Uncharted Melanesia Small Ship Cruise
Life's Different After Uncharted Melanesia
Paradise takes on a whole new meaning after discovering the breathtaking and remote Nuguria Islands on thisPapua New Guinea cruise. Venture around spectacular South Bougainville whilst exploring an array of pristine islands and atolls.
Return charter flights ex Cairns ARE INCLUDED in the tariff. This itinerary is provided as example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. Helicopter flights can be purchased additional to the indicated tariff as a package or individually.
Highlights
• Dive into the vibrant reefs of Southwest New Ireland, exploring an abundance of marine life and stunning underwater landscapes.
• Experience Trobriand Island culture, with a traditional sing-song welcome and the chance to see handmade ebony and pearl carvings.
• Snorkel WWII wrecks at Louisiade Conflict Group, followed by a scenic helicopter ride over the Jurassic-like Calavados Chain.
The adventure begins with a short, privately-chartered flight from Cairns to beautiful Buka Island, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand beaches. Upon arrival, our crew will welcome you aboard the luxurious True North with cocktails and refreshments.
Today’s adventure takes you to Pok Pok Island, where you’re greeted with a vibrant welcome sing song, a traditional celebration that immerses you in the local culture from the moment you step ashore. Engage with the friendly locals, join their dances, explore their crafts, and perhaps even purchase unique artifacts to commemorate your visit. Pok Pok Island promises a lively blend of cultural interaction and aquatic exploration, with snorkeling and diving experiences also on offer.
The Carteret Islands is a captivating atoll rich in both culture and natural beauty. Your day unfolds with a visit to these low-lying islands and the vibrant underwater world where you’ll witness firsthand their unique way of life. Here, you’ll discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that define the Carteret Islands. Then, it’s time to immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world with snorkeling and diving adventures before unwinding with a beach swim and sunset drinks. Bliss.
Wake up in a different world: the enchanting Nissan Islands. As you step onto these elevated islands, you’ll be greeted by a serene inner lagoon and people who inhabit them, where you’ll witness firsthand their unique way of life. Also known as Green Island, the Nissan Islands are steeped in history from their role in World War II. Your day begins with a guided tour of the islands, revealing their historical significance and natural splendor. Before the adventure continues with snorkeling and diving in the pristine waters, exploring vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Prepare for an unforgettable day of exploration and underwater wonder. Dive into the vibrant reefs of Southeast New Ireland, where an abundance of pristine landscapes. Also known as Green Island, the Nissan Islands are steeped in history from their role in World War II. Your day begins with a guided tour of the islands, revealing their historical significance and natural splendor. Before the adventure continues with snorkeling and diving in the pristine waters, exploring vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Dive into an added thrill, scenic flights over this untouched paradise will offer breathtaking aerial views, capturing the raw beauty of New Ireland’s unspoiled waters and lush landscapes from above.
Continue your journey of discovery with exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities around the reefs of Southwest New Ireland. Spend your day exploring the thriving underwater ecosystem, home to an incredible array of coral and marine species. As the day winds down, we’ll head to Lambon Island for sunset drinks, where you can soak in the tranquil surroundings and enjoy a perfect end to an adventurous day.
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Tavolo, where you’ll be welcomed with a traditional sing-song ceremony. Explore the village and its surrounding gardens, learning about the Tola people’s deep connection to the land. As the day ends, enjoy a farewell feast with the villagers, sharing stories under a coconut tree.
Visit one of the main villages where the locals will welcome us with a cultural sing-song and showcase some of the best handmade wood carvings in Papua New Guinea, made from beautiful ebony and mother of pearl. There may also be opportunity to join in a game of Trobriand style.
Start the morning with a snorkel, discovering WWII wrecks in shallow waters of Deboyne Lagoon. Fishing, diving and sightseeing boats will also explore the lagoon and outer reef before we visit Panepompom Island to meet the locals. After welcoming us at the beach, they’ll treat us with some community canoe paddling and the opportunity to deliver appreciated resources to the local school. You’ll have the opportunity to sail on their handmade boats back out to True North before an afternoon helicopter ride to see the Jurassic-Park-esque views of the Calavados Chain. Then, spend the afternoon fishing, diving, snorkelling or hiking on the beautiful island.
Wake up in the incredible picturesque Karst Islands where you’ll have the option to join a short hike into a cave system, relax on the stunning white beach or dive, snorkel or fish in the channels between these islands. Then head to a tiny island in the afternoon for a swim, sunset cocktails and an opportunity to explore.
As your journey draws to a close, we disembark in this serene coastal village that has been a gateway to the wonders of Papua New Guinea. After days filled with cultural discoveries, underwater marvels, and the warmth of local hospitality, you’ll understand why Life's Different after True North.
This itinerary is provided as example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
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Book now |
Ocean Class - Twin
Ocean Premium Cabin
River Class - Double
Explorer Class - Stateroom
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Book now |
Ocean Class - Twin
Ocean/River Premium Cabin
River Class - Double
Explorer Class - Stateroom
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: True North - 50 metres/True North II - 35 meters
Passenger Capacity: 36/22
Built/Refurbished: 2005/2023
TRUE NORTH
The TRUE NORTH allows discerning adventurers to experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the world’s most exclusive hotels. Guests are able to take advantage of a number of lavish vantage points including a sundeck, a forward observation lounge, a ship’s lounge and an alfresco bar. The ship’s naturalist presents interpretative information on plasma screens and, an internet café enables convenient communication with the outside world.
A popular venue on any North Star cruise, the lower deck dining room offers the ultimate in comfort and uninterrupted vista – large panoramic windows ensure that guests never miss any of the action, even when they are enjoying the ‘finest in fine dining’. All cabins feature stylish décor, en-suite facilities, in-house entertainment and satellite telephones. The Explorer Class staterooms and the River Class cabins offer king size beds that can be converted to singles and the Ocean Class twins feature roomy single beds.
Multiple expedition boats provide guests with greater opportunity to do “what they want, when they want” and, to add yet another dimension to adventure, most cruise options feature an onboard helicopter!The purpose built TRUE NORTH is able to explore the upper reaches of shallow river systems – guests need only step out of their cabins to experience wilderness and, the latest in computer controlled motion stabilizers ensures a comfortable ride.
TRUE NORTH II
TRUE NORTH II features a more intimate experience with just 22 guests and a combined saloon/lounge. The dining salon features a stunning ‘boardroom’ setting and the revered True North dining experience. There is also a sundeck, outdoor bar deck and a dedicated sports deck.
All cabins feature ensuite or private facilities with in-house entertainment and satellite telephones. The Explorer Class staterooms and River Class cabins offer queen-size bedsand the Ocean Class cabins feature roomy bunk-configured singles.
Just like the TRUE NORTH – TRUE NORTH II is purpose-built to explore coastal areas including the upper reaches of shallow river systems – guests need only step out of their cabins to experience wilderness. But the adventure doesn't stop there! Multiple adventure boats provide guests with greater opportunity to do “what they want, when they want” and, to add yet another dimension to adventure, most itineraries feature an onboard helicopter!
And again, just like they are on TRUE NORTH, the crew of the TRUE NORTH II are generally young Australians who create a truly authentic onboard experience. Our crew are always very much part of onboard life - you may even feel as though they are having just as much fun as you are! That’s because they are – every day is an adventure for the crew as well and you will not be able to resist their enthusiasm and passion!
Unlike more conventional cruise experiences – True North crew are encouraged to interact with our guests. They will uniquely chaperone your every experience providing assistance, interpretation and genuine company. They will bait your hook and carry your SCUBA tank but they will also join you for dinner and entertain in the ship’s lounge. And not forgetting that they will also prepare fine meals of distinction, maintain your cabins with our renowned degree of attention and safely navigate ship, boat and helicopter to each destination. Guests on a True North adventure cruise never fail to recognize the outstanding involvement of the crew - they are one of the reasons that an adventure on the TRUE NORTH is not just another expedition cruise!
Helicopter Flights
Inclusions
• All adventure boat excursions & activities,
• Destination-inspired dining and non-alcoholic refreshments throughout the day,
• All fishing & snorkeling equipment and cylinders & weight belts (on dive trips)
• Complimentary café style coffees and tea are available all day
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• Return charter flights ex Cairns ARE INCLUDED in the tariff
Exclusions
• International and domestic flights
• Passport and visa costs where applicable
• Travel Insurance
• Scenic helicopter flights
• Visitors fee
• Transfers not listed in the itinerary
• Adventure wear and other purchases made on-board
• Alcoholic beverages (except as offered on special excursions)
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• Helicopter flights can be purchased additional to the indicated tariff as a package or individually.
Luxury Expedition
Our Associates Include
