Papua New Guinea’s Hidden Secrets Cruise

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11 days from

£9248 GBP pp

* Current p/p indicative rate.

Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ships

Highlights

  • 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.

Highlights

  • 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.
Capacity: 30
Feture image for Papua New Guinea’s Hidden Secrets Cruise

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

19 October, 2026 to 29 October, 2026 on Paspaley Pearl
Prices

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.

Ocean Double Stateroom
£9248 GBP pp
Ocean Double Stateroom
14 sqm - Double Bed While the experiences encountered ashore are paramount, so too is your comfort onboard. On Paspaley Pearl adventure and elegance combine. Each of the 15 Staterooms and Suites is designed to provide a relaxed ambiance for you to enjoy during your stay. Comfortable yet practical, with plenty of storage space, fine Aesop toiletries, soft furnishings and quality linen greet you. The interior style reflects the history, destinations and communities we visit, a salute to the era of grand touring when wicker was the signature furnishing, reminiscent of the days when travel was enjoyed only by the privileged few….   Our modern take reflects finishes that are textural – a gentle pallet of rattan, linen and copper add finishing touches that are warm and welcoming. Your relaxing haven after a day of activity.
Ocean Twin Stateroom
£9998 GBP pp
Ocean Twin Stateroom
While the experiences encountered ashore are paramount, so too is your comfort onboard. On Paspaley Pearl adventure and elegance combine. 16 sqm - Twin Bed Each of the 15 Staterooms and Suites is designed to provide a relaxed ambiance for you to enjoy during your stay. Comfortable yet practical, with plenty of storage space, fine Aesop toiletries, soft furnishings and quality linen greet you. The interior style reflects the history, destinations and communities we visit, a salute to the era of grand touring when wicker was the signature furnishing, reminiscent of the days when travel was enjoyed only by the privileged few….   Our modern take reflects finishes that are textural – a gentle pallet of rattan, linen and copper add finishing touches that are warm and welcoming. Your relaxing haven after a day of activity.
Ocean Stateroom
£10498 GBP pp
Ocean Stateroom
17.5sqm, 18 sqm - Queen Bed While the experiences encountered ashore are paramount, so too is your comfort onboard. On Paspaley Pearl adventure and elegance combine. Each of the 15 Staterooms and Suites is designed to provide a relaxed ambiance for you to enjoy during your stay. Comfortable yet practical, with plenty of storage space, fine Aesop toiletries, soft furnishings and quality linen greet you. The interior style reflects the history, destinations and communities we visit, a salute to the era of grand touring when wicker was the signature furnishing, reminiscent of the days when travel was enjoyed only by the privileged few….   Our modern take reflects finishes that are textural – a gentle pallet of rattan, linen and copper add finishing touches that are warm and welcoming. Your relaxing haven after a day of activity.
Horizon Suite
£12998 GBP pp
Horizon Suite
20 sqm incl Balcony - Queen Bed While the experiences encountered ashore are paramount, so too is your comfort onboard. On Paspaley Pearl adventure and elegance combine. Each of the 15 Staterooms and Suites is designed to provide a relaxed ambiance for you to enjoy during your stay. Comfortable yet practical, with plenty of storage space, fine Aesop toiletries, soft furnishings and quality linen greet you. The interior style reflects the history, destinations and communities we visit, a salute to the era of grand touring when wicker was the signature furnishing, reminiscent of the days when travel was enjoyed only by the privileged few….   Our modern take reflects finishes that are textural – a gentle pallet of rattan, linen and copper add finishing touches that are warm and welcoming. Your relaxing haven after a day of activity.
Pearl Suite
£15498 GBP pp
Pearl Suite
27 sqm incl Balcony - Queen Bed While the experiences encountered ashore are paramount, so too is your comfort onboard. On Paspaley Pearl adventure and elegance combine. Each of the 15 Staterooms and Suites is designed to provide a relaxed ambiance for you to enjoy during your stay. Comfortable yet practical, with plenty of storage space, fine Aesop toiletries, soft furnishings and quality linen greet you. The interior style reflects the history, destinations and communities we visit, a salute to the era of grand touring when wicker was the signature furnishing, reminiscent of the days when travel was enjoyed only by the privileged few….   Our modern take reflects finishes that are textural – a gentle pallet of rattan, linen and copper add finishing touches that are warm and welcoming. Your relaxing haven after a day of activity.
03 October, 2027 to 13 October, 2027 on Paspaley Pearl
Prices

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.

Pearl Suite
£17249 GBP pp
Pearl Suite
27 sqm incl Balcony - Queen Bed While the experiences encountered ashore are paramount, so too is your comfort onboard. On Paspaley Pearl adventure and elegance combine. Each of the 15 Staterooms and Suites is designed to provide a relaxed ambiance for you to enjoy during your stay. Comfortable yet practical, with plenty of storage space, fine Aesop toiletries, soft furnishings and quality linen greet you. The interior style reflects the history, destinations and communities we visit, a salute to the era of grand touring when wicker was the signature furnishing, reminiscent of the days when travel was enjoyed only by the privileged few….   Our modern take reflects finishes that are textural – a gentle pallet of rattan, linen and copper add finishing touches that are warm and welcoming. Your relaxing haven after a day of activity.
Ocean Double Stateroom
£10749 GBP pp
Ocean Double Stateroom
14 sqm - Double Bed While the experiences encountered ashore are paramount, so too is your comfort onboard. On Paspaley Pearl adventure and elegance combine. Each of the 15 Staterooms and Suites is designed to provide a relaxed ambiance for you to enjoy during your stay. Comfortable yet practical, with plenty of storage space, fine Aesop toiletries, soft furnishings and quality linen greet you. The interior style reflects the history, destinations and communities we visit, a salute to the era of grand touring when wicker was the signature furnishing, reminiscent of the days when travel was enjoyed only by the privileged few….   Our modern take reflects finishes that are textural – a gentle pallet of rattan, linen and copper add finishing touches that are warm and welcoming. Your relaxing haven after a day of activity.
Ocean Stateroom
£11999 GBP pp
Ocean Stateroom
17.5sqm, 18 sqm - Queen Bed While the experiences encountered ashore are paramount, so too is your comfort onboard. On Paspaley Pearl adventure and elegance combine. Each of the 15 Staterooms and Suites is designed to provide a relaxed ambiance for you to enjoy during your stay. Comfortable yet practical, with plenty of storage space, fine Aesop toiletries, soft furnishings and quality linen greet you. The interior style reflects the history, destinations and communities we visit, a salute to the era of grand touring when wicker was the signature furnishing, reminiscent of the days when travel was enjoyed only by the privileged few….   Our modern take reflects finishes that are textural – a gentle pallet of rattan, linen and copper add finishing touches that are warm and welcoming. Your relaxing haven after a day of activity.
Ocean Twin Stateroom
£11499 GBP pp
Ocean Twin Stateroom
While the experiences encountered ashore are paramount, so too is your comfort onboard. On Paspaley Pearl adventure and elegance combine. 16 sqm - Twin Bed Each of the 15 Staterooms and Suites is designed to provide a relaxed ambiance for you to enjoy during your stay. Comfortable yet practical, with plenty of storage space, fine Aesop toiletries, soft furnishings and quality linen greet you. The interior style reflects the history, destinations and communities we visit, a salute to the era of grand touring when wicker was the signature furnishing, reminiscent of the days when travel was enjoyed only by the privileged few….   Our modern take reflects finishes that are textural – a gentle pallet of rattan, linen and copper add finishing touches that are warm and welcoming. Your relaxing haven after a day of activity.
Horizon Suite
£14749 GBP pp
Horizon Suite
20 sqm incl Balcony - Queen Bed While the experiences encountered ashore are paramount, so too is your comfort onboard. On Paspaley Pearl adventure and elegance combine. Each of the 15 Staterooms and Suites is designed to provide a relaxed ambiance for you to enjoy during your stay. Comfortable yet practical, with plenty of storage space, fine Aesop toiletries, soft furnishings and quality linen greet you. The interior style reflects the history, destinations and communities we visit, a salute to the era of grand touring when wicker was the signature furnishing, reminiscent of the days when travel was enjoyed only by the privileged few….   Our modern take reflects finishes that are textural – a gentle pallet of rattan, linen and copper add finishing touches that are warm and welcoming. Your relaxing haven after a day of activity.
show reverse itinerary
Day 1 Cairns, Australia - Your Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef


Board Paspaley Pearl in tropical Queensland, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. Meet fellow adventurers over welcome cocktails while our expedition team prepares you for transformative cultural encounters across Papua New Guinea’s extraordinary diversity of 800 distinct languages and traditions.

Day 2 At Sea - Cultural expertise and remarkable diversity


Connect with your expedition community during our Coral Sea crossing as cultural experts introduce Papua New Guinea’s remarkable diversity. Learn basic Tok Pisin greetings, understand traditional customs you’ll witness, and study art forms we’ll encounter while keeping an eye out spotting marine life from the deck.

Day 3 Samarai Islands - Historic expeditions across WWII Landmarks


Explore colonial remnants on the former “Pearl of the Pacific” and visit Kwato Island’s historic mission. Walk tree-lined roads where traders once operated, then discover the stone church built in 1937 and learn how expert boat-building skills later supported Australian Coastwatchers during WWII.

Day 4 Deboyne Lagoon - Traditional experiences in crystal waters


Experience traditional subsistence village life in this stunning triangular atoll where crystal-clear waters surround palm-fringed islands. Interact with welcoming communities, and snorkel above a Japanese Zero fighter plane resting since the 1942 Battle of the Coral Sea.

Day 5 Deboyne Lagoon - Traditional experiences in crystal waters


Experience traditional subsistence village life in this stunning triangular atoll where crystal-clear waters surround palm-fringed islands. Interact with welcoming communities, and snorkel above a Japanese Zero fighter plane resting since the 1942 Battle of the Coral Sea.

Day 6 Trobriand Islands - Ancestral expeditions with sacred value


Witness traditional dances on the famous “Islands of Love” where elaborate costumes and rhythmic movements retain ancestral power. Participate in Kula exchange ceremonies spanning 18 island communities, handling sacred valuables that establish lifelong relationships and bind communities across vast ocean distances.

Day 7 Tufi - Authentic volcanic experiences


Board traditional outrigger canoes to explore the dramatic volcanic fjords rising 150 meters from the water. Witness authentic sago production using unchanged traditional techniques, participate in tapa cloth creation with natural dyes, and swim in pristine waters surrounded by Papua New Guinea’s most spectacular landscapes.

Day 8 Morobe Harbour - Experience authentic coastal regions


Experience authentic coastal village life where traditional fishing, canoe building, and subsistence farming continue unchanged. Join village walks observing daily activities, then cheer traditional canoe races staged in your honour while learning the cultural significance of vessel construction in coastal societies.

Day 9 Tami Islands - See mainland and archipelago traditions up close


Discover the Pacific’s most influential art production centre where the famous “Tami style” wooden bowls, religious figures, and ceremonial masks are created. Try basic carving under expert guidance, fish using traditional methods, and swim in crystal-clear lagoons.

Day 10 Tuam Island - Traditional experiences and performances


Experience exceptional warmth through traditional music and dance performances showcasing exchanges between mainland and archipelago traditions. Despite its modest size, this culturally rich island reflects Papua New Guinea’s extraordinary diversity through ceremonies, songs, and stories shared by welcoming families

Day 11 Madang - Visit diverse regions and volcanic wonders


Conclude your cultural odyssey in the “Pearl of the South Pacific,” where volcanic islands dot the natural harbour. Visit local markets showcasing regional diversity, observe how traditional and modern influences blend, carrying memories of genuine cultural exchanges and transformative community connections.

Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Day 1 Cairns, Australia - Your Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef


Board Paspaley Pearl in tropical Queensland, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. Meet fellow adventurers over welcome cocktails while our expedition team prepares you for transformative cultural encounters across Papua New Guinea’s extraordinary diversity of 800 distinct languages and traditions.

Day 2 At Sea - Cultural expertise and remarkable diversity


Connect with your expedition community during our Coral Sea crossing as cultural experts introduce Papua New Guinea’s remarkable diversity. Learn basic Tok Pisin greetings, understand traditional customs you’ll witness, and study art forms we’ll encounter while keeping an eye out spotting marine life from the deck.

Day 3 Samarai Islands - Historic expeditions across WWII Landmarks


Explore colonial remnants on the former “Pearl of the Pacific” and visit Kwato Island’s historic mission. Walk tree-lined roads where traders once operated, then discover the stone church built in 1937 and learn how expert boat-building skills later supported Australian Coastwatchers during WWII.

Day 4 Deboyne Lagoon - Traditional experiences in crystal waters


Experience traditional subsistence village life in this stunning triangular atoll where crystal-clear waters surround palm-fringed islands. Interact with welcoming communities, and snorkel above a Japanese Zero fighter plane resting since the 1942 Battle of the Coral Sea.

Day 5 Deboyne Lagoon - Traditional experiences in crystal waters


Experience traditional subsistence village life in this stunning triangular atoll where crystal-clear waters surround palm-fringed islands. Interact with welcoming communities, and snorkel above a Japanese Zero fighter plane resting since the 1942 Battle of the Coral Sea.

Day 6 Trobriand Islands - Ancestral expeditions with sacred value


Witness traditional dances on the famous “Islands of Love” where elaborate costumes and rhythmic movements retain ancestral power. Participate in Kula exchange ceremonies spanning 18 island communities, handling sacred valuables that establish lifelong relationships and bind communities across vast ocean distances.

Day 7 Tufi - Authentic volcanic experiences


Board traditional outrigger canoes to explore the dramatic volcanic fjords rising 150 meters from the water. Witness authentic sago production using unchanged traditional techniques, participate in tapa cloth creation with natural dyes, and swim in pristine waters surrounded by Papua New Guinea’s most spectacular landscapes.

Day 8 Morobe Harbour - Experience authentic coastal regions


Experience authentic coastal village life where traditional fishing, canoe building, and subsistence farming continue unchanged. Join village walks observing daily activities, then cheer traditional canoe races staged in your honour while learning the cultural significance of vessel construction in coastal societies.

Day 9 Tami Islands - See mainland and archipelago traditions up close


Discover the Pacific’s most influential art production centre where the famous “Tami style” wooden bowls, religious figures, and ceremonial masks are created. Try basic carving under expert guidance, fish using traditional methods, and swim in crystal-clear lagoons.

Day 10 Tuam Island - Traditional experiences and performances


Experience exceptional warmth through traditional music and dance performances showcasing exchanges between mainland and archipelago traditions. Despite its modest size, this culturally rich island reflects Papua New Guinea’s extraordinary diversity through ceremonies, songs, and stories shared by welcoming families

Day 11 Madang - Visit diverse regions and volcanic wonders


Conclude your cultural odyssey in the “Pearl of the South Pacific,” where volcanic islands dot the natural harbour. Visit local markets showcasing regional diversity, observe how traditional and modern influences blend, carrying memories of genuine cultural exchanges and transformative community connections.

Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Itinerary also available in reverse
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 £9248 GBP pp

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