Wild Eden of Papua New Guinea cruise

Honiara, Guadalcanal Island→Sorong, Papua

03.04.28 - 16.04.28

M0728040313SH MINERVA

Ports13

Countries3

Nights13

Sail from the Solomon Islands through Papua New Guinea, then finish in Indonesian Papua. Days move between reef lagoons, volcanic coastlines, village landings, and a full day on the Sepik River. Snorkel in the Bismarck Solomon Seas and cruise into Garove’s flooded caldera. Papua New Guinea is often called the Pacific’s living Eden for its cultural and biological diversity

Cruise Plus

Perfect for travellers who like peace of mind that everything is taken care of

Price on request

Expedition Highlights

A region of vivid contrasts, from coral seas and island cultures to ports shaped by trade and deep-rooted traditions, all brought to life by expert context.

Expert-led Talks

Learn more about this isolated polar region from our on board team of experts.

Guided Hikes

Take guided walks on island trails and coastal paths, with time to stop for views, wildlife spotting, and photos.

Echoes of the Pacific War

Trace WWII history across the region, from island shores where rusted aircraft and shipwreck relics still sit in the landscape to places of remembrance, with expert context that brings the story into focus.

Meet the Tribes of the Pacific

Experience captivating indigenous performances, such as ritual traditions and dances, explore tribal villages and shop for handicrafts.

Snorkeling & Diving

Explore clear, warm waters where coral gardens attract reef fish, rays, and, at times, reef sharks.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Thirteen nights aboard SH Minerva, with days that shift fast between sea and shore. One morning can be a quiet lagoon and a snorkel off the Zodiacs. The next can be a village welcome, a walk inland, or a river journey where life still moves by canoe and current

NOTE: This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

Overview

Day 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 In 1952 it superseded Tulagi as the premier city of these islands.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

Njari is a tiny, uninhabited island off Gizo in the Solomon Islands, a strip of white sand and tropical foliage set in clear lagoon water. The surrounding reefs sit in the Coral Triangle, so the sea life here is often rich and close to shore. It is a quiet pause in the day, with a feeling of being far from everything

Day 3. Buka Town, Buka Island

Discover Buka Town, the administrative centre of Bougainville. Bougainville’s identity is strong and local, with many distinct languages and traditions, and a matrilineal culture where women are central to land and clan life. This is also a place in political transition. In the 2019 referendum, Bougainville voted overwhelmingly for independence, and might soon become the world's newest country

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

The inhabited Tami Islands, a four-island archipelago south of Finschhafen in the Huon Gulf, are home to skilled carvers. These islanders craft intricate hardwood bowls, particularly the renowned 'Tami bowls' known for their fine craftsmanship and ceremonial use. These bowls, featuring spirit faces with a distinctive three-peaked headdress (oa balan), are highly valued, with some found in New York’s Metropolitan Museum and the British Museum

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 is set on a striking peninsula, surrounded by calm waterways, lush greenery, and small tropical islands. It was once celebrated as one of the most picturesque towns in the South Pacific. The province is also one of Papua New Guinea’s most culturally diverse areas, with more than 170 distinct languages across its communities

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

The Sepik River gracefully winds through rainforest and swampland, revealing tribal villages and stilt structures on muddy banks. In these homesteads, traditional ways of life persist with tribal ceremonies, spirit houses, and stories behind intricately carved masks and totems. Crocodiles, symbols of power, coexist with revered birds of paradise like Goldie's and sicklebills, punctuating the landscape with bursts of bright plumage

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

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Day 13. Pulau Mansinam, Papua

The island of New Britain features the secluded volcanic Kimbe Bay, renowned for its diverse marine ecosystem. The crystalline waters host coral reefs teeming with colourful tropical fish, WWII wrecks and coral-capped seamounts. Inland, treks lead to an active volcano and the rejuvenating thermal waters of the jungle-clad Garu Hot River. The bay's rainforest is home to Blyth’s hornbills, eclectus parrots and red-knobbed imperial pigeons

Day 14. Sorong, Papua

Arrival in Papua’s provincial capital, with disembarkation and onward travel arrangements

Endless ways to spend your day

There’s no such thing as a typical day with Swan Hellenic. We bring you endless possibilities to tailor every moment to your interests and mood, so you’ll always have your dream day on board.

SH Minerva at a Glance

Boutique Cruising

SH Minerva’s bespoke interiors are spacious and tasteful, with plush furnishing, and floor-to-ceiling windows that give you unobstructed views of some of the world’s most incredible landscapes.

Culinary Excellence

Every evening, the Swan Restaurant transforms into a gourmet venue serving the sublime creations of Michelin star award-winning consultant chefs.

Sauna & Spa

The sauna is perfect for meditative moments after onshore activities or following the wide choice of wellness treatments. The many options here include Balinese spa, beauty and wellness treatments, ranging from hot stone and bamboo massages to pampering body care.

Gym

State of the art gym with cardio machines, stretch bands & free weights. We will also be offering a range of instructor-led classes, along with personal trainers for everything from resistance training and Pilates to yoga and meditation.

Pool & Jacuzzi

All is designed to make the most of the unparalleled views, from our outdoor hot tubs with stunning views to the extensive pool deck with stellar views of the glistening sea.

Onboard Discoveries

Immerse yourself in the nature, history and culture of every locale you visit on your cruise with special briefings, lectures and presentations. Our experienced expedition guides are sure to make your time on board both fascinating and informative.

Personal Service

Swan Hellenic is all about personal service and genuine hospitality. Our warm and welcoming crew aim to please, and nothing more than to give you the best experience possible.

Your Home Away from Home

Relax in the understated elegance of your stateroom or suite. A sophisticated blend of muted tones, natural textures and intuitive technology, the Scandi-inspired design seamlessly blends the natural world with exceptional comforts.