Uncharted Melanesia Small Ship Cruise

The adventure begins with a short, privately-chartered flight from Cairns to beautiful Buka Island, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand beaches. Upon arrival, our crew will welcome you aboard the luxurious True North with cocktails and refreshments.

Today’s adventure takes you to Pok Pok Island, where you’re greeted with a vibrant welcome sing song, a traditional celebration that immerses you in the local culture from the moment you step ashore. Engage with the friendly locals, join their dances, explore their crafts, and perhaps even purchase unique artifacts to commemorate your visit. Pok Pok Island promises a lively blend of cultural interaction and aquatic exploration, with snorkeling and diving experiences also on offer.

The Carteret Islands is a captivating atoll rich in both culture and natural beauty. Your day unfolds with a visit to these low-lying islands and the vibrant underwater world where you’ll witness firsthand their unique way of life. Here, you’ll discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that define the Carteret Islands. Then, it’s time to immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world with snorkeling and diving adventures before unwinding with a beach swim and sunset drinks. Bliss.

Wake up in a different world: the enchanting Nissan Islands. As you step onto these elevated islands, you’ll be greeted by a serene inner lagoon and people who inhabit them, where you’ll witness firsthand their unique way of life. Also known as Green Island, the Nissan Islands are steeped in history from their role in World War II. Your day begins with a guided tour of the islands, revealing their historical significance and natural splendor. Before the adventure continues with snorkeling and diving in the pristine waters, exploring vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Prepare for an unforgettable day of exploration and underwater wonder. Dive into the vibrant reefs of Southeast New Ireland, where an abundance of pristine landscapes. Also known as Green Island, the Nissan Islands are steeped in history from their role in World War II. Your day begins with a guided tour of the islands, revealing their historical significance and natural splendor. Before the adventure continues with snorkeling and diving in the pristine waters, exploring vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Dive into an added thrill, scenic flights over this untouched paradise will offer breathtaking aerial views, capturing the raw beauty of New Ireland’s unspoiled waters and lush landscapes from above.

Continue your journey of discovery with exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities around the reefs of Southwest New Ireland. Spend your day exploring the thriving underwater ecosystem, home to an incredible array of coral and marine species. As the day winds down, we’ll head to Lambon Island for sunset drinks, where you can soak in the tranquil surroundings and enjoy a perfect end to an adventurous day.

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Tavolo, where you’ll be welcomed with a traditional sing-song ceremony. Explore the village and its surrounding gardens, learning about the Tola people’s deep connection to the land. As the day ends, enjoy a farewell feast with the villagers, sharing stories under a coconut tree.

Visit one of the main villages where the locals will welcome us with a cultural sing-song and showcase some of the best handmade wood carvings in Papua New Guinea, made from beautiful ebony and mother of pearl. There may also be opportunity to join in a game of Trobriand style.

Start the morning with a snorkel, discovering WWII wrecks in shallow waters of Deboyne Lagoon. Fishing, diving and sightseeing boats will also explore the lagoon and outer reef before we visit Panepompom Island to meet the locals. After welcoming us at the beach, they’ll treat us with some community canoe paddling and the opportunity to deliver appreciated resources to the local school. You’ll have the opportunity to sail on their handmade boats back out to True North before an afternoon helicopter ride to see the Jurassic-Park-esque views of the Calavados Chain. Then, spend the afternoon fishing, diving, snorkelling or hiking on the beautiful island.

Wake up in the incredible picturesque Karst Islands where you’ll have the option to join a short hike into a cave system, relax on the stunning white beach or dive, snorkel or fish in the channels between these islands. Then head to a tiny island in the afternoon for a swim, sunset cocktails and an opportunity to explore.

As your journey draws to a close, we disembark in this serene coastal village that has been a gateway to the wonders of Papua New Guinea. After days filled with cultural discoveries, underwater marvels, and the warmth of local hospitality, you’ll understand why Life's Different after True North.

This itinerary is provided as example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.