by Allied forces after the capture of Finschhafen in October 1943, becoming the main U.S. Navy PT Boat base in New Guinea until June 15, 1944. Today the villages of the Dregerhafen mainland are home to many resettled Tami Islanders, along with a mixture of local Yabim people and immigrants from the Siassi Islands and Markham Valley. Today guests will be treated to a traditional welcome and cultural performance.
15 March 2024 - Lusancay Islands
A Solomon Sea archipelago situated in the Milne Bay province in Papua New Guinea, the Lusancay Islands were named after the French navigator Pierre Carré de Lusançay, who participated in the D'Entrecasteaux expedition at the end of the 18th century. Protected from human impact, the Lusancay Islands are considered to be a real paradise of coral reefs and white-sand beaches, offering visitors magnificent panoramas. You will have the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the warm, tropical waters.
16 March 2024 - Trobriand Islands
The Trobriand Islands remain one of the most culturally intact places in the Pacific. Their unique social system is dominated by hereditary chiefs who wield tremendous power, although inheritances and lines of power are matrilineal. The Trobriands are often referred to as the 'islands of love'. A reference to the customs and sexual practices of the islanders during the Yam harvesting festival of Milamala. Dance and celebration continue to play an important role in society with the rhythm of the dances retaining their sensuality, despite the best efforts of missionaries. Today you will be welcomed ashore to watch an energetic cultural performance, after which you can walk to the village or swim and snorkel in the clear warm waters.
17 March 2024 - Samarai Island
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 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 and Kwato Islands. You also will enjoy swimming and snorkelling on nearby Deka Deka island.
18 March 2024 - At sea
19 March 2024 - Cairns
Arrival 19/3/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 19/3/2024 at 7:30 am
Environmentally friendly, fitted with innovative equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, this new and intimately sized yacht offers a unique type of cruise experience.
Onboard this ship sailing under the French flag, you'll experience the incomparable pleasure of a cosily intimate cruise offering the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic chic ambiance and with five-star service.
The Blue Eye, a multisensorial underwater lounge offering a unique experience unlike anything else in the world.
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Find out more about Le Laperouse
Explore the planet's most remote tropical regions during a PONANT expedition cruise. In the heart of Oceania's archipelagos or the Indian Ocean atolls, along the wild coastlines of Central America or Australia, our luxury amenities and services will make your expedition cruise an unforgettable experience. Our expedition leaders and their teams of naturalist guides devise exceptional itineraries and organise daily outings, shore visits in Zodiac® dinghies, or snorkelling when the cruises are conducive to it, to take you as close as possible to nature. Aboard the ship, they share their knowledge during lectures on a variety of topics such as the fauna and flora, the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology. On land, using the local transport options or during hikes, discover the must-see natural sites and, for a few hours, partake in the life and ancestral customs of the local populations.
During an introduction to scuba diving or a more advanced dive for holders of the necessary certifications (level 1 on yachting cruises and 2 on expedition cruises), explore the planet's most beautiful underwater environments in the company of a PONANT diving instructor, as well as a local instructor when required by local legislation. They will ensure that your dives are conducted smoothly and safely: supervision of four certified divers at a time, evaluation of diving skills and experience, adherence to safety stops, zones and the maximum depth authorised.