New Guinea Island Encounter

Much more than just Queensland’s capital, Brisbane is a modern, cosmopolitan and must-see destination – a city of possibilities and contrasts. It has the meandering Brisbane River and Moreton Bay marine park on its door, and rugged national parks and rolling hills as its backdrop.

The Brisbane Portside Cruise Terminal’s prime location makes it perfectly easy to connect with destinations near and far. Ferries and buses to the city centre just 10-15 mins away and just 7kms from the Domestic and International Airports.

Indulge in the ultimate relaxation at the top deck, featuring a spacious Jacuzzi and comfortable loungers perfect for soaking up the sun. Enjoy panoramic views and unwind at the sky bar with refreshing cocktails. The observation deck offers a serene space to read, make yourself a coffee, or grab snacks and drinks while enjoying the ocean views.

Capital of Papua New Guinea’s Milne Bay Province, Alotau is steeped in history, rich in culture and blessed with natural beauty.The gateway to some of the most remote island communities remaining in the world today, this is a place that is enriched with age-old culture and traditions. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do in Alotau:

• explore skull cave
• visit the memorial commemorating WWII’s Battle of Milne Bay
• take a traditional clay pot cooking class
• experience life in a traditional village
• snorkel the shipwreck at Waga Waga

Located off the eastern coast of New Guinea, the Trobriand Islands are famous for their culture and huge yam gardens.

Home to one of the most colourful and fascinating cultures on earth, the islands are often referred to as the ‘islands of love’ due to their customs and practices during the yam harvesting festival.

The islands offer stunning white sand beaches lined with natural shade-trees and crystal clear waters that are perfect for snorkelling. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Located in Papua New Guinea’s Milne Bay Province, Kiriwina is the largest and by far the most populous of the Trobriand Islands, and home to one of the most colourful and fascinating cultures on earth. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do on Kiriwina Island:

• relax on the white sands of Kaibola Beach
• hike to the burial cave, Kalopa Cave
• shop the market stalls run by local villagers
• swim and snorkel the crystal waters
• watch a game of Trobriand cricket

Rabaul, the former provincial capital, has quite a remarkable location. The town is inside the flooded caldera of a giant volcano and several sub-vents are still quite active today. Having been occupied by Japan in WWII and destroyed by volcano eruptions twice, the town has a colourful history. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do in Rabaul:

• learn about the Japanese occupation during WWII at the Kokopo War & Cultural Museum
• visit the Japanese Barge Tunnels
• visit the Volcanological Observatory
• visit Mount Tavurvur and its hot springs

Evenings on board offer a variety of entertainment options. Relax in the main lounge with live music or head to the sky deck for cocktails under the stars. Daily briefings, fun games organized by the crew, and the company of fellow travellers ensure there's never a dull moment. With a range of activities and social opportunities, your evenings will be as enjoyable as your days.

The Conflict Islands are a group of 21 islands encircling an enormous lagoon on the rim of a sunken volcano. Sheltered by an untouched reef system, the privately owned islands are abundant with marine life and part of a conservation project. Ships will anchor off shore and tenders will be provided to the jetty.

Top Things to Do on the Conflict Islands:

• view the sea life on a glass-bottomed boat
• go scuba diving
• visit the Turtle Nursery
• ride the waters on a traditional outrigger canoe
  

Relish the diverse dining options on board, from the main restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner to the café bistro offering meals, snacks, and barista coffees. For a more casual experience, the bistro on level five provides a relaxing atmosphere. Dining on shore is also an option in many ports, adding variety to your culinary journey.

If you're heading home or continuing to explore more of Australia, Brisbane's Portside Cruise Terminal is just 7kms from the domestic and international airport. Brisbane's city centre is just 10-15 mins away if you're planning to explore the city.