Sepik River Secrets - Papua New Guinea Luxury Cruise

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11 days from

£9432.45

* Current p/p indicative rate.

Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ships

Highlights

  • Spend four days exploring the biodiversity, history and culture of the mighty Sepik River.
  • Learn about the Sepik people and their customs.
  • Travel along the meandering manmade Barats through lush rainforests.
  • Visit the main trading township of Angoram.
  • Discover the spectacular Blackwater Lakes.
  • Visit the remote Watam and Awar villages.
  • Sail into a spectacular caldera in the Witu Islands.
  • Gain an insight into the history, culture, and incredible diversity of life from your expert expedition team.

Highlights

  • Spend four days exploring the biodiversity, history and culture of the mighty Sepik River.
  • Learn about the Sepik people and their customs.
  • Travel along the meandering manmade Barats through lush rainforests.
  • Visit the main trading township of Angoram.
  • Discover the spectacular Blackwater Lakes.
  • Visit the remote Watam and Awar villages.
  • Sail into a spectacular caldera in the Witu Islands.
  • Gain an insight into the history, culture, and incredible diversity of life from your expert expedition team.
Capacity: 30

Join us on a captivating expedition along the Sepik River, and uncover the abundant biodiversity, history, and culture of this majestic waterway. Traverse dense rainforests, immerse yourself in the distinctive customs of the Sepik people, and explore the vibrant trading hub of Angoram. Marvel at the breathtaking Blackwater Lakes and the secluded allure of Watam and Awar villages. Encounter the natural marvel of the Witu Islands’ caldera. Our expert team will guide you through this extraordinary journey, offering deep insights into the diverse life and traditions along the Sepik River.

  • Spend four days exploring the biodiversity, history and culture of the mighty Sepik River.
  • Learn about the Sepik people and their customs.
  • Travel along the meandering manmade Barats through lush rainforests.
  • Visit the main trading township of Angoram.
  • Discover the spectacular Blackwater Lakes.
  • Visit the remote Watam and Awar villages.
  • Sail into a spectacular caldera in the Witu Islands.
  • Gain an insight into the history, culture, and incredible diversity of life from your expert expedition team.
19 October, 2025 to 29 October, 2025 on Paspaley Pearl
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or [email protected]) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Ocean Twin Stateroom
£ 9432 GBP pp
Ocean Twin Stateroom
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 twin or king bedding. 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.
Horizon Suite
£ 12237 GBP pp
Horizon Suite
20m2 Including balcony on the Horizon Deck The Horizon Suite is an elegantly designed suite with a large wardrobe and the choice between twin or king bedding. 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.
Pearl Suite
£ 14787 GBP pp
Pearl Suite
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 twin or king bedding. 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.
Ocean Stateroom
£ 10197 GBP pp
Ocean Stateroom
17.5 – 18m2 on the Ocean Deck The Ocean Stateroom is a tastefully designed accommodation featuring a large wardrobe and the option of twin or king bedding. 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.
08 November, 2025 to 18 November, 2025 on Paspaley Pearl
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or [email protected]) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Ocean Stateroom
£ 10197 GBP pp
Ocean Stateroom
17.5 – 18m2 on the Ocean Deck The Ocean Stateroom is a tastefully designed accommodation featuring a large wardrobe and the option of twin or king bedding. 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.
Ocean Twin Stateroom
£ 9432 GBP pp
Ocean Twin Stateroom
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 twin or king bedding. 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.
Horizon Suite
£ 12237 GBP pp
Horizon Suite
20m2 Including balcony on the Horizon Deck The Horizon Suite is an elegantly designed suite with a large wardrobe and the choice between twin or king bedding. 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.
Pearl Suite
£ 14787 GBP pp
Pearl Suite
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 twin or king bedding. 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.
28 November, 2025 to 08 December, 2025 on Paspaley Pearl
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or [email protected]) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Ocean Twin Stateroom
£ 9432 GBP pp
Ocean Twin Stateroom
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 twin or king bedding. 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.
Ocean Stateroom
£ 10197 GBP pp
Ocean Stateroom
17.5 – 18m2 on the Ocean Deck The Ocean Stateroom is a tastefully designed accommodation featuring a large wardrobe and the option of twin or king bedding. 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.
Horizon Suite
£ 12237 GBP pp
Horizon Suite
20m2 Including balcony on the Horizon Deck The Horizon Suite is an elegantly designed suite with a large wardrobe and the choice between twin or king bedding. 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.
Pearl Suite
£ 14787 GBP pp
Pearl Suite
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 twin or king bedding. 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.
show reverse itinerary
DAY 1 Embarkation | 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.

DAY 2-5 The Sepik River. East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea

 

The Sepik is one of the world’s great river systems. Meandering 1100 km from the Owen Stanley ranges to the North Coast of New Guinea where it enters the Bismarck Sea. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is surrounded by dense and often difficult-to-navigate terrain. The lack of accessible roads in the region has meant the river has served as a central avenue for trade, communication, and daily activities for millennia.

Culturally, the Sepik region is known for its traditional art, with indigenous tribes creating intricate carvings and masks that hold deep cultural and spiritual significance. The river and its surroundings have inspired the artistic expressions of the local communities, reflecting their connection to the natural environment.

DAY 6 Watam Village, Broken Water Bay. East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea

 

Watam village is situated at the northwestern end of Broken Water Bay, making it the easternmost village in the East Sepik Province. The Watam people, along with the people of Kopar village at the mouth of the Sepik River, trace their origins to the lower sections of the Ramu River, located further east. While the Watam people have adopted Catholicism, many aspects of their traditional rituals and beliefs continue to coexist within the religious framework. As a result, Watam village provides a fascinating example of the intersection between traditional practices, migration history, and the influence of external factors on the cultural landscape of Papua New Guinea.

DAY 7 Hansa Bay. Madang Province, Papua New Guinea

 

During World War II, Hansa Bay was a major Japanese naval base and transit station between the Wewak region and south eastern bases. Today, there are several WWII wrecks scattered along the coastline and in shallow waters. The traditional villages of Awar and Nubia seldom receive visitors from the outside world. Their culture and traditions remain strong, despite the influence of missionaries.

DAY 8 Crown Island. Madang Province, Papua New Guinea

 

Crown Island is located between the Vitiaz Strait and the southern Bismarck Sea off the north coast of the Papua New Guinea mainland, about 25 kilometres from Long Island. William Dampier charted the passage now named Dampier Strait to the east in 1700, also naming several islands including Crown Island. This eroded ancient volcanic island is home to a collection of lush valleys, steep ridges, lowlands and sand beaches surrounded by coral reefs. The islands inhabitants have only recently relocated from the nearby Long and Umboi Islands.

DAY 9 Witu Islands. West New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea

 

The Witu, or Vitu Islands are volcanic ocean peaks fringed by coral reefs, located in the Bismarck Sea off the north coast of New Britain Island. They were once the chief copra centre of Papua New Guinea, today cocoa is now the main crop harvested. The largest island, Garove or Big Witu has a 5 kilometre wide volcanic caldera where the southern rim has collapsed, creating a spectacular entrance. The main village of Garove is nestled inside this scenic natural harbour.

DAY 10 Cape Gloucester. West New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea

 

Lying on the northern peninsula at the west end of the island of New Britain is the seldom visited location of Cape Gloucester. The Peninsula is densely vegetated with thick rainforest, and the extinct Mount Talawe volcano creates a spectacular backdrop to the south. On the eastern flank of Talawe lie the four overlapping volcanic cones of the active Langila Volcano. Langila is one of the most active volcanoes in the Bismark archipelago. Several uninhabited picture postcard islands lie just offshore, providing the ideal location for swimming and snorkelling in the warm tropical waters of the Bismarck Sea.

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.

Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Paspaley Pearl
PASPALEY PEARL marks a milestone in the development of boutique expedition travel, offering a benchmark-setting standard of excellence in the Asia Pacific region. As a modern boutique expedition vess…

Paspaley Pearl

Length 53 m
Max passengers 30
Built/refurbished: 2021/2024

PASPALEY PEARL marks a milestone in the development of boutique expedition travel, offering a benchmark-setting standard of excellence in the Asia Pacific region. As a modern boutique expedition vessel in the Kimberley featuring private balconies, we have the ability of reaching exotic destinations previously inaccessible by larger vessels. You’re invited to ignite your sense of discovery, all whilst travelling in comfort and safety that has been designed to create the smallest possible footprint, with a philosophy of empowering local people and creating ambassadors for the destinations visited.

Designed to feel like your home away from home

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.

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.

The perfect place to relax while exploring

Main Dining, Lounge and Bar

Nestled on the Ocean Deck is our main dining area, lounge, and bar. As our skilled chefs craft your locally-inspired dinner, take a moment for a pre-dinner drink before being spoiled with the finest produce Australia has to offer. If you’re interested in exploring some of PASPALEY’s exquisite offerings, you’ll be delighted by their showcase of the world’s most beautiful pearls, available for purchase as a cherished memento of your time on board.

Outdoor Dining, Lounge and Bar

When journeying through the tropics, immersing yourself in the outdoors becomes essential. Indulge in breakfast and lunch daily within a relaxed yet refined setting. With two expansive dining tables and abundant lounges, relish the idea of dining amidst the natural surroundings you explore. Craving a refreshing drink after a day of exploration? Our friendly staff at the Outdoor Bar have you covered. The Outdoor Lounge doubles as the perfect space for afternoon briefings with your expedition team, ensuring you receive all the information needed for the following day’s adventure.

Sun Deck Lounge and Jacuzzi

Bask in the sunshine on the Sun Deck, furnished with sun beds, lounges, and an 8-person jacuzzi. Whether you prefer reading a book under the shelter of the protective shade cloth or engaging in conversations with newfound friends, the Sun Deck promises a haven of pure relaxation.

Sunset Lounge

Located ahead of the bridge, you can savour panoramic views rivaling those of the captain at the Sunset Lounge. Order a drink from one of the bars downstairs and relax as you witness some of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ve ever seen.

Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ship

11 days from £9432.45

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