Welcome to your Papua New Guinea expedition—where ancient traditions thrive across 800 distinct cultures, and every village welcomes you into ways of life unchanged for millennia.
Over the next 11 days, you’ll paddle traditional outrigger canoes through Tufi’s mysterious fjords, witness elaborate ceremonies in remote tribal villages, and snorkel above WWII wrecks in crystal-clear lagoons. This isn’t cultural tourism—you’ll participate in traditional sago production, and learn ancient carving techniques from master artisans.
Each morning brings new cultural encounters as we navigate between volcanic islands and pristine coral atolls. You’ll step ashore to traditional welcomes featuring colourful adornments and rhythmic dances, be introduced to the famous Kula exchange ceremonies spanning 18 island communities, and witness tapa cloth creation using techniques passed down through countless generations.
From exploring colonial remnants on Samarai Island—once called the “Pearl of the Pacific”— every encounter becomes part of your shared story. Our small expedition community of just 30 guests ensures genuine cultural exchanges rather than staged performances.
This is cultural immersion as it should be: authentic, respectful, and utterly transformative. Your Papua New Guinea adventure begins the moment you board Paspaley Pearl.
- Samarai Island’s Colonial Heritage: Explore the historic “Pearl of the Pacific” on Samarai Island, walking tree-lined paths to discover colonial remnants, a 1937 stone church, and the legacy of Kwato Island’s mission and WWII Australian Coastwatchers.
- Deboyne Lagoon’s Cultural and WWII Encounters: Immerse yourself in traditional subsistence village life at Deboyne Lagoon, engaging with welcoming communities and snorkelling over a Japanese Zero fighter plane from the 1942 Battle of the Coral Sea in crystal-clear waters.
- Tufi’s Fjord Adventures and Cultural Ceremonies: Paddle outrigger canoes through Tufi’s dramatic fjords and participate in vibrant tribal ceremonies, witnessing ancient sago production and learning carving techniques from master artisans in remote villages.
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
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.
