Exploring Papua New Guinea on the most exciting new luxury vessel in the world will be a one of a kind experience you'll remember forever.
There is such a thing as the perfect marriage, and in this case it is the union of one of Australia’s most loved companies, known for the exquisite beauty of its Pinctada maxima pearls, with a French company that is known for luxury, beauty and exploring in style.
Paspaley Pearl by Ponant is the newest expedition vessel in the Asia Pacific region and will begin offering transformative and immersive experiences in The Kimberley, East Indonesia and Papua New Guinea in January, 2025.
This exceptional vessel will host just 30 guests, who will be looked after in grand style by 21 crew, including four expedition guides who will take you into some of the most idyllic and spectacular places imaginable.
One of the most fascinating itineraries will take you around Papua New Guinea, a truly one of a kind itinerary which is only bookable via Travel Associates.
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Hidden gems of Papua New Guinea
This extraordinary 16-day Mount Hagen to New Britain Island expedition starts in Mount Hagen with five nights on land, for incredible cultural experiences.
Spend two nights in Kumul Lodge, an eco-tourism property made using local materials,owned and managed by the local community. Visit villages of the Huli Wigmen, who have lived in the Southern Highlands for over 1000 years, and marvel at the amazing Omo Masalai Skeleton dancers in Mindima Village.
In Keiya village, witness the ancient practice of the ‘Cane Swallowing’ ceremony, an initiation ceremony for boys, while in Korekoreto village in the Asaro Valley, walk to ancient caves to hear about their myths and prepare to see something you will never forget, the Mudmen Warriors performing their war dance and the dance of the Mokomoko warriors.
Your 11 days of cruising excellence begin in Madang, where you board the outstanding Paspaley Pearl Cruise to Cape Gloucester with its striking volcanic cones and go snorkelling or swimming in the idyllic waters of the Bismarck Sea. Get the camera ready as your boutique vessel sails into the dormant volcanic caldera of Big Witu, and marvel at the active Mt Tavurvur volcano in Rabaul.
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Explore Kimbe Bay with its diverse ocean environment, home to more than 60 percent of the coral species in the Indo-Pacific region. In Ataliklikun Bay, learn about the secret Duk Duk society, who conducted business only on a full moon with faces covered in chalk or a mask, and don’t miss the opportunity to experience the famous Baining Fire Dance.
This magnificent itinerary also takes you to the Duke of York Islands rich in European history, and Jacquinot Bay, which played a role in World War II. More aquatic delights will be enjoyed in the Tami Islands, where you will be able to laze in a pristine blue lagoon with abundant marine life and stunning coral formations.
Aboard the Paspaley Pearl
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Your lavish superyacht-style vessel has been meticulously planned, from the tip of its shiny bow to the most intricate detail of its interiors. Everything, from its engines to its gallery and its deck, is, as the French would say, magnifique.
Paspaley Pearl has been designed to leave the smallest possible footprint on the remote and beautiful places it will visit, and by sailing on this exclusive tour, you’ll be empowering local people and communities while being inspired to become ambassadors for the pristine destinations you will visit.
The 53.5-metre vessel boasts 15 staterooms and suites, with the ultimate being the Pearl Suite, which features floor-to-ceiling glass doors accessing a private balcony. The suite has individually controlled air conditioning, USB charging points, flat-screen TV with on-demand entertainment system, and a spacious bathroom with heated floors.
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The culinary delights on board
Paspaley Pearl will be sublime, with menus designed by legendary Serge Dansereau, formerly of Sydney’s Bathers Pavilion. The Ocean Deck is where you’ll find the main dining area, lounge and bar, with beautiful spaces to sit and enjoy a pre-dinner drink while the chefs create a delicious meal featuring locally inspired produce and freshly caught seafood. There is also an outdoor dining area, lounge and bar, along with a Sundeck Lounge and Jacuzzi, and for the best views on the boat, head for the Sunset Lounge.
You’ll even have the chance to admire and maybe purchase one of the exquisite Paspaley pearls, sourced from the magnificent Pinctada maxima oyster, and transformed into a breathtakingly beautiful piece of jewellery. It would be the ultimate souvenir from this groundbreaking vessel.
