Top Places to Visit on a Papua New Guinea Cruise

In the middle of the South Pacific, Papua New Guinea is a seemingly enchanted land brimming with rainforests, tropical islands, and some of the most vibrant biodiversity in the world. Your trip will highlight the stunning nature and indigenous Melanesian cultures.

• Madang – With a variety of activities, this port town serves as the starting point for several cruises and showcases the local artists’ traditional style, and also offers some world class diving opportunities.
• Sepik River – Along this major waterway, you will encounter all manner of wildlife and even have a chance to meet people in a local indigenous community and learn about their way of life.
• The Islands of PNG – Discover the Ring of Fire for yourself, as you visit these volcanic islands and enjoy snorkeling, zodiac excursions, hiking, bird watching, and other activities on a truly beautiful environment.
• Jayapura – In this busy town in West Papua, you will learn about General Douglas MacArthur’s WWII campaign in the Pacific and have a chance to check out or perhaps buy the distinct handiwork of the local artists, like their famous bark paintings.
• Hidden Bay – Among many other similar islands and coves, you will have a chance to explore this remote tropical bay on a glass-bottomed boat from which you will see the colorful coral reefs below.
• Solomon Islands – Like many other Pacific Islands, the Solomon Islands hosted essential bases during World War II, remnants of which can still be seen today in the midst of their magnificent natural setting.
• Native communities – Throughout Papua New Guinea & the Solomon Islands, you will visit indigenous communities and witness or take part in their rituals and traditions.

Papua New Guinea
Do I need a visa to travel to Papua New Guinea?
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months and you need a tourist visa (available upon arrival) for stays of fewer than 60 days.

Is tipping customary in Papua New Guinea?
Tipping is not a concrete expectation in Papua New Guinea, but if you experience excellent service or feel impressed with some aspect of your tour, feel free to offer a gratuity.

What is internet access like in Papua New Guinea?
Don't anticipate being able to connect to the internet while in Papua New Guinea. There might be hotspots or a few hotels or cafes that offer WiFi, but there's no guarantee.

Can I use my cell phone while in Papua New Guinea?
It's unlikely that you will be close enough to a cell tower during most of your vacation to get a signal, but if you want to purchase a local SIM chip for your smart phone, that will enable it on local towers where they are.

Do I need power adapters?
Papua New Guinea's 220-240v power uses Australian style AS-3112 outlets (three flat slanted prongs), which means you will need a plug adapter and possibly a step-down converter if your 110v devices aren't compatible with 220v.

What are the toilets like in Papua New Guinea?
Your cruise ship or hotel will have modern flush toilets, but you could encounter a squat toilet in the more isolated areas. In this style, you'll simply hover, and throw your toilet paper (which you usually have to provide) in the waste basket after you finish.

Can I drink the water in Papua New Guinea?
No, you should not drink tap water in Papua New Guinea. We promise that you will always have bottled or filtered water available. 

Are credit cards accepted in Papua New Guinea? Will I be able to find ATMs?
Since our trips are all-inclusive, there aren't many things you will have to buy out of pocket, other than souvenirs or if you decide to do something that is not on the itinerary. And that's a good thing, because your best bet is to exchange your money at the airport upon arrival and then just use that cash throughout your trip, since ATMs aren't particularly common and cards aren't always accepted.

Should I purchase travel insurance?
Definitely - check out our Once You're Booked page for more information on deals on travel insurance.