What is the best time to cruise Papua New Guinea?

Papua New Guinea cruises operate in a region where weather patterns vary considerably between the mainland, northern coast, and islands. May to October is generally the drier season across much of the country, while November marks the beginning of the wetter season in many regions. Swan Hellenic’s current Papua New Guinea expedition sails in November, following the northern coast through West Papua, the Sepik River region, New Britain, and Bougainville before continuing into the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Fiji. The expedition program is adapted to the conditions encountered along the route.

What can you see on a Papua New Guinea cruise?

A cruise to Papua New Guinea reveals a remarkable mix of living cultures, tropical landscapes, marine life, and Pacific War history. Swan Hellenic’s current Papua New Guinea cruise visits Jayapura before continuing to Wewak and the Sepik River, where riverside communities preserve traditions of canoe travel, wood carving, masks, and Haus Tambaran spirit houses. In Rabaul, volcanic landscapes meet a rich World War II legacy, while Bougainville offers a distinctive island culture shaped by strong local traditions and a matrilineal society. The voyage then continues through the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Fiji, adding coral reefs, remote islands, Guadalcanal’s wartime history, and Ambrym's volcanic landscapes and cultural traditions. Wildlife encounters vary from voyage to voyage, with opportunities to observe tropical birdlife and marine species along the way.

Wild Eden of Papua New Guinea cruise

What Awaits You

Set sail with Swan Hellenic on an unforgettable small-ship expedition cruise across the heart of Melanesia — from Indonesian Papua through Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands to Vanuatu and Fiji. This is one of the most remote and culturally rich regions on Earth, home to over 850 languages, vibrant tribal traditions, and some of the planet's most biodiverse ecosystems. Journey through 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. Travel up the storied Sepik River to Kopar Village, where ancestral customs live on through carving, ritual and dance, and step ashore on Ambrym, an island of active volcanoes and enduring ceremonial traditions. Explore World War II relics scattered across jungle-clad islands — from the Japanese tunnels of Rabaul to Guadalcanal and Kennedy Island, named for the future president rescued there in 1943. Snorkel the coral gardens of Njari, rest on the white sand of Champagne Beach, 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 Melanesia expedition 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, ending amid the palms and reefs of Fiji. Join us and uncover a world few have seen — with the refined elegance and personalized service that define every Swan Hellenic journey.

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 the region you're exploring from our team of expedition 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

From the jungles of Papua through the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu to the legendary shores of Fiji

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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

Sorong, Papua

The bustling port city of Sorong in West Papua is known as the gateway to the crystalline waters of Raja Ampat, the world's most biodiverse marine habitat, home to over 1,500 species of fish and 75 percent of the world's known coral species. In town, the Buddhist pagoda of Sapta Ratna stands tall on a hilltop overlooking the harbour. Local fishing boats come in with their catch at the bustling Pasar Jembutan Puri fish market

Day 2

Pulau Mansinam, Papua

Small Pulau Mansinam lies in Doreri Bay opposite Manokwari and holds a special place in the history and identity of West Papua. It is often described as the cradle of Christianity in Papua: on 5 February 1855, German missionaries Otto and Gustav Geissler landed here, marking the beginning of Christianity’s spread across the region. A monument on the island commemorates this event, and the landing date is still observed as an important moment in local history. Beyond its cultural significance, Mansinam is also surrounded by reefs that shelter tropical fish and a wide range of marine life. The island’s story also connects strongly to World War II: between 1942 and 1944, the Manokwari area and nearby islands were used by Japanese forces as a strategic base to control sea routes between New Guinea’s northern coast and islands such as Biak and Numfoor, before becoming part of the Allied campaign to liberate western New Guinea

Day 3

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 4

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 5

Wewak

Wewak, East Sepik's capital, is a coastal gateway to the vast Sepik River, a winding lifeline through lush sago swamps, nipa palms and tranquil lagoons. Along its banks, stilted villages uphold vibrant traditions, from canoe travel to crafting intricate masks, wood carvings and towering Haus Tambaran spirit houses. Wewak also holds echoes of WWII history, with relics and the Cape Wom Memorial marking Japan’s surrender in Papua New Guinea

Day 6

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 7

Day at sea

Day 8

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 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

Day at sea

Day 13

Champagne Beach, Espiritu Santo Island

Espiritu Santo is the largest island in Vanuatu, where dense rainforest meets luminous blue lagoons and long stretches of white sand. Known for its clear waters and quiet bays, the island offers a relaxed rhythm shaped by nature and local life. Inland, hidden freshwater pools and forest trails invite unhurried exploration, while along the coast, coral reefs and historic sites tell stories of both natural beauty and a layered past. Champagne Beach is a quiet, sheltered cove where pale sands meet clear, gently lapping water. Named for the soft effervescence created by waves moving over volcanic rock beneath the surface, the beach offers a calm, almost meditative setting

Day 14

Ambrym Island

Ambrym Island is part of Vanuatu's Y-shaped, volcanic archipelago, spanning 1,300 km in the South Pacific. The fifth largest of Vanuatu's 80 islands, Ambrym features black-sand beaches and the awe-inspiring twin volcanoes of Mount Marum and Mount Benbow. Lush rainforest covers Ambrym, where villagers practise traditional magic and create renowned sand drawings. Kava, made from the root of the local plant, is the ceremonial drink

Day 15

Day at sea

Day 16

Lautoka, Viti Levu

Viti Levu is the largest island in the Republic of Fiji, and site of the nation's capital, Suva. Lautoka, Fiji’s second-largest city, is often referred to as ‘Sugar City’ because of its historical association with the sugar industry. The former Sugar Mill has been converted into an inviting museum, showcasing the rich history of Lautoka's sugar industry, the sugar production process and features vintage machinery

Guest Reviews

Each Swan Hellenic journey is designed to inspire curiosity, broaden horizons, and create lasting memories. Our guests' experiences bring to life the spirit of cultural discovery and exploration that defines our voyages.

What elevates Swan Hellenic above competitors is the expedition team and the dedication to immersive travel. The expert lecturers, naturalists, and guides are world-class, offering fascinating lectures and ensuring safe, intimate excursions.

Rachel TaylorAustralia

Everything was absolutely perfect! There was not a single thing to complain about. It was incredibly fun, and that fantastic atmosphere was maintained by the entire crew from the very first to the very last minute of our stay!

Alexander KorneevFinland

A terrific expedition trip! Small number of guests, very attentive staff, very interesting ports of call. Excursions were varied & fun!

Katie BrownCanada

I highly recommend Swan Hellenic! Every single aspect of my cruise was outstanding. The food was fantastic and the ship is awesome. The crew supported my every need in an excellent manner.

Robbie AsherUnited States

From the captain to the expedition guides, from the service staff to housekeeping. 100 out of 100 points!

Annette ClavinDenmark

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Asia & Pacific

Untamed Wilderness: an Expedition from Papua to Fiji

Sorong, Papua

Lautoka, Viti Levu

03.11.28 - 18.11.2815 nights

SH MinervaM1528110315

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Frequently Asked Questions

A Papua New Guinea cruise with Swan Hellenic is carefully planned from start to finish, allowing guests to explore this remote region of Melanesia with confidence. Guests on cruises to Papua New Guinea travel aboard a purpose-built boutique expedition ship and are accompanied by an experienced Expedition Team, expert guides, and naturalists during excursions, with support and local insight in destinations including Jayapura, Wewak, the Sepik River, Rabaul, and Bougainville. For the current voyage, Cruise Plus includes pre-cruise accommodation in Benoa, Bali, group transfers, and a charter flight from Denpasar-Bali to Sorong. With the travel arrangements taken care of, guests can focus on discovering local cultures, coral-rich seas, wildlife, and the complex history of Papua New Guinea and the wider South Pacific.

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What Awaits You