With almost 10,000 different dialects spoken on its territory, Papua New Guinea possesses the world's greatest ethnic diversity and one of the most preserved. Ponant invites you to enjoy a slow temporal and geographic immersion, following the rhythm of the islands and their inhabitants, on a 12-day expedition cruise aboard Le Lapérouse, discovering the natural marvels and fascinating cultures of Melanesia. You will depart from Honiara, the capital of Guadalcanal and renown for being the site of the battle between the USA and Japan during WWII.
Then you will reach the Malaita Province....read more As well as learning about its unique local traditions and social aspects of life such as 'bride price', you will experience their traditional music and sacred dances accompanied by traditional panpipers. In the Solomon Islands, you will be able to enjoy pleasant moments swimming and snorkelling on Njari Island before you discover the picturesque and colourful atmosphere in the traditional markets on Ghizo Island. You are sure to be surprised by "Kula", the ingenious traditional exchange system used, in particular, on the island of Kiriwina, and enjoy the unexpected aspects of life in the villages via their spectacular traditions. In the heart of the Solomon Sea, you will discover the splendid turquoise waters and white-sand beaches of the uninhabited islands of the Lusancay archipelago. These spectacular, picture-postcard islands provide the opportunity to swim and snorkel over coral reefs teeming with life.
Your call at Tufi will be one of the highlights of your voyage. Dubbed the Scandinavia of the Tropics, you will undoubtedly fall under the charm of this picturesque region, with its deep 'fjords' known locally as 'rias', which were formed through volcanic activity. In this unique and unspoilt setting, the Papuan tribes will proudly share their culture, during a traditional ceremony. You will then visit the volcanically active D'Entrecasteaux Islands. On Dobu Island, the diversity of the fauna and flora will be conducive to pure moments of wonder while there will also be encounters with the Dobu people, who are known for their magic rituals. Accompanied by your expedition team, you will explore Fergusson Island on a walk through extraordinary virgin forests, towards the DeiDei Hot Springs.
Finally, you will sail up to Alotau in Papua New Guinea's Milne Bay Province where you will discover how a combination of pearl farming, mineral resources and the presence of missionaries over the centuries shaped the history of this bay, which was also marked by the Second World War. Your expedition will finish in in Cairns, known as the capital of 'Far North Queensland, this vibrant and welcoming city is the ideal place from which to explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and the Tropical Rainforests.
Cruise Itinerary
Arrive
Depart
Day 1:Honiara, Guadalcanal Island
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17:00
Day 2: Malaita Island
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Day 3: Roderick Bay, Florida Islands
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Day 4: Njari Island
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Day 4: Ghizo Island
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Day 5: Cruising At Sea
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Day 6:Kiriwina Island
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Day 7: Lusancay Islands
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Day 8: Tufi
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Day 9: Dobu Island
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Day 9: Fergusson Island
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Day 10:Alotau
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Day 11: Cruising At Sea
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Day 12:Cairns
08:00
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Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Transfers to and/or from the ship port may be required.
Fantastic Kimberley 1Lee and David, QLD, Australia, Aug 2023
One of the best holidays we have ever done Expensive, yes but you get what you pay for in the end This was 6* cruising at its best. The daily and at times twice daily zodiac excursions were special and led by well informed guides all of whom had professional qualifications in a relevant field.
Food was of the highest standard an the open bar well ...read more stocked to meet all tastes. Don't worry too much about formal gear, a sports coat and a colourful dress are all that is required on the two gala nights. On the other nights, slacks and polo are fine.
We helicoptered to Mitchell Falls which again was expensive but well worth it. Forget about the Horizontal Falls boat ride. Those that went were very dissatisfied as the most exciting of the two Falls is now closed due to a boating accident. I've seen more challenging wave sets in Moreton Bay. Overall 11/10 from us and very highly recommended
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Ponant Pacific Islands (2024)
Discover Ponant's range of exceptional voyages aboard the freshly-renovated Le Paul Gauguin in 2024, exploring the magic of Polynesia and the South Pacific Islands.
Note Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Ponant. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.