Wild Eden of Papua New Guinea Cruise

Find the perfect trip

15 days from

£8055 GBP pp

* Current p/p indicative rate.

Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ships
What's Included

Highlights

  • Explore breathtaking volcanic terrains and pristine palm-fringed beaches
  • Experience rich Melanesian cultural encounters, including the famous Mudmen of Santa Ana - a symbol of the meeting point between Melanesian and Polynesian cultures
  • Snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons and enjoy guided rainforest walks with expert naturalists

Highlights

  • Explore breathtaking volcanic terrains and pristine palm-fringed beaches
  • Experience rich Melanesian cultural encounters, including the famous Mudmen of Santa Ana - a symbol of the meeting point between Melanesian and Polynesian cultures
  • Snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons and enjoy guided rainforest walks with expert naturalists
Ship Minerva
Capacity: 148, Types: ExpeditionSmall Ship CruiseWheelchair accessible
Feture image for Wild Eden of Papua New Guinea Cruise

Set sail on an unforgettable small-ship expedition cruise through Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands — one of the most remote and culturally rich regions on Earth. Nestled in the heart of Melanesia, this tropical paradise is home to over 850 languages, vibrant tribal traditions, and some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. Journey into the untouched Bismarck Sea, where volcanic islands rise dramatically from emerald waters, and lush rainforests give way to pristine beaches and coral reefs brimming with life.

Designed for curious and adventurous travelers, this luxury cultural expedition offers rare encounters and profound cultural insights. Visit traditional villages where ancestral customs are still celebrated through mesmerizing dances and rituals. Explore World War II relics scattered across jungle-clad islands, snorkel vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life, and discover rare bird species and exotic flora found nowhere else. With expert guides and naturalists on board, every day promises a deeper connection to the land, people, and history of this remarkable region.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or cultural explorer, this cruise delivers a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with discovery, comfort, and authenticity. Ideal for those seeking luxury expedition cruises or off-the-beaten-path travel, this voyage reveals the raw beauty and untamed spirit of the South Pacific.

  • Explore breathtaking volcanic terrains and pristine palm-fringed beaches
  • Experience rich Melanesian cultural encounters, including the famous Mudmen of Santa Ana - a symbol of the meeting point between Melanesian and Polynesian cultures
  • Snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons and enjoy guided rainforest walks with expert naturalists

Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights

04 April, 2026 to 18 April, 2026 on Minerva
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.

Oceanview D4
£8055 GBP pp
Oceanview D4
19 m2 Sleeps 2 Oceanview cabins features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Oceanview M4
£8505 GBP pp
Oceanview M4
19 m2 Sleeps 2 Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Balcony D5
£9780 GBP pp
Balcony D5
28 m2 Sleeps 2 Features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room, a luxurious ensuite bathroom and your own private 6 sq.m. balcony.
Balcony M5
£10230 GBP pp
Balcony M5
28 m2 Sleeps 2 Located at the centre of the ship, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or double bed bedroom with living room area, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6m2 balcony
Suite
£14555 GBP pp
Suite
44 m2 Sleeps 2 Our Suites features a superking bed and separate living room with and a soothing flame-effect fireplace a luxurious ensuite bathroom and a 12 sq.m. private balcony.
Premium Suite
£16705 GBP pp
Premium Suite
49 m2 Sleeps 2 Our grandest suites features a superking bed and separate living room with and a soothing flame-effect fireplace a luxurious ensuite bathroom, spacious walk in wardrobe and a 12 sq.m private balcony.
show reverse itinerary
Days 0 - 1 Honiara, Guadalcanal Island


The capital of the Solomon Islands, Honiara sits on the northeastern coast of Guadalcanal at the mouth of the Mataniko River. A relatively new city, it grew up around a U.S. military base during and after WWII. In 1952 it superseded Tulagi as the premier city of these islands. Honiara’s U.S. War Memorial provides a comprehensive war-history lesson of the area. Today the town is laid-back and relatively tourist free with a real-life atmosphere.

Day 2 Cruising Kasolo Island (Kennedy Island)

Kennedy Island, (also Kasolo or Plum Pudding Island), is a tiny forested islet named after John F. Kennedy. In August 1943, after their craft was rammed by a Japanese destroyer, the crew of PT-109, led by Lieutenant Kennedy, abandoned ship, swam ashore, before making their way to nearby Olasana Island. Kasolo Island's lush rainforests are home to the Solomon Islands fruit dove, the Solomon Islands honeyeater and the Solomon Islands flying fox.

Day 2 Njari Island

They say good things come in small packages. Njari is a tiny island located between the Wilson Strait and Vella Gulf in the Solomon Islands’ north region. An idyllic speck in the ocean, it’s almost entirely covered in trees. With hardly any infrastructure to speak of, the coves and bays remain unspoilt. Thousands of species of fish, rays, turtles, dolphins and sharks swim around the colourful coral.

Day 3 Buka Town, Buka Island

Buka, the capital of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, offers an authentic introduction to one of the South Pacific’s most culturally distinctive regions. Local Melanesian communities maintain strong clan ties and a deep connection to land and sea, expressed through music, dance, oral traditions, and craftsmanship. The town also reflects a story of resilience and renewal, shaped by Bougainville’s ongoing journey toward greater self-determination

Day 4 Rabaul

Rabaul, the former capital of New Britain in Papua New Guinea's northeastern tip, is a town with a remarkable volcanic history. Situated inside a flooded caldera and near the active Tavurvur volcano, Rabaul has been rebuilt multiple times, including after the 1994 eruption. Its bustling markets, rich wartime heritage and a strategic harbour make Rabaul an intriguing destination. An observatory oversees the country's volcanic activity.

Day 5 Garove Island

Tiny, far-flung Garove is part of the Vitu Islands in the Bismarck Sea and is defined by its rich marine biodiversity. The island wraps around a massive, horseshoe-shaped flooded caldera. Nearby dive sites reveal multi-hued fish darting among sea fans and anemones, while reef sharks, schooling jacks, and barracuda patrol the deep. Back on dry land, tiny villages nestle amid towering coconut palms.

Day 6 Tami Island

Tami Island, a small and serene island in Papua New Guinea, is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditional carvings. The island’s friendly community welcomes visitors to experience authentic local life, colorful art, and stunning coastal scenery. Surrounded by clear blue waters and coral reefs, Tami Island offers a peaceful escape infused with cultural warmth and natural beauty.

Day 7 Crown Island

Characterised by dense rainforest, the miniscule volcanic island of Crown Island is barely five kilometres from end to end. Rugged jungle trails offer glimpses of birds of paradise, doves and pigeons, while sapphire waters hide colourful coral reefs beneath the surface. Nearby Kar Kar Island is home to one of the country's most active volcanoes, sprawling cocoa plantations and traditional villages dotted among imposing coconut palms.

Day 8 Madang

Madang, a laid-back port town exuding a village vibe, presents a captivating blend of Pacific war history and natural beauty. At the Visitors and Cultural Bureau, WWII artefacts and exhibits recount the battles for this strategic outpost. The surrounding waters host coral reefs teeming with marine life. Rocky hiking trails traverse Mount Wilhelm, offering panoramic views, extending the allure beyond the town.

Day 9 Manam Island

Manam Island is marked by an active stratovolcano, occasionally emitting ash plumes. The island's rugged valleys, forested crags, villages and cultures coexist in the shadow of this natural colossus. The area boasts numerous coral reefs, and Hansa Bay holds sunken American and Japanese ships, along with bombers and fighter planes. These waters have also witnessed sightings of hammerheads and tiger sharks.

Day 10 Kopar Village, Sepik River

Kopar Village, nestled along the Sepik River in Papua New Guinea, is a vibrant community renowned for its rich cultural traditions and elaborate riverine art. The village offers a unique window into the lives of the Sepik people, famous for their intricate spirit houses, woodcarvings, and ceremonial rituals. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and winding waterways, Kopar is a place where culture and nature blend seamlessly, providing an unforgettable glimpse into one of the world’s most fascinating river cultures.

Day 11 Jayapura, Papua

Jayapura, Papua's provincial capital, serves as a base to explore the rugged Baliem Valley. Winding trails lead through verdant highlands to secluded waterfalls and saltwater springs. Traditional life endures in tribal villages hidden in the rainforest, featuring religious ceremonies or mock tribal wars. In Jayapura, museums recount the intense WWII battles, where Allied and Japanese forces clashed for control of the Pacific theatre.

Day 12 Day at Sea

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts.

Day 13 Pulau Mansinam, Papua

Pulau Mansinam is a small island of great historical and spiritual importance, where Christianity and modern education were first introduced to Papua in 1855. Today, the island combines the quiet rhythm of village life with meaningful cultural landmarks, including historic churches and monuments. Overlooking Manokwari Bay with views toward the Arfak Mountains, Mansinam also offers insight into the strong sense of community and living traditions that continue to shape local life.

Day 14 Sorong, Papua

Sorong, located in West Papua, serves as a key transportation and logistical hub in eastern Indonesia. Set along the coast and surrounded by tropical landscapes, the city reflects the dynamic character of this remote region, shaped by maritime activity and regional connections. As the final point of the voyage, Sorong provides a practical gateway for onward travel, marking the conclusion of the expedition and guests’ return journey home.

Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Days 0 - 1 Honiara, Guadalcanal Island


The capital of the Solomon Islands, Honiara sits on the northeastern coast of Guadalcanal at the mouth of the Mataniko River. A relatively new city, it grew up around a U.S. military base during and after WWII. In 1952 it superseded Tulagi as the premier city of these islands. Honiara’s U.S. War Memorial provides a comprehensive war-history lesson of the area. Today the town is laid-back and relatively tourist free with a real-life atmosphere.

Day 2 Cruising Kasolo Island (Kennedy Island)

Kennedy Island, (also Kasolo or Plum Pudding Island), is a tiny forested islet named after John F. Kennedy. In August 1943, after their craft was rammed by a Japanese destroyer, the crew of PT-109, led by Lieutenant Kennedy, abandoned ship, swam ashore, before making their way to nearby Olasana Island. Kasolo Island's lush rainforests are home to the Solomon Islands fruit dove, the Solomon Islands honeyeater and the Solomon Islands flying fox.

Day 2 Njari Island

They say good things come in small packages. Njari is a tiny island located between the Wilson Strait and Vella Gulf in the Solomon Islands’ north region. An idyllic speck in the ocean, it’s almost entirely covered in trees. With hardly any infrastructure to speak of, the coves and bays remain unspoilt. Thousands of species of fish, rays, turtles, dolphins and sharks swim around the colourful coral.

Day 3 Buka Town, Buka Island

Buka, the capital of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, offers an authentic introduction to one of the South Pacific’s most culturally distinctive regions. Local Melanesian communities maintain strong clan ties and a deep connection to land and sea, expressed through music, dance, oral traditions, and craftsmanship. The town also reflects a story of resilience and renewal, shaped by Bougainville’s ongoing journey toward greater self-determination

Day 4 Rabaul

Rabaul, the former capital of New Britain in Papua New Guinea's northeastern tip, is a town with a remarkable volcanic history. Situated inside a flooded caldera and near the active Tavurvur volcano, Rabaul has been rebuilt multiple times, including after the 1994 eruption. Its bustling markets, rich wartime heritage and a strategic harbour make Rabaul an intriguing destination. An observatory oversees the country's volcanic activity.

Day 5 Garove Island

Tiny, far-flung Garove is part of the Vitu Islands in the Bismarck Sea and is defined by its rich marine biodiversity. The island wraps around a massive, horseshoe-shaped flooded caldera. Nearby dive sites reveal multi-hued fish darting among sea fans and anemones, while reef sharks, schooling jacks, and barracuda patrol the deep. Back on dry land, tiny villages nestle amid towering coconut palms.

Day 6 Tami Island

Tami Island, a small and serene island in Papua New Guinea, is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditional carvings. The island’s friendly community welcomes visitors to experience authentic local life, colorful art, and stunning coastal scenery. Surrounded by clear blue waters and coral reefs, Tami Island offers a peaceful escape infused with cultural warmth and natural beauty.

Day 7 Crown Island

Characterised by dense rainforest, the miniscule volcanic island of Crown Island is barely five kilometres from end to end. Rugged jungle trails offer glimpses of birds of paradise, doves and pigeons, while sapphire waters hide colourful coral reefs beneath the surface. Nearby Kar Kar Island is home to one of the country's most active volcanoes, sprawling cocoa plantations and traditional villages dotted among imposing coconut palms.

Day 8 Madang

Madang, a laid-back port town exuding a village vibe, presents a captivating blend of Pacific war history and natural beauty. At the Visitors and Cultural Bureau, WWII artefacts and exhibits recount the battles for this strategic outpost. The surrounding waters host coral reefs teeming with marine life. Rocky hiking trails traverse Mount Wilhelm, offering panoramic views, extending the allure beyond the town.

Day 9 Manam Island

Manam Island is marked by an active stratovolcano, occasionally emitting ash plumes. The island's rugged valleys, forested crags, villages and cultures coexist in the shadow of this natural colossus. The area boasts numerous coral reefs, and Hansa Bay holds sunken American and Japanese ships, along with bombers and fighter planes. These waters have also witnessed sightings of hammerheads and tiger sharks.

Day 10 Kopar Village, Sepik River

Kopar Village, nestled along the Sepik River in Papua New Guinea, is a vibrant community renowned for its rich cultural traditions and elaborate riverine art. The village offers a unique window into the lives of the Sepik people, famous for their intricate spirit houses, woodcarvings, and ceremonial rituals. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and winding waterways, Kopar is a place where culture and nature blend seamlessly, providing an unforgettable glimpse into one of the world’s most fascinating river cultures.

Day 11 Jayapura, Papua

Jayapura, Papua's provincial capital, serves as a base to explore the rugged Baliem Valley. Winding trails lead through verdant highlands to secluded waterfalls and saltwater springs. Traditional life endures in tribal villages hidden in the rainforest, featuring religious ceremonies or mock tribal wars. In Jayapura, museums recount the intense WWII battles, where Allied and Japanese forces clashed for control of the Pacific theatre.

Day 12 Day at Sea

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts.

Day 13 Pulau Mansinam, Papua

Pulau Mansinam is a small island of great historical and spiritual importance, where Christianity and modern education were first introduced to Papua in 1855. Today, the island combines the quiet rhythm of village life with meaningful cultural landmarks, including historic churches and monuments. Overlooking Manokwari Bay with views toward the Arfak Mountains, Mansinam also offers insight into the strong sense of community and living traditions that continue to shape local life.

Day 14 Sorong, Papua

Sorong, located in West Papua, serves as a key transportation and logistical hub in eastern Indonesia. Set along the coast and surrounded by tropical landscapes, the city reflects the dynamic character of this remote region, shaped by maritime activity and regional connections. As the final point of the voyage, Sorong provides a practical gateway for onward travel, marking the conclusion of the expedition and guests’ return journey home.

Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Itinerary also available in reverse
Minerva
The 5 star elegant Scandi-design boutique ship offers you an intimate setting from which you will be fully immersed in all the sights and scenery of your voyage. Introducing SH Minerva Minerva has …

Minerva

Launch 2021
Max passengers 152

The 5 star elegant Scandi-design boutique ship offers you an intimate setting from which you will be fully immersed in all the sights and scenery of your voyage.

Introducing SH Minerva

Minerva has been designed to journey to off the beaten path destinations and remote polar regions in style and comfort. The ship incorporates a PC5 ice-strengthened hull combined with extra-large stabilisers to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Sophisticated Elegance

We know how important outdoor space is, so our spacious, relaxing public spaces provide wide open, unobstructed views throughout the ship. The destination will always be in view.

Your Wellbeing 

The safety & happiness of the guests is paramount to the 120-strong crew on board as well as the passionate expedition team who'll be serving up thrilling shore excursions and lasting memories.

Cabin Types

The 76 cabins including 6 suites have all the amenities you will need to feel comfortable including dressing gowns, hairdryers, personal safes and minibars. The stylish cabins all have desks, a dressing area and comfy seating. En suite bathrooms all feature glass-enclosed rain showers.

Wheelchair access

Guests who use wheelchairs must bring their own, as we have only a small number of wheelchairs stored onboard for emergencies. To ensure ease of movement on the ship, wheelchairs and mobility aids must be no wider than 65cm. All mobility or medical equipment brought on board must be capable of being carried safely and must be declared before sailing. To ensure that all guests can safely evacuate during an emergency, guests requiring a wheelchair can only be accommodated in our ADA-accessible cabins.

There is an Oceanview stateroom on Vega which is specifically designed to be completely ADA compliant and have a fully operable wheelchair-access wet unit.

Vega has two lifts, serving every passenger deck apart from the Stargazing top deck, which is, therefore, more difficult to access, as are the Aft Marina and Swan’s Nest forward observation platform. Also, we don’t have special equipment to access the swimming pool, jacuzzi, or sauna. Otherwise, the ship is entirely at your disposal.

Many of the expeditions ashore in remote places are by Zodiac. Boarding these boats and returning aboard can present challenges for wheelchair users, as can navigating uneven terrain. These challenges are by no means always insurmountable, though, and our highly experienced crew is trained to provide reliable advice and assistance. They will make every effort to ensure wheelchair-using guests enjoy a memorable experience at each destination. Our general guidance, however, is to recommend wheelchair users travel with a companion for their ease and enjoyment.

If you prefer to remain aboard, our panoramic interiors and ample open decks ensure an immersive, intimate experience of your inspiring surroundings.

Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.

Cabin layout for Minerva

Includes

  • Charter flights to the port of embarkation/ disembarkation
  • Group return transfers from airport to cruise port and to the hotel (where included)
  • One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel (exemptions apply)
  • Your selected stateroom
  • All meals onboard
  • Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise
  • 24-hour room service
  • Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers
  • One selected shore excursion per port of call
  • All expedition landings
  • Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available)
  • Gym, sauna, pool
  • 24/7 self service laundry
  • Waterproof backpack and refillable water bottle, yours to keep
  • Memory Package
  • Onboard gratuities & port taxes
Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ship
What's Included

15 days from £8055 GBP pp

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