Rabaul to Alotau
| Tour Code: | Rabaul to Alotau |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 11 days |
| Tour Dates: | 20 – 30 April 2008 |
| Travel Map: Click to enlarge>> |  |
Tour Description:
The Aurora Expeditions journey is a ship-based exploration of the islands of the Bismarck and Solomon seas, including an in-depth look at the southern coast of New Britain. Papua New Guinea’s spectacular terrain combined with a lack of suitable infrastructure makes travel to most areas difficult except by air or sea. With Aurora Expeditions suitably sized and ice-strengthened ship "The Marina Svetaeva" travelling to these regions is the safest, most efficient and enjoyable way to unlock the secrets of one of the world’s last great frontiers.
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Tour Itinerary
Day 1 – Rabaul
Ringed by six volcanic peaks, some of which are still active, Rabaul has one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the Pacific.
This afternoon you will be met at your hotel and taken to our trusty ship, Marina Svetaeva. Your luggage will be transferred to your cabin before we set sail out of Simpson Harbour and into the Bismarck Sea as we head east from New Britain in search of adventure.
Day 2 – Duke of York Islands
Venturing among this exotic chain of islands should make for relaxing start to our expedition. The picture-postcard setting of azure blue water and gleaming white beaches belies the sacred nature of the islands. Local tribes place special spiritual significance to the Duke of York’s, with ritual costumes painstakingly made at various locations throughout the islands.
Day 3 – Lambon & Lamassa, New Ireland
This morning we arrive at Lamassa Island, where we hope to explore small fjords and the remnants of Marquis de Ray’s settlement saga, where he sold hundreds of hectares of land to gullible settlers, that was nothing more than a malaria infested tangled jungle.
Later in the day we’ll head to Lambom Island where the jungle meets the sea. Like the early explorers centuries ago, we may be welcomed by the spear-wielding ‘Msalai’ or bush spirits. Local villagers re-enact their first encounter with Europeans on their land.
Day 4 – Wide Bay (East Pomio Region)
More than 250 miles in length, New Britain is the largest of PNG’s islands. Over the coming days you will experience expedition cruising at its best as we sail eastwards along this magical coastline. Sprinkled with waterfalls and crystal clear rivers flowing from the dense jungle, our ongoing explorations of the New Britain coastline are sure to throw up some delightful surprises.
This morning we will investigate the area around Wide Bay, where we may take a Zodiac excursion, tour a coconut plantation and for the more energetic, trek to an impressive cave system in the hills beyond the coast.
Our visit to Karlai plantation this afternoon promises to be one of the highlights of our expedition, with a cultural show performed by tribes from the East Pomio region. We will watch traditional sing sings from the Mengen, Sulka, Baining and Tomoips known as the Mesubato tribes as well as performances from the regions school children.
Day 5 – East New Britain
The seas of this region are alive with marine life. The Solomon Trench provides an upwelling of cooler nutrient-rich waters able to support a staggering array of species. We hope to snorkel the exceptionally clear water of some of New Britain’s best coral reefs, teeming with angelfish, parrotfish and a kaleidoscope of brilliantly coloured tropical fish.
Today we explore the central Pomio region and, accompanied by local villagers, walk to the stunning waterfall at Wara Kalap, visit an ancient stone carving and a fresh water fish hatchery.
Day 6 – Trobriand Islands
We are welcomed by the paramount chief of the famed ‘Islands of Love’, a group of tranquil coral islands where a unique traditional culture has survived. We may have the privilege to see the energetic yam harvest dances performed by smiling locals in traditional costumes alive with colour. Trobriand Islanders are renowned for their finely carved wooden artefacts, many made of ebony with delicate inlays of mother-of-pearl.
This evening we continue east across the Solomon Sea toward the more remote eastern isles of Papua New Guinea.
Days 7 – Marshall Bennett Islands
This enchanting island chain is home to a rich array of aquatic life and spectacular tropical scenery. Our captain navigates the reefs and waterways that separate the islands of this exotic landscape as we look out for some great spots for Zodiac cruising, nature walks, birding and snorkelling. A casual stroll along a warm sandy beach backed by swaying coconut palms or swimming in warm waters teeming with colourful fish…you decide!
Day 8 – Woodlark Island
Outsiders rarely visit the scenic beauty of remote Woodlark Island. We hope to meet the welcoming inhabitants who take us on a stroll through the thatched-roof houses of their villages, offering a rare glimpse into the daily lives of a fascinating culture still very much alive today. Our naturalist leads a hike into the forest to learn about the island’s outstanding botanical diversity, where we also hope to see channel-billed cuckoos, loris and flying foxes.
Day 9 – Egum Atoll
Egum is a classic atoll, with a circular lagoon 33km across. We have opportunities for Zodiac excursions around the lagoon and hope to explore several of the islands that dot the rim.
The residents of this sparsely inhabited paradise are part of the unique cultural phenomenon of the Kula Ring. Our lecturers will introduce us to this circular pattern of ceremonial trade relationships, a custom that binds the southeastern islands of PNG together in a traditional network of friendship. We hope to see some of the Kula trade canoes that ply these waters, elaborately decorated with shells and intricate carvings.
Day 10 - D’Entrecasteaux Islands
Named after the French navigator Antoine D’Entrecasteaux, who sailed through these waters in 1793, this mountainous group of islands are home to small communities of subsistence farmers, whose stilted huts dot the narrow coastal fringes.
Today we leisurely explore the islands and look for interesting places to land. We may visit the largest of the group, Fergusson Island, notable for its primordial landscape of hot springs, boiling mud pools and impressive geysers. It is said the locals can cause the geysers to shoot up by raising the spirit of the hot springs with ancient magic. The exceptionally thick rainforest of this island is one of only two places in the world where the rare Goldies bird of paradise can be seen. The waters surrounding these dramatic islands are frequented by bottlenose dolphins and their fringing coral reefs offer excellent snorkelling opportunities
Day 11 – Alotau
Flanked by mountain ranges on each side, this morning we steam into picturesque Milne Bay and dock at the peaceful harbour town of Alotau.
As our journey draws to an end, we will have time to reflect on the amazing experiences we have shared, before we bid each other farewell.
Marina Svetaeva is not a luxury ship, she is homely and strong, built to be a working vessel and refitted to a comfortable passenger standard. The mood on board is definitely casual. At sea we are totally self-sufficient. The days flow by while we travel snugly in our cocoon. A favourite pastime on board is to stand on deck or on the bridge, watching for seabirds, absorbing the dramatic scenery.
Pre and Post Travel
n our "Booking Form" please select what pre-post travel arrangements you may require and let our team at SSH assist you with this coordination
Deck Plan Map - Prices:
| Deck | Cabin | Cruise Cost(AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Deck 3 | Quad, shared facilities | $5290 |
| Deck 3 | Triple, shared facilities | $5790 |
| Deck 4 | Twin, shared facilities | $6990 |
| Deck 4 & 5 | Twin, private facilities | $7990 |
| Deck 4 & 5 | Mini Suite, private facilities | $8890 |
| Deck 5 | Captain's Suite, private facilities | $9490 |
Disclaimer: All prices are indicative and subject to change at anytime due to change in rates by operators, hoteliers, fuel surcharges and other related costs. Enquiries for prices will be confirmed once a client has completed the book online form. The above rates are for "Land Content Only." Airfares, travel insurance and extra tour activities are not included. ALL PRICES IN AUSTRALIAN DOLLARS
Extra Information:
Highlights
- Visits to traditional villages where welcoming locals offer a glimpse of their traditional lifestyle
- Experiencing the visual richness and contrasting cultures of each region
- Snorkelling crystal clear waters on coral reefs alive with marine life
- Exploring the unique fjords of Tufi
- Visits to remote volcanic islands ripe for exploration
- The chance to visit the legendary Sepik River, home to some of the most famous artists in the Pacific
- Wildlife opportunities – prolific birdlife (hornbills, parrots, cockatoos, birds of paradise), dolphins, whales, dugongs and the rich marine life of the coral reefs
THIS TOUR INCLUDES
- Transfers to and from the group hotel.
- Ship’s accommodation. All public areas are open to all passengers.
- All meals on board ship.
- All shore excursions from the ship including Zodiacs.
- Lectures, videos, slide and film shows and guide services.
- Medical services. There is a resident medical officer and infirmary on board.
- Port taxes and port charges imposed by government authorities.
- Pre-departure information.
THIS TOUR DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Air transport to and from the ship.
- Excess baggage on any air flights.
- Visa, passport and vaccination charges and airport departure taxes.
- Hotels and meals not included in ship cruise itinerary.
- Tips on board for crew and service personnel.
- Optional excursions not included in ship cruise itinerary.
- Laundry, postage, personal clothing, medical expenses, personal travel insurance and items of a personal nature such as bar charges, wine and phone calls.
- Emergency evacuation charges.
Fitness
This voyage is suitable for people of all ages and physical abilities. Our youngest client is 6 and our oldest is 92! Frail clients may choose whether or not to participate in shore excursions or zodiac cruises, and there are always plenty of willing arms to lean on. Longer hikes are entirely optional.
