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Papua New Guinea (Caledonian Sky)

Papua New Guinea (Caledonian Sky)

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Description

12-night cruise aboard the elegant MS Caledonian Sky discovering Papua New Guinea.

Trip Name
Papua New Guinea (Caledonian Sky)
Days
13
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: 90 metres Passenger Capacity: 114 (in 57 suites) Built: 1991 / refurbished 2012 The MS Caledonian Sky accommodates a maximum of 114 passengers in 57 spacious outside suites. Many have walk-in wardrobes and some feature tub baths. There will be seven categories of suites and sixteen suites will have private balconies. For those familiar with the MS Island Sky she will feel like a second home, although there are some differences. The dining room, lounge, Lido Deck and bar are all similar. However, the ‘Club’ on the MS Caledonian Sky has been transported to the very top deck. Here, there is a library and bar which leads out on to a lovely forward deck. The ‘Club’ has wonderful views with ceiling to floor windows. If you like the MS Island Sky, we are sure you will also approve of her sister. And, of course it is important that we offer the very best of facilities. However, equally as important are the staff on board whether they are the vessel’s crew or our own expedition staff. Noble Caledonia’s reputation has been built on providing the very best in all areas. Their crew of 74 not only offer an excellent service they are also noted for their kindness and attention to detail. A well run ship with a warm atmosphere is what we are known for, and it is because most of our crew have been with us for many years that we are able to engender such an atmosphere. Your Suite Onboard there are 57 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. The passenger accommodation is arranged over four decks and all suites have outside views. All feature a sitting room area and some have private balconies. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring a country style wash basin, hot towel rack and vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower and/or bath tub. Facilities in the suites also include walk-in or spacious wardrobes, dressing table with large mirror and stool or desk, mini-fridge, flat screen television, telephone, programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted toiletries, air-conditioning and heating. Bottled water, towelling dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Your space The spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a large lounge where daily briefings and talks will be provided throughout the voyage and an elegant bar where a pianist plays periodically throughout the day. The bar also features a 24-hour tea and coffee station. In addition there is the Club Lounge on the Panoramic Deck which features a bar. The onboard travel library is the perfect place to relax with a book and is stocked with reference books pertaining to the places the vessel is visiting along with a selection of games and two computers with internet access. Daily newspapers and magazines are also placed in the library depending on local availability. Outside there is a rear Lido deck where meals are served in warm weather under shade. On the top deck there is a further observation and sun deck with bar service and comfortable deck furniture for sun bathing or relaxing with a book. There is also a small gymnasium onboard and hairdressers with appointments made on request. Your dining With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the quality of cuisine will be of a consistent superior quality. Where possible and when it meets his high standards, our accomplished chef will obtain local produce in markets or buy the catch of the day from a passing fishing boat. Such purchases enhance the well stocked larders and bring a local touch to the varied menus. In the main elegant dining room, breakfast is served buffet-style, with certain items cooked to order and lunch and dinner is à la carte. When weather permits, breakfast, a buffet-style lunch and dinner are also served on deck. To enhance your dining experience even further a selection of wines are included with lunch and dinner. Afternoon tea is served in the lounge and tea and coffee are available 24 hours. With sufficient notice, most diets can be catered for on board. For your comfort, safety and security The vessel is equipped with the latest safety, navigation and communications equipment along with roll stabilisers to minimise the ship’s motion. The Captain and officers operate an open-bridge policy that allows passengers onto the bridge at most times with the exception of arrival and departure from port and during times of complicated navigation. Here you can check the ship’s progress by charts and learn more from the officers about your journey. There is also a dedicated channel on your television in your suite showing the routing of the vessel along with technical information and estimated times of arrival and departure from port. On board you will also find a clinic and doctor and a lift that serves all decks. Smoking on board is restricted to outside decks only. Gratuities Unlike many other cruise vessels, onboard the MS Caledonian Sky you do not need to worry about tipping staff as we have included them in your holiday price. In addition we tip all their guides and drivers along the way, thereby taking away the hassle of always having to remember to have some small change with you.

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1 Cairns, Rabaul, Embark Ship
Arrive in Cairns early this morning, where you will join a specially chartered flight to Rabaul. On arrival be transferred to the MS Caledonian Sky. Enjoy Welcome Drinks and Dinner as you dock here overnight.
Day 2 - DAY 2 Duke Of York Island
Board a Zodiac and explore Duke of York Island, whose surrounding waters was the site where the HMAS AE1, the first allied vessel, went missing in World War I. Your special guest, Peter Briggs, will also offer first-hand insight into how he led the search to its discovery 103 years later.Explore Duke of York Island. Then, weather permitting, discover Mioko Island.
Day 3 - DAY 3 Garove Island
Spend the day on Garove Island, whose surrounding waters offer fine snorkelling. Perhaps tour the village, including its community house.
Day 4 - DAY 4 Alim Island
Venture out on a Zodiac to explore Alim Island, where you can find up to 2,000 pairs of breeding red footed boobies and brown noddies. Perhaps swim or snorkel from the beach, board a Zodiac or if conditions permit, join your Expedition Team on a walk.
Day 5 - DAY 5 Sepik River
At dawn, anchor at the mouth of the Sepik River, a waterway that is central to life for the communities that live here. Board a Zodiac to explore the river system surrounded by lush forest.After your Signature Experience, visit a local village, where you will receive a traditional welcome before exploring the surrounds. See the place where important decisions regarding the village are made and initiation ceremonies take place, learn about the process of sago palms and see pieces of tribal art and crafts.
Day 6 - DAY 6 Madang
Arrive at Madang, whose township is often referred to as the ‘prettiest town in the South Pacific’. As the centre of heavy fighting during World War II, the town needed to be rebuilt after it was almost completely destroyed. As a result of this, today there are 34 sunken-ship dive sites that can be explored. A sightseeing tour takes you to the Catholic Mission and Coastwatchers Memorial Lighthouse, erected in honour of the Australian soldiers and the local volunteers who served as spies for the Allies during World War II. Afterwards, your special guest Peter Briggs will provide an insightful presentation about Madang.
Day 7 - DAY 7 Lababia Island
Arrive in Lababia, your entry to the Kamiali Wildlife Management Area. You have the opportunity to take a rainforest walk on the David Suzuki Trail, or enjoy time in the local village and gain an insight into their unique traditions, culture and daily life.
Day 8 - DAY 8 Tufi
Arrive at first light in the fjordland of Papua New Guinea. Board a Zodiac to explore the fjords and visit the local villages. While here, your Expedition Team will scout the perfect location for you to snorkel.
Day 9 - DAY 9 Fergusson Island, Dobu Island
Head out on a Zodiac to land on Fergusson Island. From here, walk to the local hot springs and bubbling mud pools surrounded by lush vegetation. This afternoon cruise through the Dobu passage and board a Zodiac to explore, or alternatively, land on shore to meet the local villagers.
Day 10 - DAY 10 Alotau
Arrive in Alotau and hear about the Battle of Milne Bay, which marked the first defeat of the Japanese on land during the Pacific War. Visit Turnbull Field Memorial, named after Squadron Leader Peter Turnbull, Commanding Officer who was killed in action in the Battle of Milne Bay. You will also see where the locals congregate to sell their wares, offering a trove of local artefacts including Trobriand carvings. Explore the town or head out with your Expedition Team to discover the surrounding rainforest.
Day 11 - DAY 11 Bonarua Island
Have your camera ready to capture the jagged peaks of the dramatic Stanley Owens Range come into view before arriving at the island of Bonarua in Milne Bay. Go ashore to view fishing and weaving demonstrations, and wander through the enchanting village, sampling local delicacies. Birdwatchers have the chance to trek into the thicket whilst the warm inviting waters of the Coral Sea offer a final opportunity for a swim.
Day 12 - DAY 12 Port Moresby
Disembark in Port Moresby and venture to the Kokoda Track, considered a great pilgrimage for Australians. Stop at Bomana Cemetery, the resting ground of many soldiers along the way. Visit McDonald’s corner and see its unusual metal statue that signifies the point where troops passed into the jungle. Later, arrive at Owers Corner, where the Australian troops made their last stand in one of the most significant battles of World War II. Enjoy lunch on the spectacular ride looking out across the Owen Stanley Ranges. From here, you will have the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of those who served, with a short introductory trek along the famous trail.After venturing to the Kokoda Track, travel back to your ship and enjoy a Farewell Dinner.
Day 13 - DAY 13 Disembark Ship, Depart Port Moresby
After breakfast, be transferred to the airport.
Day 14 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

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Inclusions

    • Snorkel In Pristine Reefs. Snorkel in some of the world's most pristine coral reefs among a myriad of colourful marine life.
    • World War I And II History. Explore Duke of York Island where the HMAS AE1 went missing in World War I, plus venture to the iconic Kokoda Track.
    • A Cultural Immersion. Visit local villages, where you will receive a traditional welcomes and learn about their traditions and customs.

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